Aghaweel Hill

Explorer Tom Ballyannan Portal Tomb is perched on Aghaweel Hill, offering a sprawling view across Lough Swilly to the Fanad mountains. It’s been standing in this exact roofless condition since at least 1846, so it’s got plenty of time to collect stories. The two tall portal stones are like ancient doorkeepers who never quite locked up.

Explorer Tom Gortleck Catholic Church has a cross-shaped stone with cupmarks that look like someone used a spoon to dig tiny holes. I picture the stone wondering if those were actually fingerprints from a very sticky giant’s hand. Did it get itchy?

Explorer Tom Glebe House sits by Lough Swilly, described as a neat whitewashed building costing about £3,000. I bet Revd. Hervey spent half that on his garden, leaving the other half to argue with the lake over who gets the best view.

Explorer Tom Bulbin in County Donegal has got history on its back, like a backpack full of rocks. It's been watching us all along. Take a breath of that air, it's older than your car, trust me.

Explorer Tom Urris Hills in County Donegal sounds like it's having a proper chat with the Gap of Mamore, judging by that caption. It’s a mountain that seems to know exactly where its boundaries are, even if the trail doesn't.

Explorer Tom Stragill Beach is three klicks from Buncrana, which means it’s technically a local legend if you squint hard enough. It’s got that 'I know what I’m doing' energy despite being so close to town. Tell your mates you found it first.

Explorer Tom Saint Éigneach's Well sits right on top of Mamore Gap, where pilgrims used to go barefoot around seven cairns. That’s a serious blister-fest, but apparently worth it for the spiritual glow-up at this mountain summit. There’s even a Lourdes grotto and Padre Pio statue nearby, so it’s got a very eclectic holy vibe.

Explorer Tom Mamore Gap is a spot where the wind whispers your deepest secrets to the clouds. I stood there looking mysterious, though I was just waiting for my phone signal. Stand there long enough and someone will ask if you're lost.

Explorer Tom Dunree Centre is one building in the Fort Dunree grounds, where the fort's story takes six exhibition chapters to tell. I would give them proper time: a place that has watched over Lough Swilly for so long deserves more than a quick look at the view.

Explorer Tom Dunree Head is where the legend runs out and the map begins. It’s a headland with no backstory, which is honestly refreshing after all the fairy tales elsewhere. Bring your own legend, I've run out.

Explorer Tom The North Pole in Drumfree is geographically chaotic, claiming polar status while sitting in the middle of Donegal’s rainy mess. I bet they serve ice cream that melts instantly because of the humidity, creating a slushy disaster on your tongue. Bring a flask of something warm and a story to swap.

Explorer Tom Gap of Mamore Viewpoint is hiding in plain sight on the Wild Atlantic Way. The mist rolls in there like it owns the place, which it probably does. Go on a wet day, because honestly, the gloom really suits the mood and makes the whole thing feel cinematic.