Donegal is one of the places in Ireland that is an unexplored paradise. It is on the northernmost part of Ireland's west coast, and because of this, it is very tricky to get there. Train services do not connect the region with the middle of Ireland. And it takes 4 hours by bus to get there from Galway city, located on Ireland's west coast. Due to this, even people from other parts of Ireland rarely visit here.
This is what sets the scene for the most breathtaking and authentic journey for those who dare to venture to Ireland's northwest coast. Genuine interactions with the locals are daily because of Donegal's remoteness and small tourist population.
So, if you make that brave journey to Donegal, you will travel from the south. On this route, the first small village you meet is called Bundoran. In Ireland, it is known as a surfer's paradise. This is probably the last thing you would expect to be associated with Ireland, and you'd be right. This is a way of life for those brave enough to face the cold waters. Thanks to Ireland's location, the Atlantic Ocean bashes against the seaside town of Bundoran, making waves that are starting to get an international reputation. This town has surf shops, schools, and cabins designed explicitly for traveling surfers. If this interests you, it is a terrific way to interact with the locals; anyone can book sessions and take part in their many beginner/advanced surf classes.
After you are done with all that cold sea water, you might want to warm yourself up with the locals in one of their many small pubs. Brennan's Pub is known for its ability to provide a local voice. The pub has been around for generations. Don't be surprised when you have your pint of Guinness served to you with a story from one of the oldest ladies in the town. A heart-warming welcome like this is precisely what you need and want after a cold day at the sea.
Travel a bit north if you can force yourself to leave your adopted Bundoran family behind. As you watch the small town of Bundoran disappear in your rear-view mirror and somehow become smaller, things become even more remote.
You will start to find what looks like abandoned, empty roads that twist left and right and disappear into mountains – TAKE THEM. These will lead you on the most rewarding journeys in Donegal. It may take a while because everything is so remote. Still, eventually, you will bump into the most interesting local people. Some may not even have seen another person for a few days and welcome conversation. Allow yourself to be intrigued by their lives. You shouldn't focus on yourself. The Irish have the gift of gab, and because of this, they will ask you all the questions. It's their way of being friendly. But pause for a second and ask them instead. This is the key to the Irish connection that many don't realize; they respect this much more.