Fanad Head Lighthouse

Fanad Head Lighthouse
4.7 (2,771)
Fanad Head Lighthouse photo 1
Fanad Head Lighthouse photo 2

About

Voted one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world, this working light on the Wild Atlantic Way offers dramatic coastal views, guided tours, and overnight stays in restored keepers' cottages.

Things to Do

Guided Tower Tour

Climb 76 spiral steps to the top of the lighthouse for breathtaking 360° views over Lough Swilly, the Atlantic, and the North Donegal coastline. Local guides share stories of lighthouse keepers, shipwrecks, and centuries of maritime history. Children must be at least 1.2m tall to climb the tower.

Guided Tower Tour

Éist Audio Experience

Sit back in this dedicated space and absorb the stories and sounds of generations of life in a Gaeltacht lighthouse. A multi-sensory immersion into the rhythms of coastal living, told through the voices of those who know it best.

AMHARC Wildlife Viewing

Use the on-site viewing facilities to scan for dolphins, porpoises, basking sharks, seals, and seabirds. With luck you might spot whales passing through the rich waters off Fanad Head.

VR Experience: The Storm, The Sea, The Saldanha

Step aboard the HMS Saldanha in this virtual reality experience. The wrecking of this Royal Navy frigate in 1811 was the catalyst for building Fanad Lighthouse — relive the drama that shaped this coastline.

Browse the Craft Shop

The on-site shop stocks locally-made, eco-friendly Irish crafts: Donegal tweed, handmade soaps, jewellery, books, prints, and soft toys. A great place to pick up a unique gift.

Lighthouse Café

Enjoy teas, coffees, home-baking, snacks, and ice creams with one of the best views in Ireland. Dairy-free and vegan options available. Wheelchair-accessible outdoor seating lets you soak up the Atlantic panorama.

Stay Overnight in a Keeper's Cottage

Three beautifully restored lighthouse keepers' cottages — Dunree View (sleeps 2, from €318), Inishtrahull View (sleeps 4, from €358), and Tory View (sleeps 4, from €494). All have stunning sea views, full kitchens, and open fires. Available year-round, minimum 2-night stay.

Plan Your Visit

  • Hours: Jan–Feb: Mon–Fri 10:00–16:00 (last tour 3pm), Sat–Sun 10:00–17:00 (last tour 4pm). Mar–May: daily 10:00–17:00. Jun–Sep: daily 10:00–18:00. Oct–Dec: daily 10:00–16:00. Café, shop and tours open 7 days year-round. Check before travelling as hours may change.
  • Admission: Adult €12, Child (5–17) €6, Under 5 free. Family tickets available.
  • Parking: Free car parking at the visitor centre. Bus parking and bicycle parking also available.
  • Food: The Lighthouse Café on site serves teas, coffees, snacks, home-baking and ice creams (dairy-free and vegan options available). Nearby: The Pier Restaurant (Portsalon), Ripples Restaurant (Kerrykeel), The Narrow Quarter (Kerrykeel), and The Singing Pub (Atlantic Drive).

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