Beltany Stone Circle

Discovering the Mystical Beltany Stone Circle in Donegal

Nestled in the beautiful county of Donegal, Beltany Stone Circle is a must-visit for any traveller who loves ancient history and breathtaking views. This impressive stone circle is located south of Raphoe and is a fascinating glimpse into the lives of our ancestors.

Finding the Car Park

Finding the car park can be challenging, as it is not marked on Google Maps. However, if you follow the brown arrow signs from the Raphoe Center, you'll quickly get there. Once you arrive, you'll find a reasonably large car park in front of a big farm, and from there, the adventure begins. Anyway, you can find the exact location on the map below.

The Path to the Circle

From the car park, a path leads between farm fields with animals and up the hill. The path is surrounded by high trees, bushes, and lots of flowers in the spring - daisy flowers, violets, and buttercup. Walking up the hill, you'll be mesmerized by the beautiful scenery.

The Circle and Its Surroundings

After a short walk of about 350 meters, you'll reach the gate that leads to the circle. The entrance is in a large meadow, and on the left side is a board providing information about the place. You'll see the impressive stone circle in its centre as you enter the field. The circle is huge, with 64 stones in diameter, about 40 meters. A single stone stands on the circle's southeast side, adding to this ancient site's mystique.

360-Degree View from the Top

Unsurprisingly, the ancient people built the circle here, as the site offers stunning 360-degree views from the Top of the hill. You'll be able to see the beautiful rolling hills and fields of Donegal, as well as the nearby towns and villages.

In conclusion, Beltany Stone Circle is a hidden gem in Donegal and a fascinating glimpse into the ancient history of Ireland. Its impressive stone circle, stunning views, and peaceful surroundings make it a must-visit for any traveller. So why not add it to your itinerary and experience the magic of this ancient site for yourself?

Pictures by Elena T.

Tips for Visitors:

1. Wear waterproof shoes or boots, as the ground can be very wet and muddy.

1. Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the stone circle and the surrounding scenery.

1. Plan to spend some time at the site to fully appreciate its historical and cultural significance.

1. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch or a snack in the peaceful meadow surrounding the stone circle.

1. Check the weather forecast before visiting, as the site may be inaccessible in extreme weather conditions.

1. Respect the site by not climbing on or moving the stones and by taking any litter with you when you leave.

1. Learn more about the history and significance of Beltany Stone Circle by reading up on it before your visit or by using the information board on site.

1. Take care when walking on the path leading up to the site, especially if the ground is wet or slippery.

1. Keep an eye out for farm animals grazing in the fields surrounding the site, and give them plenty of space.

1. Consider visiting at different times of day to see the stone circle in different lighting conditions and moods.