Our first outing as retired bears….

Fanad Lighthouse

Fanad Head lies on the north coast of County Donegal between Lough Swilly and Milroy Bay. It’s claims to fame include one of the world’s most beautiful lighthouses and the famous Flight of the Earls, which took place here in 1607. To reach the headland, travel along Knockalla Coast Road, a route with some seriously stunning panoramas. Along the way, you’ll take in views of the Inishtrahull Peninsula and Atlantic Ocean, and as the road ascends, you’ll look down upon Portsalon and Ballymastocker Bay.

We stayed in Inishtrahull View, a restored lighthouse keepers cottage. With no internet, television and very little phone signal it was a lovely place to unwind after our retirement party weekend. The cottage was very well appointed with views across Lough Swilly and out towards Malin Head. It had everything we needed including an open fire!

On Tuesday morning we enjoyed a tour of the lighthouse with our guide John. We were given an introduction to the history of the lighthouse and its’ inhabitants before climbing the stairs to the light itself. We were blessed with a clear day and great views.

We then took a drive round Fanad before returning to prepare dinner – a Jamie Oliver 3hr stew! Delicious. The cooking time gave us to to reflect on the weeknds events and pour over our maps to start planning our road trip in May.