​Kilcar: A Place to Call Home
Nestled in Southwest Donegal, the charming village of Cill Charthaigh (or Kilcar) has captured hearts since my first visit in 1980. This is where my father was born and raised, and our family house still stands atop a hill, overlooking the ocean and mountains. My 93-year-old aunt resides up the lane, and I have cousins both in Kilcar and the surrounding area.
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After arriving in Dublin last year, I learned that Ian Campbell and Cormac Cunningham from my office also come from Kilcar. Here we are at John Joe’s in August.
This town remains small, while being located near some popular tourist attractions in Donegal:
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Slieve League/Sliabh Liag (7 miles away)
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The Secret Waterfall (4 miles away)
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Glencolmcille Folk Village (9.3 miles away)
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Killybegs (7.6 miles away)
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Glengash Pass (12 miles away)
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Due to its relative size, it is quiet place to stay:
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One B&B: Dún Ulún House (you can find a few spots on Airbnb)
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Three Pubs: John Joe’s, Kilcar House, and O’Gara’s.
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A Take-out place: Tasty Bite
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There are no restaurants, banks, or garda in town.
Kilcar is a community built on fishing, sheep farming, knitting, and a tweed manufactory. The town holds a strong tradition of Irish Music and GAA Football. The town was also featured in God’s Creatures (2022) and the soon to be released Liam Neeson movie: In the Land of Saints and Sinners (2023). Although, this isn’t the town’s only brush with stardom, Matthew Broderick and Sarah Jessica Parker own a holiday home in Kilcar. They host the Annual Broderick GAA Cup.
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Drop into John Joe’s and maybe have a pint with one of these fine folks.
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Kilcar, also known as Cill Charthaigh, lies in the Gaeltacht region of County Donegal. Its name translates to “The Church of St. Cartha.” This picturesque village, just 8 miles west of Killybegs, is renowned for its handwoven tweed industry and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re drawn by the rugged cliffs or the warm pubs, Kilcar welcomes you with open arms.
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