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
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Slieve League Car Park
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Slieve League View Walk
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Donegal Harbour
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Slieve League SE Top
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Maghera Beach
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Donegal Corridor
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Abbey of Donegal
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Abbey GRAVEYARD
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Donegal Bay Charters
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Donegal Bay Waterbus
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Port Nead
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The Little Cells
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Killaghtee Old Church, Cemetery, and Ancient Stone Slab Cross
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Warren Beach Car Park
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Essential places to dine
Ahoy Cafe
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The Marina Cafe
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Andersons Boathouse Restaurant And Accommodation
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New Peking
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Mrs B's Coffee House
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The Fleet Inn Guesthouse & Restaurant
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Bay View Hotel
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Tara Hotel
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The Turntable Restaurant
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The Rusty Mackerel
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Slieve League Bar
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Kelly's Kitchen (at Slieve League Lodge)
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Hegarty's Slieve League Lodge
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Mc Ginleys
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Wild Atlantic Crafts
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EvaVictoria.ie (McGee's Jewellery & Giftware, Killybegs)
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Cyndi Graham Handweaving studio
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Mac Laughlins Bar
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Evelyn's Central Bar
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Teagues Bar
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The Corner House
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Fifth Avenue Letterkenny
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