Rathmullan an ancient harbour village looks across the broad expanse of Lough Swilly to the Inishowen hills on the eastern shore. Well remembered for the historical Flight of the Earls in 1607 there now is an interpretive centre dedicated to this historic event. One of Irelands most traumatic episodes, it put an end to the centuries old rule of the Irish Chieftain.
Head south to the handsome village of Ramelton. This is a former Plantation village built by the prosperous Stewart family. In the 18th century it was an important port that exported salmon, butter, grain, linen and iodine (made from the local seaweed). However the coming of the railway to Letterkenny heralded the end of Ramelton’s prosperity.
Take the R245 to Milford go through it and continue on to the village of Carrigart. This is a small village with a lot of charm and it is from here that the Atlantic Drive begins. This is 15km journey around the beautiful Rosguill peninsula which has a rocky heart and a fringe of sand dunes and beaches. The best beach for swimming is Trá na Rossan. At the town of Downings there is a long sandy beach, good fishing, excellent golf at Rosapenna and Mc Nutts craft shop.
Head back to Milford and take the Kerrykeel road which is a lovely coastal drive along Mulroy Bay. This leads to the Fanad Peninsula. A must here is Ballymastocker Bay which has been voted one of the top ten beaches in the world.
Pull on a hat and boots and stride out on this magnificent expanse of sand and marvel at the Atlantic breakers.
Head south and this will take you back to Rathmullan.
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