Fanad Lighthouse Walk
This walk visits Fanad Lighthouse at Fanad Head. The lighthouse is located on the Fanad peninsula that lies between Lough Swilly and Mulroy Bay on the north coast of County Donegal.
You can start the walk from the visitor centre and car park at the lighthouse.
The lighthouse was built in 1817 following the tragic wreck of HMS Saldanha in 1812. It has served as a crucial aid to navigation for over two centuries. It stands on the Fanad Peninsula, situated between Lough Swilly and Mulroy Bay on the north coast of County Donegal. The lighthouse’s whitewashed tower rises 39 metres above sea level, contrasting beautifully with the rugged coastal landscape. It remains operational, guiding vessels safely through these waters.
The surrounding scenery is striking, with expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean and the dramatic Donegal coastline. From the headland, you can often see Tory Island in the distance on clear days. The cliffs around the lighthouse are rugged and often battered by waves, creating an ever-changing and dramatic seascape. The natural beauty is particularly stunning at dawn and dusk, when the light transforms the landscape.
Fanad Lighthouse Open Street Map 
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Fanad Lighthouse Open Street Map 
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Further Information and Other Local Ideas
To continue your walking in the area you could head south west to pick up the Donegal Boardwalk and enjoy a fine coastal walk along the lovely Sheephaven Bay. The picturesque Lough Salt can also be found near here.
The wonderful Mamore Gap and the beautiful Inch Island are located to the east.
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
Fanad Head Lighthouse
Ocean scene at Fanad lighthouse
Information board, Fanad Head. The flora in the area includes hardy coastal plants adapted to the salty, windswept conditions. Species such as sea thrift, heather, and gorse thrive here, their vibrant colours adding to the visual appeal of the environment. Grasslands near the lighthouse support wildflowers like daisies and buttercups in the spring and summer, enhancing the area’s biodiversity.
Inland from near Fanad Head. The fauna is equally diverse, with a range of bird species inhabiting the cliffs and shoreline. Seabirds such as fulmars, razorbills, and cormorants are frequently seen, while gulls and terns are common overhead. Marine life is also notable, with seals often visible near the rocks, and porpoises or dolphins occasionally sighted offshore. The surrounding waters are rich in marine life, adding to the ecological importance of this coastal area.