Lenan Loop

Explorer Tom Forge or smithy in Lenan was built around 1840. Its plaque remembers the crew of Wellington Bomber W5653, who died in the Urris crash on 11 April 1941; their bodies were laid in this forge before transfer to Dunree and burial in Britain. I let the plaque speak here.

Explorer Tom Gap of Mamore Viewpoint sits along the Wild Atlantic Way, offering a dramatic look at this famous gap in County Donegal.

Explorer Tom Lenan Fort has a rock-cut ditch that was seven metres and seventy centimetres wide, which is basically a swimming pool carved straight into the hillside. I picture myself standing at the edge, trying to decide if I could cannonball across without getting damp socks.

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 provides a scenic pause point, offering lovely views over the surrounding hills and valleys in County Donegal.

Explorer Tom Right then, we've got ourselves a proper mountain called Mamore Hill tucked away in County Donegal. I imagine it's the sort of peak that looks like it’s been napping through the centuries, waiting for someone curious enough to poke its nose and see what’s over the ridge.

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 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 juts out proudly into the Donegal waters, a classic headland that definitely deserves your admiring gaze.

Explorer Tom Glenevin Waterfall offers a stunning view of the falls in County Donegal, a natural spectacle waiting to be discovered.

Explorer Tom Glenevin Waterfall sits at the head of a maintained walk near Clonmany, one of the few falls with a proper path.

Explorer Tom Rusty Nail in County Donegal likely has a nail so rusty it’s got its own personality. I suspect the pub is held together by hope and that single, stubborn nail.