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Ireland

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Ireland

A Donegal Summer

Summer is officially here, and it’s a good time to take a look at some of our favourite things to do in Donegal, our home.  
Take a Dip

We are spoiled in Donegal with fantastic beaches, over 100 of them in fact. They’re so good, Donegal features not once but twice in Condé Nast Traveller’s list of the top beaches in Ireland. Donegal also boasts the joint highest number of Blue Flag Beaches in Ireland for the 2021 season at 14. 

Whether you’re interested in swimming, surfing, stand up paddle boarding, or if you’re a book under a parasol type, there is a beach for you!  

Murvagh Beach Donegal
Murvagh Beach, Donegal

Among our favourites is Murvagh Beach, just south of Donegal town. Stretching for nearly 2km, and backed with sand dunes, there’s plenty of room to stretch out and enjoy.   

At the mouth of Lough Swilly, Portsalon beach is sheltered from the North Atlantic, making it the perfect spot for a swim.  

We can’t leave out Mountcharles Pier, our local beach where the Temple family grew up and spent many happy summer days as children. Chairman Lynn Temple swims in the ocean all year round with his Labrador Riley. We recommend warming up post-swim in Salthill Cabin with a hot cuppa and take a walk around the petting farm, complete with Donegal’s very own lamas! 

The pier is also where the family boat sets sail from. A traditional, wooden Galway Hooker, Sandpiper has even played host to a couple of Magee 1866 photoshoots. 

 

 Take a Stroll

Be it exploring the 1,000 kilometers of coastline or climbing the ‘hills of Donegal’, there are always plenty of walks to discover.  

Ireland’s highest sea cliffs, Sliabh Liag is located along the Wild Atlantic Way and offers breathtaking panoramic views across Donegal Bay. With multiple walking trails to choose from and a wealth of history and culture to explore, a trip to Sliabh Liag is well worth it. 

For a day out, Glenveagh National Park has it all. The rugged mountain landscape is contrasted by the beautiful walled gardens of Glenveagh Castle, nestled beside Lough Beagh at the centre of the park. Enjoy the network of trails for walking or cycling as well as the breathtaking scenery, waterfalls, flora and fauna.  

If you are looking for some hills to tackle, head out to Lough Eske, the gateway into the Bluestack Mountains. CEO Rosy, often nips out after work with a map and trail runners for an escape into the unspoiled wilderness of this area. Look out for the odd grouse or cool off with a swim in the magical Lough Belshade.  

 Take a Bite

Our location on the North West of Ireland means we’re famous for our fish, with Killybegs being Ireland’s premier sea port. Try out the Killybegs Seafood Shack and enjoy fresh fish and chips sitting on the harbour wall. Or take a drive out to Mullinasole and check in to the Salmon Inn for delicious seafood with views over the bay.  

Take it Easy

We love a wander around Donegal Town on a summer’s afternoon, exploring the architecture of Donegal Castle and walking along the banks of the River Eske. 

There is no place quite like it when the sun shines on The Diamond – the main hub of the town, surrounded by cafés, bars, restaurants and our Magee of Donegal store which has stood on the same site since first opened as a draper’s store by John Magee in the 1800’s.   

A true destination shopping experience, at Magee of Donegal we showcase our Magee 1866 men’s and women’s collections alongside our accessories and home interiors collections – designed and made in Ireland.

Our Made to Measure area offers an oasis of calm while you select the perfect combination of luxury fabrics and trims for your own tailor-made pieces. For tired shoppers, The Weaver’s Loft Bistro* focuses on a seasonal menu and home baking and is the perfect stopover. 

 

If you want to be in with a chance to win a holiday in Donegal, we have partnered with Harvey’s Point Hotel for an exclusive giveaway. 

We are offering one lucky winner a Magee 1866 Summer look to the value of €600 and a midweek stay at the magnificent Harvey’s Point Hotel consisting of  2 nights  B&B as well as an evening meal for two on the night of your choice. 

To enter head over to our Facebook or Instagram profiles and follow the instructions on the post. 

Giveaway closes at 11.59pm GMT on Wednesday, 30 June 2021. 

* Currently closed in line with Government restrictions.   

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Design

Forty Shades of Green

  

Green is the colour perhaps most synonymous with Ireland – our fields and hedgerows, leafy green trees and mossy banks. It’s these unique landscapes that inspire our designers when creating our fabrics and collections. 

To mark St. Patrick’s Day, we’ve collected some of our favourite green pieces.  

Handwoven Salt & Pepper Donegal Tweed Jacket

A true Donegal Tweed, the salt & pepper weave is rich in colourful flecks, inspired by the flora and fauna found in the Northwest of Ireland. Handwoven in Donegal, this timeless green jacket is part of a long history of handweaving in Ireland, the foundation of our fifth-generation family business and a traditional and skilled craft we are proud to support. 

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Green Herringbone Scarf

Designed and woven at our mill in Donegal, this bright green scarf in a herringbone pattern is given a luxurious twist with a touch of cashmere. 

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Lunnaigh Lambswool V-neck Jumper

The colour green is really versatile, you only need to look at a bunch of flowers to see that there is barely a shade it doesn’t compliment! Our Lunnaigh Lambswool V-Neck Jumper will integrate seamlessly into your wardrobe.  

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Green Donegal Tweed Notebook

These books are Made in Ireland with tweed designed and woven at our mill, this capsule collection of tweed notebooks speak to Ireland’s long literary tradition. Who knows, a future great novel or poem might be being penned in one as we speak!   

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Camel & Bright Green Wigwam Throw

The vibrant green of this Wigwam Throw, designed and woven at our mill on the banks of the River Eske, brings this intricate geometric pattern to life. Dappled with colourful Donegal flecks, this throw will add a touch of spring to your interiors. 

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Green Salt & Pepper Donegal Tweed Flat Cap

A staple of the Magee 1866 collection, the iconic tweed flat cap is one of our most popular pieces. A must-have accessory, these timeless hats span generations.   

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Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

 

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Ireland

A Donegal Staycation

Lough Eske

We’re all looking a bit closer to home for our getaways this year, and we might be bias, but Donegal really does have it all. Voted ‘Coolest Place on the Planet’ by National Geographic in 2017, whether you’re looking for adventurous outdoor pursuits, a bit of luxury or breathtaking scenery, there is something here for you.

Here are some of our family’s top tips for things to see and do on a three-day staycation in Donegal.

Stay

Base yourself at the Lough Eske Castle Hotel, this 5-star award winning hotel and spa is nestled at the foot of the Blue Stack Mountains just five miles from Donegal Town. From Cedars Restaurant you can take in sweeping views of the castle gardens and surrounding woodland while enjoying simple, exquisitely fresh ingredients prepared to perfection.

Day 1

After you get settled at the hotel, take the short, 10-minute drive into Donegal Town – a lively spot all year round. The epic Donegal Castle, built in 1474 sits on the banks of the River Eske and was the stronghold of the O’Donnell clan, one of the most powerful Gaelic families in Ireland. Pop over the bridge and you’ll find the start of the Donegal Bank Trail, a pleasant scenic stroll along the river that takes you out to Donegal Bay and back.

The Diamond is the main hub of Donegal Town, surrounded by café’s and restaurants and our Magee of Donegal shop, which stands on the site of the original drapers shop, founded in 1866. Here we specialise in Magee men’s and women’s wear and accessories – designed and made in Ireland. Other brands include – Barbour, Dubarry, Seasalt and luxury Irish made gifts including Newbridge Silver. Call ahead to arrange a weaving demonstration in our heritage room or take a break at the Weaver’s Loft café where we focus on a seasonal menu and home baking.

Day 2

Time to explore the Wild Atlantic Way. Just up the coast is Mountcharles Pier, stop for a coffee at the small café there, and have a splash in the ocean if you feel up for it. After enjoying the views across the bay, head to Salthill Gardens, built within old stone walls, this contemporary garden is bursting with flowers, shrubs and vegetables. Wander the paths, peer through rod iron garden gates, and feel as if you’ve stepped into the pages of The Secret Garden. (Open 1 May to 30 September 2020).

Continuing along the coast you will find Killybegs, Ireland’s largest fishing port. Just in time for lunch, The Seafood Shack  will not disappoint. Famous for their seafood chowder (winner of Ireland’s Best Chowder at the 9th All Ireland Chowder Cook Off in Kinsale in 2019) the rest of their offering is delicious too, freshly prepared local seafood all to be enjoyed al fresco accompanied by views of the sea and busy fishing boats.

Onward to Sliabh Liag , the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Stretching to over 600m above sea level, the views are unmissable. Drive to the top of the cliffs, or park and enjoy the hike.

Take the loop back through the winding Glengesh Pass to the heritage town of Ardara, a must for fans of traditional Irish music and also a town steeped in the wool trade. A busy market town, in the late 19th century our founder John Magee would visit the market in Ardara to buy and sell handwoven tweeds. On your return, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at the Lakeside Restaurant at Harvey’s Point Hotel on Lough Eske. Their seven-course tasting dinner is the perfect way to enjoy the best of Irish produce.

Day 3

Head north to Glenveagh National Park, the second largest national park in Ireland covering 170 square kilometres of hillside above Glenveagh Castle on the shore of Lough Veagh. The park hosts a variety of walking trails to suit everyone from the novice to experienced hiker. The fresh air and stunning views are guaranteed to blow away all your cobwebs. If hiking isn’t your thing, cycling and fishing are also on offer as well as a relaxed stroll through the castle’s walled Victorian gardens.

We hope you enjoy your trip through our home county and the landscapes that have inspired our talented weavers and designers for more than 150 years.

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Design

Sustainability and what we are doing….

Sustainability

Magee 1866 are proud to champion sustainability as a fundamental part of our ethos which has evolved over the last 150 years. Our Magee Weaving Mill pre-dominantly uses natural fibres like wool and linen, which are biodegradable, renewable and the high-quality fabric is then manufactured locally. Quality is our principle product value and is evident from our fabric to finished garment. Magee Clothing’s design philosophy promotes the sustainable concept of ‘slow fashion’ through timeless and classic collections. Sustainable fabric and high quality, long lasting products define our brand DNA. We are currently in the process of understanding which of the various environmental and sustainability certificates best align with this company ethos. 

Donegal bay

It is a 5th generation family business and the Temple family behind Magee 1866 are committed to manufacturing in the most sustainable and environmentally friendly way possible. The Temple family have planted over 150 acres of forestry to off-set carbon emissions, grow their own organic vegetables & breed a small herd of their own organic grass-fed cattle. 

Raw Materials

We focus on weaving and producing garments using ‘Noble Natural Fibres’:

  • Wool: biodegradable & renewable. It is sourced by our trusted spinning partners within the E.U. Countries of origin include: Ireland, Norway, Peru, Australia, New Zealand. We are working on specific projects with complete traceability of wool to the farm source. A collection using Irish Wool will launch in AW 2020.  
  • Linen: biodegradable & renewable. Our Irish Linen is grown in Northern France, spun in Poland and designed, woven & finished in Donegal. Linen also uses considerably less water than cotton and grows on poor land. 
  • We also work with alpaca, cashmere, mohair and silk. All are biodegradable & renewable. 
  • We do on occasion use a small % of man-made fibres in our fabrics in order to enhance performance (e.g. stretch, added design).
Our weaving mill in Donegal

Manufacturing 

  • All fabric is tested by third parties ICQ and Intertech to industry standards. 
  • Warping, weaving, and finishing of fabric is done in house, allowing for complete control and high standards ensured at all times. 
  • Within Magee Weaving, synthetic dyes are used to cater for a large colour palette. Reactive and acid dyes used on our fibres comply with EU standards.  Please note that natural dye alternatives require heavy metals to adhere to the fibre, which can be as harmful to the environment. We conclude that natural dyes are not necessarily a better alternative. 
  • Mild detergents are used, similar to those of domestic washing machine concentrations. 
  • Cardboard waste is re-cycled. We are researching recycled fibre merchants. 

Spring summer 2020, a focus on natural linens, wool and cashmere.

Energy

  • Magee 1866 purchases electricity from a Green energy provider (i.e. Hydro or wind), currently coming from the mainstream grid. 
  • Oil is used to generate heat in the absence of any other alternatives in our geographical region e.g. there is no natural gas pipe line Co. Donegal. Alternatives to fossil fuels are being urgently sought, costed and plans drawn to invest in solar power within the next 3 years. 
  • Local water is used in our production of cloth. Due to the fact that Donegal has a high volume and frequency of rainfall, (1600mm p.a.), this resource is not under pressure from a shortage.
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Features

5 destinations in Ireland for St. Patrick’s Day

If you’re looking for an excuse to travel Ireland’s beautiful coast and landscapes, St. Patrick’s Day offers the perfect opportunity. With a bank holiday on Tuesday, it might be time to give yourself a four-day weekend and explore the best of Ireland’s scenic and cultural offerings.

The Giant’s Causeway

Incredibly picturesque and rich in Irish mythology and legend, there’s a reason you’ll see the Giant’s Causeway on nearly every travel list. Interlocking basalt columns give the shoreline a striking graphic look, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. Children will love jumping from column to column at low tide, and there are plenty of photo opportunities. Be sure to read about the legends surrounding the area or, better yet, get a tour guide! Find out more.

Other attractions in the area include the Carrick-a Rede rope bridge which takes you over the ocean, from mainland to the tiny island of Carrickarede. A coastal drive along the Antrim’s cliff-lined coast is always recommended, too.

The Guinness Storehouse

Is there anything more Irish than a pint of the black stuff on St. Patrick’s Day?! Head down to Dublin for St. Patrick’s Day weekend, where the celebrations will be in full swing. The Guinness Storehouse is the perfect place to kick off the weekend, learning about the history and craft Ireland’s best-loved and iconic stout beer. Your experience culminates with a drink in the famous Gravity Bar, with panoramic views of Dublin City. Find out more.

Slieve League Cliffs in Donegal

If you’d prefer to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with something a bit more wild, head up the coast to Europe’s highest sea cliffs in Donegal. There are several walking routes with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and plenty of fresh sea air. Find out more.

Following your walk pop into the Rusty Mackerel Pub in Carrick for some lunch and a well earned drink. And of course we always recommend a visit to Donegal Town, and our original Magee shop on the Diamond!

Galway City

As the European Capital of Culture for 2020, now is the perfect time to visit medieval Galway City. Bursting with colour and music, Galway will be full of exciting cultural events for St. Patrick’s Day weekend. Take a stroll through winding medieval streets or walk along the famous Salthill Prom, before checking out the full ream of theatre, dance, music, arts and more that Galway offers every weekend! Find out more.

The Dingle Peninsula

Head down to Kerry for 47 kilometres of scenic driving. You’ll pass beaches, views of the famous Skelling Michael, and Stone Age ringforts which all offer great opportunities for getting out of the car and exploring a bit. Dingle Town, itself has plenty of charm, with cosy pubs and unique shops to check out of an afternoon. Be sure to have a seafood dinner while in Dingle, as it’s a harbour town and has some of the freshest daily catches you’ll find! Find out more.

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Features

Travel Tips: a wintry weekend in Donegal

Whether you’re coming home for the holidays or taking advantage of the time off with a bit of traveling, County Donegal is a beautiful place to visit in the winter months. Think brilliant sunrises over frosty hills, fresh wild air along the coastline, and a uniquely festive atmosphere that makes for perfect cosy nights with friends and family. Here are our top tips for enjoying a winter weekend in Donegal!

Enjoy a festive afternoon in Donegal Town

Around the holidays, Donegal Town is full of the holiday spirit with decorations, caroling groups in the Diamond, shopping, and lots of opportunities to sit down for a cuppa and a mince pie. There’s always the Weaver’s Loft Restaurant above the Magee 1866 store, where you’ll find home-baked scones, pies and treats as well as a full lunch menu with daily specials. Round off the day with a stroll down by the scenic Donegal harbour.

Photo via Facebook @DonegalOnline

Go for a long walk on the beach or a hike

Is there anything more invigorating than a winter beach walk? Donegal has plenty to offer in the way of beach strolls. Heading north, you have the option of Rossnowlagh, Murvagh Beach, and Mountcharles Pier. If you’re feeling really brave, join the locals for a polar plunge on Christmas Day. And then of course you can head west toward Sliabh Liag for stunning views as you walk along Ireland’s highest sea cliffs. If you’re up for an adventure, take to the wild of the Bluestack Mountains on our doorstep.

Have a Sunday lunch with friends & family

Donegal has some lovely destination spots for a meal or afternoon tea with loved ones. From Harvey’s Point on the shores of Lough Eske, to the Lough Eske Castle Hotel, to the House Gastro Pub in Donegal Town, there are plenty of places to whet the appetite and spend some quality time together over great food.

Enjoy a pint and some music

Donegal is full of cosy pubs, and you can usually find some music to enjoy, too. McCafferty’s in Donegal Town is always a great choice for a pint or two, with music and a lively atmosphere. Down the road in Ardara, Nancy’s Seafood Bar is a lovely warm spot for a quiet pint and some food.

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Ireland

Luxury Irish Linen

Flax

Ireland has always been known for its linen, during the Victorian era Northern Ireland was the largest producer of linen worldwide. Today there are just a few mills left in Ireland weaving this very special and I think, underrated fabric. Many have fallen out of love with linen due to its tendency to crease badly – I feel this is part of its unique character and a well tailored, high quality linen garment – creased or not will still look well!

Our own mill design and weave linen namely for tailored garments – suits and blazers and there are a handful of other mills across Northern Ireland producing for shirts and home interiors.

To celebrate this sustainable and natural cloth we have just launched a capsule Made in Ireland – Woven in Ireland shirt collection for men.

The Grandfather shirt – made in Ireland from start to finish.

There are three styles across four classic colours – oat, white, sky blue and navy. We have used a timeless hopsack linen from Baird McNutt, who are designing in Donegal and weaving in County Antrim.

Linen is made from the fibres of the flax plant, it is one of the oldest fabrics in the world and known for its cool, fresh properties. It is lightweight, made from natural fibres and a sustainable material. These beautifully tailored shirts are truly investment pieces designed and made to last.

Shop our Irish Linen Shirt Collection.

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