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Lough Fad to Ballintlieve Hill walk

The Lough Fad to Ballintlieve Hill walk is on the road from Buncrana to Carndonagh. And though it is not that long or has much of a climb it is quite hard as the ground can be very waterlogged and the heather and vegetation can be quite thick, so the wearing of waterproof boots and clothing is highly recommended.

Directions

Just north of Drumfries, you will see Lough Naminn on your right and Lough Fada on your left. just past Lough Fada, there is a road on the left that goes past the Lough. Take this and when you pass close to the Lough you will see a parking space where you can start.

Route

The walk is easy to follow, make your way down to the lough, where you get great views of the ancient Crannog in the middle. Then walk around the left-hand side following the edge of the lough. As there is no track you make your own path around, it can be wet, rocky and at times has thick heather, so take your time and enjoy the views.

At the most southerly point of the lough is where you leave the lough side and start to climb up Ballintlieve Hill. The climb is not hard and the vegetation and walking get easier as you climb. From the top of the hill, you get great views of both lochs Slieve Snacht and Bulbin Hill, down the valley to Buncrana and over the bog towards Carndonagh.

If you are very lucky you may come across some Rock Art which is known to be in the area. From the top, you can either come back the way you came or make your way to the road and follow it back to the start. you can learn more about Irish rock art here