If you’re planning a cycling trip along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, there’s no better place to begin than Malin Head Donegal. As the northernmost point of Ireland, Malin Head offers rugged coastal views, windswept cliffs, and an atmosphere that feels like the very edge of the world. It’s also the official starting point of the Wild Atlantic Way — Ireland’s most scenic and dramatic coastal route.
This is where my cycling adventure began. With the Atlantic roaring beside me and the road winding ahead, I set out on two wheels from Malin Head, bound for Mizen Head. I will document my coffee breaks, pub pit stops, scenic detours, and every unforgettable bite along the way.
Malin Head isn’t just Ireland’s most northerly point — it’s a place steeped in history and coastal folklore. For centuries, this rugged outcrop has played a vital role in maritime navigation, weather reporting, and even military communications. The area was used by the British Admiralty in the early 1800s as a signal station, and during World War II, “EIRE” was famously spelled out in stones to alert pilots they were flying over neutral Ireland. Later, Malin Head became a key weather station, with reports still broadcast daily on Irish radio. Whether you’re into history, geology, or just dramatic scenery, this windswept headland has stories layered into the cliffs.
Why Start Your Wild Atlantic Way Cycling Trip at Malin Head Donegal?
- 🌍 It’s Ireland’s northernmost point — a truly iconic place to begin a coast-to-coast journey.
- 🎥 Star Wars filming location — scenes from The Last Jedi were shot right here.
- 🌌 A stargazer’s dream — Malin Head is one of the best places in Ireland to see the Northern Lights.
- 🌪️ Breathtaking views of sea stacks, cliffs, and the vast Atlantic Ocean.
- The cycle is all down hill… ?
Whether you’re cycling, road tripping, or hiking the route, Malin Head makes a memorable first stop.
Things to Do in Malin Head Donegal
Take a walk along the cliffs to Banba’s Crown, the northernmost tip of Ireland, and enjoy panoramic views of the wild Atlantic Ocean. Keep an eye out for sea birds, crashing waves, and interpretive panels sharing the area’s history — from maritime watchposts to Star Wars filming locations.
If the weather’s on your side, spend time exploring the Hell’s Hole and Devil’s Bridge, two dramatic geological features shaped by centuries of Atlantic surf. These natural formations offer a great mix of photo opportunities and wild, remote beauty that defines this part of Donegal.
It makes sense that this is a place to see the Northern Lights, which I did not see. Apparently it is mainly in autumn and winter. Malin Head is part of a Dark Sky area and offers some of the clearest night skies in Ireland — probably see the Death Star too.
Oh also, a wee bit outside of Malin Head itself is Five Fingers Strand which is a stunning beach, with golden sand dunes and a great place for a dip – it can be cold and get a bit rough but it’s a stunning beach!
Coffee, Pubs & Local Stops before Cycling the Wild Atlantic Way
Before hitting the road, I grabbed a hearty breakfast at the B&B and that was it until Buncranna – which has a cracking brunch spot (maybe not surprising Malin Head isn’t known for its speciality coffee shops however they have some cracking spots for a pint of Guinness and an Irish whiskey.
- Seaview Tavern (this is the place for a good feed)
- Farren’s Bar (Ireland’s Most Northerly Bar)
- McClean’s Bar (wee bit further down the road in Malin Town but worth a stop)
Even in this remote edge of Ireland, the local hospitality shines — strong welcomes, and a morning chat with locals wishing “all the best” for the journey ahead.
What Food to Expect Along the Wild Atlantic Way
- 🦐 Fresh Seafood at Its Finest – Think lobster, mussels, oysters, hake, and crab landed daily in harbours from Killybegs to Dingle.
- 🥔 Hearty Irish Comfort Food – Stews, chowders, boxty, soda bread, and locally raised lamb and beef served with coastal charm.
- 🍟 Proper Fish & Chips – No better place to eat them than wrapped up by the sea, usually with hand-cut chips and house-made tartar sauce.
- 🍞 Farm-to-Fork & Artisan Produce – Local cheese, butter, smoked fish, and seasonal veg take centre stage in cafés and bistros.
- ☕ Third-Wave Coffee & Sweet Treats – Great flat whites, sourdough pastries, and coastal cafés serving everything from sea-salt brownies to Guinness cake.
Check out more of my stops & reviews here: Best Food & Drink Along the Wild Atlantic Way
Final Word from the Saddle
Starting at Malin Head set the tone for this whole journey. The sun in my face, wind at my back, the open ocean beside you, and the road unfolding ahead — it’s hard to ask for a better beginning. I also got told that it was all down hill starting from the top of Ireland… that’s a lie. This is the real Ireland: wild, remote, and packed with stories, scenery, and spirit.
Thankfully, I wasn’t in this alone, my uncle and a few mates joined on this wild, windswept ride from Malin Head. Like any proper fitness challenge — whether it’s an Ironman, marathon, or chasing a personal best at the gym it’s about the journey, not just the finish line. It’s about the miles in the saddle, the laughs on the road, the shared silence in the rain, and the brutal climbs that hit harder after a few too many pints the night before.
If you’re even half-considering cycling from Malin to Mizen, take this as your sign to go for it. Say yes to every stop, savour every view, and let the coastal winds strip everything back to what matters. These four days were tough, but unforgettable. The highlight? Riding alongside my uncle every day (or way behind him… but close enough).
And yes, the Guinness tastes creamier when you’ve earned it on two wheels.
Make sure to check out the Collins Coffee Corner for the Best Coffee in Ireland.
