Rotten Island Lighthouse: A Beacon of Donegal Bay
Guiding ships into Killybegs Harbour since 1838, Rotten Island Lighthouse stands as a testament to maritime history and engineering on Ireland's coast.
Rotten Island Lighthouse, standing tall in Killybegs Harbour, County Donegal, has been a vital navigational aid since 1838. Designed by George Halpin, this sturdy granite tower marks the passage from St. John's Point, guiding mariners through the inner channel to the safety of Killybegs Harbour. Though automated since the 1950s and not easily accessible, its presence continues to be a welcome sight for those at sea.
A brief summary to Rotten Island Lighthouse
- Killybegs Harbour, Co. Donegal, IE
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Check the schedules for boat tours from Killybegs Harbour to see the lighthouse from the water.
- Bring binoculars to spot local wildlife, including seabirds and marine life around the island.
- Visit during sunset for stunning views of the lighthouse against the Atlantic sky.
Getting There
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Car
To reach Rotten Island Lighthouse, drive towards Killybegs Harbour. From Killybegs town, follow signs to the harbour area. Parking is available near the harbor. From the harbour, access to Rotten Island is by boat only. Check with local boat tour operators for schedules and availability. Boat trips typically cost between €10 and €30 per person.
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Public Transport
To get to Rotten Island Lighthouse using public transport, take a bus to Killybegs from major towns like Donegal Town or Letterkenny. Bus Éireann and Local Link services operate in the area. From the bus stop in Killybegs, walk to Killybegs Harbour (approximately 10-15 minutes). At the harbour, arrange a boat trip to Rotten Island with a local operator. Boat tour prices range from €10 to €30 per person.
Discover more about Rotten Island Lighthouse
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
McSwyne's Castle
3.9 km
Experience the historic allure of McSwyne's Castle, a stunning 16th-century stronghold set against the magnificent landscapes of County Donegal.
Slieve League Car Park
14.5 km
Experience the unrivaled beauty of Slieve League Car Park, your gateway to Ireland's breathtaking cliffs and stunning coastal views.
Sliabh Liag
15.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Sliabh Liag, home to Ireland's highest sea cliffs, where nature and adventure await every traveler.
Slieve League One Man's Pass
15.9 km
Experience breathtaking views and thrilling hikes at Slieve League One Man's Pass, one of Ireland's highest sea cliffs in County Donegal.
Assaranca Waterfall (Eas a' Ranca)
16.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Assaranca Waterfall in County Donegal, a serene escape into nature's wonderland with stunning views and tranquil surroundings.
Donegal Harbour
16.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich maritime heritage of Donegal Harbour, a serene retreat along Ireland's stunning coastline.
Slieve League SE Top
16.9 km
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Fairy Bridges
17.6 km
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Rougey Cliff Walk
17.7 km
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Maghera Beach
17.7 km
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Caves of Maghera
17.8 km
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Creevykeel Court Tomb
19.5 km
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Donegal Corridor
20.5 km
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Abbey of Donegal
21.3 km
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Abbey GRAVEYARD
21.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Atlantic Coastal Cruises
2.1 km
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Killybegs seafood shack
2.5 km
Experience the freshest seafood in Killybegs at the charming Seafood Shack, where every dish celebrates the flavors of the Atlantic.
Visitor Center
2.8 km
Discover the heart of Donegal at the Visitor Center in Cashelcummin, where culture, nature, and adventure await every traveler.
Port Nead
3.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Port Nead in County Donegal, a tranquil coastal attraction perfect for nature lovers and peaceful getaways.
Fintra Beach
3.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Fintra Beach, a hidden gem in County Donegal, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
St John's Point Beach
3.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of St John's Point Beach, a hidden gem along the Wild Atlantic Way in County Donegal, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @Ba Fhionntra ( Fintragh Bay)
3.9 km
Experience the untouched beauty of Fintragh Bay, a hidden gem along the Wild Atlantic Way in County Donegal, offering breathtaking views and serene escapes.
Wild Atlantic Way Point (Ba Fhionntra)
3.9 km
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The Little Cells
3.9 km
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Killaghtee Old Church, Cemetery, and Ancient Stone Slab Cross
4.1 km
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Secret Waterfall
4.7 km
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Largy Viewpoint
4.9 km
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Saint John's Point Lighthouse
5.2 km
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Trá Bán Beach
8.8 km
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Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @Muckross Head
9.6 km
Experience the stunning coastal views and natural beauty of Muckross Head, a top Discovery Point along the Wild Atlantic Way in County Donegal.
Essential places to dine
Ahoy Cafe
2.2 km
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The Marina Cafe
2.3 km
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Andersons Boathouse Restaurant And Accommodation
2.5 km
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New Peking
2.5 km
Savor authentic Chinese cuisine at New Peking in Killybegs – where every dish tells a story.
Mrs B's Coffee House
2.5 km
Discover the warmth and flavors of Donegal at Mrs B's Coffee House - where every cup tells a story.
The Fleet Inn Guesthouse & Restaurant
2.5 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Fleet Inn Guesthouse & Restaurant in Killybegs – where great food meets stunning coastal views.
Bay View Hotel
2.5 km
Discover comfort and stunning coastal views at Bay View Hotel in Killybegs - your perfect retreat in Donegal.
Tara Hotel
2.5 km
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The Turntable Restaurant
2.5 km
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The Rusty Mackerel
13.2 km
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K-wok Carrick Chinese
13.3 km
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Slieve League Bar
13.3 km
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Kelly's Kitchen (at Slieve League Lodge)
13.3 km
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Hegarty's Slieve League Lodge
13.3 km
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Wild Atlantic Tae
13.4 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Wild Atlantic Tae in Co. Donegal - a must-visit destination for food lovers!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Parlour Shop
2.4 km
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Mc Ginleys
2.5 km
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Wild Atlantic Crafts
2.5 km
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EvaVictoria.ie (McGee's Jewellery & Giftware, Killybegs)
2.5 km
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SweetNews Sweet shop, Fashion Accessories & Gift Shop
2.5 km
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Hegarty's Centra
2.5 km
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Cyndi Graham Handweaving studio
3.6 km
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Floyd's MACE Dunkineely
5.6 km
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Hand Knitted Sweaters
8.9 km
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Fisherman Out of Ireland
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Studio Donegal
10.1 km
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Donegal Yarns
10.2 km
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Derrylahan Hostel
12.1 km
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Ireland By Bike
13.1 km
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Doherty's XL
13.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Harbour Bar
2.5 km
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The Galleon Bar @ The Cope House
2.5 km
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Wellbrae Bar
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McIntyre's Bar
5.5 km
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Mac Laughlins Bar
5.5 km
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Mac's Bar
5.6 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Mac's Bar in Dunkineely, where friendly locals and a warm ambiance await your visit.
John Joe's Bar
10.0 km
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Kilcar House
10.0 km
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O'Garas Bar&Lounge Kilcar
10.0 km
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MillTown Bar And Petrol Station
12.6 km
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Evelyn's Central Bar
13.3 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Evelyn's Central Bar in Carrick, Co. Donegal, where local drinks and live music create an inviting atmosphere.
O'Donnells Bar
14.3 km
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The Beehive Pub
16.5 km
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Teagues Bar
16.5 km
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The Corner House
16.5 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Corner House in Ardara, where local brews and vibrant music create unforgettable moments.
