Overview
Lough Gartan (Irish Loch Gartáin) is a quiet freshwater lake in north County Donegal, near Church Hill and west of Letterkenny, close to the eastern edge of Glenveagh National Park. It is part of the Leannan River Special Area of Conservation, and drains toward the River Leannan. Use established access points and avoid disturbing shore vegetation.
St Colmcille’s lake
Gartan’s pull is Colmcille. By tradition, St Colmcille (Columba) was born, raised and schooled in the Gartan area around 521, and a large stone cross near Church Hill marks the spot the story points to. The Colmcille Heritage Centre on the shore tells his life – the founding of monasteries, the move to Iona, the long reach of his influence. The Church of Ireland church at Churchill (1819, restored 1895) has stained glass, paid for by Mrs Cornelia Adair of Glenveagh, that follows Colmcille from baptism to his death on Iona.
Colmcille and the Glebe
For a signed longer outing nearby, the Glenveagh Lough Inshagh route links Glenveagh with the Glebe area. Check the route, conditions and return arrangements before you set out.
Activities on the lake
Gartan Outdoor Education and Training Centre runs activities on the lake and in its woodland. Check availability and access directly before travelling for an activity. If you plan to fish, confirm current rules and access for the exact water rather than assuming the shore is public.
Wildlife
Because the lough sits within the Leannan River Special Area of Conservation, the birdlife is good: waterfowl, woodland songbirds and, with luck, otter sign along the banks.
Around the lough
- Glebe Gallery and Garden: a Regency house on rising ground by the lake, home to the artist Derek Hill for close to thirty years. The OPW’s Glebe Gallery and Garden page lists separate opening arrangements for the site and its exhibitions, so check it before you go.
- Wilkins Bar: a listed pub dating to 1833, run by the same family for seven generations, with the former post office (1899–1955) alongside.
Getting there
From Letterkenny, follow the R251 west; the Church Hill turn is signposted. A car makes the lough far easier to reach than public transport. Check conditions after heavy rain, as minor roads can turn muddy.