The best road cycling routes in Donegal

This viewpoint along the spectacular coastal road offers a more intimate perspective on Ballymastocker Strand. As you cycle or walk down (or up) the flanks of the Knockalla Mountains, this is the perfect spot to truly experience the scale of this enormous sandy beach. You are looking straight across the Magherawarden dunes towards the distant contours of the Fanad lighthouse. The colours of the bay – from deep blue to crystal clear turquoise – are beautifully showcased at this height against the backdrop of white sand.

The pier at Portsalon is one of the most photogenic spots in Donegal. From this historic stone quay, you have an unforgettable view of the famous golden arch of Ballymastocker Bay, once named the second most beautiful beach in the world by The Observer. The pier is the vibrant heart of the village; you'll often see local fishing boats docking here and in the summer it's a popular spot for a refreshing dip in the clear waters of Lough Swilly.

The Visitor Centre at Fanad Head Lighthouse is the starting point for one of the most iconic locations along the Wild Atlantic Way. From here, you can walk to the lighthouse and get an impressive view of the cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean. The centre provides information about the history of the lighthouse, shipping, and the surrounding area. The combination of rugged coast, clear light, and the sound of the ocean makes this an ideal place to take a break, take photos, or visit the lighthouse before continuing your drive towards Ballyhiernan Bay or Mulroy Bay.

In my opinion, this is one of the less beautiful stretches of road you can encounter here. The asphalt is fine, the road is flat and straight. The view is nil, or was I spoiled on the Wild Atlantic Way (S=>N)?

This official Discovery Point on the Wild Atlantic Way offers one of the most serene views in North Donegal. From this point, you look out over the sheltered waters of Mulroy Bay and the small, low-lying Island Roy (Oileán Ruaidh). The island is unique as it is connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway, which is sometimes submerged at high tide. On a clear day, the view stretches to the sand dunes of Rosapenna and the distant peaks of the Derryveagh Mountains, including the striking Muckish Mountain.

The Harry Blaney Bridge is not only an engineering feat but also one of the most spectacular viewpoints along the Wild Atlantic Way. This 340-meter-long bridge was opened in 2009 and replaced a ferry connection that had been out of service since the 1960s. As you cross Mulroy Bay, you will enjoy a sweeping panorama of the bay, the surrounding islands, and the distant mountains of Donegal. For cyclists and walkers, it is an absolute must to stop at the official viewpoint on the north side (Fanad side) for the best photo opportunities.

Rossguill lies between Fanad to the east and Horn Head to the west, a narrow peninsula where heather, dunes, and ocean alternate. The coastline is open and slightly curved, with calm beaches and low ridges that constantly offer new views of Mulroy Bay and the Atlantic side. The roads run close to the water and through small, scattered settlements, making the landscape feel both vast and intimate. It is an area defined primarily by light, wind, and the open space of North Donegal.

Rosguill Panorama: The Untamed North Coast. Photo tip: Use the depth of the coastline to give scale to your photo. The contrasts between the green heath, the dark rocks, and the changing light on the water make this a top location for landscape photography. From this elevated point, you look down on the rugged beauty of Dooey Beach, a vast stretch of golden sand constantly shaped by the powerful surf of the Atlantic Ocean. No tourist crowds, just wind, water, and the rhythm of the waves. The panorama is a 360-degree spectacle: the ocean stretches to the horizon, while the rugged coastline of the bay is framed by deep blue inlets and white foam crests. For cyclists on the Atlantic Drive, this is a challenging but rewarding segment — the narrow road follows the cliff edge, giving an intense sense of freedom.