Londonderry/Derry to Fanad Head Lighthouse

Question

On Sunday 14th of August my wife and I are waking up in our Londonderry/Derry Hotel for our first full day based there. We will likely tour around "The Maiden City" in the morning. Have lunch there and then immediately head up to Fanad Head Lighthouse.

https://fanadlighthouse.com/

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Can we go inside and up to the top?

Even if "no", I'd still be interested. The location looks so picturesque.

The makings of some awesome photography!

Google maps makes the best (or only) route seemingly to pass by (or through) Letterkenny....Ramelton....Milford.....Portsalon.

How did I do? Is that correct?

Where and or what would anyone suggest we stop and see along that route?

Thanks!

Steve (and his wife)....2 Americans who like the great outdoors!

SteveSBrickUSA · Accepted Answer

Tripadvisor Travelers Rated #2 of 156 Restaurants in Derry

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https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g186482-d12954722-Reviews-Mekong-Derry_County_Londonderry_Northern_Ireland.html

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After days of eating Irish Cuisine or steak and seafood, (all great! Lucky us!) it will be additionally nice to change things up and have a good Asian Meal.

Maybe this should be our dinner when we get back...yes!

So, what restaurant/eatery would anyone suggest for our lunch prior to heading off to Fanad Lighthouse?

Edited: 2 years ago

Clauds · Answer

Steve, you can book a tour of the fabulous Fanad lighthouse and this includes a climb to the top.

Regarding your route to Fanad but I would suggest the following: continue along Mulroy Bay (Milford, Kerrykeel, Rosnakil) instead of crossing over to Portsalon from Kerrykeel. Ballyhiernan Beach is beautiful if you fancy a stretch of the legs. After your visit to Fanad lighthouse (there is a café at the carpark if you'd like a cup of coffee or tea) go to Portsalon and drive along the western side of Lough Swilly, the views are just wonderful! Make sure to stop at one of the lay-bys above Portsalon to look down onto Ballymastocker Beach.

Not far from Rathmullan is Otway Golf Course (one of the oldest in Ireland), you will see a signpost to the left. The golf course is very scenic (my husband plays there when we are in the area), you can park your car and walk out to the Martello Tower, if you have the time. You can see it on Google Maps.

Try to leave Derry as early as you can after your lunch because you will want to stop many times on your trip around Fanad.

SteveSBrickUSA · Answer

Wonderfully helpful! Thanks so much!

Tony S · Answer

Steve, I would agree with Clauds route, more scenic if you are inside your limits. Mekong is an excellent choice but you need to book well ahead. If you luck out there, then I suggest you try the Mandarin Palace, another great spot. Should you fancy Indian then try Saffron.

http://themandarinpalace.net/

https://www.saffronderry.co.uk/

Londonderry/Derry to Fanad Head Lighthouse - Letterkenny Forum

Londonderry/Derry to Fanad Head Lighthouse

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