Magee 1866 CEO Rosy Temple shares her favourite family traditions, the best places to experience Donegal in winter and the Magee 1866 gift she would love to find under the tree on Christmas morning.
There is something particularly special about Christmas in Donegal. As the days become shorter and winter settles across the county, the landscape takes on a quieter, more atmospheric character. The Atlantic coastline, sandy beaches and mountains are particularly beautiful at this time of year, making December an ideal time to get outdoors and experience the natural beauty of Donegal.
For Rosy Temple, CEO of Magee 1866, Christmas is closely connected to family, the outdoors and the landscape around home. From winter walks at Murvagh Beach to trail running in the Bluestack Mountains, some of her favourite festive traditions begin with getting outside and enjoying Donegal in December.
Best winter walks in Donegal?
When it comes to winter walks in Donegal, one of Rosy's favourite places is Murvagh Beach, just outside Donegal Town. “Murvagh Beach, just outside Donegal Town, is wonderful for winter walks. With a long stretch of strand, it's a tranquil spot to blow away the cobwebs.” With its long stretch of golden sand and beautiful coastal scenery, Murvagh Beach is a wonderful place to experience Donegal in winter. The beach feels particularly peaceful in December, when the summer crowds have disappeared and the dramatic winter light creates constantly changing views across the coastline. For Rosy, a walk at Murvagh is also the beginning of a longer adventure.“You can walk around the headland and finish up at Smuggler's Creek in Rossnowlagh.”Combining a coastal walk with a visit to Rossnowlagh makes for a perfect winter day in Donegal. After time outdoors in the fresh Atlantic air, there is nothing better than finding somewhere warm and welcoming to stop and enjoy a well-earned break.
Favourite family Christmas tradition?
After a long winter walk or trail run, Rosy has her own favourite way of warming up. “I love having a nip of my dad's homemade sloe gin after a winter walk, it's the perfect way to warm up.” It is a wonderfully personal Christmas tradition and one that captures the spirit of a Donegal winter: time spent outdoors, followed by time spent together at home.
Christmas in Donegal is not complete without…
“Picking Brussels sprouts in Mum's frosty garden for Christmas dinner.” There is something particularly charming about this Christmas tradition. Rather than simply arriving at the dinner table, the Christmas meal begins in the garden, picking the vegetables that will eventually become part of the festive feast. On a crisp December morning, with frost on the ground and the garden quiet, it is a simple reminder of the traditions that make Christmas feel special. For Rosy, these small rituals are just as important as the larger celebrations.
Magee 1866 gift under the tree?
Of course, we couldn't ask Rosy about Christmas without finding out what she would love to discover underneath the tree. Her choice? The Anna Turtleneck in 100% merino. “The ultimate winter warmer.” Made from 100% merino wool, the Anna Turtleneck is designed to be a versatile winter layer, perfect for everything from a countryside walk to cosy days spent at home. Whether you are shopping for someone who loves the outdoors, looking for a thoughtful Irish gift or simply searching for a beautiful winter knit, a merino turtleneck is a useful addition to any winter wardrobe.
Discover the Magee 1866 collection
Donegal is at the heart of Magee 1866. From the landscapes that inspire our colours to the craftsmanship of the Magee Weaving Mill, our connection to the county has shaped our collections for generations.Discover Donegal Tweed, merino knitwear and natural fibre pieces inspired by the landscape and heritage of Ireland – perfect for winter wardrobes and thoughtful Christmas gifting.