Meáin or Inisbofin or play a relaxed game of golf on the scenic course
at Gaoth Dobhair or on Oileán na Cruite (Cruit Island), near Aerfort
Idirnáisiúnta Dhún na nGall (Donegal International Airport). There are
regular, daily ferryboat services from Bunbeg Pier to Tory and its
rugged beauty. Two-and-a-half miles long and just three-quarters of a
mile wide, Tory derives its name from the high pinnacle cliffs eroded
by the battering swells of the Atlantic Ocean. This island has been
inhabited since the age of Neolithic Farmers, some 4,000 years ago.
Legend has it that Tory was once occupied by a pirate race whose
God-Chief was Balor, the giant with the evil eye. The Round Tower
and the Tau Cross of St. Columbkille on Tory still survive. The sea is a
dominant theme in the powerful paintings of Tory Islanders and their
work has been exhibited around the world, and everywhere you go
the living Irish Language is all around you.
Cnoc Fola (Bloody Foreland), or turn inland through the mystic
mountains of Dun Lúiche (Dunlewey), with its impressive Ionad Cois
Locha (Lakeside Centre) and nearby is the scenic Poison Glen on the
way to another jewel in Donegal's crown - Glenveagh National Park,
Castle and Interpretative Centre. Head northwards now through
Muckish Gap to An Fál Carrach (Falcarragh), a strong market town,
where every Friday, the colourful stalls are set out for trading.