Located on a small island in the middle of a lough Doon Fort is one of the most remarkable sights in County Donegal. The ancient ring fort is believed to be over 1,500 years old and is thought to have been occupied by some of the most prominent families in early medieval Donegal.
We’ve stopped by Doon Fort during our Ireland travels and wanted to share our love for one of Donegal’s hidden gems!
Doon Fort
Doon Fort is an ancient ring fort located on a small island in the middle of Lough Doon in the west of Donegal. Its construction is believed to date back over 1,500 years as far back as the 5th Century. The fort is constructed of dry stone and has thick walls which are 15 feet high.
The fort itself is accessed via private land belonging to a local family. In previous years they have provided small boats for rent during the summer months to allow visitors access to the fort.
Visiting Doon Fort
Doon Fort is located on private land and is not visible from the road. Boats are sometimes available to rent from the adjacent McHugh Farm and this allows visitors to reach the island and explore the fort.
Given the fort’s spectacular location in the middle of Lough Doon the aerial views are magnificent.
How to get to Doon Fort
Doon Fort is located close to the village of Adara in the West of Donegal. It is less than 15 minutes from the seaside towns of Rossbeg and Portnoo while Donegal Town is 45 minutes drive and Letterkenny just over an hour.
Map of Doon Fort
How to Use This Google Map: Click on the grey star at the top of the map and this map will be added to your Google Maps account. You can then view it on your phone or computer in Google Maps by clicking on the menu button, going to “Your Places” and selecting this map. We use these maps all the time as you can set out your itinerary ahead of time and quickly reference the saved maps.
History of Doon Fort
Although the exact date of construction has not been verified Doon Fort is believed to date back as far as the 5th Century. The fort is thought to have been occupied by both the Breslin and O’Boyle clans, some of the most prominent families in early medieval Donegal.
Doon Fort has been designated a National Monument which means its preservation is a matter of national importance and the GAP Heritage and History Group is responsible for its conservation.
Other sights to check out near Doon Fort
Rossbeg Strand and Portnoo/Narin Beach are both less than 15 minutes away from Doon Fort.
Another historical site, the Kilcooney Dolmen, is located a few minutes drive from Doon Fort. It is one of the most spectacular Dolmens in Ireland and is believed to date back as far as 3,000 BC.
