Mythical, Legendary and Other-worldly
Dunlewey is steeped in myth, legend, and the lingering presence of the other-world. Ancient stories and the landscape create an atmosphere of magic and wonder.
Myth & Legend
As you drift across the lake on our guided cruise, you’ll hear the tale of Lugh, the radiant warrior, and Balor of the Evil Eye, their epic battle between light and dark played out on the very plain before you. Dún Lúiche, meaning the fort of Lugh, holds this story in its name, and Balor’s fate is said to have ended on nearby Tory Island. As you pass the old Guinness estate, keep watch—many have glimpsed the Green Lady, a sorrowful ghost said to wander the grounds.
The Otherworld
The valley shelters remains of early Irish life: a monastic site with a carved cross, a crannóg, and the fabled bed of Diarmad and Gráinne, lovers on the run from Fionn Mac Cumhaill. Beneath the lake’s surface lies a submerged world—fields, byres and stone homes lost when the valley was flooded by the ESB. And remember, in Dunlewey, the veil is thin. Fairies are real, their presence is felt in rustling trees and sudden silences. Be respectful. Don’t disturb their places. If you wander, carry an iron nail in your pocket—for luck, and perhaps, for protection.
What Happy Visitors Say!
We had a fantastic day at Dunlewey Centre during Heritage Week. This place is most definitely an underrated gem. The friendly farm animals, relaxing boat trip, and brilliant playground were the highlights of our visit. The play park is probably one of the biggest and best-maintained we’ve ever been to—perfect for families with kids.Anita, on Google Reviews
We usually take a wee visit to Dunlewey every year, and it never disappoints. Our boys absolutely love it. There were a few new attractions this year, which was a lovely surprise, and the boat trip on the lake is always a highlight. We’ll definitely be back next year. The food, the music, and the warm atmosphere make this great value for money.Sabrina, on TripAdvisor
Dunlewey Centre is a must-see experience. We loved every minute of our visit. In the Café, we enjoyed coffee, tea, and delicious sandwiches. The staff provide excellent service. We also took a scenic tour on the lake with Peter and Paul—it was fascinating. Plenty of beautiful crafts and prints to admire and purchase. Stunning views!Pearl, on Google Reviews
This is a good day out. You can go horse riding/trekking at the entrance to the centre. You can go for long or short walks around the centre, hill or road, your choice, very scenic. You can purchase souvenirs, food, a little bit of history, with a wee story thrown in to give you an idea of life in the old days.Aisling, on TripAdvisor
Despite living not too far away from Dunlewey it was our first visit and I was amazed at how fabulous this little hidden gem is! Lots of exciting things for kids to do, ours are aged between 2 and 8, the bumper cars and pedalos were a huge hit as was the great playground and zip wire.Joy, on Google Reviews
Great day out! We took the cottage tour and it was brilliant, so informative and fun (Martina was our guide). We also took the boat trip on Dunlewey Lake and it was class, great views of the surrounding scenery and again lots of history and local stories. A must visit if you are in County Donegal.Ciara, on TripAdvisor
Fantastic place for children and families. We took the cottage and boat tour, which also included free entry into the play park. The cottage was a walk through time and really interesting. The lady taking it showed us how to yarn wool and it was great. The boat ride was refreshing and gave a detailed account of the surrounding land.Margaret, on Google Reviews
A great day out for the whole family. We did the boat trip on the lake, the tour of the old house and enjoyed the craft fair that was on. The kids loved the bumper cars, the peddle boats and the indoor play area. The outdoor play area looks like it was just upgraded and the kids had great fun there.Ed, on TripAdvisor
A very well stocked gift shop as you enter the centre. A wide variety of cards, art work, jewelery knitwear, soaps, candles among a huge variety of giftware. A very friendly, smiling and helpful staff member made us feel so welcome and also recommended the local amenities and accommodation.Evelyn, on Google Reviews
Brilliant family day out. We have 3 kids under 4 year old. Decent food cafe, bumper cars, paddle boats, playground were brilliant. Very friendly staff, give our children on a go anything they wanted and if they didn’t like something they kindly helped them out and suggested something better for them.Aidan, on TripAdvisor
