Lambs Isle

Explorer Tom Standing on the R247 since c. 1780, this Catholic church features a charming bellcote and serves as a quiet anchor for the Croaghan community.

Explorer Tom Moross Castle was built in 1532 and sits on a tiny rocky island connected by a causeway. By 1622, someone had slapped a thatched roof on the ruins while it lay waste, which is peak medieval DIY. Only the southwest corner survives now, but that narrow causeway makes it feel like you’re walking onto a very defensive boat.

Explorer Tom St. Columba's Parochial House has a round-headed doorway that looks like it’s winking at you from the front porch. Built around 1885, I imagine the curate peeking through those sidelights every morning to check if anyone was still asleep before he started his sermons.

Explorer Tom This standing stone in Drumfad Lower used to stand proudly on a ridge with sweeping views of Trusk More, though it did take a tumble during a storm back in 1998. After a rescue excavation to uncover its original socket pit, it was carefully re-erected so it could keep watch over the plateau.

Explorer Tom This Hazel tree in County Donegal looks inviting, though you may need permission to get up close.

Explorer Tom Mevagh High Cross is a stark, undecorated slab standing in the graveyard of a ruined medieval church. It’s simple and unadorned, which makes it feel like a quiet guardian overlooking the steep drop to Mulroy Bay. No fancy patterns here, just raw stone and history.

Explorer Tom This Wych Elm in Donegal looks peaceful and strong, so check if you need permission to visit.

Explorer Tom Cnoc na Sleá means 'hill of the spear', though I would leave any spear firmly in the name. The guide also calls this small Donegal hill Crocknasleigh and points out its older Irish spelling. One hill, two ways to say it, and a very pointed name.

Explorer Tom Portsalon runs in a wide sandy curve along Lough Swilly, with Knockalla rising behind it. I can almost see a giant pencil trying to draw that line in one stroke. That's the bit that grabs me: sand, water and mountains making one huge sweep, without needing a beauty contest to tell me so.

Explorer Tom The Murder Hole cave hints at darker history on its beach, though the name may simply be a local ghost story.

Explorer Tom Boyeeghter Strand bends into a horseshoe of sand near Melmore Head. That's a shape I can have fun with on the map: try drawing that curve in one sweep without lifting your pencil. The saved account warns of strong currents, so this is a map puzzle from me, not a swimming tip.

Explorer Tom Rosses Strand has a classic sound to it, promising gentle waves and wide spaces for exploration along the Donegal coast.