Horn Head Loop Walk

This circular loop walk explores the Horn Head peninsula in north-west County Donegal near Dunfanaghy.
You can start the walk from the Horn Head car parking area and follow the trails north to climb to the fine viewpoint at Coastguard Hill. The walk continues north to the coast before looping back along minor roads through the countryside.
The walk showcases stunning cliffs, some rising to a height of 600 feet, and offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The area is a Special Area of Conservation due to its ecological importance, with a mix of coastal heathland and sea cliffs providing habitats for a variety of wildlife.
Flora in the region includes coastal plants such as thrift, heather, and sea campion, thriving on the rocky cliffs and heathland. The fauna is equally notable, with Horn Head being a significant nesting site for seabirds, including puffins, kittiwakes, guillemots, and razorbills. The cliffs also support peregrine falcons, while the surrounding waters may reveal seals and the occasional dolphin or basking shark.
The walk also offers an opportunity to see historical features such as ancient promontory forts and the ruins of watchtowers used during the Napoleonic Wars.
To continue your walking in the area head south to pick up the Muckish Railway Walk near Falcarragh. This trail takes you along the old Letterkenny to Burtonport railway line in the Derryveagh Mountains.

Horn Head Open Street Map - view and print off detailed map

Ireland Walking Map - View All the Routes in the Country>>

Horn Head Open Street Map - Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking

Further Information and Other Local Ideas

To the east you can pick up the Donegal Boardwalk and enjoy another fine coastal walk along a different part of Sheephaven Bay. The picturesque Lough Salt and the Fanad Lighthouse can also be found near here.
To the west there's Bloody Foreland where there are fine cliff top trails and views of nearby islands such as Tory Island.

Donegal Boardwalk, Lough Salt, Mamore Gap, Inch Island, Fanad Lighthouse, Bloody Foreland

GPX File

Horn Head.gpx (On Desktop:Right Click>Save As. On Ipad/Iphone:Click and hold>Download Linked File)