A raw, remote cove on Donegal's Rosguill Peninsula — Boyeeghter Bay (better known as Murder Hole Beach) pairs golden sand with towering dark cliffs and a sea cave only reachable at low tide. No cafés, no lifeguards, just the wild Atlantic.
At low tide the two halves of the beach merge into a single sweep of pale sand. Walk south to the sea cave — the real 'Murder Hole' — carved into the cliffs by powerful Atlantic currents. Only enter at low tide and watch the time carefully; the tide returns fast. Rough Island, a small tidal islet about 15 metres offshore, can also be reached on foot when the water recedes.
Opened in 2022, this is the quickest way to the beach. Park at the €5 car park beside Melmore Family Caravan Park and follow the wide gravel track across farmland. The walk takes about 20–25 minutes each way with steep sections at both ends — a moderate level of fitness is needed. Views open up over Crocknasleigh Mountain towards Horn Head. Not suitable for buggies or wheelchairs.
A longer, unmarked trail from Tra na Rossan Beach takes about 40 minutes each way. The route climbs around the headland and rewards with sweeping aerial views of Boyeeghter Bay from above — worth the effort even if you never set foot on the sand. Moderate fitness required; the ground can be boggy and uneven.
The circular route around the Rosguill Peninsula is one of Ireland's finest short scenic drives. The loop takes about 30 minutes without stops — budget at least two hours to pull over and explore viewpoints, coves and headlands along the way. Tranarossan Bay and Doagh Bay are both minutes from the Murder Hole trailhead.
About 45 minutes south, this 16,000-hectare park offers mountain-backed lakes, woodland trails and Glenveagh Castle with its manicured gardens. Six waymarked walking routes suit all levels, from a gentle 1 km Garden Trail to the 8 km Glen Walk. Bike rental is available inside the park, and there is a coffee trailer at the castle.
A 35-minute drive east brings you to one of Ireland's most photogenic lighthouses, perched on the rocky Fanad Peninsula. Guided tours are available seasonally. Combine it with a stop at Portsalon Beach, regularly voted among Donegal's finest.
Load the interactive map to explore this place location.