Picturesque Donegal: its mountains, rivers, and lakes. Being the Great Northern Railway (Ireland) Company's illustrated guide to the sporting and touring grounds of the north of Ireland

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read the passage as the book has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too.

1. Portsalon Hotel opened by Colonel Barton

   near Portsalon · population centre · Donegal · 1889

   Portsalon Hotel, originally a private residence, was opened in 1889 by Colonel B. J. Barton as a touring hotel on the shore of Lough Swilly. Its castellated walls became a prominent landmark, combining country-seat seclusion with first-class hotel luxuries for over a hundred guests.

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   North of the Knockalla Mountains lies the wild, yet withal beautiful, peninsula of Fanad. Here will be found a feast of mountain, cliff and lake scenery, and, conveniently situated in the very heart of the district, is Portsalon Hotel. Originally a private residence, it was opened in 1889 by Colonel B. J. Barton

   Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 10

   As the companion tells it

   As you travel through Portsalon on the Fanad peninsula, north of the Knockalla Mountains, you pass the old Portsalon Hotel. Colonel B. J. Barton opened it in 1889, originally his private residence, with castellated walls that became a landmark on the shore of Lough Swilly. It was a touring hotel offering country-seat seclusion and first-class luxuries for over 100 guests.

2. Sea-Trout Fishing in Mulroy Bay

   near Mulroy Bay · bay · Donegal

   Sea-trout fishing in Mulroy Bay offers capital sport from July to October, with fish rising freely to gold-tinsel flies. Reliable spots include waters near Rosapenna, Bunlin Bridge, Milford Quay, Rosnakill, and the mouth of the stream from Kindrum Lough.

   Read the passage

   Capital sport can be obtained at times among the sea-trout in Mulroy Bay. The fish run to a fair size, and rise freely to any glittering fly, those dressed with gold tinsel body and various sorts of wings and hackles being especially deadly. A large Pink Wickham is about as good as any. A boat is necessary, and, at times, it is difficult to obtain one with the services of a boatman, so disappointment should be provided against beforehand. The sea-trout are fairly distributed over the bay; howbeit some parts are better than others. Places that can generally be depended on for sport are : between the islands and the shore close to Rosapenna; at the mouths of the several burns running into the bav between Rosapenna and Bunlin Bridge; along the shore from Bunlin Bridge to Milford Quay; at the mouth of the stream flowing from Carrowkeel; in the little bays north and south of Rosnakill and at the mouth of the stream flowing from Kindrum Lough. The fishing, from boats, is, of course, free; but the shores are private in many places and permission to fish from them must be obtained : this is not a difficult matter. \'isitors at Rosapenna are permitted to fish from the greater part of the shores. The fishing commences in earnest about July and contiuues until end of October. The biggest baskets are made on a falling spring tide. Some very fine brown-trout are often basketed at the mouths of the various streams, the neighbourhood of Bunlin Bridge being especially good for these fish. It is advis-

   CLIFFS AT Ml-:i.M<)Ul-: II KM).

   Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 20

   As the companion tells it

   As you travel near Mulroy Bay in Donegal, you're passing water that offers capital sea-trout fishing from July to the end of October. The fish run to a fair size and rise freely to a glittering fly, especially those dressed with gold tinsel body and various wings and hackles. A large Pink Wickham is about as good as any. A boat is necessary, though it can be difficult to get one with a boatman, so it pays to arrange things beforehand. The sea-trout are spread across the bay, but some spots are better than others. Reliable water lies between the islands and the shore close to Rosapenna, at the mouths of the burns running into the bay between Rosapenna and Bunlin Bridge, along the shore from Bunlin Bridge to Milford Quay, at the mouth of the stream flowing from Carrowkeel, in the little bays north and south of Rosnakill, and at the mouth of the stream from Kindrum Lough. Fishing from boats is free, but many shores are private and permission is needed, which is not a difficult matter. Visitors at Rosapenna may fish from most of the shores. The biggest baskets are made on a falling spring tide, and some very fine brown-trout are often taken at the mouths of the streams, with Bunlin Bridge especially good for those.

3. Steamer Tours on Lower Lough Erne

   near Enniskillen · town · Fermanagh

   The steamer "Lady of the Lake" offers tourists circular tours between Enniskillen and Castle Caldwell from June to September. This service allows visitors to experience the loveliness of Lower Lough Erne, often referred to as the "Irish Windermere."

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   The beauty of Lower Lough Erne is quite distinct from and totally dissimilar to the grandeur of the wild mountain loughs further north, such as Glenveagh and .Alton ; and not infrequently some disappointment is experienced by tourists whose first impression is obtained from the deck of the steamer " Lady of the Lake," which plies between Enniskillen and Castle Caldwell in connection with circular tours from Bundoran, etc., from June 1st until September 14 (week days only). Even when viewed under these conditions, however, the lough impresses most visitors with some of its loveliness ; but it can only be seen at its best by those who thoroughly explore its numerous bays, sail among its many islands, and closely inspect its shores, and the several places and objects of interest thereon. Then, and then only, one discovers how the charms and beauty of " the Irish Windermere " fascinate those who live near it and such visitors as may have explored it, and realises why, to them, it is invariably known as " lovely

   Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 66

4. Tory Island — relics of ancient family feuds and battles

   Tory Island · townland · Donegal

   Tory Island preserves relics of sanguinary family feuds and famous battles between the islanders and mainland inhabitants. The antiquary will find a feast of attractions among the fine rock scenery and many true stories of fierce fighting from early days.

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   When looking out to sea from any point of vantage in this district the castellated form of Tory Islaxd rises from the Atlantic a prominent object. In many ways this is one of the most interesting islands on the Donegal coast — and for that matter on the whole Irish coast — and if weather conditions are favourable the tourist should certainly engage a boat and pay it a visit : but the weather has all to do with a visit to Tory, for it is a difficult, not to say dangerous, matter to land on or put off from the island in rough weather. Otherwise the trip is most enjoyable and intensely interesting. It is about nine miles distant from the mainland and is about three miles long. The rock scenery associated with it is very fine, and the antiquary will revel in the feast of attractions provided. Many are the true stories of the fierce fighting that occurred here in early days, and there yet remain relics of those sanguinary family feuds and famous battles with the inhabitants of the mainland. Even to the present day the Tory Islanders — who live almost entirely by fishing and kelp burning — hold themselves aloof from the " mainlanders " — a people to themselves ; they pay neither rents nor rates, they ask for no assistance from county councils or workhouse authorities, for they make their own roads and provide for their own poor, — if poor there can be where all are poor alike ! Modern methods have " improved " some few things in Tory, but the seventy or so families that constitute the community remain

   Tory Island.

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5. Wooden Grave Memorials at Mervagh

   Mevagh · townland · Donegal

   In the graveyard of Mervagh on the Rosguill peninsula, memorials are made of wood in a curious cross pattern. This style of memorial can also be seen in other old graveyards in north-west Donegal.

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   and brooches — some inlaid with silver — and some ornamental beads of very early date, have also been found. In the " blacklayers " are immense quantities of food shells, mainly common species, but with the shell Venus verrucosa, now extinct in Northern Ireland; and a Lutrana so often broken away to the thick hinge as to suggest that it was used for cutting and scraping after the manner of the flint knives of other coast settlements; the British Columbian Indians use somewhat similar shells to the present day. Bones of animals long extinct in the district occur; antlers, etc., of Red Deer and other animals used for food, and even bones of the extinct Great Auk. Many old customs still linger : in the graveyard of Mervagh the memorials are of wood — a curious cross pattern which may also be seen in other old graveyards in North-west Donegal. Here, as elsewhere in the county, may be seen fine examples of the curious old lint-wheels, or flax-bruisers, used for breaking the flax before it went to the scutch-imill. Sufficient has been said to prove the antiquarian interest of the district; those seeking for exhaustive information are referred to an article on " Rossguill " in the journal of the Royal Society of Antiquaries for 1902, by Mr. R. Welch, and an article from the pen of Mr. W. W. H. Patterson on " Rosapenna Kitchen Middens " in the Irish Naturalist, 1894.

   Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 20

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here is the graveyard of Mervagh, on the Rosguill peninsula. The memorials in this graveyard are made of wood, set in a curious cross pattern. You can see the same style of wooden memorial in other old graveyards across north-west Donegal. The book notes that many old customs still linger in this district, and these wooden crosses are one of them. Fine examples of old lint-wheels, or flax-bruisers, used for breaking flax before it went to the scutch-mill, can also be seen here as elsewhere in the county. An article on Rossguill by R. Welch in the journal of the Royal Society of Antiquaries for 1902, and one on Rosapenna Kitchen Middens by W. W. H. Patterson in the Irish Naturalist, 1894, give more detail for anyone seeking fuller information on the antiquarian interest of the district.

6. Dunlewy Lough: salmon and trout fishing at Errigal's base

   Dunlewy Lough · lake or lakes · Donegal

   Dunlewy Lough lies at the foot of the hill below Dunlewy House and is an excellent salmon and trout water. The grounds from the house to the shore are charmingly laid out, with Errigal rising directly from the lough's shores, its summit often literally in the clouds.

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   of Mrs. Monk, a truly delightful residence, the views from which are extremely fine. With the exception of the valley of the Clady, down which the eye travels to the Atlantic ocean, the house is shut in by bold rocky mountains. At the foot of the hill, on the side of which it stands, is the beautiful Duxlewv Lough, an excellent salmon and trout water ; the grounds from the house to the shore are charmingly laid out in flower-beds, winding paths, grassy plats and heavily-timbered slopes, while right out in front is the whole mass of Errigal, its base resting on the very shores of the lough, its summit often enough literall}' in the clouds. The view of the Poisoned Glen from Dunlewy is one of the sights of Donegal ; a more rich and fascinating mountain scene it would be difficult to imagine. Close by Dunlewy is a famous Marble Quarry, concerning which Sir Charles Giesecke, in his report to the Dublin Society, wrote : — " I consider this white marble as the_best in Ireland .... it is of excellent quality, and its bed very extensive .... half-a-mile in the square. It is fine granular, and may be employed to the finest works of common sculpture ; and I have no doubt but there also may be raised fine blocks fit for statuary. As to its quality, its texture and whiteness approach more to that of the Parian, than to the Carrara marble. It is very well known that perfect blocks of Carrara marble are procured with great difficulty, and I firmly believe that the marble of Dunlewy is free from mica-quartz grains, and other substances interfering with the chisel, which so frequently disappoint the artist who works upon the marble from Carrarra." Yet this marble is unworked !

   The Poisoned Glen is reached by car from Gweedore to Dunlewy and from thence walk up a wild valley. The Glen is a dark awesome defile terminating in a frowning range of battlemented precipices ; a wild spot indeed, and one that deservedly ranks among the chief " show places " of the North of Ireland.

   Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 40

7. Lough Navar brown-trout fishing

   near Lough Navar · lake or lakes · Fermanagh

   Lough Navar charges 15s. per day for fishing because the trout run to 2 and 3 lbs in weight, making the fishing extra good. It lies to the west of Church Hill and is connected by streams to Lough Achork and Lough Meenameen, all flowing into Carrick Lough.

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   Inland from the western shore of Lough Erne is a charming countryside, all of which can be explored by car from Enniskillen. The angler will be interested to learn that here, also, is a network of brown-trout streams and rivers connecting up a number of loughs, all of which provide capital sport, and some of them contain very fine trout. The fishing, for the most part, is free ; where permission is necessary it is not hard to obtain ; on Lough Navar, however, a charge is made of 15s. per day, as the fishing on this water is extra good, the trout running to 2 lbs. and 3 lbs. in weight. Lough Navar, Lough Achork and Lough Meena- MEEN, lie to the west of Church Hill, and they are connected by streams all flowing into Carrick Lough. This is the loveliest sheet of water in the district, and has been appropriately dubbed " Killarney in miniature." From Carrick Lough the stream flows into BuxN'AHoxE Lough, which is close by Church Hill. All the aforementioned loughs can also be fished from Belleek or Garrison. L'nder the name of The Derrvgoxellv River the stream flows south for several miles, passing through the village of Derrvgoxellv, and receiving several small tributaries on the way. Presentlv it reaches Loigh Ross, which is connected by a wee burn with Ci'hrax Lough : thereafter it is known as The SiLLEES River and bends and twists in every direction, its tortuous

   LOrCH ERNE.

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8. Owencarrow River: preserved trout and salmon water

   near Owencarrow River · river · Donegal

   The Owencarrow River flows from Lough Veagh for nearly five miles into Glen Lough. It is a capital brown-trout river that fishes well for salmon late in the season, with no wading necessary, though about three miles are strictly preserved by Mrs. Adair and the remaining two reserved for Rosapenna Hotel guests.

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   The waters flow from Lough \'eagh under the name of The OwENCARROW RiVER, pursue a very sinuous course for a distance of nearly five miles, and ultimately empty into Glen Lough. It is strictly preserved by Mrs. Adair for a distance of about three miles, the remaining two being reserved for guests at Rosapenna Hotel. (See Mulrov Bay.) It is set amidst very wild scenery, but its whole course is .somewhat sluggish, for it flows through one of those flat, boggy stretches of country here and there associated with the Donegal Mountains. Owing to this fact it requires a decent wind to fish at its best. It is a capital browntrout river, and towards the latter end of the season fishes well for salmon. A few sea-trout run up it also, but the bulk of these fish that ascend to Glen Lough prefer spawning in the several feeders to that water. The Ovvencarrow is an easy river to fish; no wading is necessary. Flies, same as for the Lackagh, which is described at the end of this section to the guide. The Owencarrow receives two important tributaries. The first of these, The Calabber River, can be explored by way of the road that leads from Gweedore to Glenveagh. It rises amidst the wild surroundings of Aghla More Mountain, and after pursuing a tortuous course of about two miles receives a tributary that rises on the north side of Dooish Mountain. In another mile and a half it receives a second tributary, the Owexxagreeve River, which comes down from Muckish Mountain, and, in its turn, receives a tributarv coming from Brockach Lol'gh, Loigh Agarrowen and Lough Agannive before joining the Calabber. Thus swollen the Calabber continues on for about two miles when it splits into two branches; one joins the Ovvencarrow about a mile below Lough \'eagh, the other — by far the more important branch — runs nearly parallel with the main river for over a mile before joining it. Throughout their entire course the Calabber and its tributaries flow amidst delightful wild scenery, typical of the best of the Donegal Highland.s'^ and a ramble on their banks — more especially if rod and creel be one's companions — is a charming experience. It is a capital brown-trout stream, and permission to fish it is not difficult to obtain from Mrs. Adair's agent. The lakes as.sociated with it are also capital brown-trout waters, are fairly easy of approach, and can be fished from the banks. No objection 'is raised to the visitor fishing these lakes; but a polite request to those locally concerned should be made, and courteous permission follows. l-"lics, same as for the Lurgy (see The Ri\i:r Lf.xnox). Wading is quite unnecessary. The second trihut.'irv to the Owencarrow is the Meexacullix River

   Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 32

9. Panoramic views from hill above Carrigart

   Carrickart · townland · Donegal

   From the hill outside Carrigart, a panoramic view opens out with Gannamore Mountain and the Rossguill peninsula to the north, the sand dunes of Tramore with Horn Head to the west, Lough Salt Mountain to the south, and glimpses of Mulroy Bay and the Inishowen Mountains to the east.

   Read the passage

   Once more making Rosapenna the starting point the road from the hotel lies through Carrigart and in the direction of Creeslough. From the moment the brow of the hill outside Carrigart is surmounted an exceptionally fine panorama of typical Donegal scenery opens out : to the north Gannamore Mountain rises from the peninsula of Rossguill : to the west are the vast sand dunes of Tramore, with Sheephaven Bay and Horn Head, Muckish, Errigal, Aghia More, and other important mountain peaks in the backgrounds; to the south is the jagged outline of Lough Salt Mountain backed up in the distance by the mountains that hem in Glenveagh on all sides; and to the east occasional glimpses are caught of Mulroy T?ay and the Inishowen Mountains beyond. Trulv a glorious amphitheatre. Presently the beauti-

   Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 24

   As the companion tells it

   As you come over the hill close to Carrigart, a panorama of Donegal opens out on every side. To the north, Gannamore Mountain rises from the Rossguill peninsula. To the west lie the vast sand dunes of Tramore, with Horn Head and the distant peaks of Muckish and Errigal beyond. To the south, the jagged outline of Lough Salt Mountain is backed by the mountains that hem in Glenveagh. And to the east, you catch occasional glimpses of Mulroy Bay and the Inishowen Mountains. The guidebook calls it "truly a glorious amphitheatre," and it is exactly that, a full circle of mountain, sea and sand.

10. Rogan of Ballyshannon's fishing flies

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    A fly-dresser named Rogan of Ballyshannon correctly dresses the specific angling patterns recommended for the local waters. He also produces his own highly effective fly patterns for the region.

    Read the passage

    The fishing on Lolgu Mki.vix for salmon, large lake-trout, :gillaroo and brown-trout ranks among the best in the North of Ireland, as a lough fishery. This, also, is an early water, opening on February 1, and closing on September 30. The best of the salmon fishing occurs early in the season, then follows the grilse fishing: the several varieties of trout providing sport throughout the season. The best time for the trout with artificial fly is February, March, and April. In August they are taken dapping with the " Harry-long-legs " — of which a plentiful supply can be got locally — and this sport often continues through September. The charge for fishing is : weekly, 18s., or daily 3s. 6d. : tickets to be had at the hotels on the shores of the lough. The best fishing part of the lough is the Garrison end ; but the fish at times feed over the greater part of the water. Good flies are the same as the Erne patterns, with the following special additions : For trout, wing, hen pheasant; hackle, light red ginger; body, pale yellow silk with two or three turns of silver twist over it. For salmon. Number 1, one lap of gold at tail, tag of orange silk; tail, small topping, continue body, two turns of ostrich harl, about a third of an inch of greenish-yellow pig's wool merging into dark fierv-brown, then into black and fiery-brown at shoulder; claret hackle running two-thirds down the body with jay over it, gold twist; wing, golden pheasant tippet, covered by mallard; feelers, blue macaw and a black ostrich head. Number 2, one lap of silver twist, orange silk tag, small topping for tail; body, mulberry pig's wool, dressed medium; mulberry hackle, jay over all; same wing and head as No. 1. Number's, two laps of silver twist, dark orange tag, tail of mallard and three or four fibres of goldenpheasant tippet; body, black pig's wool rather spare, with a dark fiery-brown ring half-\\ay up it, and then black again, a small bit of fiery-brown at shoulder to stick out for legs; jay's hackle, goldpheasant tippet, and mallard's wing; black head. These patterns (from The Angler's Diary) are correctly dressed by Rogan of Rallvshannon, who also has some very killing patterns of his own for these waters.

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    As the companion tells it

    You're coming through Ballyshannon now, in Donegal. This town was home to a fly-dresser called Rogan, who the old guidebooks name as the man to see for angling flies tied to the local patterns. The waters around here, like Lough Melvin, were famous for salmon and several varieties of trout, and the recommended fly patterns were fiddly things, specified right down to the thread and feather. Rogan dressed those patterns correctly, following the descriptions from The Angler's Diary, the Erne patterns and the special additions for these waters. He also had patterns of his own, described in the guide as "very killing" flies for the local loughs. So if you were an angler passing through Ballyshannon in the season, which ran from the 1st of February to the 30th of September, Rogan was the name you were looking for.

11. Salmon and trout fly-fishing patterns for the River Erne

    near River Erne · river · Cavan

    Detailed salmon-fly dressings—including the Parson pattern—are given for fishing the River Erne, recommending local flies from Rogan. Brown-trout wet and dry fly patterns are also listed in order of merit, with notes on when the biggest trout are taken.

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    Brown-trout flies. The Following patterns are recommended for wet-fly fishing, and are placed in their order of merit : Claret and Partridge, Claret and Grouse, Claret and Mallard, Claret and Teal, Rough Golden Olive, March Brown, Black and Teal, Blue and Blea, Blue Spider. The biggest of the brown-trout are taken in the evening and after dark; but some very good fish — and not infrequently one of the very big ones — fall in daytime to the dryfly fished after the orthodox manner. The best size of dry-fly is No. 1 hook (new scale). Killing patterns are : Rough Olive, Pink Wickham, Ordinary Wickham, Golden Sedge, March Brown, Red Ouill and Black Gnat.

    141

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12. Salmon hatchery at Cliff on the Erne

    Cliff · electoral division · Donegal

    At Cliff, near the residence of Mrs. L. Moore, lies one of the most beautiful stretches of the Erne and a salmon hatchery where many thousands of salmon eggs are hatched and young fry reared before being liberated to stock the river.

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    The excursion to Ballyshannon may be extended along the road which lies to the north of the river Erne to Cliff and Belleek. The Erne has been described in the preceding section of this guide, but it is worthy of note that at Cliff, near to the residence of Mrs. L. Moore, is one of the most beautiful stretches of that lovely river ; here, also, is the salmon hatchery and fenced-off parts of the river, in which many thousands of salmon eggs are hatched <md the }()ung fry reared, thereafter to be liberated and add to the stock of fish available for the rods — and the nets ! At Belleek a stop can be made at Mrs. Johnstone's very comfortable hotel, overlooking another lovely part of the Erne, and from which a capital view is obtained of the fish-pass and sluices. .\ visit should be paid to The Potteries close by, where the genial manager is always pleased to show callers specimens of the famous Belleek china, probably one of the most artistic, and at the same time useful, productions of Irish industry. The return journey from Belleek mav be along the road south of the Erne, a charming drive or walk, and so to Ballyshannon and Bundoran. Or the excursion may be still further extended to (iAHRisox, the centre of some .\.l. river and lake fishing, and along the shore of Lough Melvin back to Bundoran. This latter extension affords some grand views of mountain and lake scenery.

    THE Bl XDOkWX DIST h' ICT. 151

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13. Seals and boating around Maghery Bay

    Maghery Bay · bay · Donegal

    Maghery Bay is frequented by seals, and the surrounding waters offer opportunities for sailing, shooting, and angling among the nearby islands. The area is recommended for tourists with a sailing boat, gun, and rod.

    Read the passage

    view of Aran Island is obtained from this point of vantage. Should the tourist be staying in the district, an interesting excur- ■sion is to Illanxrone, 'Ixisiikeeragh, Inishfree, and Inishal islands : indeed, there is plenty to do and see here if one has a sailing boat, a gun and a rod. Seals frequent Maghery Bay.

    Dungloe is the headquarters of The Rosses Fishery, which until thelamented death of the late John Herdman included all waters in the whole district that were of any real value for angling purposes. Within the last few years certain leases have expired and other re-arrangements of rights have occurred, with the result that The Rosses Fishery has become somewhat split up. This, however, so far, has not affected the right of visitors to fish under certain restrictions, nor has it materially increased the cost of fishing or decreased the chances of sport. Mr. S. Hanlon, of Dungloe, is still the manager of the fishery, but he has obtained certain sporting rights himself, and these he has attached to his hotel for the benefit of his guests. An alteration has also occurred in connection with the right of fishing The Crolly and Lough Anure. Dealing with the latter first.

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14. The Oily River free fishing between Killybegs and Dunkineely

    Bruckless · townland · Donegal

    The Oily River (also called the Corker River in its upper reaches) rises in Lough Tamur at the south-western base of Binbane Mountain and empties into McSwyne's Bay at Bruckless. It offers about four miles of free salmon, sea-trout and brown-trout fishing, with named pools including Bullrush, Draft, Carry, Jackeys, Pwllbradden (the salmon leap), Ash Bush and Mullendarragh.

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    There is also free salmon, sea-trout and brown trout fishing of very decent quality on The Oily River, midway between Killybegs and Dunkineely. There is a station at Bruckless from which the angler may start to fish the river, and close by is a comfortable little inn which he may make his headquarters : but the most convenient centre from which to fish The Oily (and other streams in the immediate neighbourhood), is Dunkineely. Under the name of The Corker River, The Oily River rises in Lough Tamur at the south-western base of Binbane Mountain (1,493 ft.) ; the lake is good for brown trout : in a little more than a mile The Corker receives a tributary coming down from Lough Famanfin, which is another good brown-trout lough (the hotel at Dunkineely has a boat on this lough). The Corker then makes a detour north, and presently receives The Tallinteane River, which rises on the slopes of Alulmosog Mountain. From this point it becomes known as The Oily River, and almost every pool down to the sea is worthy the angler's attention. In all there are about four miles of The Oily proper ; it empties into McSwyne's Bay at Bruckless. The names of the principal pools as they occur upw-ards from the estuary are : Bullrush, Draft, Carry, Jackeys, Pwllbradden (the salmon leap). Ash Bush and Mullendarragh. The upper reaches of The Oily River are sinuous and slow-running, while the lower pools are alternated with boulder-strewn flats, and as the river nears the sea there occur a succession of beautiful rocky gorges. The upper portion of the river can be fished from the banks, but it is necessary to wade the lower water. The salmon in this river range from 6 lbs. to 15 lbs., the average size of those caught being 7 lbs. or 8 lbs. ; the best months for angling for them are August and September. The sea-trout run up to 3 lbs., and average fully a pound : the best months for angling for them are July and August.

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 60

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Bruckless, the Oily River runs down from the hills and empties into McSwyne's Bay, offering about four miles of free salmon, sea-trout and brown-trout fishing of very decent quality. It starts up in Lough Tamur at the south-western base of Binbane Mountain, 1,493 feet, where it is called the Corker River. After it receives the Tallinteane River it becomes known as the Oily, and almost every pool down to the sea is worthy the angler's attention. The principal pools, working upwards from the estuary, are Bullrush, Draft, Carry, Jackeys, Pwllbradden, which is the salmon leap, Ash Bush and Mullendarragh. The upper reaches are sinuous and slow-running and can be fished from the banks, but you need to wade the lower water, where boulder-strewn flats alternate with pools and the river passes through a succession of rocky gorges as it nears the sea. The salmon range from 6 to 15 pounds, averaging 7 or 8, and the best months for them are August and September. The sea-trout run up to 3 pounds and average about a pound, with July and August the best months.

15. Boat hire at Teelin for cliff panorama

    near Teelin · population centre · Donegal

    Sailing boats and competent boatmen can be hired at Teelin, close by Carrick, for sailing round the coast to view the magnificent cliffs from the sea. The panorama of cliff scenery from this vantage is described as gorgeous.

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    The whole district around Carrick literally teems with coast, mountain and river scenery of exceptional beauty, and here are some of the finest cliffs in the British Isles. The latter are seen to best advantage, and with less trouble, from the sea, and it would be difficult to point to such another gorgeous panorama of cliff scenery as that to be obtained by sailing from Teelin Bay round the coast to Slievetoocy. For this purpose sailing boats and competent boatmen can be hired at Teelin close by Carrick. On closer acquaintance it will be found that the exploration of these magnificent cliffs entails a lot of hard walking and somewhat risky climbing ; howbcit with the assistance of a local guide (which the tourist is well-advised to arrange for) and the exercise of some care no serious danger need be encountered. It may be added, for the benefit of those who are not practised mountaineers or cliff-climbers, that several points of vantage, from which magnificent views can be obtained, are quite easily reached, and although the more venturesome certainly see more of the majesty of the cliffs and mountain passes, a good idea of the extreme grandeur of the place is obtained with absolutely no risk, and, comparatively speaking, but little fatigue. For instance, the ASCEXT of Slieve League is but a somewhat tiring climb over

    \\hi;r|': .si.ii:\i

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16. Bunbeg: sheltered village with natural dock at Clady estuary

    Bunbeg · town · Donegal

    Bunbeg is an interesting village snugly sheltered by cliffs at the estuary of the Clady River, featuring a natural dock capable of receiving vessels of 300 tons. Adjacent Gweedore Bay provides capital sea-fishing, and the whole coast offers excellent water for the sea-angler.

    Read the passage

    A short excursion, by car if wished, is to the interesting village of Bunbeg, which lies snugly sheltered by cliffs at the estuary of the Clady River. Here there is a natural dock capable of receiving vessels of 300 tons. Adjacent is Gweedore Bay, which provides capital sea-fishing ; indeed all along the coast the sea-angler w^ill find excellent water for his sport. This excursion may be extended, by boat, to Inishixny Island, Gola Island, and several islets off the coast, all of interest and offering plenty of rock and cliff scenery.

    The drive from Gweedore to Glenveagh is through truly magnificent mountain scenery. Tourists fond of mountaineering should climb Slievh Snaght (2,240 feet), but it is a long and difficult journey, howbeit the scenery en route is ample reward for the plucky pedestrian. This summit is more conveniently reached from the Gweebarra side.

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 41

    As the companion tells it

    This is Bunbeg in Donegal, an interesting village tucked snugly into the cliffs where the Clady River meets the sea. There's a natural dock here that can take vessels of 300 tons. Just beside it lies Gweedore Bay, noted for capital sea-fishing, and all along this coast the sea-angler will find excellent water for the sport. From here a boat can carry you out to Inishixny Island, Gola Island, and several small islets offshore, all of interest and rich in rock and cliff scenery. Beyond Gweedore, the drive toward Glenveagh runs through magnificent mountain country. For the hardy walker, Slievh Snaght rises to 2,240 feet, a long and difficult climb, though the scenery along the way is ample reward for the plucky pedestrian. It's more handily reached from the Gweebarra side.

17. Glen Lough: premier sea-trout lough of Donegal

    near Glen Lough · lake or lakes · Donegal

    Glen Lough is a lovely sheet of water over two miles long, sheltered by mountains including Crockmore, Lough Salt, Cashel, and Binbane, with the village of Glen nestling at its far end. It ranks among the very best sea-trout loughs in Donegal, also holding salmon and brown trout, and Rosapenna Hotel guests may fish it free with complimentary boats.

    Read the passage

    Glen Lough is a lovely sheet of water over two miles long and about half-a-mile average width. It is set amidst delightful scenery and mountains shelter it on all sides. To the south is Crockmore and Lough Salt Mountain, to the west Cashel Moln- TAiN and Croagh Mouxtaix, while at the further end of the lough the pretty little village of Glex nestles securely beneath the shadow of Bixbane Mouxtaix, whose sides slope down to the very edge of the water. It is, deservedly, a very popular resort with guests at Rosapenna, from which it is distant only about five miles, and it is also quite easy of access from Creeslough; the roads, in both cases, are good. Glen Lough has also the merit of ranking among the very best sea-trout loughs in Co. Donegal, it is a decent salmon water, and holds some fine browntrout. Guests at Rosapenna Hotel are permitted to fish it free of expense; boats are provided for their use also free, and the services of competent boatmen are available at the ordinary charge of about three shillings per day and the man's refreshment. The formation of the lough is favourable to fishermen : no matter which way the wind may be blowing good drifts are available, although it is generally accepted that Glen Lough fishes at its best with a wind blowing down it, i.e., south-west. A matter of some importance to remember when fishing this lough is that the Lackagh River — by way of which its waters reach the sea — is situated half-way down. This means that the salmon running into the lough, bound for the Owencarrow River and Lough \'eagh, should be found in the upper end. As a matter of fact, some of the fish distribute themselves over the lough; but, none the less, the most likely lies for salmon are in the' upper parts of the lough. In the case of sea-trout this does not apply so much, for reasons stated previously, i.e., sea-trout seem to prefer spawning in the several feeders to Glen Lough, and mount into the Owencarrow, and beyond, only in (comparatively) small numbers. Salmon and sea-trout flies same as for the Lackagh : brown-trout flies should be fairly large, and good patterns are : March Brown, Rough Olive, Hare's Ear, Claret and Partridge, Blue and Blea, Black and Teal, and — especially in the summer evenings — Red Spinner. Glen Lough receives four feeders : one from Crcagh Mountain, a second — the Owexwee River — from Lough Greexax, a third from the western side of Lough Salt Mountain, and a fourth— the Glex River— which rises in some small lakes to the north of Lough Salt, receives on its way a small stream from Lough Xatooev, skirts Binbane Mountain and flows into the lough just below the village of Glen. The Lackagh River, if canoht i)i proper ply, is a sure catch

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 33

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming near Glen Lough, the whole lake stretching over two miles through the mountains of Donegal. It is a lovely sheet of water, about half a mile wide on average, sheltered on all sides by Crockmore, Lough Salt, Cashel, Croagh, and Binbane, with the little village of Glen at the far end beneath Binbane's slopes. Among the very best sea-trout loughs in the county, it also holds salmon and fine brown trout. Guests at Rosapenna Hotel, about five miles away, were permitted to fish it free, with boats provided at no charge, and competent boatmen available for about three shillings a day plus the man's refreshment. The lough's formation suits fishermen, as good drifts are available no matter the wind, though it fishes best with a south-west wind blowing down it. One thing to note: the Lackagh River, by which the lough's waters reach the sea, enters halfway down. Salmon bound for the Owencarrow River and Lough Veagh tend to lie in the upper parts of the lough, while sea-trout prefer the several feeders. The lough receives four feeders, including the Owencwee River from Lough Greenan and the Glen River, which rises north of Lough Salt and flows in just below the village of Glen.

18. Great Northern Railway Hotel at Bundoran

    Bundoran · town · Donegal

    The GNR (Ireland) Company's hotel stands in its own grounds on the Bundoran shore, lighted by electricity with luxurious smoking and billiard rooms, sea and freshwater baths, and accommodation for cycles and motor cars.

    Read the passage

    The hotel of the Great Xorlhern Railwav (Ireland) Companv, standing in its own grounds, is a prominent feature on the shore. It is lighted by electricity, is well furnished and equipped ; drawing-room, private sitting-rooms, lounge, etc., command fascinating views ; the bedrooms are lofty and furnished after most approved methods : the smoking rooms, billiard rooms, etc., are luxuriously arranged, and, in fact, no expense or trouble has been spared in making the establishment an ideal touring hotel. The wine cellar is beyond reproach, the dinners emanate from an Al. chef. The very fine suite of sea and fresh-water baths is worth} of special note, and the sanitary arrangements are absolutely perfect. A well-fitted store has been erected at the hotel for visitors' cycles, and there is also accommodation for motor cars, and petrol and filtrate lubricating oil are available.

    \'ery comfortable accommodation is also available at The •Central Hotel Mate Sweeny's), an establishment admirably conducted by Mr. T. O'Gorman. The coffee-room overlooks Ro(]uey

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 69

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Bundoran in Donegal, the Great Northern Railway Company's hotel stands on the shore in its own grounds. It is lighted by electricity and well furnished, with a drawing-room, private sitting-rooms, and a lounge that command views of the sea. The bedrooms are lofty, the smoking and billiard rooms luxuriously arranged. The wine cellar is described as "beyond reproach," and the dinners come from what the guide calls an A1 chef. There are sea and fresh-water baths, and a well-fitted store for visitors' cycles. Accommodation is available for motor cars, with petrol and lubricating oil on hand. The guide calls the whole establishment an ideal touring hotel, with no expense spared. There is also the Central Hotel, Sweeny's, conducted by Mr T O'Gorman, as another option in the town.

19. Ballyshannon as ancient gateway to Tyrconnell

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    In the oldest times Ballyshannon, then the ford of Athseanna, was considered the key to the entrance into Tyrconnell. It was the chief point of attack by the English, with the centre of defence being the famous castle of the O'Donnells.

    Read the passage

    river is in flood the roar of the rushing water as it tumbles over the crest of the cataract — some 150 yards in width — into the dark swirling depths of the basin sixteen feet below, can be heard for a great distance, and the sight is to be remembered. Close by is the lish-pass, and the establishment of Thk Ekxe Fishery. Should there be a run of salmon into the river on the occasion of the tourist's visit he will be treated to a sight of scores of these fish leaping from the pool above the fall, their silvery forms flashing in the air for a second or so and falling back into the water with resounding splash. Mayhap he will have the fortune to see an angler playing one of these fish. This fall is the famous AsHAROE of Irish annals; contracted from Eas-Aedh-Ruadh, i.e., The Cataract of Hugh Roe, one of the three brothers appointed by the Druids three hundred years before the Christian era to reign over Erin in successive terms of seven years each. He was drowned in this fall, hence its name. On the north bank of the fall, commanding a fine view of the estuary of the Erne, are the ruins of The Abbey — originally the monastery of Asharoc — in a deplorably neglected state, and close by is a very ancient and interesting burial-ground. It is worthy of note that in the oldest times Ballyshannon, then ihe ford of Athseanni, was considered to be the key of the entrance into Tyrconnell, and was the chief point of attack on the part of the English, the centre of defence being then the famous castle of the O'Donnclls.

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 73

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Ballyshannon now. In the oldest times this place was known as the ford of Athseanni, and it was considered the key to the entrance into Tyrconnell. It was the chief point of attack on the part of the English, with the castle of the O'Donnells as the centre of defence. The river here has a famous cataract, about 150 yards wide, tumbling into a dark basin 16 feet below. When the river is in flood the roar can be heard for a great distance. This fall is the Asharoe of Irish annals, contracted from Eas-Aedh-Ruadh, meaning the Cataract of Hugh Roe. Hugh Roe was one of three brothers appointed by the Druids 300 years before the Christian era to reign over Erin in successive terms of 7 years each. He was drowned in this fall, which is how it got its name. On the north bank of the fall are the ruins of the Abbey, originally the monastery of Asharoe, now in a deplorably neglected state, with a very ancient burial-ground close by. There is also a fish-pass and the Erne Fishery nearby, and if salmon are running you may see scores of them leaping from the pool above the fall, their silver forms flashing in the air for a second before falling back with a resounding splash.

20. Calabber River: wild brown-trout stream of the Donegal Highlands

    near Calabber River · river · Donegal

    The Calabber River rises amid the wild surroundings of Aghla More Mountain and flows through typical Donegal Highland scenery before joining the Owencarrow. It is a capital brown-trout stream, and permission to fish it is readily obtained from Mrs. Adair's agent, with associated loughs also fishable from the banks.

    Read the passage

    The waters flow from Lough \'eagh under the name of The OwENCARROW RiVER, pursue a very sinuous course for a distance of nearly five miles, and ultimately empty into Glen Lough. It is strictly preserved by Mrs. Adair for a distance of about three miles, the remaining two being reserved for guests at Rosapenna Hotel. (See Mulrov Bay.) It is set amidst very wild scenery, but its whole course is .somewhat sluggish, for it flows through one of those flat, boggy stretches of country here and there associated with the Donegal Mountains. Owing to this fact it requires a decent wind to fish at its best. It is a capital browntrout river, and towards the latter end of the season fishes well for salmon. A few sea-trout run up it also, but the bulk of these fish that ascend to Glen Lough prefer spawning in the several feeders to that water. The Ovvencarrow is an easy river to fish; no wading is necessary. Flies, same as for the Lackagh, which is described at the end of this section to the guide. The Owencarrow receives two important tributaries. The first of these, The Calabber River, can be explored by way of the road that leads from Gweedore to Glenveagh. It rises amidst the wild surroundings of Aghla More Mountain, and after pursuing a tortuous course of about two miles receives a tributary that rises on the north side of Dooish Mountain. In another mile and a half it receives a second tributary, the Owexxagreeve River, which comes down from Muckish Mountain, and, in its turn, receives a tributarv coming from Brockach Lol'gh, Loigh Agarrowen and Lough Agannive before joining the Calabber. Thus swollen the Calabber continues on for about two miles when it splits into two branches; one joins the Ovvencarrow about a mile below Lough \'eagh, the other — by far the more important branch — runs nearly parallel with the main river for over a mile before joining it. Throughout their entire course the Calabber and its tributaries flow amidst delightful wild scenery, typical of the best of the Donegal Highland.s'^ and a ramble on their banks — more especially if rod and creel be one's companions — is a charming experience. It is a capital brown-trout stream, and permission to fish it is not difficult to obtain from Mrs. Adair's agent. The lakes as.sociated with it are also capital brown-trout waters, are fairly easy of approach, and can be fished from the banks. No objection 'is raised to the visitor fishing these lakes; but a polite request to those locally concerned should be made, and courteous permission follows. l-"lics, same as for the Lurgy (see The Ri\i:r Lf.xnox). Wading is quite unnecessary. The second trihut.'irv to the Owencarrow is the Meexacullix River

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 32

21. Falls of the Erne at Ballyshannon

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

    The Falls of the Erne at Ballyshannon are described as a fine cataract some 150 yards wide with a sixteen-foot drop, roaring in flood. The site includes a fish-pass, the Erne Fishery, and is the famous Asaroe of Irish annals, named after Hugh Roe who drowned there.

    Read the passage

    In walking or driying to B.xLLysn.wxoN the I< inner Camp is passed, one of the most important of its class in the country. In addition to being a conycnient centre from which to fish the famous river Erne, there are several places of interest in this locality, howbeit the town itself is uninteresting enough. The Falls' of the Erne at Ralhshannon are very fine, and when the

    150 PICrrRESOUE DONEGAL.

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 73

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballyshannon in Donegal, the Falls of the Erne stretch some 150 yards wide with a 16-foot drop. In flood they roar. This is the famous Asaroe of the Irish annals, named after Hugh Roe, who drowned there. The site has a fish-pass and the Erne Fishery. The town itself, the guide admits, is

22. Fanad Head wild-fowling and shore shooting

    Fanad Head · promontory · Donegal

    Excellent wild-fowling was available on the several loughs at Fanad Head, with shooting rights let from time to time through Mr. A. Manning of Mulroy, estate agent for Lord Leitrim. The shore-shooting throughout the whole length of Lough Swilly was highly rated, with that around Fanad Head being particularly good.

    Read the passage

    out the w inter season. Flighting- can be indulged in along the shore and off Inch Islaxd, but the cream of the shooting is obtained from flat-bottomed punts, of which a few are available at Ray Bridge, which is the centre for the local professional wildfowlers, and where the services of a competent man are sometimes available. Needless to say, a punt gun is of great service on this wide stretch of water, and that stalking one's quarry must Ije carried out with due caution. Granted the exercise of this necessary caution, the wild-fowler of average skill and knowledge will have no difficulty in getting plenty of sport. The shooting is absolutely free. There is also wild-fowling of very excellent quality on the several loughs at Faxad Head, and the right to shoot here is let from time to time through Mr. A. Manning, of Mulroy, the estate agent for Lord Leitrim. The shore-shooting throughout the whole length of Lough Swilly would be hard to beat, that around Fanad Head being particularly good. Capital shooting can also be had for rock-pigeons among the caves that line the shores, especially north of Portsalon.

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 10

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Fanad Head, the wild-fowling was of very excellent quality on the several loughs. The right to shoot here was let from time to time through Mr. A. Manning of Mulroy, the estate agent for Lord Leitrim. The shore-shooting throughout the whole length of Lough Swilly would be hard to beat, and that around Fanad Head was particularly good. The shooting on the wider stretch of water was absolutely free, and a punt gun was of great service out there. A few flat-bottomed punts were available at Ray Bridge, the centre for the local professional wild-fowlers, where the services of a competent man were sometimes to be had. Stalking one's quarry had to be carried out with due caution, but granted that, the wild-fowler of average skill and knowledge would have no difficulty getting plenty of sport. Capital shooting could also be had for rock-pigeons among the caves that line the shores, especially north of Portsalon.

23. Fishing beats and regulations on the River Erne

    Belleek · townland · Galway

    About four and a half miles of fishing water on the River Erne is divided into eight rotating beats, from Roscor to the Ballyshannon bridge, with a maximum of eight rods permitted. Charges are £4 per week for salmon and 20s per week for trout, with artificial fly only permitted between the Ballyshannon falls and the Belleek fish-pass.

    Read the passage

    in the absence of such angler. At certahi parts of the river boats are necessary, and are provided free ; but the angler must pay the boatman for services rendered. In all there is about four miles and a half of water available ; the maximum number of rods is eight. The beats are as follows, and they are allotted in rotation : — 1, From Roscor to mouth of fish-pass, Belleek, both sides ; 2, Fish-pass to ford, both sides ; 3, Point of the Mullins to tail of the island, north side ; 4, Clarke's Cot to Earl's throw, south side ; 5, Moss row to Brandley's hole, north side ; 6, Captain's rock, grass yard from the south bank to Jack's flat, south bank ; 7, Laputa' and Cherrymount, grass yard, north side, Patton's boat ; 8, Knather lane, north side, to bridge at Ballyshannon. Note. — The pool below Ballyshannon Bridge to the falls is fished by special permission only. Anglers are restricted to the beat allotted to them until one o'clock, after which tirne the whole river is open to the (not more than eight) rods on it. The charge for permission to fish for trout is 20s. per week; 10s. for three days; or 4s. for a single day. No fishing is allowed on Sundays. No salmon throw must be fished, nor must flies suitable for salmon angling be used. No salmon, salmon fry, or eel fry must be retained : if any are hooked they must be returned to the water immediately.

    Deep wading is necessary, and when the river is in best ply for fishing this calls for some endurance on the part of the angler : the volume of water is heavy and strong, and the bottom is somewhat treacherous. Thoroughly reliable wading trousers, reaching to the arm-pits, and well-nailed brogues are indispensable. The several attendants are well acquainted with the river, and it is advisable to follow their advice and accept their assistance when wading the more difficult parts. The angler for trout is not ■compelled to have an attendant, but he is well advised to do so.

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 67

24. Lough Nillan brown-trout fishery

    near Lough Nillan · lake or lakes · Donegal

    Lough Nillan, reached by a rough walk across bog-land from Ivy Bridge on the Owentocker River, ranks among the best brown-trout waters in the Ardara district. Fish run to 2 lbs and average about 1 lb.

    Read the passage

    The Owentocker is a charming brown-trout river, with plenty of nice pools, strong streams, and glassy glides. The lower reaches are thickly wooded, and casting from the banks, at many places, is somewhat difficult ; it is advisable, therefore, that the angler should wear knee-boots, as these will materially assist him in covering the very best — and least fished — parts of the river. The fish do not run to a large size, but they are numerous and afford capital sport on very light tackle. From July to the end of the season, — October 31, — sea-trout and a few salmon run up this river. The fishing on it is quite free. The Owentocker rises in a wild mountainous district about eight miles due east of Ardara, and in the extreme upper part receives a number of small streams tumbling down from the hill-sides. The angler may commence serious operations at Ivy Bridge, to which point he can proceed by car. Just below the bridge a small stream joins the main river : this flows from Lough Nillan, which ranks with the best brown-trout waters hereabouts, the fish in it running to 2 lbs. and averaging i lb. It is a rough walk across bog-land to this lough, but the angler is well repaid for his trouble as a rule. From Ivy Bridge to Ardara there is

    4v

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 54

25. Mountain excursion from Glenties to Lough Finn

    near Lough Finn · lake or lakes · Donegal

    An interesting excursion from Glenties follows the Shallogan River valley to Lough Finn, passing through wild mountainous country with peaks including Meenalargan Mountain (992 ft), Derkueg Hill (1,100 ft), and Croaghlekeen Mountain (1,257 ft) to the north, and Agila Mountain (1,961 ft) to the south.

    Read the passage

    If the tourist in travelling from Doocharry has kept to the road near the Gweebarra, then an interesting excursion from Glenties is by the valley of the ShaLlogan River to Lough Finn, passing through a wild, mountainous part with Meenalargan Mountain (992 feet), Derkueg Hill (1,100 feet), and Croaghlekeen Mountain (1,257 feet) to the north, and Crockmore (918 feet), Shallogan Beg Mountain (1,090 feet), Knockdrawer (1,481 feet) and Agiila Mountain (1,961 feet) to the south. (Lough Finn and its surroundings are described under the heading of The River Finn.) From Lough Finn the excursion is continued along the main road for about two miles, where the traveller should branch off to the right, cross the Scallaw River and skirting Lough Shivnagh cross the Donegal Railway just before reaching Ballinamore station. The way back to Glenties lies by the base of Boultvpatrick Mountain (1,415 feet), Knocklettera(;ii Mountain (996 feet), Clogher North Mountain (1,293 feet), and Croveenananta Mountain (1,568 feet), and on the road home the wondrously beautiful valley of the Owenca River is passed through, while to the east and the south are the important peaks of The Gaugin Mountain (1,865 feet), and The Blue Stack Mountains (2,219 feet) in the distance, and in the

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 51

26. Salmon fishing on the Crolly River and Lough Anure

    Lough Anure · lake or lakes · Donegal

    The Crolly River and Lough Anure are noted for salmon, which are mostly caught on trout flies. Recommended salmon flies include Thunder and Lightning, Jock Scott, Silver Doctor and Wilkinson.

    Read the passage

    Brown, Hare's Ear, and Rough Olive. The salmon in The Crolly and Lough Anure are mostly caught on trout flies, but good flies also are small Thunder and Lightning, Jock Scott, Silver Doctor and Wilkinson.

    There is excellent rough shooting in the district, which is let from time to time to a suitable tenant, and Mr. Hanlon has shooting rights over a lot of good ground. In Dungloe Bay capital sea-fishing can be had, and some wild fowl obtained. There are plenty of seals in the Bay and rock pigeons in the caves and among the cliffs.

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 48

27. Ards House demesne on Sheephaven Bay

    Ards · townland · Donegal

    The beautifully-timbered peninsula in Sheephaven Bay, property of the Stewarts of Ards, features Ards House surrounded by woodland glades and lily-bedecked waters. By courteous request, visitors may drive or walk through the demesne, which presents a striking contrast to the wild surrounding country.

    Read the passage

    In less than two miles from Creeslough the main road passes by Dunfanaghy Road Station on the Burtonport Railway, and from here to Dunfanaghy the drive is a most charming one amidst mountain, glen, and coast scenery. The road is hilly and progress in places is slow, but there is so much to admire on the way that time flies quickly. The country for miles around is almost entirely the property of the Stewarts of Ards, and towards the west the beautifully-timbered peninsula on which stands Ards House rises from the waters of Sheephaven Bay. Through a kindly arrangement of the owner of this delightful demesne a courteous request results in permission to drive or walk through the woodland glades, by the lily-bedecked waters and along the shores of this beauty-spot, not the least striking feature of which is its marvellous contrast to the wild country surrounding it on all sides. Even the passing tourist should certainly avail himself of the privilege to visit Ards.

    Reference has been made to the beautiful strands associated with Sheephaven Bay. Probably the best and most extensive is that at Marble Hill, although where so many are so good it is difficult to particularise any. It is reached by a rather rough road which branches off in a north-easterly direction from the main road about midway between Creeslough and Dunfanaghy. It is an ideal spot for a lazy day's picnicing by the sea, with bathing galore, and safe sands for children to disport themselves on.

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 26

28. Bloody Foreland wild scenery and villages

    Bloody Foreland · promontory · Donegal

    The tourist is advised not to miss Bloody Foreland, where scenery, peasant-homes, and straggling villages typify the wildest parts of Ireland. The neighbourhood offers fine rock and coast scenery at Altawinny Bay and Rickardalliff Point.

    Read the passage

    passing through from the former to the latter can do the journey comfortably in a day. The route lies from Dunfanaghy to Falcarragh, through Bedlam, round Bloody Foreland, through Derrvbeg and so to Gweedore. The tourist is advised not to miss Bloody Foreland, for in that neighbourhood are scenery, peasant-homes and straggling villages, typical of the wildest parts of Ireland. There is some fine rock and coast scenery in the neighbourhood of Altawixnv Bay and Rixardalliff Point which can be reached by a short walk from the road.

    From Dunfanaghy to I^alcarragh is seven miles, and the first part of the journey is through culti\ated land : thereafter it gets wilder as Falcarragh is reached and passed. The tourist wishing to leave Bloody Foreland out of his programme may take the road from P^alcarragh that leads to the railway station and on through Muckish Gap. Here the scenery is very fine ; on the left is the " hog back " of INIlxkish Mountain (2,097 feet) still to be seen behind the intervening height of Ballvboe Mountain (631 feet) ; on the right sheer from the gap rises Crocknabaragh Mountain (1,554 feet), while right out in front is Crockawarna Mountain (792 feet). The road straight on leads to Glenveagh ; the one turning sharply to the right leads to DuNLEWY and Gweedore, and for the whole journey presents a grand panorama of mountain scenery. On the left are the Derryveagh Mountains, including the important peaks of Kingarrow^ (1,068 feet), I3ooish (2,147 feet), and Staghall (1,599 feet) : on the right are Aghla More Mountain (1,860 feet) and P^RRiGAL (2,466 feet). From here the road into Gweedore is described under the heading of The Clady River and Gweedore. Yet another route from Falcarragh to Gweedore is through Bedlam and bv the road which runs parallel with the Glcnna River.

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 35

29. Brown-trout fishing on Ballinamallard, Glendarragh, and Tawnagh rivers

    Bellanamallard · townland · Fermanagh

    Rossclare is described as a capital centre for yachting, fishing, and wildfowling on Lough Erne, and for brown-trout fishing on the rivers Ballinamallard, Glendarragh, and Tawnagh, which are within easy distance by car. The fishing on them is quite free.

    Read the passage

    RosscLARE is right off the beaten track. It is perched on a tiny peninsula about half-way down the lough from Enniskillen : to the north lies the beautiful Archdale Bay, to the south the lough is studded with richly-timbered islands : Rossclare overlooks them all, the centre of a grand amphitheatre of exquisite lake scenery that has no peer in the British Isles. Lough Erne is seen to better advantage from this point than from any other. The hotel is well equipped and well managed. This is a capital centre for yachting, fishing, and wildfowling on the lough, and for brown-trout fishing on the rivers Ballinamallard, Glen

    l.OrCH KRXE

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 67

30. Bundoran Golf Links at the GNR Hotel

    Bundoran · town · Donegal

    An 18-hole golf course over three miles in length, attached to the Great Northern Railway Company's Hotel at Bundoran, with excellent turf and numerous sand bunkers. The undulating course commands splendid views of Donegal Bay and inland mountains, and is open free to hotel visitors with charges for non-residents.

    Read the passage

    len"th from 125 vards to ."tOo yards, the total length of the course being over three miles. The turf is excellent, and there are plenfy of sand bunkers. The course, which is for the most part undulating, is picturesquely situated, (-ommanding at all part-Ssplendid views of Donegal Hay, and the mountains piled up inland. The links are included on the grounds of the Great Northern Railway Company's Hotel, to whii-h they are attached. They are open free to visitors at the hotel. The rharges to nonresidents at the hotel are :— Monthly tickets, lOs. (kl.; weekly

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    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 70

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Bundoran, the Great Northern Railway Company's Hotel has its own 18-hole golf links, running over three miles. The turf is excellent and there are plenty of sand bunkers. The course is mostly undulating and commands splendid views of Donegal Bay and the mountains piled up inland. It is open free to hotel visitors, with charges for non-residents.

31. Circular Stone Forts of Downies and Caiseal-na-dunca

    Downies · townland · Donegal

    An interesting circular stone fort stands in the townland of Downies on the Rosguill peninsula. A second nearby fort, Caiseal-na-dunca (the stone fort of the sand hills), lies just to the north.

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    On the west of Mulroy Bay and due north of Rosapenna lies the peninsula of Rosguill, a most interesting study for the geologist, the antiquarian, and the naturalist. The scenery for the greater part is extremely wild, and most of the exploring must be done on foot. A car-road, however, leads to and skirts Ganiamore Mountain, which should be climbed; from its summit one of the grandest views in all Donegal is obtained. The road continues to Dundooan Lower, and an inspection of the peninsula bevond this point must be carried out by walking. It is well worth the fatigue entailed. From the top of Crocknasleigh Mountain capital views are obtained of Tranarossan Bay, Rosses Point, Boyeeter Bay, and Melmore Head. Another car road from Rosapenna leads to Uoagh, from which Doagh Bay and Rinnafaghla Point may be visited, and Crocknamona Mountain climbed. On this journey a side road leads to an interesting circular stone fort in the townland of Downies, and another a little to the north, Caiseal-na-dunca {the stone fort of the sand hills). At Mev.^gh are an old church, two crosses, a gallaun, holy-stone, and "circle-inscribed" rock-surfaces. Also quite close bv are the remains of Lord Boync's house and garden, o\erwhelmed by the fine shell-sand that drifted up from the Campion sands in 1784 : the same sand storms buried sixteen farms. Close to the old garden are the site and a few stones of another prehistoric stone-cashel, or fort, which was finally destroyed when the new road to Downies' Fishery was made; the stones were used to " bottom " the road ! .\mong the sand dunes in front of Rosapenna Hotel and on the south and east sides of the great sand flat of Tranarossan below Melmore Mountain, large areas of prehistoric shell-mounds resembling the Danish "\itchen-middens " occur. These kitchen middens have yielded many rude stone implements, hammers, hatchet-scrapers, disc-stones, 'primitive querns or corn-grinders, etc. Bronze pins

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 20

32. Holy Well beyond One Man's Pass

    Slieve League · mountain or mountain range · Donegal

    Just beyond One Man's Pass on Slieve League, a Holy Well is found and should be visited by walkers ascending the mountain.

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    is the noble cliff in which Slieve League terminates in the sea. A few feet below the edge of this cliff a huge dint in the face of the precipice will be noticed : this is Eagle's Nest. The variety and richness of colour of this commanding sweep of precipice is truly wonderful, and must be seen to be appreciated. It arises from the different hues of the rock strata, mingling with the stains from the metallic ores and numberless clays and mosses. This marvellous foreground, backed up by the line of precipitous mountain and cliff scenery beyond, forms a picture which, once seen, is never forgotten. From Awark More a short walk inland surmounts a rounding height, and from this another grand view, of totally different character, is obtained. Teelin Bay lies mapped out below, and, in the distance, is Muckross Head, while, inland, the mountains are piled up one beyond another as far as the eye can reach. The less venturesome traveller will return from Bunglass ; our road lies ahead, and the way now is along the edge of the mighty cliffs until a slight detour to the right !becomes compulsory, and then we reach Oxe Max's Pass. This, ■as the name implies, is a sharp ridge over which but one man ■can pass at a time. It is a very narrow ridge, indeed, and on one side is a precipice 1,812 ft. sheer down to the sea, and on the other a nearly equally precipitous mountain side 1,000 ft. down "to a lonely tarn. The pass is happily described as being '' a narrow footway, high in the air, with an awful abyss yawning on either side." This is one of the danger spots of Slieve League, and great caution should be exercised in crossing it, more especiallv if a high wind be raging at the time. Just beyond this pass is a Holv Well, which should be visited. The ascent of Slieve League is then continued by way of another ridge, somewhat similar to One Man's Pass, but far more easily negotiated. It is interesting to note that this latter pass, diflficult as it may be to the unaccustomed traveller, was the only thoroughfare betw<ien Malinmoreand Malibeg to the interior of the country before the present road below was made. Having traversed this narrow footway, the summit of Slieve League lies immediately bevond, and it is the more striking as its total height of 1,97-4 ft. is sheer down to the sea on one side and somewhat precipitous down to Lou(.n Aoii inland. The view from the summit of Slieve League is sublime. On the southern horizon it extends as far as the mountains of Leitrim and the Stags of Broadhaven, with the conical form of Xephin on the shore of Lough Conn, Co. Mavo, in the dim distance ; on very clear days Croagh Patrick, "above Westport, may be seen. Inland a vast rolling sea of mountains terminates in the heights of Slieve Snaght and Krrigal. But, wonderful as this view is, it is hardly to be compared with that ol)tainc-d if the tourist venturi\s out on one of

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 57

33. Horn Head cliffs as sea-bird breeding places

    near Horn Head · promontory · Donegal

    The cliffs of Horn Head serve as breeding places for thousands of sea-birds, including many rare species. The sea-fishing and shore-shooting, including sport among rock-pigeons in the caves, are of excellent quality.

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    In fine weather a most enjoyable day can be spent in a sailing boat, visiting the various places of interest in Sheephaven Bay and inspecting the cliffs of Horn Head. Viewed from the sea these latter are even more commanding than as seen from the shore, and the play of colour on them in varying lights and shadow is very beautiful. Thousands of sea-birds make these cliffs their breeding places, and many rare ones can be shot. The sea-fishing (with rod and line or hand-lines) would be difficult to beat, and the shore-shooting (including sport among the rockpigeons that frequent the caves literally in hundreds) is of excellent qualitv. Boats — sailing or rowing — can generally be hired from the fishermen at Rosapcnna, Creeslough or Dunfanaghy. Capital wild-fowling can be had in the several Ijays, seals can be shot around Horn Head, and even an occasional wild goat may be stalked. The proprietor of the Stewart Arms, Dunfanaghy, has about one thousand acres of decent rough shooting for guests at his hotel, but with this exception the shooting inland is attached absolutely to the Ards estate.

    The hotel at Creeslough (proprietress Mrs. Harkin) is quite a comfortable establishment : it has recently been considerably extended and now offers accommodation for a score of guests. The Stewart Arms Hotel, at Dunfanaghy (Proprietor, Mr. ]. A. Sterritt), is also to be recommended. There is a capital diningroom, cosy smoking-room, nice little drawing-room for ladies, etc. Attached to "the hotel is an eighteen-hole Golf Course which has been specially laid out by Mr. Sterritt for the use of his guests. It is an eighteen-hole course, three miles in extent, and skirts the picturesque Dunfanaghy Bay. The scenery around is charming, and, when the links are got into proper order, this course should rank high in the estimation of the most exacting golfers, for, although they are newly laid out, the turf is of ex-

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru

34. Lackagh River salmon and sea-trout angling

    near Lackagh River · river · Donegal

    The Lackagh River runs between Glen Lough and Sheephaven Bay, offering about a mile and a half of productive salmon water. Named pools include the Throat Pool, Garden Pool, Eel-weir Pool, Old Bridge Pool, and Bridge Pool, with salmon averaging about 10 lbs and sea-trout about 2 lbs.

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    for a salmon or two; there is only a mile and a half of it between Glen Lough and Shecphaven Bay, but most of the water is useful to the salmon angler. The Throat Pool — which is actually part of the lough — is, probably, the best on the river, but there is little to choose between it and the others, which taken as they occur down the river are : The Garden Pool, The Eel-weir Pool, The Old Bridge Pool, and The Bridge Pool. The pools can be covered from the bank, but, for the convenience of any who are not adepts at casting a long line, piers have been made to assist those anglers in covering- the wider waters.

    THE GARDEN POOL: LACKAGH R1\ER.

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 34

    As the companion tells it

    The Lackagh River runs through here between Glen Lough and Sheephaven Bay, with about a mile and a half of good salmon water. Named pools run down the river, the Throat Pool probably the best, followed by the Garden Pool, the Eel-weir Pool, the Old Bridge Pool, and the Bridge Pool. Salmon average about 10 lbs and sea-trout about 2 lbs. The pools can be covered from the bank, but piers have been built for anyone not adept at casting a long line.

35. Lough Anure, the finest lake of the Rosses

    Lough Anure · lake or lakes · Donegal

    Lough Anure, about five miles north-east of Dungloe, was described as the largest and most beautiful lake in the district. Excursions from Dungloe could extend to nearby Crolly Bridge and Anagary Strand.

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    There is plenty of hotel accommodation in Dungloe, Han- Ion's, Boyle's and Sweeny's are all three quite comfortable, and private apartments can also be had in the village. An excursion should be made to Lough Anure, the largest and most beautiful lake in this district. It lies about five miles north-east of Dungloe and is within two miles of Crolly Bridge, to which the journey may be extended for a look at the Crolly River, the return being by the Anagary road as far as Anagary Strand, where the main road, to the left, is followed, the railway crossed and so home by Lough Meenbannad, — quite an interesting run through typical Rosses scenery. Croghv Head should certainly be visited. It is distant from Dungloe nearly five miles ; the road lies through Toberkeen, passes a pretty sheet of water connected by a short stream with Lough Nageeragh, then skirts the beautiful Lough Illion (the best brown-trout water in The Rosses) and terminates on the sands of Magherv Bay. This is a very charming spot : there is a capital stretch of sand offering excellent bathing facilities, and at Termon is some fine rock scenery. Templecrone Rectory, situated close to Maghery Bay, is to be let furnished. Lough Anglish, an excellent brown-trout lake, and some capital shooting arc within a mile of the residence. It is an ideal spot for a restful holiday. From Maghery the way to Croghy Head lies in the direction of the Martello Tower : not at all a difficult climb, the elevation of the Head being only 800 feet. From the top a really fine view is obtained. The parish of

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 45

36. Lough Keel brown-trout fishery

    Lough Keel · lake or lakes · Donegal

    Lough Keel, lying among the hills between Milford and Kilmacrenan, is an erratic but productive brown-trout water. Hotels at Rosapenna, Milford, and Kilmacrenan maintain boats on it by favour of the Earl of Leitrim, with trout up to 12 lbs recorded.

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    There are several lakes in the valley of the Lennon which are ad\ isedly considered in connection with, although not directly tributary to, that river. The first of these is Lough Keel, an A.l. brown-trout water, lying among the hills midway between Milford and Ivilmacrenan. By favour of the Earl of Leitrim, hotels at Rosapenna, Milford, and Kilmacrenan have boats on it with the right of fishing; the charge for boat and boatman being four shillings per day. It is an erratic water, but there are plenty of good trout in it, and, granted favourable conditions, a basket of two dozen fish — an average catch when a catch at all occurs — will weigh 10 lbs. to 12 lbs., or even more. Brown-trout up to 12^ lbs. have been taken from this lough, but this, of course, is quite an exceptional weight. Flies same as for the Lennon; the three best patterns on this lough are Claret and Partridge, Hare's Ear, and March Brown. A capital little brown-trout water, Irvine's Lough, lies about 1^ mile north of Kilmacrenan; it can be fished from the bank, A number of loughs lie between Ramelton and Milford, the chief of which are Nakev, The Bog Lough, .\weel, Magheradrummoxd, Thorn Lough, Green Lough, and Glencarn. The hotel at Milford has boats on the first-named five, and, although somewhat erratic, they yield really good baskets of brown-trout; the fish will average three to the pound, as a rule; but occasionally the bigger trout will feed and then a few pounders and a good sprinkling of halfpounders are the result. A group of loughs lie quite close to Milford in a north-easterly direction, and these include : Milford Lough, Mifinn, Columbkille, Coney, and Doo. The firstnamed holds some very heavy brown-trout, which are generally taken trolling from a boat; the fish run up to 6 lbs., and 2 lbs. and 3 lbs. are not uncommon weights; the last-named is, perhaps, the best of the lot. The hotel at Milford has boats on both. It is a stiffish climb to them as they lie right up in the hills, but the angler is often well rewarded for the trouble of climbing.

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 17

37. Lough Swilly as touring and sporting resort

    near Lough Swilly · estuary · Donegal

    Lough Swilly, locally known as 'The Lake of Shadows,' extends twenty-five miles from Fanad Head and Dunaff Head to the estuary of the Swilly River below Letterkenny. It offered golf, bathing, yachting, sea-fishing, wild-fowling, and brown-trout fishing, with natural arches, caves, cliffs, old castles, and historical objects along its shores.

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    This important arm of the Atlantic Ocean extends from Faxad Head and Duxaff Head to the estuary of the S\\ ilia- River below Letterkexxv, a distance of twenty-five miles ; it varies in w^idth from a mile to three miles, and the scenery associated with its shores and inland from them is of a most varied character, for the greater part beautiful and in places really grand. As a health, touring, and sporting resort Lough Swillv, " The Lake of Shadoivs,'" is surely destined to become popular. Here there is, indeed, a happy hunting ground for thousands ()f visitors without fear of c: owding. There are exceptional facilities for the golfer ; the extensive strands offer unlimited bathing of a perfectly safe character ; and as a yachting centre, for small or large craft, it is bound to find favour in the future. Here arc some of the finest natural arches, most interesting caves and magnificent cliffs to be met with in the North of Ireland ; the old castles and other historical objects will delight the antiquary ; beautiful drives and walks extend in every direction, and \hv roads, for the most part, are good for cycling. The sea-fishing is good for many sorts of flat and round fish, and boats and the services of competent boatmen are available at most moderate charges ; the wild-fowling and shore-shooting ranks among the very best free shooting obtainable anywhere ; there is good brown-trout fishing in the lakes lying a mile or so inland, and some sea-trout and salmon fishing can be got In a few places. Comfortable accommodation is offered in several centres, and, as will presently be explained, a very excellent hotel stands in a prominent position amidst some of the most delightful scenery

    LOUGH SWll.I.V

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 10

38. Malin More and Rossan Point excursion

    Malin More · townland · Donegal

    The road from Carrick descends through Malinmore Glen into Malin More, from which Rossan Point may be visited. From Malin More, the road continues south through wild coast scenery with mountains inland and the Atlantic breaking on strands and rocky promontories.

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    AuvA, skirts the base of Leahan Moitxtain (1,418 ft.), and descends through Malixmore Glex into Malix More, from which RossAX PoiXT may be visited. From Malin More, bearing south, the road passes through wild coast scenery, with the mountains piled up inland and the Atlantic ceaselessly breaking on beautiful strands or dashing against rocky promontories. The journev should be extended to Malix Beg, Rossarell Point, and the charming silver strand of Trabane. At the northern extremity of the latter will be found the Doon Fokt, and in a creek close bv is a fine monolith.

    114 PlCrU RESOLE DONEGAL.

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 58

39. Meenlecknalore — pretty island-studded fishing lake

    Meenlecknalore · townland · Donegal

    Meenlecknalore is a very pretty lake with irregular shores forming capital fishing bays, studded with islands that create excellent drifts. It has produced the best baskets of large sea-trout for several years past among the Dungloe chain loughs.

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    Mav and June). Many of the lakes are small, but there is almost unlimited an£^ling on those of important size. There are many good pools on the rivers, all of which can be fished from the banks, wading being quite unnecessary. Fair sport is the rule, but there come times when the waters are low and fishing mdifferent ; on the other hand, with plenty of water in the rivers and loughs, fishing in this district compares favourably with any other in the county. Visitors should first communicate with Mr. Hanlon, who will furnish reliable information concerning prospectsof sport, etc. : he will also provide necessary tickets, licenses, and arrange for boats, boatmen, and hotel accommodation. There are boats provided free on the principal loughs, the boatman's fee being 3s. per day and his lunch. As a rule two anglers fish from one boat. Much of the fishing occurs within easy walking distance of Dungloe, but to reach some necessitates the use of a car, which is also generally shared by other anglers proceeding in the same direction. The Dungloe chain of loughs are the most popular. The top lough of this chain is Sallagh, which is connected with the next, — Meexlecknalore— by a narrow strip of water up which a boat can pass. Sallagh Is fed by a stream which, with its tributaries, connects up several small loughs to the east, the chief of which are Lough Anoon and Lough Adreen ; the former is a capital brown-trout lough. In Sallagh there are several lies for trout ; it frequently fishes well and should always be given a trial, especially the water just below the bridge. Meenlecknalore is a very pretty lake, the shores are irregular and form capital fishing bays ; the water is studded with islands, and between these and the shores are excellent drifts in many parts. This lough has produced the best baskets of large sea-trout for several years past. From Meenlecknalore the connecting stream flows to the bridge on the road to Fintown, and from there connects up three small loughs. Fad, X AMUCK, and Cushkeeragm, after which the important water of Lough Craghv (locally termed Tully Lough) is reached. This is the most picturesque lough on this chain, and it ranks only second to Dungloe Lough as a sporting water. Close by is Dungloe Lough, the favourite with most anglers, howbeit it is coy and its finny inhabitants need much and careful wooing. In addition to the main stream this lough also receives a feeder that comes from Lough Ardrhiidbi-g and Lough Anullen, into both of which a few sea-lrout run. The Derrvdruel River, and the chain of loughs on it are equal, many anglers think superior, to the Dungloe chain, and so far as extent and variety of fishing is concerned they are (X'rtainly to be preferred. But they are not so accessible, and the loughs lack a sufficient number of boats. The River lies from three to four miles south of Dungloe, and

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 47

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is Meenlecknalore, one of the Dungloe chain of loughs. It is a very pretty lake with irregular shores that form capital fishing bays, and the water is studded with islands. Between those islands and the shores are excellent drifts in many parts. For several years past this lough has produced the best baskets of large sea-trout in the whole chain. A narrow strip of water connects it to Sallagh, the lough above it, deep enough for a boat to pass through. Below Meenlecknalore a connecting stream flows down to a bridge on the road to Fintown, and from there links up three smaller loughs before reaching Lough Cragh, which the locals call Tully Lough.

40. Mountcharles village and marble quarries

    Mountcharles · town · Donegal

    Mountcharles is a delightfully situated village built on the side of a steep hill with fine views of the bay and surrounding mountains. The Marquis of Conyngham has a handsome residence at the foot of the town, and important marble quarries operate in the neighbourhood.

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    A little further ahead is Mountcharles, a delightfully situated village built on the side of a steep hill, from the top of which a very fine view is obtained of the bay below, while inland the mountains are piled up all around. At the foot of the town, on the shore of the bay, is a handsome residence belonging to the Marquis of Conynham. In the neighbourhood are some important quarries from which marble is obtained of excellent quality for building and other purposes. From Mountcharles the road leads through a smiling countryside; well cultivated gardens and fields with clean comfortable cottages form a pleasing contrast to the wild surroundings so recently left behind.

    There is nothing remarkable about the town of Donegal, but its ancient history is interesting ; its situation on an arm of Donegal Bay is picturesque, and it is a capital centre from which to explore several districts of more than average attractiveness. For the most part the roads are good for cycling, and some pleasant excursions can be made a-wheel or by car. There is comfortable accommodation at Mrs. SmuUen's Hotel, The Arran Arms Hotel and The Temperance Hotel. The chief object of interest is the old Franciscan Abbey, situated on the shore of the bay ; it dates back as far as 1474, and within its walls many pages of the famous "Annals of the Four INI asters " were compiled. Donegal Castle is a well-preserved pile, erected on the site of the stronghold of the

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 61

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Mountcharles, a village built on the side of a steep hill. From the top you get a fine view of the bay below, with the mountains piled up all around inland. At the foot of the town, on the shore of the bay, the Marquis of Conyngham has a handsome residence. In the neighbourhood are some important quarries yielding marble of excellent quality for building and other purposes. Beyond the village the road leads through a smiling countryside of well cultivated gardens and fields, with clean comfortable cottages forming a pleasing contrast to the wild surroundings recently left behind.

41. Portsalon Golf Links

    near Portsalon · population centre · Donegal

    The eighteen-hole golf links at Portsalon rank among the finest and most sporting in the United Kingdom, skirting Ballymastocker Bay within a circuit of three and a half miles. Hazards include sand bunkers, burns, and bents, with natural greens and excellent turf throughout.

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    The Golf Links at Portsalon rank high with the finest and most sporting in the L'nited Kingdom, and they are charmingly set amidst the delightful scenery associated with the hotel, which has already been described; for at Portsalon the first tee is within two hundred yards of the hotel doors. The links skirt beautiful Ballymastocker Bay and the eighteen holes are included in a circuit of 3i miles. The hazards are legitimate and consist chiefly of sand bunkers, bums and bents, while the greens are, for the most part, natural : the turf throughout is exi-ellent and affords

    LOUGH S]\'ILLV.

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 11

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Portsalon, you are near one of the finest and most sporting golf links in the United Kingdom. The eighteen holes skirt Ballymastocker Bay in a circuit of three and a half miles, with the first tee within two hundred yards of the hotel doors. The hazards are sand bunkers, burns and bents, and the greens are for the most part natural, with excellent turf throughout.

42. Shooting rights of the Earl of Leitrim at Mulroy

    near Mulroy Bay · bay · Donegal

    Shooting for grouse, woodcock, snipe, duck, geese, and swans throughout the district is controlled by the Earl of Leitrim and let through his agent Mr. A. Manning of Mulroy. Wildfowling on Mulroy Bay is free from a boat but shores are private.

    Read the passage

    t Throug'hout the whole district there is good shooting for l^rouse, woodcock, snipe, duck, geese, and a few swans. It is in the right of the Earl of Leitrim and is let through his lordship's agent, Mr. A. Manning, of Mulroy. The wild-fowling on Mulroy Bay and in the neighbourhood of Ballyhiernan is exceptionally good. There is plenty of shore-shooting of excellent quality, and some rare birds can be got. Permission can be obtained locally, but the better plan is to hire a staunch boat and do one's shooting from it. Such an arrangement can be easily fixed up with one of the numerous fishermen on the coast. Wildfowling from a boat is free on Mulroy Bay, but the gunner must not land on the shores, which are private : the best plan is to approach Mr. Manning direct and get all necessary information before shooting at all in the bay.

    In describing Mulroy Bay and the sporting facilities associated with it, frequent refereaceisimade to Rosapenna, and the same occurs in connection with the description of Sheephaven Bay. The reason for this is not far to seek. The hotel at Rosapenna is yet another direct disproof of the erroneous statement one still hears in some quarters that there is no first-class hotel accommodation in Co. Donegal. As a matter of fact, here we have an establishment successfully catering for over one hundred guests at a time; its equipment is in every way excellent and quite up-to-date; its management all that can be desired. It stands in a commandhig position, from which the places of interest referred to above, and ethers to be referred to presently, can be profitably explored; and as the proprietor is also one of the largest land owners in the North of Ireland and extends many privileges to his guests, it follows that the sporting facilities attached to the hotel are quite exceptional. Therefore, Rosapenna Hotel is recommended with every confidence as being a

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 21

    As the companion tells it

    As you travel along Mulroy Bay, you're passing through country where the shooting is controlled by the Earl of Leitrim. Grouse, woodcock, snipe, duck, geese and a few swans are found throughout the whole district, and it is all let through his lordship's agent, a Mr. A. Manning of Mulroy. The wildfowling on the bay itself is described as exceptionally good, with excellent shore-shooting and some rare birds to be had. There's a catch, though. You can shoot freely from a boat on Mulroy Bay, but you must not land on the shores, which are private. The recommendation is to hire a staunch boat from one of the numerous fishermen on the coast and do your shooting from the water. If you wanted to shoot here at all, the guide advises approaching Mr. Manning direct and getting all necessary information first.

43. Lough Eask pearls and fishing

    Lough Eask · electoral division · Donegal

    Lough Eask is a charming sheet of water set amidst timbered demesnes and backed by the Blue Stack Mountains. Pearls of great beauty have been found in the lough, which offers fishing for salmon, trout, and char, though not as good as formerly.

    Read the passage

    timbered demesnes and plantations extending to the shores, the whole backed up by the Blue Stack Mountains r 2,2 19 ft.), SuAER Hill (1,979 ft.), Gaugin Mountain (1,865 ft.), Carnaween Mountain (1,719 ft.), Rinbane Mountain (1,493 ft.) and Banaghan Hill (1,269 ft.). Pearls of great beauty have been found in the lough. The fishing in it— not so good as formerly— is for salmon, trout and char (S. A Ipinns); it is private, but permission can be obtained. By following the road that runs between the lough and Benson's Hill (775 it.), the beautiful Cascade of Asdoonan,

    124 PICTURESQUE DONEGAL.

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 62

44. Ballymastocker Bay strand

    near Ballymastocker Bay · bay · Donegal

    A magnificent strand three miles in length forms the shore of Ballymastocker Bay, skirting the Portsalon golf links. It is backed by the precipitous cliffs that abruptly terminate the Knockalla Mountains on the shores of Lough Swilly.

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    To the right of the hotel, and skirting the golf-links, is a magnificent strand three miles in length, forming the shore of Ballvmastocker Bav, and this is backed up by the precipitous clifTs which abruptly terminate the Kxockalla Mountains on the shores of Lough Swilly, while the ridges of that range fade away in blue haze towards the south. To the left the waters of " The Lake of Shadows" stretch around, and beyond is a wonderful panorama of the Ixishowen Mountains, with Dunree Fort and Lighthouse in the foreground of the distant shore. Close to the hotel is excellent sea-bathing, capital sea-fishing, and unlimited facilities for sailing and boating. The interior of the hotel is all that one can wish ; the bedrooms are large, and without exception command very fine views of the surrounding scenery. The private sitting rooms are charmingly furnished. The dining hall is spacious, and in close proximity is a luxurious lounge. There are smoking and billiard-rooms, a dark-room for photographers, store-rooms for bicycles, motor garage, and other conveniences that go to complete a well arranged and well-equipped establishment, and close by is a postal and telegraph office. In fine weather afternoon tea, or a comfortable smoke, can be indulged in on top of the tower, from which point of vantage a truly grand view is obtained of the whole district, contained, as it were, in a vast amphitheatre of striking scenery.

    The Golf Links at Portsalon rank high with the finest and most sporting in the L'nited Kingdom, and they are charmingly set amidst the delightful scenery associated with the hotel, which has already been described; for at Portsalon the first tee is within two hundred yards of the hotel doors. The links skirt beautiful Ballymastocker Bay and the eighteen holes are included in a circuit of 3i miles. The hazards are legitimate and consist chiefly of sand bunkers, bums and bents, while the greens are, for the most part, natural : the turf throughout is exi-ellent and affords

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 11

    As the companion tells it

    You're coming along Ballymastocker Bay here in Donegal. The strand runs three miles along the shore, skirting the Portsalon golf links. It's backed by the precipitous cliffs that abruptly terminate the Knockalla Mountains on the shores of Lough Swilly. The ridges of that range fade away in blue haze towards the south, while out on the water Lough Swilly stretches around. The Portsalon golf links rank among the finest and most sporting in the United Kingdom. The eighteen holes run in a circuit of three and a half miles along this bay, with hazards of sand bunkers, burns, and bents, and natural greens on excellent turf.

45. Belleek: fine perch in narrow River Erne waters

    Belleek · townland · Galway

    In the narrow water between Castle Caldwell and Belleek, which is really the River Erne, very fine perch running up to 8 lbs. or more are caught principally by trailing a minnow from a boat.

    Read the passage

    well at times, and in the neighbourhood of Castle Caldweii and Ely Island g;ood baskets of trout from ^ lb. to Ih lbs. arc made by the same means. There are very big pike in the lough, and the wonder is that they are not more fished for than they are. It holds enormous numbers of perch running up to 1 11). In the narrow water between Castle Caldwell and Belleek (really the River Erne) some very fine perch, running up to 8 lbs., or even more, in weight are got, principalh' b\- trailing a minnow from a boat.

    Sportsmen and tourists fond of life under canvas will lind that

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 67

46. Dunlewy village and Dunlewy House

    Dunlewy · electoral division · Donegal

    Dunlewy consists of a few straggling houses hemmed in on all sides by rugged mountains, about five miles from the Gweedore hotel. On a hillside facing Errigal stands Dunlewy House, the seat of Mrs. Monk, a delightful residence with extremely fine views, shut in by bold rocky mountains except for the valley of the Clady down to the Atlantic.

    Read the passage

    Glen, Dunlewv, and the summit of Errigai. Mointaix (2,466 feet), the highest mountain in Donegal and the second highest in LHster, its peer being Slieve Donard in Co. Down. A good walker can " do " the three in a day ; but by devoting two davs to them the glen and the mountains surrounding it can be far better explored, — as they should be. Dunlewy lies about five miles from the hotel, and consists of a few straggling houses hemmed in on all sides by rugged mountains ; a w ild spot, indeed. On the side of a hill facing Errigai is Drxi.iw v Hoisi:, the seat

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47. Dunmore Head scenic viewpoint

    Dunmore Head · promontory · Kerry

    Dunmore Head was a bold, rocky prominence offering splendid views: south to the cliffs of Slivetooey, east to the Blue Stack Mountains, north to the Glendowan Mountains and peaks of Slieve Snaght and Errigal, and westward across Gweebarra Bay to Croghy Head and the Island of Aran.

    Read the passage

    the headland from Portnoo to Ardara is of great interest to the antiquary, and, as will presently be seen, of importance to the sportsman as well as the ordinary tourist. Close by is Dunmore Head, a bold, rocky prominence, from which a splendid view is obtained : to the south are the cliffs of Slicvetooey, in an easterly diiection are the bold peaks of the Blue Stack Mountains, to the north are the Glendowan Mountains, and the peaks of Slieve Snaght and Errigal, and still looking north at your feet is the beautiful (iweebarra Bay, with Croghy Head and the Island of Aran in the distance, while to the west is the broad bosom of the

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 52

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Dunmore Head, a bold rocky prominence, the views open up in every direction. To the south are the cliffs of Slievetooey, and to the east the peaks of the Blue Stack Mountains. Looking north you can see the Glendowan Mountains, Slieve Snaght and Errigal, while at your feet lies Gweebarra Bay, with Croghy Head and the Island of Aran in the distance. To the west is the broad Atlantic. The headland running from Portnoo to Ardara was noted for its appeal to the antiquary, the sportsman and the ordinary tourist alike.

48. Glengesh Pass mountain defile

    Glengesh · townland · Donegal

    The route from Ardara to Carrick passes through Glengesh Pass, described as a grand mountain defile. On emerging from it, a very wild district opens up with mountains to the south including Crocknapesht (1,649 feet) and Halbane Hill (1,554 feet).

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    Continuing the complete tour of the Donegal Highlands from Ardara the way lies through Glengesh Pass. On emerging from this grand mountain defile a very wild district lies around : to the south is Crockxapest (1,649 feet) and Halbane Hill (1,554 feet) : the main road to Carrick is straight ahead, but the route recommended is by the road to the right, skirting the base of Ckoaghavehv (1,228

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49. Horn Head proper rises 812 feet sheer from the sea

    near Horn Head · promontory · Donegal

    The Horn proper rises 812 feet sheer from the sea and is described as a noble mass of rock. The best views of it are obtained from beyond it, looking back along the cliffs past Traghlisk Point.

    Read the passage

    comfortably viewed from several points. A little further ahead the Horn proper is surmounted : it rises 812 ft. sheer from the sea and is indeed a noble mass of rock. From the top a grand view is obtained, but the Horn itself cannot be seen to advantage until it is left behind. Keep to the edge of the precipitous cliffs beyond, and before reaching Traghlisk Point descend a gently shelving slope: then, on looking round, Horn Head rises before the view in all its majesty. Another grand view of it is obtained from beyond Traghlisk Point, with the latter mass in the foreground. From this point the tourist can strike the road near the Coastguard Station, there meet the car and proceed home : or, if he be of the sturdy legs, he may continue the walk round the eastern side of the peninsula, and so once more over Horn Head Bridge and into Dunfanaghy, passing on the way some very fine cliffs, including Little Horn Head.

    In fine weather a most enjoyable day can be spent in a sailing boat, visiting the various places of interest in Sheephaven Bay and inspecting the cliffs of Horn Head. Viewed from the sea these latter are even more commanding than as seen from the shore, and the play of colour on them in varying lights and shadow is very beautiful. Thousands of sea-birds make these cliffs their breeding places, and many rare ones can be shot. The sea-fishing (with rod and line or hand-lines) would be difficult to beat, and the shore-shooting (including sport among the rockpigeons that frequent the caves literally in hundreds) is of excellent qualitv. Boats — sailing or rowing — can generally be hired from the fishermen at Rosapcnna, Creeslough or Dunfanaghy. Capital wild-fowling can be had in the several Ijays, seals can be shot around Horn Head, and even an occasional wild goat may be stalked. The proprietor of the Stewart Arms, Dunfanaghy, has about one thousand acres of decent rough shooting for guests at his hotel, but with this exception the shooting inland is attached absolutely to the Ards estate.

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50. Lough Craghy — picturesque Tully Lough

    Lough Craghy · lake or lakes · Donegal

    Lough Craghy, locally called Tully Lough, is the most picturesque lough on the Dungloe chain and ranks second only to Dungloe Lough as a sporting water. It is reached after passing several smaller loughs along the connecting stream.

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    Mav and June). Many of the lakes are small, but there is almost unlimited an£^ling on those of important size. There are many good pools on the rivers, all of which can be fished from the banks, wading being quite unnecessary. Fair sport is the rule, but there come times when the waters are low and fishing mdifferent ; on the other hand, with plenty of water in the rivers and loughs, fishing in this district compares favourably with any other in the county. Visitors should first communicate with Mr. Hanlon, who will furnish reliable information concerning prospectsof sport, etc. : he will also provide necessary tickets, licenses, and arrange for boats, boatmen, and hotel accommodation. There are boats provided free on the principal loughs, the boatman's fee being 3s. per day and his lunch. As a rule two anglers fish from one boat. Much of the fishing occurs within easy walking distance of Dungloe, but to reach some necessitates the use of a car, which is also generally shared by other anglers proceeding in the same direction. The Dungloe chain of loughs are the most popular. The top lough of this chain is Sallagh, which is connected with the next, — Meexlecknalore— by a narrow strip of water up which a boat can pass. Sallagh Is fed by a stream which, with its tributaries, connects up several small loughs to the east, the chief of which are Lough Anoon and Lough Adreen ; the former is a capital brown-trout lough. In Sallagh there are several lies for trout ; it frequently fishes well and should always be given a trial, especially the water just below the bridge. Meenlecknalore is a very pretty lake, the shores are irregular and form capital fishing bays ; the water is studded with islands, and between these and the shores are excellent drifts in many parts. This lough has produced the best baskets of large sea-trout for several years past. From Meenlecknalore the connecting stream flows to the bridge on the road to Fintown, and from there connects up three small loughs. Fad, X AMUCK, and Cushkeeragm, after which the important water of Lough Craghv (locally termed Tully Lough) is reached. This is the most picturesque lough on this chain, and it ranks only second to Dungloe Lough as a sporting water. Close by is Dungloe Lough, the favourite with most anglers, howbeit it is coy and its finny inhabitants need much and careful wooing. In addition to the main stream this lough also receives a feeder that comes from Lough Ardrhiidbi-g and Lough Anullen, into both of which a few sea-lrout run. The Derrvdruel River, and the chain of loughs on it are equal, many anglers think superior, to the Dungloe chain, and so far as extent and variety of fishing is concerned they are (X'rtainly to be preferred. But they are not so accessible, and the loughs lack a sufficient number of boats. The River lies from three to four miles south of Dungloe, and

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 47

    As the companion tells it

    You're coming along the Dungloe chain, where the connecting stream runs from Meenlecknalore past three small loughs before reaching this water. Lough Craghy, known locally as Tully Lough, is the most picturesque lough on the chain, and it ranks second only to Dungloe Lough itself as a sporting water. Boats are provided free on the principal loughs, with a boatman's fee of 3 shillings a day and his lunch. As a rule two anglers fish from one boat. Close by is Dungloe Lough, the favourite with most anglers, though the guide calls it coy and says its fish need much and careful wooing.

51. Lough Nagreenan and Lough Corveen: brown-trout loughs

    Lough Nagreenan · lake or lakes · Donegal

    Lough Nagreenan and Lough Corveen, reached by climbing over a nameless height of 1,331 feet and the valley beyond from Teivelagh Mountain, are described as capital brown-trout loughs. The Corveen River leads from them down toward the road to Derrybeg.

    Read the passage

    for TiEvi-LAHiD MoiXTAix (1,413 feet) (in doing so you pass over a nameless heig-ht of 1,331 feet and across the valley beyond) ; and after climbing it descend a little to Lough Nagreenan and Lough Corveen (see map of The Falcarragh Rivers). In passing it may be remarked that these are capital brown-trout loughs. Then follow the Corveen River until the road to Derrybeg comes in sight : at which point a car may meet you by appointment, or you can walk back to the hotel through Derrybeg.

    The popular extnu-sions from Gweedore arc to The Poisoned

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52. Lough Sallagh — top of the Dungloe chain

    Lough Sallagh · lake or lakes · Donegal

    Sallagh is the top lough of the Dungloe chain, connected to the next lake by a narrow navigable strip of water. It holds several lies for trout, frequently fishes well, and the water just below the bridge is especially recommended.

    Read the passage

    Mav and June). Many of the lakes are small, but there is almost unlimited an£^ling on those of important size. There are many good pools on the rivers, all of which can be fished from the banks, wading being quite unnecessary. Fair sport is the rule, but there come times when the waters are low and fishing mdifferent ; on the other hand, with plenty of water in the rivers and loughs, fishing in this district compares favourably with any other in the county. Visitors should first communicate with Mr. Hanlon, who will furnish reliable information concerning prospectsof sport, etc. : he will also provide necessary tickets, licenses, and arrange for boats, boatmen, and hotel accommodation. There are boats provided free on the principal loughs, the boatman's fee being 3s. per day and his lunch. As a rule two anglers fish from one boat. Much of the fishing occurs within easy walking distance of Dungloe, but to reach some necessitates the use of a car, which is also generally shared by other anglers proceeding in the same direction. The Dungloe chain of loughs are the most popular. The top lough of this chain is Sallagh, which is connected with the next, — Meexlecknalore— by a narrow strip of water up which a boat can pass. Sallagh Is fed by a stream which, with its tributaries, connects up several small loughs to the east, the chief of which are Lough Anoon and Lough Adreen ; the former is a capital brown-trout lough. In Sallagh there are several lies for trout ; it frequently fishes well and should always be given a trial, especially the water just below the bridge. Meenlecknalore is a very pretty lake, the shores are irregular and form capital fishing bays ; the water is studded with islands, and between these and the shores are excellent drifts in many parts. This lough has produced the best baskets of large sea-trout for several years past. From Meenlecknalore the connecting stream flows to the bridge on the road to Fintown, and from there connects up three small loughs. Fad, X AMUCK, and Cushkeeragm, after which the important water of Lough Craghv (locally termed Tully Lough) is reached. This is the most picturesque lough on this chain, and it ranks only second to Dungloe Lough as a sporting water. Close by is Dungloe Lough, the favourite with most anglers, howbeit it is coy and its finny inhabitants need much and careful wooing. In addition to the main stream this lough also receives a feeder that comes from Lough Ardrhiidbi-g and Lough Anullen, into both of which a few sea-lrout run. The Derrvdruel River, and the chain of loughs on it are equal, many anglers think superior, to the Dungloe chain, and so far as extent and variety of fishing is concerned they are (X'rtainly to be preferred. But they are not so accessible, and the loughs lack a sufficient number of boats. The River lies from three to four miles south of Dungloe, and

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53. McSwyne's Castle at Dunkineely

    Dunkineely · town · Donegal

    McSwyne's Castle at Dunkineely is the only object of antiquarian interest in the otherwise uninteresting town, described as resembling a heap of rubbish. Dunkineely serves as a capital sporting centre with Hill's Hotel accommodating sportsmen.

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    Dunkineely is an uninteresting place ; the only object of antiquarian interest is McSwyne's Castle, which the average tourist might be excused for mistaking for a heap of rubbish ; but it is a capital sporting centre, and Hill's Hotel will be found very comfortable for sportsmen. The intending visitor cannot do better than place himself in communication with Mr. G. B. Hill, the proprietor ; he has some very fair mixed shooting available, including grouse, partridge, a few pheasants, and some hares. Rabbits are plentiful. There is good woodcock shooting, and at St. John's Point is one of the best snipe bogs in the north of Ireland. IMr. Hill has also some good mixed shooting at Gilbertstown. The shore shooting is really very good, and plenty of wild fowl are available in season. The sea-fishing is of excellent quality, as, indeed, it is all along this coast right into Donegal. From July

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    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Dunkineely, there's not much to catch the eye, though McSwyne's Castle stands as the one piece of antiquity here. The average tourist might be excused for mistaking it for a heap of rubble. What the town lacks in looks it makes up for in sport. Hill's Hotel caters comfortably to sportsmen, and the proprietor, Mr. G. B. Hill, has mixed shooting on offer including grouse, partridge, pheasants, and hares, with rabbits plentiful. There is good woodcock shooting, and at St. John's Point sits one of the finest snipe bogs in the north of Ireland. He also has mixed shooting at Gilbertstown, and the shore shooting is very good, with plenty of wild fowl in season. The sea-fishing along this coast is excellent quality, all the way right into Donegal.

54. Museum at Ballyconnell House with sand-hill antiquities

    Ballyconnell · townland · Donegal

    Ballyconnell House contains a museum with many objects and coins dug from the sand hills in the surrounding area. The collection reflects the archaeological richness of the district.

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    In the vicinity of Falcarragh there are several objects and places of interest. At Ballvcoxnell House, the residence of Sir John Olphert, is the famous Cloc-a-Neely, or Cloc-ceann-jola ('.t\, " stone of the bloody head ") : this is a huge piece of white rock with a single red vein running through it, which legend declares to be the crystallised blood of a certain mainland chieftain by name Mackineely, who was beheaded on this stone by one Balor, " of the mighty blows," a former ruler of Torv Island who afterwards met his death at Bloody Foreland (then Knockfola, i.e., " hill of blood "). There is little doubt this stone is an old relic of the feuds that kept this district in a continual ferment in bygone days. There is a capital museum at Ballyconnell House, containing many objects, coins, etc., dug from the sand hills hereabouts ; and in the old churchyard of Myrath is a gigantic cross, overthrown and broken, which is said to have been hewn out of a single piece of stone from Muckish Mountain side h\ vSaint Colum Cille. Close by is the " dripping well " of St. Finian, held in great veneration b\- the peasantry, who frequentlv make pilgrimages to the spot, and on the island of Ixishdovev are some most interesting caves.

    The whole district is well watered by several rivers of more than passing importance. The fishing on them, and on the lakes from which they flow, is in the right of Sir John Olphert, who is pleased to grant permission to \isiting anglers. For the most part they flow through wild mountainous countrv, with here and

    Internet Archive picturesquedoneg00shru, Chapter 36

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is Ballyconnell House, the residence of Sir John Olphert, and it holds a museum with many objects and coins dug from the sand hills in this area. The collection reflects how rich this district is in old remains. At the same house you can see the Cloc-a-Neely, or Cloc-ceann-jola, the stone of the bloody head, a huge piece of white rock with a single red vein running through it. Legend says the vein is the crystallised blood of a mainland chieftain called Mackineely, who was beheaded on this stone by one Balor, of the mighty blows, a former ruler of Tory Island. Balor afterwards met his death at Bloody Foreland, then called Knockfola, meaning hill of blood. The stone is thought to be an old relic of the feuds that kept this district in continual ferment in bygone days. The sand hills hereabouts have yielded many of the antiquities now housed in the museum at Ballyconnell House, giving a sense of the long and troubled history of this corner of Donegal.

55. Owenea River preserved salmon and trout fishing near Glenties

    Glenties · town · Donegal

    The upper portion of the Owenea River and its several loughs are strictly preserved by the Marquis of Conyngham and let through his agent at Glenties. The preserved water extends to about 3 miles below Glenties at Gavaghan's Stream, with brown trout, sea-trout, and salmon fishing available.

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    ing- down from Lolgh Maddv (brown-trout), and in the next two miles three other streams flowing- from Lough Magrath More, Lough Maglash Beg, Lough Shivxagh and Lough Anna (all good for brown-trout). It then flows on to within a mile-and-ahalf of Glenties, where it receives a capital little stream comingdown from Lough Xasnanida. The whole of the fishing on the above portion of the Owenea and the several loughs is strictly preserved by The Marquis of Conynham, and let through his lordship's agent at Glenties. This preserved part of the Owenea extends to a point about 3 miles below Glenties (Gavaghan's Stream), and from thence to the sea the river is reserved for

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56. Sea caves beneath Crohy Head

    Crohy Head · promontory · Donegal

    A number of caves lie directly beneath Crohy Head, accessible only by boat. Fine cliffs are also found in the direction of Polladeva, and a splendid view of Aran Island is obtained from this vantage point.

    Read the passage

    bulk of the mountain, and the part that collapsed shivered intothousands of pieces of rock, many of large proportions. The^ chasm so formed varies in width, but throughout its entire length the edges, which are serrated, correspond accurately. The greatest gash is about twelve feet wide by twenty-five feet in depth. This is Tholla Bkistha, i.e., Broken Earth. In the direction of Polladeva are some fine cliffs, and right under Croghy Head are a number of most interesting caves, which are, however, accessible by boat only. Needless to say, a splendid

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57. Stewart Arms Hotel golf course at Dunfanaghy

    Dunfanaghy · town · Donegal

    The Stewart Arms Hotel at Dunfanaghy, run by Mr. J. A. Sterritt, has an eighteen-hole golf course specially laid out for guests, skirting the picturesque Dunfanaghy Bay over three miles. The hotel also offers about one thousand acres of rough shooting.

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    The hotel at Creeslough (proprietress Mrs. Harkin) is quite a comfortable establishment : it has recently been considerably extended and now offers accommodation for a score of guests. The Stewart Arms Hotel, at Dunfanaghy (Proprietor, Mr. ]. A. Sterritt), is also to be recommended. There is a capital diningroom, cosy smoking-room, nice little drawing-room for ladies, etc. Attached to "the hotel is an eighteen-hole Golf Course which has been specially laid out by Mr. Sterritt for the use of his guests. It is an eighteen-hole course, three miles in extent, and skirts the picturesque Dunfanaghy Bay. The scenery around is charming, and, when the links are got into proper order, this course should rank high in the estimation of the most exacting golfers, for, although they are newly laid out, the turf is of ex-

    SHEEPHAVEN BAY

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    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Dunfanaghy in Donegal, the Stewart Arms Hotel was kept by Mr. J. A. Sterritt, with a capital dining room, a cosy smoking-room, and a drawing-room for ladies. He laid out an eighteen-hole golf course for his guests, three miles in extent, skirting the picturesque Dunfanaghy Bay. The scenery around was charming. The guide reckoned that once the links were got into proper order, the course should rank high in the estimation of the most exacting golfers, even though they were newly laid out.

58. Stracashel River free trout fishing at Glenties

    Glenties · town · Donegal

    The Stracashel River, locally called the Glenties River, was a capital brown-trout stream rising in the townland of Meenaleenaghan and flowing about eight miles to Glenties. Sea-trout ran into it after July, an occasional salmon was caught, and the fishing was absolutely free.

    Read the passage

    guests at the Nesbitt Arms Hotel, Ardara. At Glenties the Owenea receives an important tributary, The Stracashel River, locally styled The Glenties River, which is a capital browntrout stream oft'ering- a charming variety of pool and stream : sea-trout run into it after July, and an occasional salmon is got. The fishing on it is absolutely free. It rises in the townland of Meenaleenaghan and flows to Glenties in about eight miles : when in ply it yields good baskets, especially in the upper reaches where the " local " fishes it less. It receives an important tributary. The Shalloghan River, which flows from the direction of Lough Finn ; and other streams that help to increase

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59. Touring route from Ardara via Glengesh to Glencolumbkille

    Glengesh · townland · Donegal

    The complete tour continues by car from Ardara through the Pass of Glengesh toward Glencolumbkille and on to Carrick. Sturdy pedestrians can take an alternate route via Maghera, walking along cliffs and over mountains via Slievetooey into Glencolumbkille.

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    The complete tour is continued by car from Ardara through the Pass of Glengesh in the direction of Glencolumbkille, which should be passed through on the way to Carrick, unless the tourist prefers to proceed direct to the latter place, and from it visit Glencolumbkille and the wild-coast scenery in its immediate neighbourhood. The sturdy pedestrian will find a most interesting alternate route, by proceeding to Maghera (from Ardara) by car, and thence walk along the cliffs and over the mountains, via Slievetooey, and so into Glencolumbkille, at which point a car can be waiting him by appointment, he having previously arranged for it by writing to Carrick.

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    As the companion tells it

    You are somewhere around here at the Pass of Glengesh, on the route from Ardara toward Glencolumbkille. The complete tour continues by car through the pass, then on toward Carrick. From Carrick you can visit Glencolumbkille and the wild-coast scenery nearby. If you are a sturdy pedestrian, there is an interesting alternate route. You can take a car from Ardara to Maghera, then walk along the cliffs and over the mountains via Slievetooey into Glencolumbkille. A car can be waiting there by appointment, arranged by writing to Carrick beforehand.

60. Waterfalls of Scardangle and Sruhancroller near Lough Barra

    Lough Barra · lake or lakes · Donegal

    Two beautiful waterfalls, Scardangle and Sruhancroller, tumble down the side of Slieve Snaght close by Lough Barra. They are noted features of the wild mountain pass scenery.

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    From Dungloe our destination is Glexties, which can be reached by the direct road via Gweebarra Bridge, just before reaching which Lough Aleen and Toome Lough are passed. But the visitor making the complete tour has a long and grand drive in front of him before Glenties is reached. It, however, can be done in a day, information being given beforehand to the driver as to the route to be followed, so that he may put the right sort of horse between the shafts of the car. An early start should be made (especially if Slie\e Snaght Mountain is to be climbed), and the road lies first to Doocharry. From here it branches off to the left and following the course of the Owenwee River presently Lough Barra is reached. The latter part of the journey is through a very wild and grand mountain pass, and the car should be driven for about two miles beyond the lough so that a view may be obtained that should certainly not be missed. Before reaching Lough Barra the mountains are piled up on the left, and to the right is the wild valley of The Gweebarra River. The chief heights hereabouts are Crocknahallin (1,301 feet), Crocknasharragh (1,636 feet), and Crobane (1,372 feet). When Lough Barra is reached the tourist is at the entrance to a magnificent mountain pass. The black waters of the lough on the right are fringed with golden saiid and backed up by the rugged sides of Crockastoller (1,379 feet), while on the left is reared the huge bulk of Slieve Sxaght (2,240 feet). It is from this point that the ascent of this important Donegal peak should be made : the view from the summit is extremely fine, and by continuing a little along the crest of the mountain a marvellous view of the frowning precipices of The Poisoned Glen, and the wild country around Dunlewy (described in the Gweedore section of this guide) is obtained. To the north-east is another magnificent view, embracing all the wild country around Glenveagh (described in the Glenveagh section of this guide). A capital view of the latter scene may be obtained from the road a little further on by those who do not care to climb Slie\e Snaght. Close by Lough Barra are two very beautiful waterfalls which tumble down the side of .Slieve Snaght, Scardangle and Sruhan'croller.

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