Rathmullan is situated midway along the western shore of Lough Swilly on the celebrated Wild
Atlantic Way. It is a gateway to the picturesque Fanad peninsula via the spectacular Knockalla Coast
Road. The Lough Swilly Ferry Service provides a link to Buncrana and the Inishowen peninsula during
the summer months.

Rathmullan/Ráth Maoláin as the name suggests may have its origins in the 1st Millennium AD. Its
hinterland is rich in a variety of archaeological sites from the Neolithic period onwards. The oldest
extant Rathmullan building, built by 1516 as a friary for the Carmelite Order and recently conserved,
is usually known as the Abbey. The little bay of Portnamurry to the south of Rathmullan, was the
place of departure of the Ulster chieftains with family members and others, going into exile in
Europe in 1607. This event, referred to as the Flight of the Earls, marked a turning point in the course
of Ireland’s history.