Fanad Head On the Wild Atlantic Way

Steep, breaking cliffs and vast seascapes:

discover the raw nature and peaceful solitude of Fanad Head, a lighthouse proudly set against the elements

By continuing your journey towards the north of Ireland, you will have the impression of having left civilization, far, very far behind you. You will enter a universe that lives and breathes to the rhythm of the landscapes and seascapes ... Welcome to the Fanad Head peninsula in County Donegal.

You will have no trouble locating the main attraction of this peninsula: the Fanad Head lighthouse, the construction of which appeared to be a necessity for sailors following a tragedy that occurred more than two centuries ago. In December 1811, the frigate Saldanha sought shelter from a storm by heading towards Fanad, fighting frantically against the wind and the raging waves. Unfortunately, she could not reach the shore, and sank off the north coast, with the ship's parrot as sole survivor.

Shortly after, the Fanad Head lighthouse was built to guide sailors on their crossings. Even today, it lights the sea from its rock. Climb up to the lighthouse and take in the incredible views of the Fanad Peninsula - you can even spend the night in the lighthouse! Can't stay overnight? Pack a picnic lunch and eat while watching for dolphins, whales and seals.

 Breathtaking landscapes and a spectacular coastline
 
But don't limit yourself to visiting the lighthouse when you get to Fanad Head. You would miss the spectacular landscapes born from the uninterrupted confrontation of this promontory with the Atlantic Ocean. This epic decor notably houses the Grande Arche, a magnificent viewpoint that will shine on your Wild Atlantic Way photo album. It is also a great place to catch a glimpse of the games of the region's aquatic residents, such as gray seals and whales.

However, there are places less exposed to bad weather on the coast, as can be seen by swimming enthusiasts when they discover Ballymastocker bay, near Portsalon. Classified a few years ago as the second most beautiful beach in the world by The Observer, this “Blue Flag” beach invites you to put on your swimsuit and dive into the waves.

Golf and gastronomy

We may have left civilization to explore Fanad Head, but there are pleasures we cannot do without. Do you feel like challenging the elements with your golf clubs? Then go to the Portsalon Golf Club, a superb link that Golf Digest ranked 25th in its ranking of the 100 best golf courses in Ireland. Then treat yourself to a little reward by tasting an invigorating seafood chowder in the very cozy The Pier Restaurant, overlooking Lough Swilly in Portsalon.

The most beautiful castle hotels in Ireland

11 sumptuous castles and stately homes converted into hotels for a royal experience.
Present in the four corners of the island, these century-old buildings have been carefully restored and today offer top-of-the-range hotel services guaranteeing you a trip back in time to a time when elegance and refinement were the watchwords.
Four poster beds enthroned in rooms with breathtaking decor, refined cuisine, stately activities and breathtaking landscapes, here is a brief overview of this experience!

Ashford Castle, County Mayo

The 800-year-old Ashford Castle, which has won numerous awards, offers 5 * accommodation in an area of ​​10,520 hectares and has its own falconry school. Famous golfer Rory McIroy recently married in this fairytale setting

Bantry House, Cor County

Considered one of the most beautiful historic homes in Ireland, Bantry House overlooks Bantry Bay on the Wild Atlantic Way, the wild Irish coast. This residence offers both guest rooms and self-catering accommodation.
Also known for its elegant gardens, this stately home is the perfect place to spend a night in a refined setting.

Dromoland Castle, County Clare 2

This majestic 5 * chateau hotel is the ancestral home of the O'Briens, whose lineage dates back 1000 years to the days of the Great King of Ireland, Brian Boru. You can admire its sumptuous interior decoration and appreciate its elaborate cuisine.
The chateau also has a high competition golf course and a 160 hectare park to explore.

Ballyfin Demesne, Laois County

Located at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, just over an hour from Dublin, Ballyfin is a Regency-style mansion, often considered the most sumptuous of its time in Ireland.
A place steeped in history, romance and serenity, offering 20 rooms in a unique setting of unparalleled tranquility which is a delight for lovers of art and antiques. 250 hectares of private park, an 11 hectare lake, a wood, outbuildings and caves surround the property.
It was voted 2nd best hotel in the world by Travel & Leisure in 2018 and best hotel in the world by readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine in 2016.

Lough Eske Castle, County Donegal

This 5 * chateau-hotel in turrets dates from the 1400s.
Among other things, you can enjoy a top-of-the-range spa and fine cuisine.
This is the perfect place to explore the wild beauty of County Donegal.

Ballynahinch Castle, County Galway

The prestigious Ballynahinch Castle was named the best hotel in Ireland by readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine in 2017.
This 17th-century castle offers individually decorated and elegant rooms with breathtaking views of nature.

Crom Castle, Fermanagh County

Owned by Lord and Lady Erne, the sumptuous Crom Castle is located in the beautiful region of the lakes of Fermanagh.
You can stay in the west wing of the castle and enjoy an exclusive visit to the family's private apartments made by the 7th Earl of Erne.
Crom Castle has been the location of several television programs, including the British series Blandings.

Lismore Castle, County Waterford

For those looking for a true immersion in the life of a Lord, Lismore Castle, dating from the 12th century and owned by the Duke of Devonshire, is for rent.
Butler and staff included!
It can accommodate groups of 30 people.
Guests have the privilege of enjoying exclusive access to all of the castle's facilities and can enjoy an exceptional dinner in the majestic medieval banquet hall.

Adare Manor Castle Hotel, County Limerick

This splendid chateau-hotel in County Limerick is the ideal place to indulge in the art of relaxation!
Considered a neo-Gothic masterpiece, the hotel is under renovation and will open its doors next September with 42 new rooms, an exclusive La Mer spa and a new 18-hole championship golf course.

Ballywaleter Park, County Down

At Dunleath Mansion House, lunch can be taken in the presence of the owners, Lord and Lady Dunleath.
You can then enjoy an archery session or a hunting party on their property.

Clonalis House, County Roscommon Clonalis House, County Roscommon The Victorian splendor of Clonalis House, considered one of Ireland's most important historic properties, not only provides a luxurious setting, but also a unique glimpse into history from Ireland.
It is the ancestral home of the O'Conors, Kings of Connacht and Great Kings of Ireland.

Clonalis House, County Roscommon

Clonalis House, County Roscommon The Victorian splendor of Clonalis House, considered one of Ireland's most important historic properties, not only provides a luxurious setting, but also a unique glimpse into history from Ireland.
It is the ancestral home of the O'Conors, Kings of Connacht and Great Kings of Ireland.
The library has more than 7,000 works, some of which date from the 16th century, attesting to the aristocratic lineage of the owners.