By Tara McCormack
#LOVEDONEGAL Day is fast approaching and it’s that time of year when those with a connection to Donegal, no matter where in the world they find themselves, come together to shout their love for this magical county.
And while I’ve only recently become one of Donegal’s newest residents, I’m already more than ready to add my voice to the chorus.
I’m from Offaly, Ireland’s midlands heartland. And while I’ll always have a soft spot for my home turf, Donegal has well and truly stolen my heart.
In true rom-com style, my reason for relocating to the coastal town of Killybegs is a classic tale of boy meets girl. I moved for love and stayed for the lifestyle.
As Killybegs local Cllr Niamh Kennedy recently noted: “Over the last number of years, we have had great support from various well known Donegal people who are only too pleased to support their county and highlight what makes it so unique. Last year’s response was incredible, and we hope to continue that momentum in 2024”
A little about me, I’ve spent 14 years working in media, and I currently balance my time as a journalist and radio presenter for iRadio.
But moving to Donegal has transformed that balance into something extraordinary.
You could call it a digital oasis where work meets wanderlust. It’s here in Donegal that I’ve found a harmonious blend of working and the ultimate lifestyle, with the county’s stunning natural backdrop serving as my office view.
And honestly, how many people can say that?
I have the best of both worlds. My weekdays are a mix of writing stories, connecting with people all over the globe from my laptop, and then jetting down to the midlands at the weekends for my radio show, where I’m still close enough to see my family.
The space and serenity here have given me the mental clarity to reconnect with nature and tap into my creative side, something I’d missed for so long. With this newfound inspiration, I launched my small business, “Settle Petal,” and introduced a line of wellness hats.
I’m incredibly grateful for the environment and the unwavering business support Donegal offers.
It’s on a completely different level than anything I’ve experienced before. As an outsider, the genuine encouragement to achieve your goals blew me away.
But in between the hustle, I’m constantly reminded of why I love Donegal. The misty hills, the serenity of its beaches, the vibrant Gaeltacht culture, and the absolute culinary treats that make every meal an experience.
The first time I visited Killybegs almost a year ago, I knew this place was different. It was more than just a beautiful spot on the map. It was the people, the sense of community, and the raw, untamed landscapes that pulled me in.
And now, every day is an exploration of the rich tapestry that makes Donegal what it is. Its rugged coastline, islands that dot the horizon, and the cultural heart that beats through the music, arts, and traditions of this special corner of Ireland.
It’s bittersweet, though, watching so many of my friends pack up and leave the Emerald Isle, driven away by high living costs and limited opportunities. Yet here I am, counting my lucky stars. I can’t help but feel like I’ve found gold right here.
So, this is my tiny ode to Donegal, in the hope that it’ll inspire you to share your own story on #LoveDonegal Day tomorrow.
Whether you’ve spent your whole life here or just passed through, there’s always a piece of Donegal to carry with you.
And for those who, like me, have found their way here more recently, I invite you to take a moment, breathe in that fresh Atlantic air, and share what Donegal means to you.
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