Ireland Guide
Donegal
Malin Head
Sixteen kilometres north of Malin village, Malin Head, the northernmost extremity of Ireland, might not be as stupendous as other Donegal headlands but is nevertheless excellent for blustery, winding coastal walks – and for ornithologists: choughs, with their glossy black plumage, red legs and bill, inhabit the cliffs, and the rasping cry of the rare corncrake can be heard in the fields. The tip of the headland is marked by Bamba's Crown, a ruined Napoleonic signal tower, and the western path from here heads out to Hell's Hole, a 75-metre chasm in the cliffs, which roars with the onrushing tide.
There are two excellent hostels on the headland and both rent out bikes. The Malin Head Hostel (IHH; 
074/937 0309, 
www.malinh eadhostel; Price: €13), on the way into Bulbinbeg, is well equipped and has private rooms, and the owner, who also offers reflexology and aromatherapy sessions, is a mine of information on the area. Alternatively, Sandrock Holiday Hostel (IHH; 074/937 0289, www.sandrockhostel.com ; dorms €12) at Port Ronan Pier – fork left at the Crossroads Inn, just north of the Malin Head Hostel – has wonderful sea views. Just about the only place to eat is the restaurant at Seaview Tavern (with a tiny public-bar-cum-hardware-shop); take the right fork heading north at the Crossroads Inn and then the first turning on the right. Farren'sbar in Bulbinbeg is a cosy place to sit and chat to the locals.