This route takes you to the most northerly tip of Ireland, where you can see Scotland on a clear day. The 8.3km Inishowen Head Loop starts at the old World War II lookout tower on Banba's Crown and takes in rough tracks through quiet bogland, winding back roads and a newly-developed coastal cliff path.
You'll pass the place from which St Columba set sail for Scotland in 563 to set up his abbey in Iona. Other notable landmarks include Stroove Lighthouse but the real attraction here is the amazing views you'll see along the way, making this one of the best walks in Donegal.
Just a 45-minute ferry trip off the Donegal coast, Toraigh (Tory Island) is well-worth braving the Atlantic waves. One of the most intriguing things about the island is the islanders themselves, who know how to extend the warmest of welcomes.
The 6.6km Tory Island Loop starts in West Town and brings you around the edges of the island, taking in some amazing cliff scenery and ancient relics. It's also an important international bio-diversity area and a breeding site to the rare corncrake so keep an ear out for its distinctive call.
If you're looking for something a little bit more challenging, the 6km Errigal and Mackoght Loop Walk takes in a trek to the peak of Errigal. The top of the mountain includes a narrow ridge between its two peaks that's not for the faint-hearted but you'll get incredible views of Loch Dhún Lúiche (Dunlewey Lough), the Poisoned Glen and nearby majestic mountains.
The enjoyable 6.8km long Lúb Cheann Bhaile Cruaiche - Burtonport Loop in West Donegal starts out in Cé Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport Harbour) and takes in a reclaimed railway corridor that was once the main Burtonport to Derry line. Many of the original railway line's features remain intact so you'll see stone pillars, gateposts and gatehouses dotted along the way. It's a peaceful walk down country lanes that walkers of any level can enjoy.
This area's pilgrimage past is evident as you leave St Columba's Church and cover the coastline between Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) to Slieve Tuaidh. From cross-inscribed pillars to megalithic tombs, the Glencolmcille Loop is dotted with historical and religious landmarks. But the biggest attraction is the view out to sea, with imposing sea cliffs jutting out below you.
Bundoran might be best known for surfing but the seaside town also has some great walking routes that show off its coastal scenery. The Rougey Walk takes in gorgeous views of the dunes at Tullan Strand, Mullaghmore and even Slieve League on the other side of the bay. Get a photo at the distinctive rock bridges known locally as the Fairy Bridges and make a wish on the famous stone Wishing Chair.
It may only be 1km long, but the Garden Trail in Glenveagh National Park makes for a lovely stroll, with the crushed gravel pathway making this route accessible for everyone. Slow down to appreciate the horticultural oasis of Glenveagh Castle Gardens - a riot of colour and vibrancy in the heart of wild Donegal - before stopping by the café onsite for a cup of tea on the patio, all while looking out at the incredible landscape.
If this short looped walk leaves you wanting more, there is a great selection of longer, linear walks in the park. Choose from the 8km long Glen Walk, 3.5km Lakeside Walk and many more.
Head to Lough Swilly and spend two hours walking the 8km long Inch Lake Wildfowl Loop Walk. Pick any of the three car parks as your starting point and make your way across the narrow walkway along the old railway line to Letterkenny, taking in the amazing landscape around you.
The Inch Wildfowl Reserve comes alive when thousands of beautiful swans, geese and ducks migrate through this region, filling the skies and waters with colour and bird calls.
Enjoy an incredible day out on Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) along the Slí Árainn Mhór (Arranmore Way) and walk the 17.8km loop around this rugged island. Hop on a ferry from Burtonport on the mainland and sail past Rutland Island to get to Arranmore.
The route sticks to paved roads throughout and takes in impressive seascapes, hidden beaches and a stroll out to Arranmore Lighthouse in the northwest corner. Return back on the ferry and stop by Harbour Front Café for a filling sandwich and thirst quenching refreshments.
The Muckish Mountain Loop is a gentle stroll through the beautiful Donegal countryside. The almost completely flat route takes two and a half hours to complete and rewards you with wide open views of colourful bogland, powerful mountains and even sea views.
Experienced walkers can add in a leg to the summit of Muckish Mountain on Miner’s Path or via Muckish Gap. Afterwards, grab a table at Ards Coffee Tree in nearby Creeslough.
Want to turn your hike into a holiday? Plan your next walking and hiking holiday in Donegal.