Not to be mistaken with the larger lake of the same name on the River Shannon, Lough Derg in Co. Donegal is a renowned place of pilgrimage. A traditional three-day pilgrimage takes place each August, but the Lough is open to visitors (including anglers!) year-round. The Lough is composed of over 30 islands and inlets, the most famous of which is Station Island - it is said that when St. Patrick traversed Ireland converting kings to Christianity, Jesus appeared to him here and revealed the entrance to Purgatory! The Lough's name comes from the Irish word "dearg" (red) as a local legend holds that a local mortal once called the magic powers of the lake to transform a worm into a vicious cow. Once defeated, the red blood of the cow changed the colour of the rocks (which are in fact sandstone) to red.

After a visit to Donegal Castle, make sure to recharge at this cosy tearoom. The daily soup and quiche specials can be followed with a delicious chocolate or fruit-topped dessert.

Eketorp fortress is a completely excavated and reconstructed ancient fort, where the reconstructions have been carried out directly on the archaeological remains. The ring wall stands five metres high and six metres wide, and within it lie Iron Age stone houses and medieval timber-framed buildings, all reconstructed using traditional craftsmanship techniques and materials.

Founded more than 150 years ago, the Bürgerpark has more than enough space for people to relax or take part in sport. There's any number of ways of keeping active here – running, cycling, rowing on the lakes or playing mini golf. Children can let off steam in the many playgrounds or visit their furry friends (goats, sheep and guinea pigs) in the open air animal enclosures. The grassy meadows are the perfect place to have a picnic. Alternatively, there's a great selection of refreshments available at any of the park's four restaurants. The municipal forest is located right next to the Bürgerpark. Its lake (also known as the Unisee (university lake)) is a wonderful place for swimming in summertime.