Travel columnist Anna Farren scales the cliffs of Sliabh Liag for a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean.

Sliabh Liag, along the Wild Atlantic Way, is a trip worth taking over and over again. Free of charge (unlike the Cliffs of Moher), these cliffs offer the most stunning views of the Atlantic, Donegal Bay and the Sligo Mountains. Although my Donegal pride may have me bias, I reckon these Donegal cliffs are every bit as good, if not better, than the Cliffs of Moher!

The trip to Sliabh Liag takes approx. one and a half hours from Letterkenny. Although this may seem like a lengthy trip, it is so well worth it for the views you will behold throughout the few kilometres walk from the carpark, to the top of the steps overlooking a lake and breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean and of course, the cliffs themselves.

On arrival to the car park, if you are in full health, you should park your car and brace yourself for a short but moderately hilly climb to the viewpoint. If you are perhaps unable for this hilly walk and still want to bask in the glory of the spectacular views, drivers have the option of opening the gate to the right of the car park and driving the few kilometres to the top.

Don’t forget to close the gate behind you… you’re almost certain to come across some of the local sheep on your travels to the top!

Another don’t – don’t trick yourself into thinking you’ve seen all you are going to see on arrival to the viewpoint! Be sure to follow along the path and begin the climb of quite a few steps ‘til you reach a bank on which you will be overlooking a lake, fronting on to the Atlantic.

If you decide to make the journey during the winter months, be sure to wrap up warm – it’s quite the cold spot at 601m high!

The sun shines above the Atlantic in the afternoon and I can only dream of what a sunset may look like from this vantage point… I didn’t wait to find out as tummies were rumbling following the drive and walk!

When I return, I hope to bring with me a picnic, in a bid to take full advantage of the views at the very well placed picnic tables! This time round, however, I opted to return home to the cosiness of the open fire with tea and treats on hand.