Travelling in Ireland: Secret Spaces: County Donegal
Hi Everyone,
I thought that for my first real Steemit post I would share some information and pictures of a truly Magical place that is extremely close to my heart. Rutland Island - Co. Donegal - Ireland
Donegal has been described as the forgotten county in Ireland due to it's geographical location being cut off from the rest of the Republic of Ireland by a mountain range. It is most easily accessed by leaving the Republic of Ireland, travelling into the North of Ireland and back to the Republic again. Complicated right? Although Donegal is geographically located in the North of Ireland, it remains in the Republic. With its close proximity to former war torn parts of the country, there remains a sensitivity to the ongoing political developments in the region. Namely the Hard Border BREXIT issue. Many people on both sides of the border travel back and forth over this border as part of their daily life and this may change with future developments from Westminster.
Rutland Island is located approx 1km off the coast of the North West of Ireland. The Island was first developed in the 18th Century as fishery where local fishermen and their families lived and worked for a wealthy British landlord.
Originally on the island, there were buildings specifically for rope making, salting fish, smoking fish, a customs house, an inn/tavern and living quarters.
Over-fishing of the herring stocks caused business to slow and the livelihood of the fishermen to dwindle. Some time later, the island was abandoned.
It is said that the ghosts of Rutland island still roam the island if you dare to look for them!
When I'm on the island, I like to take long walks on the beach alone (you can walk for miles without meeting anyone), You can walk barefoot for days without needing shoes and I find it extremely grounding. It's also great to explore the ruined former settlement buildings and relax to a pace of life that may have existed in the past.
I hope you'll enjoy my images and If you have any questions let me know.
I think you will find the location truly captivating and make sure you leave your comments below and remember to follow!
Find more information about the island here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rutland_Island,_County_Donegal
