While you’re off exploring the wilds of rural Ireland, if you find yourself in the northwest of the country, don’t miss Bunbeg (A Bun Beag) a popular County Donegal attraction and  Europe’s smallest harbour.  It’s a charming little place, as you would no doubt expect for this wonderful part of the world:

Unsurprisingly, the harbour was once a popular military port and thus hiking around the area you’ll find lots of military relics around here – old barracks, lookout towers, etc.  The area sits in the shadow of Mount Errigal, one of the tallest mountains in County Donegal and part of the chain of Seven Sisters.

The shipwreck in the harbour (particular wonderful at low tide) is Cara Na Mara (Friend of the Sea), a shipwreck from the 70s.

If you’re there, my tip is that you catch one of the tours that departs from the habour (yes – it’s not just an inlet faking it as a harbour).  Donegal Coastal Cruises has a tour that goes to Tory Island, nine miles off the coast.  Brits can laugh at the name, but you won’t be laughing when you see the stunning cliffs.  There are also boat tours to Gola Island, a place so quiet you’ll definitely find some inner peace.

As with most of rural Ireland, it’s best to get around either with a tour guide/operator or hire a car.  Many of the old railway stations are long closed and bus service is infrequent at best.  Also I should mention just north of Bunbeg is Derrybeg, where you can find the Bloody Foreland, known for one of the most incredible sunset spots in all of the British Isles.

Photo by Jed Baxter