 Falcarragh or Cross Roads (Fal Carrach or An Falcarragh in Irish) is situated on a narrow inlet of Ballyness Bay and has a population of 961 people (1996). The town has a beautiful setting and is also within easy reach of some of Donegal's most spectacular scenery.
Falcarragh lies within the parish of Cloughaneely where there's an old mansion. Once a private residence, it's now used as a summer college for students learning the Irish language. Its name is derived from the "Stone of MacKineely".
According to legend, Balor of the Mighty Blows (the one-eyed King of Tory Island) decapitated a local chieftain named MacKineely, using this massive stone. A red seam in the rock is said to be the blood of the executed chieftain.
In Myrath churchyard there is an ancient cross of cude design and massive proportions carved from a single piece of rock. The cross was said to have been made by St Columcille and transported here at his direction.
With the peaks of Errigal rising up on the south and Muckish Mountain to the south east, Falcarragh is a good point from which to attempt the ascents.
There are a number of islands lying off Ballyness Bay. The largest of these is Tory Island which is still inhabited.
 Tory island has Gaelic speakers is one 11km off the mainland and has become prominent with visitors chiefly through the remarkable folk art which is being produced here. The location of the island off the north-west coast makes it ideal for bird watchers.
Other features inlcude a small, undecorated cross, a round tower and the remains of two churches, probably from the 6th century monastery said to have been founded by St Columcille. Regular Irish music sessions are held during the summer months and the annual festival is celebrated in July. The island already has a lovely hotel and is served by boats from Magheraroarty, Bunbeg, Portnablagh and Downings. |
