The Sturrall Ridge, also known as the Sturrall Headland, is a hidden gem of Ireland's mind-blowing beautiful west coast waiting to be uncovered. This coastal ridge is often referred to as "the mother of all ridges" for a good reason. Standing proudly along the Donegal leg of the Wild Atlantic Way, the Sturral Headland extends about 656 ft (200 m) into the Atlantic. Its unique blend of rugged cliffs, narrow pathways, and breathtaking views has rightfully earned its place among the most fascinating and intimidating ascents in Donegal.
Before You Go
Before embarking on your Sturrall adventure, it's crucial to be well-prepared. This moderate hike, featuring some steep climbs, demands a certain level of fitness. While the trail isn't marked, and navigation skills are required, the 7km journey is well worth the effort. Ensure you're equipped with good hiking boots, as the path can be rugged and challenging. Sturrall is not for the faint of heart, so having a reasonable fitness level is recommended for a smoother trek. Additionally, consider making the journey with a friend or relative for added safety and companionship.
Views of the Sturral Ridge from the edge of the cliff
When it comes to gear, pack essentials such as a raincoat, hat, and scarf, especially if you plan your visit during the windy season. If you are a passionate photographer heading out to capture the beauty of this headland definitely pack a wide angle lens and a drone if you have one. As you gear up for the Sturrall Ridge, remember that preparation is key to ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience. Lace up those boots, check your gear, and get ready to conquer the Sturrall Headland!
Getting to Sturral Ridge
To embark on this adventure, head to Glencolumbkille. Type 'Church of Ireland in Straid Or Glebe, Glencolumbkille, Co. Donegal, F94 AC92' into Google Maps which is where you will start your journey from.This address will lead you to a church where you can park your car. Depending on your starting point, plan for a picturesque drive through Fintown, Glenties, and Ardara, each offering its own charm along the way. Whether you're traveling from Letterkenny, Ballybofey, Donegal Town, or beyond, the journey is well worth the effort.
Once you have parked your car walk down the road towards Beefan on Google Maps. This part of the hike is on paved road for approximately 2km until you reach the end of the road and the beginning of a footpath. Exercise caution as the path may be challenging to discern; I recommend using GPS on a downloaded map.
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Photography Tips
For photography enthusiasts, the Sturral Ridge is a dream come true. The best time to capture its magic is during sunset if you're lucky enough to witness it. As you frame your shots, be cautious near the edges. Make sure you are standing on sturdy aground away from the edge and don't move around while you are looking through the viewfinder of your camera. If you fly your drone make sure you check the wind forecast beforehand. Gusts here can be strong! The GPS coordinates for the cover image of this blog post were 54°43'51" N 8°44'27" W.
Nearby Attractions
While the Sturral Headland itself is a remote haven, there are nearby attractions worth exploring. If you complete the trail early enough, the charming town of Glenties is only 40 minutes away. For a delightful snack and coffee, visit An Chistin in the nearby village of Glencolmcille. Continue your journey to the majestic Slieve League Cliffs and its viewing platform, a mere 25-minute drive away. These cliffs are among the largest sea cliffs in Ireland, offering awe-inspiring views of the Atlantic coastline.
