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Beltany Stone Circle: A Bronze Age Enigma

Explore Beltany Stone Circle in Donegal: An ancient site with breathtaking views and a mysterious past dating back to the Bronze Age.

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Nestled near Raphoe, County Donegal, Beltany Stone Circle is a captivating megalithic site dating back to the Bronze Age (2100-700 BC). With its impressive circle of stones and panoramic views, it offers a glimpse into Ireland's ancient past.

A brief summary to Beltany Stone Circle

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy footwear as the path to the circle is gravelly and can be uneven.
  • Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views from the top of Tops Hill.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as the site may be inaccessible in extreme conditions.
  • Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning lighting and photo opportunities.
  • Take your litter with you to help preserve this ancient site.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Raphoe, head south out of town, following the brown signposts for Beltany Stone Circle. The circle is approximately 3km from Raphoe and is well signposted. Park in the designated area near the Department of Agriculture Food and Fuel Development Potato Center. From the car park, walk up the gravel path for about 320m to reach the stone circle.

  • Public Transport

    From Derry City Centre, take the Bus Éireann route 480 to Raphoe. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Get off at the main square in Raphoe. From there, walk towards the Tops area, following the signs for Beltany Stone Circle, which is about a 20-minute walk from the town center. Bus fare from Derry to Raphoe is approximately €5-€8. A taxi from Ballybofey to Beltany Stone Circle is approximately €25-€40.

  • Walking

    From Raphoe town center, head towards the south of town. Follow the brown heritage signs for Beltany Stone Circle. The walk is approximately 3km and will take around 20 minutes. The route involves walking uphill on a gravel path.

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Discover more about Beltany Stone Circle

Beltany Stone Circle, located south of Raphoe in County Donegal, is one of Ireland's most significant prehistoric sites. Dating back to the Bronze Age, circa 2100-700 BC, this remarkable stone circle consists of 64 standing stones, remnants of what was likely a circle of over 80 stones. The stones encircle an earthen platform, atop Tops Hill, offering stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside. The name 'Beltany' is believed to be derived from 'Bealtaine', the Celtic fire festival celebrated on May Day, marking the arrival of summer. This connection suggests the site may have been used for ancient rituals, possibly related to observations of the sun and moon. A carved stone head, dating to the pre-Christian Iron Age, was discovered nearby, indicating the site's continued ceremonial use for centuries after its construction. The Beltany Stone Head is one of several stone idols found in the Raphoe area. While its original purpose remains a mystery, Beltany may have been a megalithic passage tomb. Some believe the stones may have served as the kerbing for a burial cairn. The site has a solitary 'outlier' stone to the southeast of the circle, which likely had a function related to rituals or ceremonies. Today, Beltany Stone Circle offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a serene atmosphere, surrounded by ancient stones and breathtaking views.

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