IRELAND is well known for having some of the most incredible beaches in the world – and there’s a “slide of paradise” beach with glittering blue water and a historic shipwreck.
The incredible Kinnagoe Bay is situated in Co Donegal, located on the eastern side of the Inishowen Peninsula.
The hidden paradise is located in Co DonegalAlamy
It features golden sands and crystal blue waterAlamy
It is an excellent spot for swimming and campingAlamy
The golden beach is tucked away among the overgrown steep hills, making it a hidden paradise that looks like it’s from Bali.
The small paradise spot comes with gorgeous gold sands and crystal blue water with breathtaking views of the overgrown steep hills that look like a jungle.
The popular attraction of the beach is the historic shipwreck of La Trinidad Valencera, discovered in 1971 by the members of the Derry Dub-Aqua club.
The ship dates back to more than 400 years ago, it was among the 130 ships that made up the Spanish Armada before the defeat in the English Channel.
The remaining fleet ended up on the west coast of Ireland and got struck by the reef in Kinnagoe, where the shipwreck lay undiscovered for years.
After the shipwreck’s discovery, many valuable treasures and cannons were recovered.
However, the shipwreck isn’t the only attraction at the beach as many swimmers from across the country come to take a dip in the breathtaking crystal blue water.
Many swimmers are encouraged to be cautious as it is recommended for experienced swimmers only as there is a big drop not far from the shore and no lifeguards are on duty at the spot.
People are encouraged to have a companion to watch if planning on swimming to keep a close eye on them in case something happens.
Camping at the beach is permitted as it is sheltered from the wind but campers are encouraged to respect the area and clean up after themselves.
The beach provides parking but drivers are encouraged to take care while driving as it is at the bottom of steep hills with narrow roads.
And to arrive as early as possible, it gets hectic during the summer months and there’s only space for 20 cars.
Kinnagoe Bay isn’t the only destination to visit in “The Forgotten County” – Donegal.
Not too far from Kinnagoe Bay, Malin Head is a beautiful spot, the most northerly point of mainland Ireland.
It comes with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean with stunning cliffs of Malin Head getting crushed by the waves.
It features many stories of myths and legends such as Banba, the patron goddess of Ireland and Malin Head was also featured in Star Wars: The Last Jedi.
And there is the Doagh Famine Village which is a museum and is one of Ireland’s most unique and popular attractions for visitors.
It goes into great detail about the bitter-sweet story of the community helping each other during the difficult times of the 1800s.