A Lighthouse Stands Resolute Against The Elements / Ireland / Publisher Tourism Ireland

The Northern Headlands

The Wild Atlantic Way is brimming with off-the-beaten-track wonders. Take a look and explore Ireland’s 2500 km touring route as we highlight some of the most breathtaking spots along the Northern Headlands.

Stunning scenery and spectacular coastlineTo limit your Fanad Head journey to its lighthouse, though, would be to ignore the spectacular landscapes that have resulted from the headland’s uninterrupted clash with the Atlantic Ocean.

Part of this epic scenery is the Great Arch, a stunning viewing spot that will shine out from your Wild Atlantic Way photo album.

It’s not all rough weathering along the shoreline, either, as beach lovers will testify when they discover Ballymastocker Bay, near Portsalon.

Once given the number two spot in a survey of the world’s most beautiful beaches in The Observer newspaper, this blue-flag beach entices you to don your swimsuit and head into the waves.

Great golf and delicious foodDespite leaving civilisation behind for a circuit of Fanad Head, some creature comforts can never be forgotten.

Perhaps you’re itching to tackle the elements with your golf clubs?

Then visit Portsalon Golf Club, an outstanding links course that Golf Digest ranked 25th in its 100 great golf courses of Ireland. Afterwards, reward yourself with a bowl of seafood chowder in the cosiness of The Pier Restaurant, overlooking Lough Swilly in Portsalon.