Travel columnist Anna Farren showcases some of the most beloved locations of Donegal through the eyes of locals.

This week, I decided to reach out to some of my family and friends and ask for their favourite pictures taken in our beloved Donegal. The result was phenomenal!

From pictures taken from a bedroom window in my home place to snaps in some beaches I have yet to visit, this collection of photos have added many more places to my must visit/return to list in the very near future. They too remind me, of the beauty of Donegal and how lucky I am to be able to call this county home.

Letterkenny – by Anne Farren

Letterkenny, by Anne Farren

This beautiful sun rises over the town I know and love so well, the town I was born and raised in, for over 60 years. I feel so lucky to be able to enjoy this beautiful view so often, from my bedroom window. In the background, you can spot the spire of our magnificent Cathedral. This town, Letterkenny Town, I am proud and happy to call home.

Drumnacraig Beach, Fanad – by Julianne Herrity

Drumnacraig by Julianne Herrity

This photo was taken in Drumnacraig Beach, Fanad. This is my mum’s home place and it is a beautiful, quiet, unspoilt beach in sun, rain or snow.

Arainn Mór Island – by Louise Rowland

Árainn Mhór by Louise Rowland

This photo was taken on Arainn Mhór Island, my favourite place in Donegal. Anyone who has been will know what I mean when I say it is truly one of the most charming places. I have the best memories there!

Doe Castle – by Jessica Fry

Doe Castle by Jessica Fry

This photo holds great memories for me of one of Donegal’s many hidden treasures. It reminds me of good times out in the open air, and of snuggling up with a hot chocolate afterwards. A New Years well spent in Co. Dún na nGall!

Letterkenny – by Clodagh Carey

Letterkenny by Clodagh Carey

This photo is special to me as it was my snowiest Christmas at home in Donegal. I love the shadow of the Cathedral in the background.

Greencastle – by Shauna McGeehan

Greencastle by Shauna McGeehan

One of my favourite places to visit in Donegal is the seaside village of Greencastle. The setting of the village has breathtaking sea views, castle ruins and is a runner’s paradise with spectacular paths along the coastline.

Oileán Árainn Mhóir – le Miriam Fitzsimons

Oilean Arainn Mhoir by Miriam Fitzsimons

Tógadh an grianghraf seo an samhradh seo caite in Árainn Mhór. Spreagadh an grá atá agam dár dteanga dhúchais ionam agus mé ag freastal ar choláiste samhraidh ar an oileán nuair nach raibh mé ach ceithre bliana déag d’aois. Chaith mé cúig thréimhse ar an oileán idir an dá linn. Sílim go bhfuil áilleacht an oileáin le brath sa ghrianghraf seo a thóg mé agus mé ag fágáil an oileáin anuraidh.

Maghera Beach – by Una McMenamin

Mahera Beach by Una McMenamin

This beach has such gorgeous scenery, is completely untouched, quiet and absolutely beautiful.

Glenveagh National Park – by Maria Farren

Glenveagh National Park by Maria Farren

This photo was taken on my daughter Annie’s first visit to Glenveagh National Park. Glenveagh is such a beautiful place, incredibly serene and also, buggy friendly! We loved our walk along this path and look forward to returning to Glenveagh to walk the many more paths they have in their wonderful park.

So, it appears that home is truly where the heart is for my family and friends with this broad selection of stunning scenery, which really showcases why Donegal is a place we hold so dear.