Ardara Fort
The Irish name for Ardara is "Ard a' Rátha" which means "The height of the fort". It is from the town's fort that Ardara gets its name. The fort is a ring fort and is situated on the Glenties Road (The N56). Forts, in ancient times, were used by locals as look-out points to watch for invaders, or the enemy. The site on which the fort stands, commands a beautiful view of a large area of West Donegal....panoramic views at its best!
Ardara is situated on the Owentocker River, 8km West South West of Glenties and 20km North East of Killybegs. The remains of the fort after which Ardara is named are on the nearby mountain cliffs to the east the village.
Ardara is one of Ireland and Donegal's main centres of tweed and knitwear production. The Ardara Weavers Fair is held in early summer. The Ardara Heritage centre includes an art gallery, weaving exhibition and restaurant.
There is a good example of an Evie Hone stained glass window in the Catholic Church in Ardara. Nearby attractions include Maghera Caves and the magnificent Glengesh Pass, one of the most spectacular sights in Donegal.