Local Area Information
Beaches, Swimming, Surfing
There are 2 nearby beaches. Trá Bhán is a 5 minute walk away and is ideal for swimming, snorkelling and families - follow the sign posted directions from the cross roads entering Muckross. Trá Lathar is located directly below the School House - this beach has strong currents and is not suitable for swimming but is very popular with surfers. click this link for surfing website review of Muckross. There are numerous other beach options in the local area to be explored.
Walking & Climbing
Located on the Wild Atlantic Way, the area is ideal for walking and climbing enthusiasts. Croagh Muckros, directly behind the School House, is a relatively gentle climb for hill walkers – access from the view point corner after the School House for a more gentle ascent.
The walk to Muckross Head is a must for any visitors staying at the School House. At low tide it is possible to explore caves at the back of the head land. Muckross Head is also renowned for rock climbing – there is an unusual crag composed of sandstone with overhangs making excellent rock climbing conditions. www.uniqueascent.ie/muckross_guide
Boat Tours
Slieve League boat trips. Slieve League (Sliabh Liag) is europe’s highest sea cliff - trips depart from Teelin Pier near Carrick. If you are lucky you will be joined on your trip by dolphins, whales, seals or even basking sharks. There is also a wide range of bird life that can be seen nesting and hunting. http://www.sliabhleagueboattrips.com/
Fishing
There are numerous sea angling spots from the rocks along the local coast line - flat fish, pollock and codling being the most popular catch. The area is also popular with deep sea fishing, with charters available from Teelin Pier and Killybegs.
Kilcar
Kilcar is 2km away - a few minutes by car or a pleasant 20 minute walk. The village has the principal tweed hand weaving facility in Donegal, with a shop Studio Donegal selling high quality tweed products. Áislann Chill Chartha is a community facility which includes a library, sports hall (basketball and indoor football), a fully equipped fitness suite, computer centre, and small theatre. There is a supermarket and several pubs. Traditional Irish music can be enjoyed in John Joe's Pub and is a lively night out, particularly at weekends. There is also Kilcar House and Carr's Pub. During July or August there is a festival of traditional music, Kilcar Fleadh, featuring live music and dancing in the street.
Rainy days
The Irish weather can be unpredictable! Feel free to borrow the board games and books within the School House on those days when you prefer to stay indoors in front of the fire and look out at the crashing waves. If you fancy a pub lunch or afternoon tea then try the Slieve League Lodge in Carrick (6km) - we recommend the seafood chowder!
