Discover the Enchanting Caves of Maghera
Explore the breathtaking Caves of Maghera, a stunning natural wonder on the picturesque Donegal coastline, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
The Caves of Maghera, located near Ardara in County Donegal, are a breathtaking natural wonder that offers tourists a unique glimpse into Ireland's stunning coastal landscapes. With their striking formations and proximity to pristine beaches, these caves are a must-visit for any nature enthusiast or adventurer.
A brief summary to Caves of Maghera
- Ardara, Maghera, 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
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
- Wear sturdy shoes as the path to the caves can be rocky and uneven.
- Bring a waterproof bag for your belongings, as the caves can be damp and there may be splashes from the waves.
- Check the tide schedule, as it can affect accessibility to the caves.
- Take a guided tour if available, to learn more about the geology and history of the area.
Getting There
-
Car
From Donegal Town, take the N15 road heading west towards Killybegs. After approximately 20 km, take the exit onto the N56 towards Ardara. Continue on the N56 for about 15 km until you reach Ardara. Once in Ardara, follow the signs for Maghera Beach. The Caves of Maghera are located near the beach access point. There is limited parking available at the beach, and parking may be free or subject to a small fee during peak season.
-
Public Transportation
If you're using public transport, start by taking a bus from Donegal Town to Ardara. Bus Eireann operates services on this route, and you will want to check the schedule for the latest timings. Once you arrive in Ardara, you can either walk (approximately 3 km) or arrange a taxi to Maghera Beach, where the Caves of Maghera are located. The walk will take around 40 minutes and follows a quiet country road. Ensure to check bus schedules in advance as they may vary.
-
Walking
If you are already in Ardara and wish to walk to the Caves of Maghera, head west on the Main Street (N56) and follow the signs towards Maghera Beach. The distance is about 3 km, and it takes roughly 40 minutes. The route is scenic, passing through lush greenery and offering beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Discover more about Caves of Maghera
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maghera Beach
0.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Maghera Beach in County Donegal, a picturesque haven of golden sands and dramatic cliffs along Ireland's stunning coastline.
Slieve League SE Top
16.5 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas and rugged beauty of Slieve League SE Top, a must-visit mountain peak in Donegal, Ireland.
Slieve League One Man's Pass
16.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and thrilling hikes at Slieve League One Man's Pass, one of Ireland's highest sea cliffs in County Donegal.
Teelin Pier
16.8 km
Explore the serene Teelin Pier in County Donegal, where stunning landscapes and rich fishing traditions await your discovery.
Sliabh Liag Boat Trips
16.8 km
Discover the stunning cliffs and wildlife of Sliabh Liag with unforgettable boat trips along Ireland's majestic coastline.
Kilcar Viewpoint
16.9 km
Discover the breathtaking cliffs and panoramic views at Kilcar Viewpoint, a must-visit hiking destination in Co. Donegal, Ireland.
Slieve League Car Park
17.4 km
Experience the unrivaled beauty of Slieve League Car Park, your gateway to Ireland's breathtaking cliffs and stunning coastal views.
Sliabh Liag Walk
17.8 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and breathtaking views of Sliabh Liag Walk, one of Europe's highest sea cliffs in County Donegal, Ireland.
Sliabh Liag Viewing Platform
17.9 km
Experience the breathtaking cliffs and panoramic views at Sliabh Liag Viewing Platform, a must-visit scenic spot in County Donegal, Ireland.
Bunglass Point
18.0 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Bunglass Point in Co. Donegal, where soaring cliffs meet the majestic Atlantic Ocean.
Slieve League View Walk
18.0 km
Experience the breathtaking heights and stunning vistas of Slieve League View Walk, a must-see destination in County Donegal, Ireland.
Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point @Sliabh Liag (No Signpost)
18.0 km
Discover the awe-inspiring cliffs of Sliabh Liag along the Wild Atlantic Way, a must-visit for breathtaking views and rich Irish heritage.
Killaghtee Old Church, Cemetery, and Ancient Stone Slab Cross
18.2 km
Discover the historical significance and serene beauty of Killaghtee Old Church and Cemetery in County Donegal, a must-visit for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
McSwyne's Castle
19.0 km
Experience the historic allure of McSwyne's Castle, a stunning 16th-century stronghold set against the magnificent landscapes of County Donegal.
Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @Málainn Bhig(Malin beg)
19.0 km
Discover the breathtaking cliffs and serene beach of Malin Beg, a hidden gem along the Wild Atlantic Way in County Donegal, Ireland.
Unmissable attractions to see
Assaranca Waterfall (Eas a' Ranca)
1.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Assaranca Waterfall in Co. Donegal, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
Rossbeg Beach
6.5 km
Experience the tranquil shores of Rossbeg Beach, a hidden treasure on the breathtaking Donegal coast, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Doon Fortress / Fort
8.5 km
Discover the historic Doon Fortress in County Donegal, a captivating landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into Ireland's rich heritage.
Glenlough Bay
8.6 km
Experience the breathtaking coastal beauty and serene hiking trails of Glenlough Bay, a hidden gem in County Donegal, Ireland.
Kilclooney Dolmen
8.8 km
Discover the ancient Kilclooney Dolmen in Donegal, a historical landmark that offers a glimpse into Ireland's prehistoric past amidst stunning landscapes.
Narin/Portnoo viewpoint
9.6 km
Experience the stunning coastal views and serene beauty at Narin/Portnoo viewpoint, a picturesque gem in County Donegal.
Portnoo View Point
9.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Portnoo View Point in County Donegal, where stunning ocean views and tranquil landscapes await.
O Boyles Cauldron
9.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage at O Boyles Cauldron in Co. Donegal, a must-visit tourist attraction in Ireland.
Glencolumbkille Picnic Area
13.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Glencolumbkille Picnic Area in County Donegal, a perfect destination for nature lovers and picnic enthusiasts.
Tobar Cholmcille, St. Columbas Well
13.9 km
Explore the serene Tobar Cholmcille in Co. Donegal, a sacred well steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Seamus McGinley Bridge
14.2 km
Explore the breathtaking views and tranquil essence of Seamus McGinley Bridge, a captivating landmark in the heart of County Donegal, Ireland.
Salmon Leap
14.4 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty of Salmon Leap in Co. Donegal, where waterfalls and wildlife create an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
River Glen park
14.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of River Glen Park in Co. Donegal, a tranquil escape for nature lovers with lush greenery and scenic river views.
Glencolumbkille Beach
14.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and serene charm of Glencolumbkille Beach in County Donegal, a must-see destination on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.
The Little Cells
14.6 km
Explore The Little Cells in Killybegs, a captivating tourist attraction that showcases the beauty and history of County Donegal.
Essential places to dine
Dawros Bay House
6.7 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Dawros Bay House, where fresh oysters meet breathtaking coastal views in Co. Donegal.
The One&One
7.5 km
Discover The One&One in Ardara - where delectable fish and chips meet authentic Irish charm amidst breathtaking Donegal scenery.
Charlie's West End Cafe
7.7 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine at Charlie's West End Cafe in Drumbaran - where every meal feels like home.
Mickalene's
7.8 km
Discover the culinary delights at Mickalene's in Ardara, Co. Donegal—where local flavors meet exceptional hospitality.
The Nesbitt Arms Boutique Hotel
7.8 km
Experience comfort and culture at The Nesbitt Arms Boutique Hotel - your perfect getaway in scenic County Donegal.
The Courthouse Restaurant
7.9 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine at The Courthouse Restaurant in Ardara, where local flavors meet warm hospitality amidst stunning Donegal scenery.
Nancy's
7.9 km
Discover authentic Irish flavors at Nancy's in Ardara – where every dish tells a story from County Donegal.
Woodhill House
8.5 km
Discover Woodhill House: A charming hotel in Co. Donegal offering comfort, exquisite dining, and easy access to nature's wonders.
Wild Atlantic Tae
13.4 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Wild Atlantic Tae in Co. Donegal - a must-visit destination for food lovers!
K-wok Carrick Chinese
13.4 km
Discover authentic Chinese flavors at K-wok Carrick Chinese in Co. Donegal - where delicious takeout meets affordable prices.
Hegarty's Slieve League Lodge
13.4 km
Discover comfort and adventure at Hegarty's Slieve League Lodge near Ireland’s stunning cliffs.
Kelly's Kitchen (at Slieve League Lodge)
13.4 km
Experience local cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Kelly's Kitchen in Co. Donegal, where every meal is a celebration of Irish culture.
Slieve League Bar
13.4 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Slieve League Bar in Carrick Upper, Co. Donegal – your perfect retreat after exploring stunning landscapes.
Cafe Blasta
13.8 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Café Blasta in Cashel – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Sliabh Liag Inn
13.8 km
Discover comfort and scenic beauty at Sliabh Liag Inn, your gateway to the majestic Slieve League cliffs in County Donegal.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Triona Donegal Tweed Center
7.6 km
Experience authentic Donegal craftsmanship at Triona Donegal Tweed Center, a must-visit for lovers of traditional Irish textiles and culture.
All Kinds of Everything
7.7 km
Discover unique Irish crafts and souvenirs at All Kinds of Everything in Ardara, Co. Donegal - a treasure trove for every traveler.
Campbells Ardara
8.0 km
Discover the heart of Irish craftsmanship at Campbells Ardara, a knitwear manufacturer in the scenic village of Ardara, Co. Donegal.
Missing Piece - Irish Personalised Crafts
8.1 km
Explore Missing Piece in Ardara for unique, handcrafted Irish gifts that capture the spirit of Donegal and support local artisans.
Fisherman Out of Ireland
12.2 km
Discover the charm of Irish craftsmanship at Fisherman Out of Ireland, a premier knit shop in County Donegal offering exquisite knitwear and accessories.
Doherty's XL
13.4 km
Explore the flavors of Donegal at Doherty's XL, where local produce meets friendly service in a charming grocery store experience.
Ireland By Bike
13.5 km
Experience Ireland's breathtaking countryside with guided tours and bicycle rentals from Ireland By Bike, your gateway to adventure in Donegal.
Irish Tweed Store
13.7 km
Explore the heart of Irish craftsmanship at the Irish Tweed Store, offering authentic tweed clothing and a glimpse into Ireland's rich textile heritage.
Byrne's Foodstore & Filling Station
13.8 km
Discover the charm of Byrne's Foodstore & Filling Station in Glencolumbkille, a must-visit supermarket for local delights and essential supplies.
Donegal Bees
13.9 km
Explore Donegal Bees in Glencolumbkille for a unique blend of craft supplies, gardening tools, and local artisan products in a picturesque setting.
Brew In Thru (Barista Coffee Vintage Van)
14.4 km
Discover Brew In Thru, a vintage coffee van nestled in the stunning Slieve League, offering exquisite brews amidst breathtaking Donegal landscapes.
Studio Donegal
15.2 km
Experience the rich heritage of Irish craftsmanship at Studio Donegal, a premier weaving mill in scenic Kilcar, Co. Donegal.
Donegal Yarns
15.3 km
Explore Donegal Yarns in Kilcar, where Irish craftsmanship meets vibrant creativity in a warm and inviting setting.
EvaVictoria.ie (McGee's Jewellery & Giftware, Killybegs)
15.4 km
Explore EvaVictoria.ie in Killybegs for exquisite jewelry, ear-piercing services, and expert craftsmanship in the heart of Donegal.
Hegarty's Centra
15.4 km
Experience the heart of Killybegs at Hegarty's Centra, your go-to supermarket for fresh produce and local delights in County Donegal.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Teagues Bar
7.7 km
Discover the warm charm of Teagues Bar in Ardara, Donegal, where Irish hospitality meets vibrant culture and delightful cuisine.
The Beehive Pub
7.8 km
Discover the warmth and charm of The Beehive Pub in Co. Donegal - a perfect blend of local flavors, live music, and Irish hospitality.
The Corner House
7.9 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Corner House in Ardara, where local brews and vibrant music create unforgettable moments.
Doherty's Bar
8.0 km
Experience the heart of Irish culture at Doherty's Bar in Hillhead, Co. Donegal, where warm hospitality meets vibrant local music and delicious cuisine.
The Tavern - Barrett's
9.0 km
Discover the heart of Irish culture at The Tavern - Barrett's, where tradition meets warmth in the scenic Kilclooney Beg, County Donegal.
O'Donnells Bar
9.3 km
Embrace the spirit of Ireland at O'Donnells Bar in County Donegal - a cozy haven for local brews, live music, and unforgettable moments.
Evelyn's Central Bar
13.4 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Evelyn's Central Bar in Carrick, Co. Donegal, where local drinks and live music create an inviting atmosphere.
Roartys Bar & Accomodation
13.8 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Roartys Bar & Accommodation in Glencolumbkille, your ideal spot for local brews and hearty meals.
John Eoinín's
13.9 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at John Eoinín's in Glencolumbkille, Donegal, where local brews and stunning views await.
John Joe's Bar
15.1 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of John Joe's Bar in Kilcar, a lively venue for live music, local brews, and authentic Irish hospitality.
O'Garas Bar&Lounge Kilcar
15.1 km
Discover authentic Irish hospitality at O'Garas Bar & Lounge, a cozy bar in the heart of Donegal, offering local flavors and live music.
Kilcar House
15.1 km
Experience the warmth of Kilcar House, a beloved bar in County Donegal offering a taste of authentic Irish culture and hospitality.
Packie's Bar
15.1 km
Discover the heart and soul of County Donegal at Packie's Bar, where every visit feels like coming home.
Wellbrae Bar
15.3 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Wellbrae Bar, a cozy gem in Killybegs, Co. Donegal, perfect for unwinding with a drink.
The Galleon Bar @ The Cope House
15.4 km
Discover The Galleon Bar @ The Cope House, where local charm meets vibrant nightlife in Killybegs, Co. Donegal.
