A dizzyingly steep, narrow mountain pass slicing through the Urris Hills on Donegal's Inishowen Peninsula — one of Ireland's most dramatic short drives, with Atlantic panoramas that stop you in your tracks.
The main event: a twisting 2.5 km road climbing to 240 m (800 ft) with gradients approaching 30%. Approach from the south (Buncrana side) for the most dramatic ascent and the sudden reveal of the northward panorama at the summit. Low gears essential; not for nervous drivers or large vehicles.
Three key pull-ins: the Grotto car park just beyond the summit (best panoramic vista), a larger car park after the descent toward Dunaff Head, and a rougher pull-in at Mamore Hill for the most elevated outlook — but mind the steep, uneven ground and cliff drops.
Beside the summit car park sits a holy well devoted to St. Eigne and a grotto to Our Lady. A site of Catholic pilgrimage for centuries, with an annual mass held every 15 August — a tradition dating back to Penal times when worship had to be hidden.
The Gap is the trailhead for the strenuous Urris Lakes Loop (6.5 km) and Butler's Glen Loop (10.5 km), both waymarked but demanding. The ridge traverse from Mamore Gap to Raghtin Mor is a superb hillwalk with views across Lough Swilly to Fanad. Sturdy boots essential — terrain is boggy and exposed.
Mamore Gap is the standout challenge on the Inishowen 100 scenic route. The climb is brutally steep — expect to push if you're not a strong climber — but the alpine descent toward Dunaff Head with the Atlantic opening up ahead is one of Ireland's great cycling moments.
On the northern descent, look for white stones painted on the road. Local lore says a car stopped in neutral here rolls back uphill — an optical illusion created by the surrounding landscape. Best experienced as a curiosity rather than attempted (the road can be busy).
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