8 Amazing Things To See And Do On A Trip Around Inishowen Peninsula, Donegal

Donegal, Ireland, , , 95 Comments

Last Updated on the 10th of April, 2024

Dusky hues of pink lit up the skies as I carried the last box of supplies needed for the road trip around Ireland’s largest peninsula to the car.

When the sun gradually descended and gave way to the glow of the moon, my heart felt full as we were finally set to go with the first morning light.

August was upon us and there was still a lot I wanted for us to experience before Ericeira started school in a few weeks. I wanted to take the time to slow down. I wanted to fully appreciate the last summer days and to watch as the late sun dips lower and dusk gathers ever earlier.

I wanted to enjoy the calls and songs of nearby birds, take a bike ride, swim in a creek and lie in the grass of a blooming meadow before the harsh winter storms arrived.

I thoughtfully chose the Inishowen Peninsula as our weekend break destination and couldn’t be more content with everything we had a chance to see and do on a road trip.

If you are keen on exploring Inishowe or just curious to see what the rugged peninsula offers, then keep on reading.

Read More: Your Guide To Exploring Burren National Park In County Clare, Ireland

Enjoying the sunset at one of many beautiful beaches along the way

What is so unique bout the Inishowen Peninsula?

If you love natural beauty, and stunning beaches as well as visiting cosy seaside towns in between, then the breathtaking drive around the peninsula should be on your list.

We can’t praise this place enough! Well, first of all, the Inishowen Peninsula is the largest in Ireland, and when the conditions are right, the Northern Lights come out to play. Thanks to minimal light pollution Aurora can be best seen in Spring and Winter, so plan your trip accordingly.

Second – whether it is standing at the edge of Malin Head with waves splashing against rocks and cliffs, taking in the views over the shimmering waters of Lough Swilly or coming across the Inch Wildfowl Reserve which is home to countless bird species and known for being one of the first stop-offs for migrating birds on their journeys south in the winter months, you will always find your own piece of magic on Peninsula.

Also, Malin Head is a starting point of the Wild Atlantic Way.

If your Wild Atlantic Way adventure starts in Malin Head, you are in for a treat. We can guarantee that the scenic coastline and rugged cliffs will take your breath away. The road is very well signposted, and driving is not too challenging.

Read More: 10 Essential Items to Pack for an Unforgettable Trip to the Emerald Isle

Taking a break at the Irish traditional thatched cottage along with the Inishowen 100 route

Top things to see and do on Inishowen Peninsula

To see all the top tourist attractions on the Inishowen Peninsula, we followed the Inishowen 100 scenic driving route and were met with scenic views around every corner literary taking our breaths away.

With an extensive array of heritage, arts, history and many amazing attractions, this rugged edge of Donegal offers its visitors a real authentic Irish experience.

You can choose from leisure activities and Alpaca trekking to visiting artists in their workshops and studios and catching a Lough Foyle ferry to Northern Ireland if you have a day to spare.

Read More: Ireland Travel Guide: 11 Fantastic Things To Do In Beautiful County Mayo

One of many amazing views of Stroove Lighthouse, Donegal

#1. Be in awe of the Stone Fort of Grianán of Aileach

The best-known and mighty impressive monument on the Inishowen peninsula is a stone fort sitting high on a hilltop 800 feet above sea level and looking out over the vast waters of Lough Foyle and Lough Swilly. This impressive stone circle was reconstructed in 1870 and built on the site of the original 1700BC ring fort located in Burt.

The interior of the circular fort measures some 23m across, the thick stone walls that are slightly crumbling in places are standing some 5m high and an entrance passage extends through the thickness of the massive encircling wall. 

The walls also contain terraces along their interior allowing visitors to access the summit and take in the views.

Admission: Access to the site is free of charge and there’s also a spaces car park.

Read More: Your Ultimate Guide To The Beautiful Wicklow National Park

Climbing all the way to the top of the Stone Fort of Grianán of Aileach in Donegal

#2. Visit Fort Dunree Military Museum

Located on the shores of Lough Swilly, less than ten miles from Buncrana, the Fort Dunree heritage museum complex was initially opened to the public in 1986 and it houses the Wildlife Discovery Room, The Guns of Dunree Exhibition, The Rockhill Collection and a great variety of signposted trails that are a must for anyone visiting peninsula.

Even if you are not interested in military memorabilia, it can still undoubtedly be one of the highlights of a visit to the Inishowen’s west coast as the rocky coastline comes with a handful of beautiful viewpoints, picnic tables, detailed information boards and Dunree lighthouse.

  • Location: Dunree View, Leophin, Linsfort, Buncrana, Co. Donegal
  • Price: Adult – €7, Kids – €5, Seniors – €5, Family – €15

Read More: Exploring Dingle Peninsula: Everything You Need To Know For A Perfect Trip

Early morning at Fort Dunree, Donegal

#3. Stop by the Maritime Museum and Planetarium in Greencastle

Located at the Old Coast Guard station overlooking Greencastle Harbour on the banks of the beautiful Lough Foyle, the Maritime Museum and Planetarium is a small museum with a wide range of exhibits and is great for all ages. You could easily spend a couple of hours here if you are at all interested in boats and the sea.

The National Maritime Museum received a special award at the Pride of Place Awards ceremony which took place on Saturday 30th November in Lyrath Estate Kilkenny. 

Ericeira loved the planetarium and it was great for a rainy day activity on our holiday. There’s also a tea room for light lunches, snacks and drinks, and a gift shop with quirky things to buy. The museum and planetarium are open from April to August.

From Greencastle, you can even catch a ferry to Magilligan located in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland. The car and passenger ferry connecting the Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coastal Route takes only 15 minutes which is plenty of time to take in the wonderful scenery along the way.

  • Address: 4 Coastguard Station, Eleven Ballyboes, Greencastle, Co. Donegal

Read More: An Epic 3-Day Road Trip Around Southwest Donegal For You To Steal

The Maritime Museum and Planetarium are located on the Eastern coast of Inishowen.

#4. Stroll along one of its many stunning beaches

There is nothing more soothing than walking on the naturally stunning formations of the coastline that are scattered with long stretches of golden sand, and thankfully, on the Inishowen Peninsula, you are never too far away from some of the best and most beautiful beaches on the island of Ireland.

If you are looking for dramatic scenery and a place to capture picturesque sunsets, make sure to include a visit to the beach in your itinerary.

Every beach is different, and every beach offers something different, but on all of them, you’ll be able to discover peace and serenity. Yes, I am aware that Ireland is not known for having the warmest or sunniest weather, but the rugged coast can be quite staggering in places, so I am sure you won’t mind spending a day frolicking on the shore – even when it’s wet and windy.

You could stop at Pollan Strand in Ballyliffin to watch the surfers take on big waves, you could go for a walk on Five Finger Strand and see the towering dunes or, if you want to be close to the impressive structure of Stroove Lighthouse, stop by Stroove Blue Flag Beach.

Read More: 5+ Benefits of Cleaning Up Your Local Beach & How To Get Started

Crummies Bay is nestled between Dunree Head and the Urris Hills in Donegal

#5. Drive the Inishowen 100

Ireland is full of epic landscapes and coastal views, offering a variety of driving routes available all over the country and one of the best drives are located on Inishowen Peninsula.

The Inishowen 100 is a name given to s scenic route circling around Inishowen Peninsula that starts in Bridgend at the base of the Inishowen Peninsula, where you can find a lay-by with a large map and information boards to get you familiar with the route, but you can start the drive at any point really, be it on the eastern or western side.

If you continue driving clockwise, after a 15-minute drive, you’ll come across Buncrana town where you’ll find the Inishowen Tourist Information office providing in-depth knowledge/expertise of the Inishowen Peninsula & County of Donegal.

The loop drive is a 100-mile (160 km) often regarded as one of Ireland’s best road trips offering a diverse and exciting experience, with no shortage of things to see and do, and we can certainly vouch for that!

The drive can be easily completed in a single day but is best enjoyed over several days. We had three full days and it was just enough time to see all the tourist attractions.

Read More: How To Spend A Brilliant Weekend in Beautiful Killarney, Ireland

This is unspoilt, rural Ireland at its best and one of the best places in Ireland to explore

#6. Take in the views at Malin Head

Remember how last summer, while exploring southwest Ireland, we had a chance to visit Ireland’s most South-westerly Point? This summer we crossed off another place on our travel wish list by visiting Ireland’s most northerly point Malin Head.

It is renewed for its breathtaking scenery and windswept views, and trust me, it lives up to the hype as it is famous for its rugged natural beauty of mountains, bays, inlets and rocks.

As the most northerly point in Ireland, this place is startlingly beautiful. This is where wind and waves dominate the rugged coastline and to see it in all its glory you can use a purpose-built path that is suitable for all fitness levels and takes approximately one hour for a round trip.

Read More: An amazing 2-week itinerary through Ireland’s Southwest

The staggering views at Malin Head in County Donegal, Ireland’s most northerly point.

#7. Drive through Mamore Gap and visit Glenevin Waterfall

Once a site of Catholic pilgrimage, the Gap of Mamore, five miles north of Buncrana passes between Mamore Hill and Urris at 800ft. above sea level and makes for a great spot to take in the views of Leenane and Urris. Once you make it through the narrow winding road continue on to visit one of Donegal’s waterfalls.

Located on the outskirts of the village of Clonmany, Glenevin waterfall is one of Inishowen’s most spectacular natural attractions and makes for a perfect place to stop and stretch your legs as the path weaves through a wooded stream valley.

The waterfall is easily accessible by a well-kept trail, there is a designated car park, plenty of picnic areas and vantage points with stunning views of the surrounding coast and countryside.

  • Walking Distance: 1 km of the path, Approximate Time Needed: 30 mins, Grading: Easy

Read More: Your Guide To Visiting Beautiful Slieve League Cliffs In County Donegal

Glenevin Waterfall, standing over 40ft tall

#8. See the lovely Shroove Lighthouse

Ireland has more than its fair share of lighthouses and County Donegal has eleven lighthouses including Ireland’s most northerly lighthouse, Inistrahull off the coast of Malin Head.

Inishowen Lighthouse also known locally as Stroove Lighthouse is located in Stroove near the coastal town of Moville in Inishowen, from where on a clear day, you can see Scotland.

The distinctive lighthouse was originally used as harbour lights to guide vessels into Lough Foyle and to lead them clear of the Tuns Bank and the light continues to be flaunted to this day in conditions of poor visibility.

The station was automated in 1979 when the Keepers were withdrawn and replaced by an Attendant. An electric foghorn controlled by a fog detector gives two blasts every 30 seconds when activated.

*Good to know – You can’t actually get in to visit the lighthouse, but there are lovely views of it and the coastline from the beach.

Read More: A Short Guide To Visiting Clare Island in County Mayo, Ireland

Stroove lighthouse on the Inishowen peninsula in Co Donegal on Ireland’s Northwest

How to get to and around the peninsula

Getting to Inishowen is very easy, and the best way to reach it and experience beautiful scenery is by car as there are loads of places public transport can’t get to.  We opted for the N2 /A5 route from Dublin via Northern Ireland, followed by R240.

  • From Dublin – The driving distance from Dublin to Inishowen is around 4 hours, even more, if you stop for pictures and snacks in a beautiful Londonderry(bring some sterling just in case).
  • From Derry – Derry Airport is the closest to the link in terms of flights, but it would be much more convenient and budget-friendly to use Dublin or Belfast airports.
  • Public Transport – If you wish to get around by public transport, look no further than Bus Éireann which runs a regular bus service, Expressway Route 30, from Dublin’s Busáras Bus Station to Donegal, passing through Dublin Airport and Cavan.

Once you arrive in Donegal, check out the Local Link bus service. They provide transport in rural Ireland between smaller towns and villages like Moville, Killybegs and Glencomcille.

Read More: 5+ Benefits of Cleaning Up Your Local Beach and How To Get Started

One of many scenic roads around the peninsula.

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Now, over to you!

Have you been to Inishowen Peninsula and Malin Head? What do you love the most?

Let us know if you are plotting a visit to Donegal and have travel-related questions!

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95 thoughts on “8 Amazing Things To See And Do On A Trip Around Inishowen Peninsula, Donegal”

  1. So full of invitation, Aiva! I love your enthusiasm for the beauty of Ireland, and would happily follow you there in different circumstances. It’s my kind of beauty. Starting school- a momentous occasion for all of you. I hope it goes well.

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    1. Thank you kindly, Jo 🙂 The Inishowen Peninsula in the northeast of County Donegal is perhaps the great overlooked treasure of the Irish landscape and certainly has the longest signposted scenic drive – the “Inishowen 100”, offering a diverse and visually exciting terrain, where the views usually encompass the waters of the loughs or the Atlantic waves. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day. Ericeira is enjoying her new school, and I am delighted that she settled in quickly. Anxiety can come from not knowing what to expect; therefore we talked a lot about what she can expect when starting school. Being relaxed, reassuring and positive with them also makes a big difference. Take care and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks for stopping by. The scenery around Inishowen Peninsula is unlike anything you will have seen before, not just the natural beauty, but also because of how the sea and the sky can totally change your view in moments.Have a nice day 🙂 Aiva

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    1. Thank you kindly. It is indeed a fantastic place to slow down and rewind, which is exactly what we needed before the summer is over. The route gets its name from the approximate number of miles the route runs for, however, we had a hard time keeping our journey under one hundred miles, given the temptation to explore further off the beaten track while on our travels. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  4. Aiva, this is a most lovely place! I fell in love with it just by seeing your photographs and getting the info via your narration. And one can tell you like this area of the north as well as you write with great enthusiasm. Beautiful pictures combined with your excellent information makes for a lovely post indeed. Cheers, and I really will visit these places with your narratives in hand. All the best,
    Francis

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    1. Thank you kindly, Francisco. Inishowen Peninsula with its wild scenery and rugged coast was a perfect place for a staycation. There’s an activity to suit just about everyone here as it is a picturesque location with a rich history. Along the way, we learned that more ocean liners and German U-boats have met their end off the coast of Malin Head than anywhere else in the world and that in total there are nine wrecks including the famous La Trinidad Valencera of the Spanish Armada in Kinnagoe Bay. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  5. So much beauty in one small country. Great photos and descriptors Aiva. Makes me wish we could travel there right now. Malin Head is truly beautiful. Thanks for sharing your trip with us. Have a great week. Allan

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    1. Thank you kindly, Allan. I was delighted to be back again in Donegal and drive around the rugged peninsula once more. The 100-mile drive around the peninsula offers scenic views of Lough Swilly to the West, including ‘Amazing Grace Country’, Lough Foyle to the East and the majestic Atlantic Ocean to the North, as well as many inland gems along the way. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much, Megg. We started our trip with the scenic drive to Fort Dunree that’s located on the West side of the Inishowen peninsula followed by a steep, narrow road along the Urris Hills known as Mamore Gap. Couldn’t be happier with everything we had a chance to see along the way 🙂 Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  7. The coastal scenery is stunning Aiva and I enjoyed following along on your Wild Atlantic Way journey. I hope Ericeira is settling in to her new school and making friends. I’m sure she will be fine but you are undoubtedly missing her being around. Hope you are enjoying sunny days. Marion.

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    1. Thank you kindly, Marion. Inishowen Peninsula is a very wild, windswept, remote and exceedingly beautiful place to explore. Ericeira has settled nicely into her new school. The house is strangely quiet, but I am delighted she can be around other children after we’ve lived in our little bubble for so long. Her best friend, who lives next door and is exactly the same age, not only goes to the same school but also ended up in her class. I nearly cried tears of joy when we found out they share the same teacher. Couldn’t ask for more as there’s nothing more beautiful than a childhood friendship that develops over the years and there’s something about the loyalty of childhood friends that makes us stronger. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much, Diana. We made heaps of memories exploring all the wonderful sights around Inishowen Peninsula especially taking in Inishowen’s highlights like Malin Head -Ireland’s most northerly point – Mamore Gap, Fort Dunree and many more. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva

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  9. I was not at all familiar with this part of Ireland, but looks like a lovely place to visit. Excellent post as always with wonderful commentary, info, and photos. Thanks!

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    1. Thank you kindly. Inishowen Peninsula is a wonderful place to explore at it is home to many Blue Flag Beaches, plenty of history and heritage as well as the Northern lights. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  10. Absolutely gorgeous Aiva, for want of a better adjective. I always read your posts about Ireland with great interest as I’ve never been. One day perhaps, amid the billion and one other plans we have concocted. Crummies Bay stands out, even among all the beautiful spots in your post, and I never fail to be charmed by a pretty lighthouse.

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    1. Thanks so much, Leighton. Situated at Ireland’s most northerly point, Inishowen is wild, rugged, and spectacularly beautiful; yet it remains relatively untouched and unspoilt which is one of the reasons why we wanted to return to it. Although we had a fair share of rain and moody weather during the trip, we still managed to experience plenty of beauty along the way. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva

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    1. Thank you kindly! Following the Inishowen 100 Drive, discovering the past in the present and immersing ourselves in the rich history and heritage of this stunning region was a trip to remember for all the right reasons. There are still many Celtic crosses, forts and the ruins of several castles we didn’t get to visit, which would give s a good reason to return once more. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  12. I had no idea you could see the Northern Lights in Ireland; I assumed one would have to go even more north (e.g. Iceland) to check them out. What a great experience to have closer to home for you and your family! That photo of Glenevin Waterfall is so lush and stunning, and it really goes to show that there’s a lot more to Ireland than what I’d imagined. I’d love to check out Inishowen Peninsula someday!

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    1. Thank you kindly, Rebecca. Yes, you can see the Northern Lights on the Emerald Isle as Ireland has a good geographical position to view aurora borealis, which means we don’t have to travel to Iceland or Norway to experience them in person. When the conditions are right, you can even see them in Sligo – Mullaghmore peninsula with its scenic views dominated by Ben Bulben mountain is a good spot to witness northern lights, even though visibility here is not as good as in Donegal. But over the last years mostly clouded skies we haven’t had a chance to see them yet. Hopefully one day. I am glad to hear you love the photo of Glenevin Waterfall – it was our first time visiting and I was in awe of its beauty. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  13. Pingback: Ireland Travel Guide: 8 Amazing Things To See And Do On A Trip Around Inishowen Peninsula - Fiesta Bookings

    1. Thanks so much, Glenys. I am glad to hear that you love one of my favourite places in Ireland – the wild and rugged Malin Head. Malin Head gained international fame in 2016 when Luke Skywalker (i.e. Mark Hamill) and the Star Wars production crew used it as a filming location for Episode 8: The Last Jedi. Thank you, Ericeira has settled nicely in her new school and is still as excited as she was on the first day. Hopefully, her excitement doesn’t start to fade away once they start learning to write and read. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thank you kindly, Hannah. Nothing heals and exhilarates like a tumble in the Atlantic Ocean, and that’s why I was delighted to discover that the peninsula has its choice of golden, sandy beaches: Tullagh Strand, Lisfannon, Five Finger Strand and off the beaten track – Dunree Bay. Ericeira is enjoying school as her best friend who lives next door managed to get in the same school and class. Couldn’t be more delighted for her. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva

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    1. A short staycation was just what we needed before Ericeira was going back to school and we get used to getting up early and doing homework every night. I am glad we settled on exploring Inishowen Peninsula as it is home to two dozen remote villages, coastal townships, and fishing harbours. A handful of islands also hug its shoreline and prove a point of interest for explorers when visiting the Inishowen Peninsula, but we decided to leave it for our next visit. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva

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  17. Such an inviting post Aiva! An amazing way to spend the last days of the summer, but hopefully the autumn will linger long enough for more adventures🙂 I was reading some comments, glad Ericeira is doing fine in school, and she likes it. She is such a cutie🙂 xoxo

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    1. Thanks so much, Christie. Going on a trip at the end of the summer was a wonderful way to recharge the batteries and make memories. As much as I love those long summer days, I am an autumn person at heart as the weather can still be somewhat forgiving during these times, even balmy, and the usually busy tourist sites usually boast fewer crowds. I am delighted that Ericeira loves going to school every day. It’s a big transition for the whole family as it can be exciting and a little daunting, not only for children but also for parents. Thanks so much for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thank you kindly. Having lived in Ireland for nearly two decades, we’ve ticked off our bucket list with pretty much all of Ireland’s popular tourist attractions and best-known destinations, so it is about time to explore the lesser-known gems hidden in Ireland. And we had such a great time do it. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  19. Your gorgeous photography brings this beautiful place alive and your commentary makes it all the more vivid for me. I feel as though I am travelling there myself. Thank you for a lovely trip!

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    1. Thank you kindly. We had a fantastic trip exploring the vistas around Inishowen Peninsula. While we have the potential to positively impact the places we visit—infusing money into local economies, supporting conservation projects and local artisans, and building bridges across cultures, we also run the risk of destroying the very things we love. That’s why we prefer to go where there are little tourist crowds. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva xxx

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  20. What a gorgeous place! The view form Malin Head is sooo beautiful, and all the other places seem amazing too! I honestly can’t wait to visit Ireland just to see with my own eyes all the beutiful places you mention in here! 😍

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    1. Hi, Juliette, I am so glad to hear from you! How are you doing, I hope all is well. Ireland is a country that still feels ripe for exploring: the small villages, fantastic natural landscape, and beautiful architecture (modern, restored, and crumbling ruins alike) give it a fairytale-like quality. Nowhere is that more true than when discovering Ireland off the beaten path, and that’s why you would love exploring Emerald Isle. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva xx

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      1. I’m well, thank you! I have been struggling to find some time for blogging lately, but I am slowly writing some things to post, hopefully soon! I hope you are well too! Have a fantastic day!

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  21. OMG, it’s one scenic awesome adventure to the next at the many places of the Inishowen Peninsula. The pictures are incredible. I bet it’s even breathtaking in person. Thank you. Wish I could go here one day & just savor slowly every experience . Thanks.

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    1. Thank you kindly, I was in awe of natural marvels myself, and I am so glad we decided to visit a lesser-known part of Ireland. While tourist highlights like the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, and Giant’s Causeway are beautiful, there’s something special about curling up in a small village pub for a meal, admiring a historic ruin with no other souls around, or staring out over the gorgeous coast without hundreds of other people nearby. Thanks so much for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva

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  22. Some years ago my son and I explored the rugged west coast of Ireland, so beautiful and exciting! We did get up to the Giant’s Causeway (of course that’s where all the tourists go, right?) but glad to learn about this beautiful peninsula. Loved the little cottage with the yellow door.

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    1. I am glad to hear you had a great time exploring the rugged west coast of Ireland and the Giant’s Causeway. Even after living on the coast for three years, I still stop in my tracks every day to take in the sea, the mountains and the vast landscape – there’s a certain magic to it. Stumbling upon the little cottage with the yellow door was one of my personal favourite moments of the trip as I am a big fan of traditional thatched cottages. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  23. So beautiful there and I love the photos of you and your family. You look like you have a ton of fun out there in nature too. I need some nature time. We need to head up north and get our of this city for a break, it has been awhile. The leaves should be changing now up north, or starting to…maybe. We will see, not cold enough yet I suppose.

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    1. Thank you kindly 🙂 Our outdoor adventures have been the best times we’ve had together as a family—but not only because of the places and experiences themselves. The main reason is that these trips have given us innumerable days with only each other and nature for entertainment—no electronic devices or other distractions that construct virtual walls within families in everyday life. These times have brought us closer together. For all of us, our times together outdoors constitute our richest and favourite memories. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva xxx

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  24. It is curious but the landscape looks very similar to that of the Moray Firth coast in Scotland. This brings back many happy memories of both Ireland and Scotland. I remember visiting a real thatched cottage in Portrush back in 1967. Another wonderful post and you all look so well and happy. Love Ericeira’s light curls!

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    1. Thank you kindly, Kerry 🙂 You should see Ericeiras curls once the weather turns humid, they are so adorable! I love thatched cottages and were delighted to stumble upon a good few during the trip around Inishowen Peninsula whose proximity to Scotland made me miss it very much. Ireland and Britain are just 12 miles apart at the Irish Sea’s narrowest point, but waters run deep here — in every sense, yet I hope that one day they are going to build the bridge that connects two islands, although, the UK today has a reputation more for burning bridges than building them. The distances involved are short. However, there are geological and environmental challenges so immense this would be one of the most technically ambitious projects in engineering history. There are also questions of economics, infrastructure and entrenched local politics. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva xx

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      1. There is something special about traveling on the ferry boat from Scotland to Ireland and vice versa. When they built the bridge to Skye, I felt such sadness, but I understand that it helped with the local people and tourism. Islands are magical! K x

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        1. I know what you mean, Kerry. I love travelling by ferry. For me, the holiday starts as soon as we drive on to a ferry. There’s something about being on the water that makes you feel like you are on holiday. Once you’re on board, you can get a glass of wine, find a seat overlooking the sea and take in the views. Plus, you can take as much luggage as you can. And I know what you mean about the concrete bridge to Skye, too. Imagine visiting an island that’s only accessible by boat, that’s so adventurous and romantic! At least the bridge is free to cross for all unlike when you had to pay hefty tolls both ways when it was built! I wouldn’t mind crossing the bridge now, preferably on foot ❤ xx

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          1. I don’t know if you have ever visited the Vancouver area but there are ferries EVERYWHERE! I went as a foot passenger and it was just delightful. Fantastic scenery and that essential glass of wine. K x

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  26. It’s nice to read that so many of my blogger followers like yourself are getting out and about again.
    I would actually enjoy this cooler and overcast kind of weather as a sign that the seasons are changing. Such does not happen in South Florida as the weather remains relatively the same.

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    1. I was delighted to finally embark on a family adventure! International travel for non-essential reasons has resumed, but our reality still involves social distancing, wearing masks in public, disinfecting our homes, and frequent handwashing. Therefore we are still mindful of where we are travelling within the country, and that’s why we decided to explore Inishowen Peninsula as it receives less tourist traffic. We made heaps of wonderful memories and had a chance to recharge our batteries. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  27. The next time we go to Ireland, we will indeed ditch the familiar paths and try to find some of the rural beauty you have highlighted in your wonderful post. I feel like I was there just from reading your narrative! By the way – you have a beautiful family! Take care!

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    1. Thank you kindly, Linda 🙂 This year, we decided to see Ireland with a fresh set of eyes and visited many lesser-known sites and attractions around the beautiful Inishowen Peninsula. Much to our delight, we discovered many gloriously deserted sandy spits, stumbled upon ancient settlements and had the wild and rugged landscape all to ourselves. Thanks for stopping by and wishing you a lovely day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thank you kindly, Caroline. When the pandemic crises halted international travel, I didn’t think I’ll be ever able to cure my wanderlust by staying in Ireland and exploring local sights. Fortunately, I was wrong. Life in lockdown gave us a new appreciation for each other and the country we live in. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am glad to hear you love Ireland, and I hope you’ll be able to return to explore more of the Emerald Isle. Dublin is an easy and obvious choice for a visit, but there are so many other incredible destinations on the island. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day 🙂 Aiva

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    1. Thank you kindly 🙂 When most people think of visiting the Emerald Isle they rarely ever go beyond Dublin, drawn to its Guinness-fuelled bars and vibrant cultural highlights, but there are plenty of amazing places worth exploring and Inishowen Peninsula is one such a place. Aiva

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  32. Wow, the tour around Inishowen Peninsula is surely a wonderful site to see! Your sunset photo at the beginning is truly spectacular and how beautiful is Crummies Bay with its lovely beach! We love lighthouses and the Stroove Lighthouse is a beauty (and great that your little one posed in front of it 😊).
    A great post Aiva, loved your story-telling and photo’s! Corna

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    1. Hi, Corna, thanks for stopping by and for the follow – I am very excited to see a new face coming along with our little family adventures around Ireland. From stunning beaches to dramatic cliff walks and ancient monuments, Inishowen Peninsula was a wonderful place to explore at the end of the summer. Despite being Ireland’s largest peninsula, locals told me that Inishowen is often referred to as Ireland’s 33rd county – because it is often forgotten. While this might be a sad truth for residents, it is the opposite for holidaymakers. If you decide to holiday in Inishowen you will be treated to a peninsula bursting with hidden gems that have yet to be discovered by the masses. Thanks for stopping by, and have a nice day. I can’t wait to read all about your adventures 🙂 Aiva xx

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      1. I’m really glad to have found your blog – I think this will be a great way to learn more about Ireland (but also about all the many other places you visited). Thank you for following our blog as well … you will probably see a lot of hiking and 4×4 trips on our South African gravel roads. Have a great weekend. Corna

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        1. The feeling is mutual! Can’t wait to read all about your South African adventures, Corna. When we lived in Edinburgh, one of our flatmates, a guy named Charl, was from Johannesburg. We learned quite a lot about South Africa and although we never had a chance to visit, not yet, at least, we became quite fascinated by it. Have a nice day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  35. Hi Aiva,. I just wanted to let you know that we are soon to be setting off on a 10 day Irish road trip taking in the Causeway Coast and parts of the Wild Atlantic Way. We’re really looking forward to it thanks to the inspiration from your wonderful posts. Marion xx

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    1. Wow, that’s fantastic news, Marion! Thanks for letting me know, I can only imagine how excited you must be ahead of your trip. Wishing you a safe journey and a relaxing vacation when you arrive! Let’s hope Irish weather cooperates with you 🙂 Aiva

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  36. Pingback: Ireland Travel Guide: 8 Amazing Things To See And Do On A Trip Around Inishowen Peninsula – Rosie Tinted Glasses

    1. Thanks so much and sorry for the late reply – it looks like I am almost a year late! I am glad to hear you enjoyed my post about the Inishowen Peninsula as it’s one of our favourite peninsulas to explore. I love stopping by Banba’s Crown on Malin Head as it’s where loved ones waved goodbye to their family and friends as they left their home country for American shores.

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    1. Thank you kindly. Inishowen Peninsula is one of the most beautiful and scenic places in Ireland minus the large tourist crowds. I hope you get to explore County Donegal one day as it is known for its wild and rugged beauty. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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