Overview
The Sturrall is a narrow blade of rock running out into the Atlantic between An Port and Glencolmcille in south-west County Donegal. Known in Irish as An Stural and to local climbers as ‘the mother of all ridges’, it is a grey spine that narrows in places with the sea on both sides. This is a remote stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way. The sea cliffs and exposed ridgeline make it a climbing location, not a place for a casual walk.
The ridge and the climb
Climber Iain Miller’s first-hand account of the 2012 ascent describes a long, exposed climb from sea level, completed in March 2012 with Theresa Hughes and Aaron Entringer. The Colmcille Climbers record describes the combination of steep ground, water and climbing. The different lines should be treated as technical outings requiring specialist knowledge, current access checks and suitable sea conditions.
A public coastal stop
For a signed coastal viewpoint in the area, choose Slieve League and check its current visitor and weather information. Stay on established routes and back from cliff edges.
Wildlife
The cliffs and ledges of this coast hold seabird colonies through the breeding season. Fulmars nest on cliffs like these, and they are territorial: get too close and they will spit a jet of foul-smelling stomach oil at you. Keep your distance, for their sake and your jacket’s.
Doing the climb
If you do intend to climb, treat it as the serious outing it is: vertical drops on both sides, loose rock in places, and a sea passage that depends on the tide and sea conditions. Take proper climbing equipment and go with people who know the route and the current access position. It is no place for young children or anyone uneasy with heights, and it is off the table entirely in high wind or heavy rain. Tell someone your plan and expected return before you set out.