Fanad head ireland

Fanad Head, a historic lighthouse on the Donegal coast of Ireland, is one of the country's most iconic, guiding ships since 1817.

About this subject

Fanad Head Lighthouse is located on the Fanad Peninsula in County Donegal, northwest Ireland. Built between 1814 and 1817, it began operation in 1817 to assist navigation through the treacherous Tory Sound. The granite tower stands 22 meters tall, and its light beam reaches 23 nautical miles. Originally powered by whale oil, it was electrified in the 1970s and automated in 1983. The lighthouse is one of the 12 lighthouses on the Great Lighthouses of Ireland trail, a tourist route promoting maritime heritage. Its dramatic setting on 30-meter-high cliffs with views of the Atlantic Ocean and Mulroy Bay attracts photographers, especially during sunset and storms. In 2012, it was sold to a local family and now operates as luxury accommodation. The long exposure image captures the motion of waves and clouds, highlighting the lighthouse's silhouette against the night sky.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Fanad Head Lighthouse located?

It is on the Fanad Peninsula in County Donegal, northwest Ireland, near Tory Sound.

When was Fanad Head Lighthouse built?

Construction took place between 1814 and 1817, and it was first lit in 1817.

Is Fanad Head Lighthouse still operational?

Yes, it remains an active navigation aid, though automated since 1983. It also serves as luxury tourist accommodation.