The Coolest Crown on the Planet

In December 2016, Donegal was voted by National Geographic, the ‘Number 1’ place on the planet to visit in 2017.

 A key location within Donegal is the truly iconic Malin Head. As Ireland’s most northerly point the location marks the start / finish of the World’s longest defined coastal route, the Wild Atlantic Way (WAW).

Malin Head, Co. Donegal, Ireland

During May 2016, the area became the only location in Donegal where scenes for the latest edition of the Lucas Film production, Star Wars Episode IIIV were filmed (due to be released in December 2017).

Millennium Falcon, the set of the new Star Wars film. Malin Head, Co. Donegal, Ireland.

So what has the area got to offer those who travel to this stunning location at the top of Ireland?

At Malin Head, often referred to as ‘Banba’s Crown’, visitors will find a wild, rugged coastline that has been scoured by the downward forces of gargantuan ice sheets. They’ll also find a beautiful coastline, festooned with off shore islands, stunning cliff faces and beautifully elegant sea stacks that have been shaped by the constant tidal surge of the Atlantic Ocean.

Banba's Crown, Malin Head, Co. Donegal, Ireland

This area is known internationally for its coastal history, heritage, geology, ornithology and also for its diverse range of flora. It’s known as one of the World’s best places to see mega ocean fauna, such as basking sharks and it is often frequented by whales and dolphins too. For those keen on all things adventure, there are many venues for outdoor activities to suit families and solo travellers alike, such as walking, cycling, sea kayaking, rock climbing, photography, fishing and scuba diving.

Rock climbing, Inishowen, Co. Donegal, Ireland. Image © Bren Whelan

For the tired and weary adventurous traveller, the area is also home to Ireland’s most northerly pub, Farren’s Bar, which has great Guinness and pizzas too. Tasty fresh seafood is available at the Seaview Tavern, which as the name suggests has an amazing view out over Ireland’s most northerly bay and lighthouse!

Finally, staying overnight? You might just be lucky enough to catch a beautiful Northern Lights display over Malin Head! So, for a good night’s rest, look no further than the Sandrock Hostel, White Stand B&B or the aptly named Malin Head View B&B or the nearby Malin Hotel where you will receive a very warm Donegal welcome!

Northern Lights, Inishowen, Co. Donegal, Ireland

© Bren Whelan
Wild Atlantic Rock Climbing & Photography
www.wawclimbing.com


*Visit also: www.visitinishowen.com for more details & a Step by Step Guide to chasing the Northern Lights in Inishowen.