Ardara or Ard an Ratha in Gaelic which means Fort on the Hill is situated 27 kilometres north of Donegal Town and is nestled in panoramic beauty by the sea shore within an arrangement of hills which keep a watchful eye on this dainty little touristic village.    From this pinnacle (the Fort), one can look down the descending hill which winds its way down the Front st. passing many well-known and popular establishments like Bonner's Knitwear shop, Kennedys of Ardara, Campbells and Nancy's pub. In the centre of the town is the diamond roundabout, this is the crossroads for many a traveller, where routes to Donegal town, Glenties and Killybegs can be taken.  Wandering over the main street, there is many a watering hole, these include the Corner House (Peter Oliver's) where traditional Irish music is played nightly.  Further on is the Nesbitt Arms Hotel and then Brennan's Bar and the Central Bar all with their own very original and heart warming style.  Ardara has three churches, the Catholic Church located at the Westend of the the Catholic Church located at the Westend of the town.  The Church of Ireland and the Methodist churches are situated on the Hillhead.

 

The Homes of Donegal are all in near proximity to Ardara town, from Ranny Cottage for instance one can see Pearse Memorial Park where the local GAA club practice and play their games. One of its members is Anthony Molloy, the only Donegal man to lift the Sam Maguire as captain in 1992.