
Ireland: Slieve League, Errigal & the Donegal Coast
“The highest sea cliffs in Ireland, a village nobody lives in any more, and Errigal.”
Sep 11-18, 2027 · Southwest and Northwest Donegal, Ireland




















About this trip
Donegal is the top corner of Ireland and it does not get the traffic the rest of the west coast does. No coach routes, no queue for the viewpoint. We drive south from Derry on the Saturday and spend the week working our way back north, from the sea cliffs at Slieve League to the quartzite cone of Errigal and the headlands above Horn Head.
Every day has two routes. One follows the coast, the other goes over the top, and both finish in the same place at the same time. You pick on the morning, not at booking, and you can pick differently every day. Nobody is on a lesser version of the trip.
Slieve League is a mountain whose entire south face is a sea cliff, 601m straight into the Atlantic, close to three times the height of the Cliffs of Moher. North of Glencolmcille the coast runs for 35km of cliff and rock pinnacle with a deserted village called Port halfway along it, at the end of a single track road that goes nowhere else. Then the landscape changes completely and you are under Errigal, looking into the Poisoned Glen.
Beds are hostels, chalets and a campsite rather than hotels, partly because that is what exists up there and partly because it keeps the price down. Nobody is cooking: dinner is out every night and we settle the bill, so there is never a reckoning at the end of the table. Instructors are local and the evenings are in Nancy's in Ardara, the Rusty Mackerel in Teelin and the bars in Glencolmcille, which is in the Gaeltacht, so the Irish you hear is people talking rather than a performance.
We have not run this one yet
Everything on this page is an outline. The route is researched and the places are real, but nothing is booked. We have not signed for the beds, picked the restaurants, or fixed which day does which hill. Expect the itinerary to move once we have walked it and the bookings are in.
The photographs are not ours either. They are licensed stock of the actual places we are going: Slieve League, the Poisoned Glen, Glengesh, the villages we sleep in. We could have used our Scotland pictures and hoped nobody looked too closely, and that seemed like a poor way to start.
We are out there in December walking the route, checking the beds and meeting the instructors. After that the plan and the pictures on this page will both be ours.
If you would rather wait for the second running, that is completely fair. Register anyway and we will tell you how December went.
Highlights
- Slieve League, 601m of cliff dropping straight into the Atlantic
- The Slievetooey coast and Port, a village people walked out of and never came back to
- Errigal and the Poisoned Glen
- Two routes most days, coast or tops, picked on the morning
- Silver Strand, Maghera and Boyeeghter Bay, three of the best beaches in Ireland
- An optional run before breakfast for anyone who wants more
- Glengesh Pass, Horn Head and the Glenveagh estate
- Local instructors all week
- Every meal included, so nobody is ever splitting a bill
- Nancy's, the Rusty Mackerel, and the Gaeltacht bars in Glencolmcille
Itinerary
Stansted to City of Derry is about an hour and twenty five. Two hours in the van down to Teelin, which is the only long drive of the week. Settle in, then the Rusty Mackerel.
What's included
- Seven nights accommodation
- Local instructors for the whole week
- Two route options every day
- All your food, including dinner out every night
Not included
- Flights to City of Derry, usually £80 to £140 return
- Your share of the vans, roughly £200
- Drinks
- Travel insurance
About the vans
We hire two nine seaters and split the cost between everyone who travels in them, including us. We do not make anything on it and it is not part of the trip price. Expect about £200 each. If you are over 30 and have held a licence for more than two years we will ask whether you are happy to take a turn driving, and the drives are short: two hours on day one and under an hour and a quarter after that.
Good to know
- This trip runs with 8 people or more. If we have not reached 8 by ten weeks out we will either run it as one group at one pace or cancel and refund in full, and we will tell you which by that date.
- Everyone who registers gets first refusal when booking opens, and the early bird price.
Physical requirements
Six walking days, five to seven hours each, with one deliberately easy day in the middle. Most days are around 20km on paths, lanes and beach. The harder option adds height and rough ground, and the Slievetooey day is seven hours over trackless bog. You need no experience for either and you can swap day by day. If you want more, there is an optional run most mornings before breakfast.
What to expect
Group size
Maximum 12 people, small enough that you’ll actually get to know everyone.
Going solo?
Almost everyone who books a Jove trip comes on their own.
Your instructors
Qualified instructors, all outdoor first aid trained.
Pace & fitness
No experience needed, and nothing on this week is technical. If you can walk five to seven hours and get up and do it again, you can do this trip. What makes it a real week is accumulation rather than any single day: day four on tired legs is the honest test, not day one. There is a harder option every day for anyone who wants it, and the one genuinely committing day always has an easier route running alongside it.
Meeting point
City of Derry Airport. We will put the group in touch beforehand so flights line up and the vans leave together.
How to get there
City of Derry Airport is the way in, and the group travels together from there.
By air
Ryanair fly London Stansted to City of Derry daily, about an hour and twenty five minutes. Fares are often under £100 return if you book early. Knock and Belfast International also work but add an hour on the road.
The vans
We hire two nine seaters at Derry and share the cost between everyone travelling in them. It is a car share, not a service we sell, and we pay our own share like everybody else.
Driving yourself
Donegal is in the Republic, so if you bring your own car from the UK you cross the border on the way down. There are no checks. Tell us and we will work out who rides with whom.
A note from Freddie
“I have wanted to do an Ireland week for ages! There is a chunk of the west coast which is very touristy. Donegal is the opposite. It is the top corner of the country, most people drive past it on the way somewhere else, and it has the highest sea cliffs in Ireland sitting above a village nobody lives in any more.
It is not Scotland. The mountains are far smaller and much less remote. The week is far less challenging. What it has instead is kilometre after kilometre of incredible coastlines, stunning scenery and fantastic pubs.
I'm going out to properly recce this trip before we take bookings but if you're interested, please fill out the form - it helps a lot.”
Freddie Sankey
Founder, Jove Club
Price per person
TBC
Likely £950 to £1,050 a place, plus about £200 each towards the shared vans. We are quoting the beds and the vehicles now and will confirm the number before booking opens. Registering costs nothing and commits you to nothing.
Dates
Sep 11-18, 2027
Duration
8 days
Difficulty
Sustained
Location
DONEGAL
No pitch, no pressure, the trips speak for themselves.
Advance notice on new trips and events, and the best place to meet the people you'll be going with.
Google Reviews
What they said
when they got home.
“I had an amazing time scrambling in N Wales organised by Jove Club and Freddie. He has taken great care to ensure we have the best and friendliest guides. The info on kit and equipment needed was great and the comms for last min questions was reassuring and helpful. I'm already looking to see which Jove Club trip I can go on next.”
Carola McKenna
“I've been on a couple of events with Freddie, Fran and Joe in the Peak District and my 2nd attempt at the Welsh 3000s. Just wanted to say not only are they stellar and inspiring people as guides, you'll meet many like minded people and there's a great camaraderie in the groups. The outdoors is for everyone and Freddie takes a very methodical, accessible and responsible approach to preparing folks for seeing more amazing things. You're with great people. Give it a go!”
Jonathan Pritchard
“Jove Club is fantastic!!! Best thing I've joined this year! Better than any gym out there. It is so much fun and the people are lovely. Freddie as an owner is also really friendly and really professional. I attend their social runs and training sessions which have really helped to boost my confidence and improve my athleticism. But Jove Club offer so much more I cannot recommend this enough! I remember seeing it as an advertisement on IG and it instantly caught my eye. If you are looking for a challenge, you want a new and exciting experience and are tired of traditional gyms then Jove is certainly for you. Put it this way, I went from being someone who could not be bothered to go to a gym if it took me longer than 10 minutes to walk it, to now travelling to the other side of London and even outside it because Jove Club really is that good. I look forward to joining them on their mountaineering trips!! I wish Jove Club all the success in the world because they really deserve it! Well done!!”
Senora Divine
“It's been on my bucket list to explore the Scottish Highlands and try wild camping for some time now and Jove Club gave me the perfect trip I could have hoped for! Freddie was an amazing leader, highly organised and planned an incredible trip (Highland Hootenanny) that was a varied blend of challenging hiking, camping, and exploring Scotland's beautiful nature. Freddie was very knowledgable of the areas, and we went to spots that took us away from the touristy areas of the Highlands to enjoy some truly peaceful and stunning nature. I felt a real sense of achievement having completed the active parts of the trip, and these were well-paced/planned to enjoy some downtime and local culture (lively highland pubs!) in between adventurous days. I learned a lot of outdoor skills from Jove Club including mountain safety, how to plan & prepare hiking trips, trail running, wild camping & cooking just to name a few, and look forward to using these skills on future trips. I would highly recommend the Highland Hootenanny trip to those looking to challenge themselves mentally and physically, improve mountain skills, and explore the Highlands in a sociable group setting. Thanks Freddie for some unforgettable memories!”
James Patterson
“I joined a Jove Club trail run weekend in Devon and had such a brilliant time, couldn't recommend it enough! It gave me the opportunity to do something I'd otherwise shy away from organising myself, and I felt well looked after and in safe hands throughout. I attended this trip with my partner, but would feel very comfortable going solo too, its a great way to find new friends with similar hobbies. What I love most about Jove Club is the welcoming environment, it feels accessible to all levels, but every person leaves feeling more confident, stronger and fitter. I love how there is regular training programmes on offer to get you fit enough for the challenges ahead. They've really thought about it all. Thanks Fred and the team for the great experiences!”
Clare Doohan
“I've attended multiple Jove club sessions in London from running sessions, rock climbing and fitness sessions. Both Fred and the other trainers are great, they are passionate about what they do and incredibly knowledgeable. Would recommend anyone wanting to try new things or meet like minded people to give them a go!”
Emma Towers
“I went to the Jove Weekender earlier this year, and it has definitely been one of the highlights of my year! The Jove team were so down to earth, and everyone in the group was so nice. I went from zero navigational skills to being able to use a map and compass confidently over the course of the weekend. The social on the Saturday night was really fun and was a nice way to unwind with new friends after a day of hiking. I also had my first go at trail running! I already am looking at the future trips to see which I should sign up to next! They're absolutely the group you are looking for if you're looking for adventure, along with fitness, outdoor skills and making new friends along the way!”
Emma Clarke
“I did the week long trip in Scotland with Jove and it has been one of the best experiences I had hiking. An unforgettable week with wild camping, long hikes, unpredictable weather and some truly beautiful scenery. Challenging at times, but there's something very special about spending your days walking through mountains and remote landscapes, carrying what you need with you, and ending the day surrounded by nature. Freddie made sure we were safe but also testing our limits. All in all, one of the best trips I had! I'll definitely join another!”
Andreea Covaci
“After taking on the Welsh 3000s challenge with Jove Club I can highly recommend Freddie and his team! Having someone you can trust to guide you through a challenge like this is so incredibly valuable (especially when the Welsh weather isn't on your side). The team of Mountain Leaders and support team that Jove Club put together were fantastic. Even as the weather turned savage they kept spirits high. It was great to be with like-minded individuals for the weekend. Thank you team Jove 🏔”
Michelle Clarke
“I was nervous about taking on the Welsh 3000s challenge. I was right to be nervous. It turned out to be the most incredible experience I've ever had! Principally because of the supreme organisation of Freddie, Fran and the Jove Club, who instructed, supported, encouraged, fed, guided and protected me for the entire gruelling 51km, up and down the Welsh peaks in gale force winds, horizontal rain, no visibility and the dark. I loved every minute of it. I could not have completed this as a group of friends on our own. Freddie's skilled navigation (in the dark), mountain expertise, and clear leadership ability made this terrifyingly enjoyable. What hurts most are my cheeks from smiling for 21hrs. I didn't realise I could complete this challenge. What the Jove Club has showed me is I'm actually made of stronger stuff than I thought. Drying out my boots for next year!”
Willow Dawes
“I did the Welsh 3000s challenge with Jove Club and absolutely loved it!! Freddie and the team organised everything so well and it was brilliant to be amongst friendly, adventurous people looking to push their limits. I really enjoyed doing something genuinely testing, with the weather, distance and elevation all playing their parts, and at the same time being part of a really supportive group with Jove giving a real sense of confidence and positivity. Jove Club offers loads of different activities and adventures, I'll definitely be signing up for another one soon. Thanks Freddie, Fran, the Mountain Leaders and all those on the challenge 🏔”
James Morgan
“I had the best time on the Jove weekend trip to the Peaks. Got there and they helped set up my new tent, very friendly from the off. Zero judgement across the weekend for anything. It was about learning the skills needed to thrive outdoors, without any of the judgement you get with some providers. It gave me my confidence back outdoors, and I've booked onto my next trip already.”
Leah Brunskill
“Jove are fantastic. I've been going to their weekly strength sessions at Battersea park for a couple of months now and I've felt my confidence and strength for mountaineering and trail running come on in leaps and bounds. Their trips are incredibly good fun and genuinely valuable. Can't recommend highly enough, wish I'd joined sooner!”
Alex White
“Enjoyed a wonderful weekend of hiking, camping, trail running, navigation & fitness sessions (and some cracking pubs, pie & pizzas!) in the Peak District with a group of wonderful people. We all had different levels of previous outdoor experience & all were catered for. Thanks to Freddie & the Jove club team for leading us safely & challenging us.”
Claire
“I joined a Jove Weekender Trip to the Peak District for the weekend and had an amazing time! Freddie & the team were very welcoming and knowledgeable and it really gave me confidence to try and do more hiking in the future! I'll definitely be joining for some of the London sessions and hopefully a future trip. Would thoroughly recommend!!”
Bryony Kirby
“Joined Jove Club for an amazing trip to the Cairngorms to learn winter mountaineering skills! Small group of adventurous people, everyone was super supportive and keen to learn. Perfect weekend spent outdoors!”
Lizzie
“Huge shout out to Freddie for sorting out the winter skills training in the Cairngorms. We had an extremely knowledgeable instructor who took us through everything we needed to know about Scottish winter! I had a great weekend away and the group really topped it off as a stand out trip. Would also highly recommend the weekly social bouldering sessions in London.”
Tom Roberts
“I could not recommend Jove Club enough for anyone who wants to get outside, explore the country and test their physical and mental limits. I've done things in the past year I would never have done myself, with an amazing group of driven, friendly and kind people, and it's been an absolute blast.”
Richard Scothern
“I had such a great time on the Peak District climbing trip! Having joined for their London bouldering sessions for a couple of months, it was great to put my new skills to use outside. We had an amazing instructor who made me feel so at ease. The group was great fun, everybody was so positive and supportive of each other. Can't wait to join more trips next year!”
Emily Elizabeth
“I did the Welsh 3000s challenge with Jove Club in July and it was unreal. Freddie is a fantastic leader, he makes everyone feel comfortable and welcome. Looking forward to my next Jove Club adventure!”
Emily
“Before Jove, I never really thought of myself as a runner. But within weeks of joining, I was running 5Ks, then 10Ks. My first proper test was our Brecon trek, two days, 35km, 1,300m of elevation. It was brutal, but it was also the moment I realised how much the people around you shape the experience. Jove isn't just about getting fitter, it's about pushing your limits in a way that actually feels fun.”
Vevek Shah
“I love Jove Club. On paper, I had everything I needed to be happy, but it wasn't until I joined Jove that I realised something was missing, adventure! It's so easy in London to get stuck in a rut. Jove gets me out of the house with like-minded people and gives me things I didn't even realise I was missing. Join, you won't regret it.”
Christopher Sykes-Popham
“I went on the Peak District Climbing adventure not knowing any of the group but felt immediately welcomed by everyone. The group was very supportive given my lack of any prior climbing experience and definitely pushed my limits. The trip itself was extremely well organised, everything was covered from food and instructors to what gear to bring. Immediately came home and booked myself on another adventure!”
Olly
“I had an absolutely incredible experience on a walking adventure weekend with Jove Club! From start to finish, everything was brilliantly organised. Freddie's enthusiasm and leadership created such a positive, welcoming atmosphere, making the weekend about more than just the hike. If you're looking for a well-organised, exciting outdoor experience with great company, I can't recommend Jove Club enough.”
Henry Lort-Jones
“Can't express enough how glad I am that Freddie has created Jove Club! The recent Brecon trip was epic, a tough challenge that we all pushed through. In only a couple of months I've made significant strides towards my fitness goals. The regular adventure challenges add purpose to the training in London and the people in the club are top quality.”
Harry Webb
“The Peak District climbing weekend was meticulously planned by Freddie and Jove Club. I felt a massive sense of achievement on the Sunday afternoon walking off the crag. If you are considering a weekend away with like minded people to push yourself beyond your comfort zone then I wouldn't hesitate recommending Jove Club.”
Connor Herrington
“The mix of classes, in particular the run and fitness sessions outdoors, is absolutely amazing and unlike anything else I've found in London. The sessions are inclusive of mixed ability but with enough challenge for everyone. Really look forward to putting my fitness to the test during one of the trail runs and adventure trips!”
Francesca Richards
“Joining Jove is the best thing I've done for my fitness and health this year. Anyone looking to get fit, get outdoors and meet great people, this is where it's at. In just a few months I've met some great people, built confidence, and lost 3kg whilst getting stronger and running faster.”
Joseph McEachron
“Jove is the missing piece of London life. Such a welcoming and friendly club with a fantastic range of activities. Everything geared towards adventure trips is such a great way to train and get fit with a proper functional goal. The Peak District climbing weekend was fantastically well organised, can't wait to do another.”
Tom Frew
“I've had a great time with Jove, it's got a great mix of challenging and fun activities. The Peak District climbing trip was super well organised, great instruction provided, and a great way to get out of London for a weekend and learn some new skills.”
Vito Tomasi
“The Jove Club climbing weekend in the Peak District was a fantastic experience, filled with great routes and even better company. Everyone from beginners to seasoned climbers felt included and challenged. A brilliantly run weekend that captured the spirit of adventure.”
John Cain
“Great sessions which are well planned and adaptable to fitness levels. Welcoming atmosphere at meets and easy to use site for booking.”
Calvin Freese
“I have attended fitness and climb sessions and would really recommend Jove. Accessible and tailored to your fitness but with plenty of challenge and very social!”
sioned press
“Attended a session last week, great and welcoming atmosphere, the PT was very knowledgeable and provided alternative exercises. Will be back!”
Elin Wilde
TBC
Common questions
Before you book
Could the dates move?+
Possibly. September is our working week because the weather is settled and the light is still good. June is the other option: drier and longer days, but more midges on that coast. If one of the two works much better for you, say so when you register and it will count.
Can I run any of it?+
If you want to. There is an optional run most mornings before breakfast, and after the walk on the easier days, for anyone with legs left. The main days are all at walking pace though. The ground up here is bog and cliff path rather than anything you would want to move fast over, which is exactly why it is worth walking.
Do I have to pick the coast route or the tops route when I book?+
No. You pick each morning and you can pick differently every day. There is an instructor on each.
Is this as hard as the Scotland week?+
Less so. The summits are smaller, around 600 to 750m, and most of the drama is coastal rather than high up. The one genuinely committing day is the Slievetooey traverse, and that day has an easier alternative running at the same time.
What are the beds like?+
Hostels, campsite chalets and one night under the cliff at a campsite if you fancy it. Rooms are mostly shared. It keeps the price down and it makes for better evenings, because everyone is in the same kitchen.
Do I need to be able to drive?+
Not at all. We only ask because more drivers makes the week easier, and there is a pub most nights.
Will I know anyone?+
Almost everyone books on their own. Groups are usually six to ten people and they sort themselves out by about day two.
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