Altinierin

Explorer Tom Droichead na hAbhna Bige has these really long, squinty stones in the arch that look totally different from the chunky bits holding it up. I bet they were trying to make the bridge look like it’s wearing a very fancy, crooked hat.

Explorer Tom Owenwee Bridge crosses the river on one broad arch, with long rock-faced stones set around its curve. Built around 1860, it looks almost as if the arch stretched each stone to fit. The rubble abutments stay plain by comparison.

Explorer Tom Ah, Three Tops! I once stood there looking east at the sunrise, wondering if the clouds were trying to hide from me. It's a bit of a mystery in County Donegal, isn't it?

Explorer Tom Stackarnagh Abbey Graveyard has a gatepost detail I keep coming back to: a reused window fragment carved with a fish biting the end of a moulding, with a rough unicorn above it. The survey says the stone probably came from the church's ruined south window. I can enjoy the odd pair without inventing what the medieval carver meant.

Explorer Tom Wilkin's of Church Hill in County Donegal sounds like it's guarded by an angel who demands tips. If the church bell rings, run for cover before the gossip starts.

Explorer Tom Right then, folks, here’s Moylenanav, standing tall in the misty corners of County Donegal. I’m still trying to work out how to pronounce that second syllable without sounding like a startled goose, but it definitely looks like it’s got some character.

Explorer Tom Newmills Corn and Flax Mills has a waterwheel big enough to make me stop and watch the machinery do the hard work. Corn and flax kept different trades moving here. Heritage Ireland's 2026 visitor season has ended, so I would check the next opening date before making the trip.

Explorer Tom Glenveagh National Park follows Lough Veagh through the Derryveagh Mountains, featuring easy trails and historic castle views.

Explorer Tom In 1650, the Battle of Scarrifholis saw a Commonwealth victory near Letterkenny, leaving a lasting mark on local history.

Explorer Tom This European Beech in Donegal stands tall, and I bet you need permission to see its secret beauty.

Explorer Tom Glebe House and Gallery lets me visit Derek Hill's home and then see what became of his studio. An 1828 house, art and woodland gardens make quite a three-part outing. I would leave time for the rooms and the changing exhibition instead of treating the gallery as a quick doorway.

Explorer Tom Teach Tábhairne an Rileán in County Donegal has a mouthful of a name. Say it three times fast for me and tell me how you feel!