inishowen peninsula

Ireland's most northerly point lies in the Republic on this ragged triangular headland, not in Northern Ireland as most people would expect. Lough Foyle and Lough Swilly virtually isolate Inishowen from the rest of the county. The interior is a mix of low white farms and cottages huddling roped against the wind, and grand brown mountains rising toward Slieve Snaght. The scenic 160km route around the edge of Inishowen takes in Malin Head, castles, churches, High Crosses and pre-Christian antiquities. None of these are essential viewing, but the tour, which takes a full day, is a dramatic and varied drive.