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Lettermacaward

Lettermacaward (Leiter - pronounced Let-cher) is a small village between the towns of Glenties and Dungloe, on the Wild Atlantic Way, in beautiful Donegal. Known for its incredible scenery and gateway to the Gaelic area of The Rosses,  it has two local shops,  Gallaghers and Clerkins Service Station, and three pubs: Elliots, McCaffery's and 'The Shop'/ Packies.

Beaches

Dooey Beach is an 8-minute drive from Nan's Place and is often listed as one of the best beaches in Donegal. Frequently awarded the Green Coast Award for high water quality and environmental management, it is known for its 3km stretch of sand, surfing, swimming and sand dunes. 

Dooey is also home to the wonderful 'Wild Atlantic Sauna' (booking essential by WhatsApp'ing Mags on +353 83 847 7373). This is a fabulous place to relax and watch the Atlantic Ocean at its best. There is nothing better than a dip in the sea and a run to the sauna to blow the cobwebs away!

If you fancy trying your hand at surfing or paddleboarding, 'Surfs SUP' operate seasonal lessons from Dooey. Details on how to book/contact can be found here: https://surfsup.ie/contact-us/

The Strand is an inlet at Corr Point and a good place for a walk, paddleboard or kayaking when the tide is in. Nan's Place and Dune View overlook this part of Gweebara Bay. 

Pubs and Restaurants 

Elliott's Bar is a charming, family-run, traditional pub in the heart of the village. As well as a fantastic pint of Guinness and a warm welcome from the landlord, Daniel, on a Friday evening, you will often find local traditional musicians gathered for a sing-along.  

Packie's Bar / The Shop (1920) is situated in Corr Point, Lettermacaward and is run by local Packie Gallagher. This is a local favourite and has a charm of its own. It can be difficult to tell from the outside whether it's open, but as Packie says, 'if the door is unlocked, we're open'.

McCafferty's is a newly renovated bar & restaurant which offers great food, regular music and events. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for what's on. @mccaffertysleitir

There are many more pubs and restaurants in Dungloe, Ardara and Glenties, all about a 15 min drive. 

Shopping

Leiter has two local shops where you can pick up most basic supplies. 

Gallaghers Joe is also a great source of local information, and you will often hear him speak in Gaelic to the locals...maybe ask him for a few Irish words to take home with you! Gallaghers is situated next to McCafferty's and opposite the junction that you will take from the N56 to head to Farragan's (Nan's Place & Dune View).

Clerkins is the petrol station on the N56 on the road to Dungloe, about 5 mins drive from Nan's Place and Dune View. They stock a selection of groceries and are also a good place to stock up on wood for the wood-burning stoves.

There are further shops in Glenties and Dungloe has supermarkets including Aldi, Lidl, Supervalue and The Cope. 

Not to miss...

With the local amazing beaches, stunning views, local pubs and great food, many people find they don't need to go any further than Leiter on their holiday.  

Here's what we like to do in Leiter... 

Dooey Beach: 3km of golden sand, dunes and the roar of the Atlantic - it's a favourite whatever the weather. The rock pools and sand dunes are fab for kids, and the 'Wild Atlantic Sauna' is an absolute must for over-16s (book in advance, Mags +353838477373). 

Surfing or Paddle boarding with Michael at Surf SUP (https://surfsup.ie/) is great for everyone. Whether you are looking for a solo, family or group activity, this is a great option. Ask about the giant paddleboard if you are looking for a group activity with a difference.

Cycling - Gallagher's XL in Lettermacaward offer a selection of bike rentals, including electric options (so there is no excuse!) Leiter and the surrounding areas have great, safe bike routes, making it a perfect way to explore the area. 

Gweebarra Cycleway: A mix of new, separated paths and the "old road" that connects with the Slí an Dumhaigh loop. Dooey Loop: A popular, scenic trail frequently used by local cycling clubs.

For keen cyclists who would like further information, the local cycling club offer lots of events and will be able to provide further information.  Tir Chonaill GAP Cycling Club

Our Favourite Days Out...

For those who would like to see a little more of our beautiful county, our page 'Wider Donegal' looks a little further afield. Here are just a few of out fav's to get you started.

Glenveigh National Park https://www.nationalparks.ie/g...: Even the drive from Lettermacaward to Glenveigh is incredible. The grounds and the house are spectacular. You can either walk to the house along the lake or take one of the regular buses down and mooch around the incredible grounds and gardens.

Slieve League https://www.slieveleague.com/: Did you know that Donegal has cliffs that are among the highest in Europe? Whether you wish to take a stroll, book a tour or book a boat trip, the cliffs are a must-see. https://sliabhleagueboattrips.... Boat trips have been known to spot whales and Dolphins (no promises). Slieve League boat trips offer lots of other activities such as sea fishing, swimming, etc. 

If you are heading to Slieve League, we'd also recommend a trip to Silver Strand Beach while you are in that direction. You can also go via the Acsanna Waterfall (see below) on the way.

Acsanna Waterfall is situated 15 minutes outside Ardara and is an accessible waterfall that is best visited after heavy rainfall. You can pull up and park right beside it, which is a bonus! Ardara has lots of lovely places to eat and also a gin distillery that you can pop in to see, or arrange a tour, while you are in the area. If you are interested in Donegal Tweed, Triona Tweed has a visitor centre in Ardara, so you can pop in and see how traditional Donegal Tweed is made. https://trionadesign.com/

Mount Errigal is located near Gweedore in County Donegal, Ireland, is the highest peak of the Derryveagh Mountain range and the county's tallest,  standing at  751 metres. It is a popular, moderate-to-strenuous hike taking about 2-3 hours, known for its distinctive quartzite peak, steep scree slopes, and stunning, panoramic views of the "Seven Sisters" range. It is a great hike for those who fancy a challenge before a well-earned pint of Guinness.

Arranmore Boat Trips are great for Bird Watching and sea safaris.

Kayaking, Rockclimbing (and more): Kayaking around Dungloe Bay is a great family activity for the whole family.  https://magherycoastaladventur...


Lots more info on our Wider Donegal Page.


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