Back in the day, I was quite scared to explore Murder Hole Beach, just because its name adds up to the whole mystery of the area. I also heard about a local folklore that a young woman fell off a cliff during the 1800s.
But when my sister finally visited the beach, she kept on raving about the beauty and the adventures that come with visiting the place. And in that same week, I knew that I had to see it for myself—with my sister as my tour guide.
So today, it’s my turn to be your tour guide and inform you about all the important details you need to know before you visit Murder Hole Beach!
Murder Hole Beach: An Overview
Murder Hole Beach, whose actual name is Boyeeghter Bay, is an isolated beach found on the north coast of Donegal in Ireland.
While history did not disclose where the popular name came from, a lot of people assumed that the name was derived from the strong tidal currents at the beach.
While it’s a relatively small beach, it is still considered one of the most beautiful beaches you can visit in Ireland. If you face the east, you’ll see that the beach is surrounded by high rocks. Meanwhile, you’ll find cliffs and mountain hills on the west side of the beach.
Aside from the fine sand and cool sea breeze, people visit Murder Hole Beach to enjoy its walking trails. Here, you can also explore the secluded deep cave called the Murder Hole, offering you a different view of the seawater.
How to Get to Murder Hole Beach
If you want to go to Murder Hole Beach, make sure you’re down for some adventure. Boyeeghter Bay or Murder Hole Beach is located at Melmore Head Peninsula, a 10-minute drive from its nearest town–Downings.
On the other hand, this beach is just a 35-minute drive from Dunfanaghy, a 45-minute drive from Falcarragh, and almost an hour’s drive from Gweedore.
Public transport options to the Melmore Head Peninsula are very limited. So the best way to reach this beach is by taking your own ride.
While you can’t drive straight to the beach, it’s still easily accessible–with two convenient options to choose from.
First, you can park your car near Tra na Rossan Beach. From there, you can take the Tra na Rossan trail to Murder Hole Beach.
This unmarked trail will take you about 40 minutes to traverse. It’s also worth noting that the difficulty level is moderate, so make sure to get some cardio before opting for this route.
If the first option doesn’t suit you, there’s a new route that seems perfect for those who require a shorter time to get to the beach. Luckily, a farmer built a large car park and a spacious track, cutting your walk in half.
Once you see the large car park located on the northwest corner of Melmore Family Caravan Park, get ready for a 1-kilometer walk to the beach. Just don’t forget to pay €5 for parking.
Enter the farm gate and make sure to close it if no one’s behind you. Yes, it’s a local farmer’s land so make sure to respect his property—and refrain from interacting with farm animals.
While walking, you’ll notice a small lake on your left. Just follow the lake trail until you see the stonewall towards the end.
You’ll know when you reached your destination once you see the cliffs overlooking the Murder Hole Beach. You’ll also hear the strong tidal waves from here.
The Best Time to Go to Murder Hole Beach
Timing is everything when visiting Murder Hole Beach, so you must familiarize yourself with the beach’s current tide times here.
The best time to go to this beach is during low tide, where you can enjoy walking along the fine sand. Additionally, this is the only time you can explore the sea cave so you won’t get stuck inside once the seawater starts rising.
You can also schedule your visit during the summer months (June to August) if you want to enjoy some clear skies and warmer weather.
If you prefer milder temperatures when visiting the beach, then you should consider scheduling your visit during spring (March to May).
Meanwhile, for those who love sunsets, you should time your visit during autumn (September to November).
Things to See and Do in Murder Hole Beach
1. Explore the Sea Cave
Media credit: @thewildatlanticway
Your first stop once you get to Murder Hole Beach should be the sea cave, located in the southern section of the beach. You can only access this sea cave during low tide, giving you the chance to walk along the golden sands.
You’ll also love hearing the sound of waves that echo inside the cave, making you feel more relaxed.
The carved walls that you’ll see in the caves aren’t manmade–they’re the evidence of how strong the tide currents are in this area. So please make sure to check the tide times as it’s relatively dangerous to get stuck here during high tide.
Moreover, while the walking trail to the sea cave is very straightforward, you still need to wear some sturdy footwear to protect your feet from large and sharp rocks found along the shore and inside the cave.
2. Walk along the Farmland Trail
Media credit: @thewildatlantictraveller
Several people visit Murder Hole Beach for its scenic walking trail, so if you’re down for some adventure then don’t miss out on this activity.
If you love hiking, then you’ll love that this walking trail has some steep climbs and descents, perfect if you want to have a challenging cardio for the day. Just remember to wear some sturdy shoes, especially when the ground is muddier after some rain.
The farm has cows and sheep roaming around the area, so it’s best to note that you’re not allowed to bring your dogs along this trail. And while you’re allowed to take photos, you should avoid engaging with these farm animals for your own safety.
You should also be mindful about keeping the trails clean since it’s part of private property. Moreover, remember to keep your voice low so you won’t disturb the farm animals, especially when they’re resting.
Most importantly, make sure to consider your pace if you plan to stay for quite some time at Murder Hole Beach. This will let you plan your schedule accordingly since you want to reach the end of the trail while it’s still low tide.
3. Drive to Ards Forest Park
Media credit: @gabrieledispenza
Located near Murder Hole Beach is the Ards Forest Park, just a 20-minute drive from Downings. In this 1,200-acre property, you’ll find rivers, lakes, and woodland trails, allowing you to have a peaceful time when you’re in Donegal.
If the farm trail is too short for you, you can choose from the area’s nine signposted trails, perfect for both newbies and hiking enthusiasts.
While walking, don’t forget to look around you as there’s a higher chance for you to spot some squirrels, deer, and other bird species that call this forest home.
It’s also great that you can get to Ards Forest Park to visit the nearby Sheephaven Bay. So if you’ve got kids in tow, you’ll love that there’s a playground near the beach too!
Additionally, you can set up a picnic corner by the beach, so you can enjoy the sea breeze a little bit longer.
For those of you who are curious about the historical treasures in this forest, don’t forget to check out the four-ring forts, the holy well, and a mass rock located in this area.
4. Visit the Glenveagh National Park
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If you want to see the beauty of Ireland’s wilderness then you should visit the Glenveagh National Park. This 16,000-hectare property is the second-largest national park in Ireland.
Here, you’ll be surrounded by huge trees, unique Irish flowers, mountains, valleys, and lakes.
So if you’re ready to explore the outdoors, make sure to head to the park’s hiking trails. You’ll love that there are six routes to choose from, perfect for various skill levels.
For those of you who prefer a short walk, then the 1-kilometer Garden Trail would best suit you. Meanwhile, if you’re down for some cardio, go for the 8-kilometer Glen Walk Trail.
Whatever hiking trail you choose, you’ll be surrounded by the Poisoned Glen and the Errigal Mountain side!
And if walking isn’t for you, you can opt to bike around the trails. Don’t worry if you didn’t bring your bike with you as bike rentals are available inside the park.
Additionally, this park also allows you to explore other outdoor activities such as fishing and camping. So if you want to spend the entire day with the whole family, there’s a lot in store for you in this park.
On the other hand, if you want to touch on the historical part of this place, you should head to Glenveagh Castle and Gardens. Here, you’ll be surrounded by perfectly manicured gardens, including some exotic plant species.
You can also join a guided tour of the castle so you can dive deeper into its stories. And if you feel that you need to take a break, you’ll find a coffee trailer inside the castle!
Eat at Cove Restaurant
Media credit: @coverestaurantdonegal
Website: https://coverestaurant.ie/
Address: Rockhill, Portnablagh, Co. Donegal, F92 C970
Contact Details: +353 87 229 8257
Operating Hours: Wednesday – Sunday: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
If you want to dine with a good view of the beach then you should head to Cove Restaurant.
If you don’t want front seats to the sea view, you can still enjoy the rustic interiors, perfect if you’re after an intimate setting with your significant other. It also has a fireplace to keep you warm, especially at night.
This restaurant has been known to provide the local flavors of the region, making it a great spot for first-time visitors! Here, you can order fresh salmon, and scallops, making your beach trip complete.
Meanwhile, for those of you who love sweets, don’t forget to order the crowd-favorite sticky toffee pudding! They also serve some fine wine and local craft beers to cap off the night.
Stay at Shandon Hotel & Spa
Media credit: @shandonhotelspa
Website: http://www.shandonhotelspa.com/
Address: Marble Hill Strand, Parkmore, Dunfanaghy, Co. Donegal
Contact Details: +353 74 913 6137
If you want to stay a bit longer near Murder Hole Beach then Shandon Hotel & Spa can provide great accommodation for you.
This hotel offers you a great view of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, including Marble Hill Beach. Here, you’ll find modern rooms complete with the basic amenities that you need for a relaxing stay.
If you keep your windows open, you’ll even be serenaded by the waves crashing on the shore!
For those of you who are staying here to relax your mind and body, consider getting spa treatments such as facials and massages. You shouldn’t also miss out on the outdoor Canadian hot tub experience, where you get to soak in with the beach as your backdrop.
And if you ever feel hungry, you don’t need to head out of the hotel as they serve fresh seafood and some local favorites at the Marble Hill Restaurant. There’s also a bar located inside the hotel, perfect if you want to drink some craft beers, wine, or cocktails.