Errigal

About Errigal

Dominating the Donegal skyline, this iconic quartzite peak is the highest point of the Derryveagh Mountains. The ascent follows a newly restored path leading to a narrow, twin-peaked summit ridge. From the top, the views over the rugged Seven Sisters range and the Atlantic toward Tory Island are exceptional.

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Did You Know?

• •The name is derived from the Irish 'An Earagail', which translates to 'the oratory'. It likely refers to the mountain's distinctive tapered shape, which resembles an early Christian stone cell or sanctuary.
• •Errigal is the highest and southernmost of the 'Seven Sisters' chain. This line of peaks within the Derryveagh Mountains also includes Mackoght, Aghla More, Ardloughnabrackbaddy, Aghla Beg, Crocknalaragagh, and Muckish.
• •The mountain is primarily composed of quartzite, giving it a pale, shimmering appearance. From a distance, this white rock can often be mistaken for a dusting of snow, even in the height of summer.
• •The summit is formed of two distinct peaks joined by a narrow, airy traverse known as 'One Man's Path'. While it does not require technical climbing, the steep drops on both sides provide a genuine sense of exposure.
• •To combat significant erosion caused by its popularity, a major sustainable access project was completed in 2022. Over 3,000 metres of stone steps were laid to protect the surrounding bog and heather habitats.
• •The summit panorama offers a stark contrast in landscapes: to the east lies the dark, glaciated U-shape of the Poisoned Glen, while to the west the view opens across the Gweedore coastline to the islands of Tory and Gola.
• •Errigal serves as the ultimate litmus test for Donegal weather; if you can actually see the quartzite shimmering from the road, it is best to start climbing immediately before the Atlantic changes its mind.