Overview
Magheroarty Pier, or Machaire Rabhartaigh, is on the north coast of County Donegal, and it is the mainland jumping-off point for the passenger ferry to Tory Island, a Wild Atlantic Way discovery point on the Donegal coast. It sits below the Gaeltacht village of Magheroarty, near Gortahork and Falcarragh, in an area where Irish is still the everyday language. Behind the harbour wall a long strand of pale sand runs out under tall dunes.
The ferries
The Tory crossing is the main reason most people come. Check Tory Ferry’s timetable and service notices before travelling. The boat is for passengers, so travel light. Magheroarty Pier is tidal, and tide and weather can change departure times at short notice: confirm the last return sailing, get to the pier in good time, and ask the operator about boarding if you need assistance. If you only do one thing here, take the Tory boat. The island keeps a round tower, a strong traditional-music scene and a genuinely unusual custom of choosing a ‘king’ by consensus of the islanders.
Beach and water sports
The shore beside the pier is largely undeveloped, which is most of its appeal. The adjacent shore is separate from the ferry facilities, so follow local access and beach notices. We could not confirm lifeguard cover, so take care around the water and strong currents. Do not assume surf lessons, kitesurfing hire or other services are running.
Walking and views
On a clear day Muckish Mountain fills the southern skyline, the headland of Bloody Foreland sits to the north, and Tory lies out to sea. Expect seabirds along the shore and grey seals hauled out on the rocks or riding the swell offshore.
Facilities
Follow the signs at the pier and keep working areas clear. We could not confirm current parking arrangements, toilets, food or other facilities here, so bring your own food and drink and check with the ferry operator before you set out. Shops are limited, and Gortahork and Falcarragh have the pubs, shops and slower pace of the Gaeltacht.
Getting there
TFI Local Link route 966 serves the pier, stopping at the car park at the pier in both directions. Check bus times separately from ferry sailings. If you come by car, follow the signs from the main road and check current parking arrangements before you leave. Nearby, Bloody Foreland gives you a dramatic run of headland to the north.
The pier is tidal, so the one thing to check before you leave home is the sailing, because a timetable that worked last week may not float today. Pack a windproof layer whatever the season; the wind that makes the shore bracing makes standing on the pier cold.