Portsalon

Portsalon is charming and wonderful, and undoubtedly one of the most scenic places in all of Ireland. The village, and its picturesque stone harbour, are located at one end of beautiful Ballymastocker Bay, which is skirted by a most spectacular and immense Blue Flag beach. Indeed, the golden sands of Ballymastocker Beach are quite legendary, and were judged by the UK Observer Newspaper to be the very best in Ireland, and the second best in the world. We think that they got it wrong. It must surely be the very best in the world!

Ballymastoker Beach is best approached from the direction of Rathmullan. When you approach it from the south you are treated to stunning views of the Inishowen Peninsula, including Dunree Head, and the Urris Hills. Even better is the spectacular view of Ballymastocker Bay as you drive round Saldanha Head. Below you the golden sands stretch northwards into the distance towards the tiny harbour at Portsalon, a truly magnificent sight. The section of beach just below the Knockalla Mountains is sometimes used by surfers, but is otherwise empty!  The beach runs the length of Portsalon’s excellent golf links, and access is by way of a walkway through the course.

Local activities include boating and fishing in Portsalon Harbour, links golf at Portsalon’s very fine Golf Club, hill walking, trekking, and cycling. The town makes an ideal base for visiting the Fanad Peninsula, and the many hidden beauties of northwest Donegal.

Portsalon also has a quaint “spirit-grocers” (a legacy of rural Ireland left over from many years ago) where customers can still buy sweets and basic provisions at one end of the counter, and quench their thirst at the other end!

How to get to Portsalon

By Car only. Follow the R245 and R246 from Letterkenny to Portsalon.

Where to stay near Portsalon

Portsalon has lots of good places to stay nearby including hotels, self-catering holiday homes, guesthouses and B&B's.

Book Portsalon Accommodation

Explore more

Portsalon is surrounded by beautiful coastal towns. Don't miss Rathmullan and Ramelton if you are travelling east, and Fanad Head and Downings if you are travelling west.

Things to do in Portsalon

1. Voyage out into deep waters with one of the two charter operators who operate out of Portsalon Harbour. With only 15 minutes sailing to the nearest fishing grounds you can enjoy the wonderful Donegal scenery over a hot coffee or tea on board specialist sea-angling boats. There are also toilets and all the safety gear and fishing equipment you will need to enjoy a fulfilling days fishing.
2. Enjoy a snack on the picnic tables outside Sarah’s Restaurant, almost on the beach, at Portsalon Harbour. A truly delightful and simple joy!