Work begins to develop beautiful woodland on Donegal Bay into natural tourism amenity

The old MacManus Estate at Rossylongan near Donegal Town is a beautiful natural amenity that is a microcosm of the history and heritage of south Donegal.

Situated on the northern shore of Donegal Bay, the winding paths take walkers through woodland, shorefront, and into the remains of the old house and outbuildings. 

It remained very much a hidden gem until successive lockdowns led people to discover - or rediscover - this wonderful haven.

As a result, the Friends of Rossylongan Forest committee was formed. And with support from Cllr Micheál Naughton (FF) and estate owners Coillte, work is underway to preserve and develop this amenity.

Cllr Naughton is bringing the following motion to the February meeting of the Municipal District (MD) of Donegal on Tuesday: “That this Municipal District and the community development section actively pursue Rossylongan Forest Estate as a forest and activity park along with a walking trail as a major tourism attraction in South Donegal.”

Cllr Naughton Donegal Live: “This really is one of the lockdown success stories. People have realised what a fantastic amenity they have here. 

“I believe this has the potential to be a major tourism attraction for this area as well as being a great place for local people to come and enjoy getting out in the fresh air and enjoying what is on their doorstep.”

Cllr Naughton said the project - for which €50,000 has already been secured - was very much in keeping with Donegal County Council’s Outdoor Recreational Strategy.

“It could link to the Bank Walk coming out from Donegal Town, with a footbridge or with a path along the new development that is planned for Revlin,” he said. 

“You would be able to walk all the way out from Donegal Town, along the bay to Rossylongan.”

The councillor said he was in talks with Fáilte Ireland to secure further resources to help develop this project.

“I am thinking in terms of something like Ards Forest Park,” he said. “Doing something similar with Rossylongan Forest, developing it but keeping its natural beauty, would be a great asset to south Donegal.”

Coillte personnel have already begun clearing paths and improving access and parking facilities. 

Cllr Naughton’s ambitious vision would include parts of the original buildings being used for information displays, public toilets and perhaps even a coffee shop.

The Friends of Rossylongan Forest committee are keen to ensure that the forest is preserved and made accessible to visitors.

They are also aware of the importance of conserving it’s built heritage as well as the local flora and fauna.

It has also been suggested that the inlet between Rossylongan, Revlin and the Bank Walk could be used for water-based activities such as stand-up paddle boarding. 

With much emphasis on developing outdoor spaces, and the mental and physical health benefits of exercise and the natural word, this is certainly a very timely project that could be of great benefit to Donegal Town and the wider community.