FANAD HEAD LIGHTHOUSE

Built as a result of HMS Saldanha’s tragic wreckage in 1811 at Lough Swilly – according to reports, the only survivor was the vessel’s parrot and his silver collar inscribed with the ship’s name – Fanad Head Lighthouse in County Donegal has saved countless lives since. Perched on the western shore of the Fanad Head peninsula, it is known as a sea light. Three views – Tory Island, Dunree View and Inishtrahull – make up the three self-catering cottages at Fanad, so just take your pick and settle in!

On the same peninsula, at Doaghbeg, the Great Arch is a stunning sea stack indented with a huge Atlantic-formed hole. Take a camera, take pictures and keep watch for Fanad's water-based residents, including gray seals and whales.