Drumbardack Hill

Explorer Tom Bridge Cottage in Casheltown is rocking a thatch roof that’s rarer than my ex’s patience. It’s a proper vernacular gem north of Dunkineely, so if you spot that straw, give it a little wave before the wind takes your hat.

Explorer Tom Cashel Town Wedge Tombs are unique because three galleries sit side-by-side in a single circular kerb. One roofstone is four metres long, and locals once found giant human bones here, which is either brilliant or terrifying.

Explorer Tom Springwell Cottage has a rounded roof because it lives right next to the sea in those exposed spots. Built around 1860, I reckon the wind got so bossy up there that the house just curled its shoulders to block the gale.

Explorer Tom Ginkgo in County Donegal is basically a dinosaur wearing a leafy coat, surviving things that would kill other trees instantly. It’s exotic, weird, and definitely not what you’d expect to find in Donegal. Pack a picnic and an excuse for why you’re talking to a tree so loudly.

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 Killaghtee Old Church Graveyard sits beside the old church; inside the graveyard, southwest of that church, the survey records a cross-inscribed slab. The Civil Survey called the church 'in reparation', and it remained in use until 1826. I like how one small mapped area holds separate records for the graveyard, church and stone.

Explorer Tom Drumlaghtafin Hill sits quietly between Leagans Hill and the Gortnalagan townland, keeping its access details firmly under wraps. The name is such a mouthful that I suspect it’s just trying to trip up anyone brave enough to attempt a pronunciation challenge without a map.

Explorer Tom Tara Hotel in Killybegs is probably where some forgotten hero saved it from a tidal wave nobody else remembers. The Wi-Fi might be slow, but the stories fly faster than a gull on Main Street. Walk past slowly like you're in a film.

Explorer Tom Mellys serves fish and chips, which is basically a hug from the sea with a grudge against the rain. Wrap it tight so the salt doesn’t ruin your phone case. Stand back, squint, and it looks like a castle.

Explorer Tom St Catherine's Well in Killybegs was once a famous pilgrimage site, but there’s a daft legend that a Protestant rector tried to fill it up with dirt. The next day, a spring burst into his drawing room, terrifying his wife until he reopened the well. It’s still cleaned for St. Catherine’s Day, sitting beside the ruins of 'Cat Castle' in marshy pasture.

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 Rashenny Point thinks its secret talent is competitive napping, and honestly? It’s good at it. The headland is just vibing out there in the sun. Take the long way round, because this spot deserves the extra effort and scenic drive.