Irish Roadtrip pt. 7 | County Donegal
Part seven of my Ultimate Coastal Irish Roadtrip explores the panoramic vistas of County Donegal. This northernmost part of Ireland — not to be confused with Northern Ireland — is full of rugged beauty, offering everything from hidden waterfalls to secluded beaches, and endless Atlantic views.
Views at Sliabh Liag
Secret Waterfall
Drive time Mullaghmore Head to Secret Waterfall: 1.25 hours
Approximate time there: 1.5 hours
The Secret Waterfall is such a cool, lesser-known spot. Only accessible during low tides, make your way down to the water when the rocky sea floor reveals itself. The journey isn’t easy; there are a few scrambles up some big rocks (especially if you’re vertically impaired like me), and it will take about 20 minutes each way, plus time to enjoy the location once you arrive. Allow yourself plenty of time so you don’t get caught by the rising tides.
Park at the Largy Viewpoint and walk down the road to the gate, where you can access the walk to the falls. From this gate on, you will be on private lands. Remember to be respectful and follow the posted signage so future visitors will also have access to the area!
Sliabh Liag
Drive time Secret Waterfall to Sliabh Liag: 20 minutes
Approximate time there: 2-3 hours
Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) is a coastal mountain and the second-highest sea cliff in Ireland. To arrive at the viewpoint, you can either park 4 kilometres away at the Visitor’s Centre (free) or 2 kilometres away at the Ranger’s Centre (€10/2hrs, €15/day). The winding road up to the cliffs has constant views of the Atlantic. When you arrive, there are a couple vendors selling souvenirs and drinks, just beyond this there is a path that follows up and along the cliff edge, follow it as long as you’d like before turning back.
Glengesh Viewpoint
Drive time Sliabh Liag to Glengesh: 20 minutes
Approximate time there: 30 minutes
An easy stop to make while already driving through. The viewpoint looks down into the valley, with picnic tables along the landing it is the perfect place to stop and eat a packed lunch or snack before continuing on!
Murder Hole Beach
Assaranca Waterfall
Drive time Glengesh to Assaranca Waterfall: 20 minutes
Approximate time there: 15 minutes
In County Donegal, the Assaranca Waterfall is a popular spot. The falls are gorgeous and easy to access, located right off the road. Personally, I found that being right off the road detracted from the beauty of it.
Murder Hole Beach
Drive time Assaranca Waterfall to Murder Hole Beach: 1.75 hours
Approximate time there: 1.5-2 hours
Quite possibly the coolest beach of our six-week trip! Murder Hole beach is accessible by a path through some private land (be sure to respect the rules so it remains accessible to visitors in the future!) and only during low tide. The tide changes quickly so make sure you double check before your visit!
There is no confirmed source of the name “Murder Hole” though the two most popular reasons are a woman who fell to her death from the cliffs in the 19th century, or the strong riptides that can be deadly. Due to these riptides it is strongly discouraged to swim here, walk the shore and explore the caves, but respect the ocean, and heed the warnings.
Murder Hole Beach
Portsalon Beach
Drive time Murder Hole to Portsalon Beach: 45 minutes
Approximate time there: 30 minutes-1.5 hours
Commonly considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland. Portsalon has beautiful white sands, clean washroom facilities and tons of parking. Follow the path through the sand dunes and enjoy the little slice of paradise. The calmer waters here make it a great option for a dip!
Grianan of Aileach
Drive time Portsalon Beach to Grianan of Aileach: 1 hour
Approximate time there: 1 hour
If you have already visited the Staigue Stone Fort, this is the bigger version, equipped with 360° views from the top of the hill. Sitting about 250 metres above sea level, the stone fort was reconstructed in the 1800s and is in terrific condition today.
Malin Head
Drive time: 1 hour
Approximate time there: 1.5-2.5 hours
Driving north of County Donegal for the last stop in the Republic, you will find Ireland’s most northern point. Malin Head can be explored by a few trails winding along the cliff edges. With views that look out over the savage rocky waters below and out into the endless Atlantic Ocean.
