​

Gola Island (Oileán Ghabhla)

​

Whether you're looking for a gentle walking tour or a long off road hike, Gola Island (Oileán Ghabhla) is perfect, we usaully take Sabba's Ferry from Magheragallon Pier (Gweedore).

Gola is in the heart of the Gaeltacht and is rich in history and culture. This Island has stunning beaches, sea cliffs and many abandoned houses, some of which are being bought back by the families of the islanders who once owned them. 

There could be an opportunity to stop for tea at Eddie Joe's Síopa Beag.

Distances can vary from 5km-10km on mixed surfaces, some tarred, some trail & bog. If you like sea swimming, there are a few crystal-clear natural harbors to take a dip.

Listen out for the Corncrake, Oyster Catcher and Curlew here.

Tour takes around 3 to 6 hours.

​

​

 

A little more about the Island

This is a 500 acre island, 2.5km from Mainland Donegal.

The houses are sheltered from the South West prevailing winds by one of the highest points on the Island, an Moail Mhór. To the North of the island, above the bogs, Cnoc a Chaolín stands at 238ft, the highest peak, protecting the Island from ferocious winter storms. 

The Mc Ginley and the Diver families arrived on the island during British rule in the early 1700's,  Prior to that, the island was used mostly for Booleying.

The census of 1841 records a population of 68 people living on Gola Island.

The schoolhouse, situated west of Port a' Churraigh, opened during the famine in 1849.

The population of Gola rose to 250 people in the 1926 census. At its height, the school boasted 70 pupils and two teachers. Over night, the maceral changed its course and went out if reach of the local trawlers. Government subsidies persuaded islanders to sell every piece of land that they owned, to move to the mainland where electricity, healthcare and running water were readily available. In 1966, The national school was closed due to dwindling number of children on the island. By 1970 the Island was deserted.