Drive the pass
A twisting, narrow road over the Urris Hills, once the only route between Urris and Buncrana. Driving from the south the climb is very steep, so use low gears and take it slowly.
Gap of Mamore
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About
A steep, twisting mountain pass through the Urris Hills in Donegal's Inishowen Peninsula, where a near-30% climb rewards you with sweeping views over Lough Swilly, the Fanad peninsula and the Atlantic.
Things to Do
Summit viewpoints
From the top you get panoramic views over Lough Swilly, the Fanad peninsula, Urris and out to the Atlantic. There are pull-in spots just beyond the summit and again after the descent.
The magic road
On the descent, white stones mark the 'magic road', where a car left in neutral appears to roll back up the hill. It is an optical illusion and the road is busy, so it is safer to watch than to try.
The holy well of St Eigne
Beside the summit car park is the holy well of St Eigne and a grotto to Our Lady. Pilgrims have visited for centuries, traditionally on 15 August, and smaller shrines lie along the gap.
Hike the Urris loops
The gap is the starting point of the Urris Lakes Loop and Butlers Glen Loop walking trails. Paths climb steeply into rough hill country, so bring sturdy boots and allow plenty of time.
Nearby: Glenevin Waterfall and Fort Dunree
Glenevin Waterfall is about a 10-minute drive away and Fort Dunree roughly 15 minutes, both easy add-ons when touring the peninsula.
Nearby beaches and Malin Head
Tullagh Strand is around 14 minutes away, with Pollan Strand, Five Finger Strand and Kinnagoe Bay further along the coast. Ireland's most northerly point, Malin Head, is about 45 minutes.
Plan Your Visit
- Admission: Free to visit
- Parking: Free car parks at either end of the pass: a smaller one beside the grotto just beyond the summit and a larger one at the bottom of the descent. Wheelchair-accessible parking is available.
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