The Breathtaking North of Ireland

Malin Head – lies on the Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal and is the northernmost point of Ireland. The rugged coastline with its steep cliffs has been shaped by the rough Atlantic over millennia and offers breathtaking views.

A popular starting point for explorations is the village of Malin, from where a winding road leads to the tip of the peninsula. At the end of the road, you reach the actual Malin Head.
A distinctive feature of Malin Head is Banba’s Crown, the highest point of the peninsula, named after one of the mythological queens of Ireland. This spot offers spectacular views and is a popular location for observing the Northern Lights, as the conditions here are nearly perfect for this natural phenomenon.

The region is not only significant for its geographical location and natural beauty but also historically relevant. During World War II, Malin Head played an important role as Irish troops, the “Irish Defence Forces”, were stationed here to maintain Ireland's neutrality. You can see this in the remains of a watchtower and the word “EIRE” laid out in huge letters with stones.

Fanad Head – On the rugged north coast of County Donegal stands the Fanad Head Lighthouse, guiding seafarers for over 200 years. Located on a green promontory at the entrance of Lough Swilly, it is one of the most beautiful lighthouses in Ireland and a popular photo spot. Steep cliffs rise here from the Atlantic, offering a magnificent view of the surrounding coast and the vast ocean.
Since 2016, the lighthouse can also be visited inside as part of guided tours. Visitors learn interesting facts about the history of the beacon and the arduous daily life of the lighthouse keepers in earlier times.

If you want to immerse yourself even more in the atmosphere of this special place, you can even stay overnight at the lighthouse. Three lovingly restored cottages, which once served as accommodation for the lighthouse keepers, are available for guests and offer an unforgettable stay.

Bloody Foreland – is a breathtaking coastal area in the far northwest of County Donegal. The name "Bloody Foreland" might sound off-putting at first, but it has a fascinating background. At sunset, the granite rocks here turn reddish, reminiscent of blood. This red coloration is due to the high iron content in the rock.

The rugged rock formations and the crashing surf give this coastal section a wild, almost mystical atmosphere. Especially during stormy weather, when the waves thunder against the cliffs, you become acutely aware of the raw power of nature. The nearby village of Dunfanaghy is an excellent starting point for exploring the area. From here, various hiking trails lead along the coast, offering spectacular views.

One of the most rewarding trails is the Horn Head Walk, which leads to the viewpoint of the same name. The path winds through a wild heathland, past steep cliffs and hidden coves. Once at the top, you are greeted with a breathtaking panoramic view of the rugged coastline and the hinterland.

Murder Hole Beach – also known as Boyeeghter Bay, is a breathtaking coastal stretch in Donegal that was previously hard to access. But since April 2022, there's an official path that allows visitors to explore this hidden gem.

A landowner has created a parking lot and a paved path to facilitate access to the beach. From the parking lot, a wide gravel path leads through the surrounding fields. The walk takes about 15-20 minutes and offers beautiful views of the mountain landscape along the way Donegals.

It is important to note that the path is steep and uneven in places. It is therefore unfortunately not suitable for baby carriages or people with walking difficulties. Due to the grazing animals along the route, dogs are also not permitted, not even on a lead. Sturdy shoes and weatherproof clothing are strongly recommended. Once you reach the beach, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama.

A special highlight is the namesake “Murder Hole”, a deep cave that offers a fascinating view of the water. To find it, you need to follow the cliffs at the back end of the beach. However, caution is advised while exploring, as the currents here can be very strong.

Maghera Beach and the adjacent caves are an impressive natural spectacle on the coast of County Donegal. They are located not far from the small town of Ardara on the rugged peninsula that separates Loughros More from Donegal Bay.

Maghera Beach stretches over several kilometers along the bay. Especially at low tide, the full expanse of the beach is revealed, extending far into the bay. At the western end of the beach, there is a fascinating cave system that can be explored at low tide. Over 20 caves, arches, and tunnels have been carved into the rocks here, inviting adventurous exploration. However, these are only accessible at low tide, and it is crucial to pay attention to the tides. Just one kilometer from Maghera Beach lies another natural spectacle: the Assaranca Waterfall. Especially after rainfall, the water masses impressively plunge down and make their way to the sea.
Maghera Beach is located about 10 kilometers west of Ardara. You can reach a small parking lot via the narrow coastal road, from which the beach can be reached on foot in just a few minutes.

Silver Strand – Hidden in a picturesque bay near the village of Malin Beg in the southwest of County Donegal, lies a true gem: Silver Strand. This breathtaking beach owes its name to the fine, light sand that shimmers silver in the sun, creating a fascinating contrast with the turquoise water.

To reach the beach, however, you must first overcome a challenge: the descent to the beach. This is done via a steep staircase carved into the rock. Many steps lead down, and the climb back up can be quite strenuous. But the effort is worth it, as you are rewarded with a truly spectacular view once you reach the bottom.
Just a few kilometers away lies the picturesque village of Glencolumbkille, known for its traditional music and the Folk Village Museum. Here, you can immerse yourself in the past and experience rural life in the 18th century. Additionally, many scenes for the film “In the Land of Saints and Sinners” starring Liam Neeson were filmed here

Crohy Head – On the rugged west coast of County Donegal, there is a place of breathtaking beauty: Crohy Head. This spectacular coastal area is located on the Mullaghmullan Peninsula, about 12 km west of the village of Maghery

The undisputed highlight of Crohy Head is the majestic sea stack “The Breeches”. This freestanding rock is connected to the mainland by a natural arch and resembles a giant pair of breeches – hence the name “Breeches,” which means knee-breeches. The arch is a popular photo subject and offers a constantly changing spectacle depending on the tides and waves. Sometimes, water shoots through the opening with a roar, while at other times, the arch lies peacefully, reflecting in the turquoise sea. A sight that captivates visitors from all over the world. Crohy Head is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

Along the coast, there are various paths leading to secluded coves and hidden beaches. Although the trails are not always marked and can be somewhat uneven, the breathtaking views make every effort worthwhile. Crohy Head is slightly off the beaten path, but the journey is definitely worth it. From Maghery, a narrow coastal road leads to a small parking lot, from which you can already see the “Breeches” arch

Glenveagh National Park – Nestled in the rugged landscape of the Derryveagh Mountains in the northwest of County Donegal, you'll find Glenveagh National Park. Covering an area of over 16,500 hectares, it's the second-largest national park in Ireland and offers visitors a breathtaking wilderness of rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and dense oak forests.

The heart of the park is the idyllic Lough Veagh. On its shore stands the imposing Glenveagh Castle, a mansion from the late 19th century originally built as a hunting lodge. With its crenellated tower and well-maintained gardens, it forms a charming contrast to the wild beauty of the surrounding nature.

The expansive grounds of the park can be explored via a network of hiking trails. The Glenveagh National Park is accessible from N56 from Letterkenny in about 45 minutes. Parking is available at the visitor center and at various starting points for hikes.