Doagh Famine Village

Join local Pat Doherty as he shows you the house he was born in and much more at the Doagh Famine Village. You’ll learn how rural families battled through the turbulent times of the Great Famine in the mid-1800s and how life on the island of Ireland has adapted since then. Humorous stories and life-sized exhibits in traditional thatched cottages will whirl you back to a simpler era. Hear how the community farmed, fished, hunted rabbits and even how they made poitín, a legendary form of Irish moonshine. You can even try a sip of it for yourself! The details of old country living are laid bare, as the Irish potato famine and customs around death (including burying people twice) are discussed in knowledgeable and heartfelt detail.

This important historical attraction is truly blessed with its surroundings. Two of Donegal’s most beautiful beaches, Pollan Bay and Five Finger Strand are nearby. Ballyliffin Golf Club offers players a super-scenic round of golf on a nicely challenging course. And rugged and wild Malin Head – the most northernly point of mainland Ireland – is just a half hour’s drive away. So enjoy the tour, grab a snack in the café afterwards and soak up the wonderful views all around. A magical spot.