Carrickatlea

Explorer Tom Dermot and Grania's Bed in Carricknamoghil has two parts about seven and a half metres apart: a gallery behind a ruined court and another damaged chamber. The survey thought the gallery's large lintel had shifted slightly. I like how the plan lets the two parts speak to each other without pretending the fallen stones are a mess to tidy.

Explorer Tom Crannog in Carrickataggart is a bit of a phantom, with early reports suggesting two crannogs in Lough Adeery. The problem is there are no islands visible in the lake right now. They might be submerged, which means they’re having a very quiet holiday under the water.

Explorer Tom Bridge in Aghayeevoge carries a story about a narrow-gauge railway that stopped running in 1960. I picture the tiny train chugging over it, completely unaware of how many years its tracks would sit empty. Why did it go there instead of somewhere cooler?

Explorer Tom The Lough Head Bridge was already an old crossing when later roads took over. Built around 1770, it had become overgrown and unused when heritage surveyors described it. The single stone arch looks to me like an old storyteller letting the newer bridges do the shouting.

Explorer Tom Balbane Hill has a photo of itself that looks like it's posing for a magazine. I bet the oldest stone there is judging your hiking boots right now. Spot the oldest stone and give it a name.

Explorer Tom Mellys in Killybegs serves fish and chips, which is basically a hug from the sea. Wrap it tight so the salt doesn’t ruin your phone case.

Explorer Tom Tara Hotel in Killybegs on Main Street probably has a view of the sea and some very tired fishermen. It’s the kind of place where the Wi-Fi is slow but the stories are fast.

Explorer Tom European Beech in County Donegal is just a tree, but a fancy one that thinks it runs the place. It’s probably been there longer than the local council has had a proper meeting. Perfect spot to practise your best tour-guide voice, say 'ahoy' and see if it flinches.

Explorer Tom Wych Elm number three in County Donegal is trying to look dignified despite the wind pulling at its leaves. It needs permission to sway without falling over. Tell it to hold it together for the camera, champ.

Explorer Tom Crownarad stands at 493 metres, towering over its neighbour Fintragh which sits a mere 381 up. That height difference makes Crownarad look like it’s been wearing an invisible hat while Fintragh tries to keep up.

Explorer Tom Cat Castle is named after St. Catherine, but really it’s just a tiny stone corner standing on a hill above Killybegs Harbour. It’s been shrinking since 1355, and now only a 3-metre wall survives. It’s a bit pathetic, sure, but looking out over the harbour makes you wonder what that bishop’s manor looked like when it was whole.

Explorer Tom Fintra gives me a grand view before I reach the sand: the road drops toward Donegal Bay, with dunes and grassy hills behind the shore. There is a lagoon at the far end from the car park. I would let someone else call that steep, narrow road a quick nip down.