In Ireland we’ve been staying with my dad who lives on the north coast in a small town called Ballycastle. From there we’ve been taking day trips out and about to various places. One of the biggest trips we took was an overnight trip to the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal.
Travelling largely counterclockwise around the peninsula, our first stop was Cooley (just outside Moville), which houses an old High Cross as well as what is to be the resting place for St. Finnian, teacher of the “twelve apostles” of Irish Catholocism (but I actually doubt it). There was not only an unusual High Cross on the outside of the cemetery, but some great old headstones as well.
Actually, there are a lot of cool old headstones throughout this region.
Then we found our way to the Clonca Church and High Cross. It was here we got so frustrated. Not only are so many things not marked with signposts, but the directions are horrible. Whole towns aren’t included on maps.
We were determined, however, as this was one of the High Crosses we were determined to see. It was supposed to be a fantastic example, and we were not let down.
It took a lot of doing, a lot of “back and forth” along unmarked roads, but we finally found it. Seemingly in the middle of nowhere with no signs until you are actually there is Clonca Church, built in the 17th or 18th century around a monastery that was built in the 6th century.
Horrifically difficult to find, the Clonca Church and High Cross are well worth seeking out. We sat at the base of the cross and had a picnic lunch. The cross itself is intricately decorated with one side depicting the miracle of the loaves and fishes, as well as having the Celtic style knotwork.
Malin Head is the most northerly point of the island of Ireland and was our next destination. If you’re looking at a map, you’ll notice we were going around the peninsula of Inishowen in a counter-clockwise manner. Spectacular views all around at Malin Head, which served served several purposes over the years, and currently houses a meteorological station.
The Carndonagh Crosses, in the town of Carndonagh. The High Cross here is reported to be from the 7th century or earlier, and from a monastery that was founded by Saint Patrick. Unlike many of the other historical High Crosses, it’s very easy to find in the middle of town.
While not as spectacular as Iguazu or Niagara, the Glenaevin Waterfall is a nice excursion. The “hike” to it is about a mile round trip and easily walked, and the waterfall itself is nice. It’s not necessarily one of the “must see” attractions on the Inishowen Peninsula, but if so inclined, worth a stop. When we were there it was very hot, and I filled up my hat with some of the water beneath the falls and put it on each of the kids heads.
Then we got lost.
We got turned around, went down the wrong road, asked for directions, then got lost again. Not having roadsigns really is a disservice to … everybody.
We somehow managed to stumble across the Mamore Gap, a dramatic scene and shrine. The road was treacherous, steep with blind corners. It also afforded, as with much of Ireland, some spectacular views.
Then in was on to Buncrana where we stayed the night.