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Offshore island

Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy)

Oileán Ruaidh, or Island Roy, is a small tidal island in north Donegal connected to the mainland by a low causeway. It offers a gentle landscape of beaches, rocky shore and scattered homes, but every visit must be planned around local tide times because the access road floods at high water.

AccessRoad causeway except at high tide; check local tide times before crossing
DepartureLeat Beg
Best timeLate spring to early autumn; always confirm access, tides and weather before travel
AllowDay trip or overnight stay where accommodation is available

Plan your visit

Experience Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy)

Oileán Ruaidh, or Island Roy, is a small tidal island in north Donegal connected to the mainland by a low causeway. It offers a gentle landscape of beaches, rocky shore and scattered homes, but every visit must be planned around local tide times because the access road floods at high water.

Three highlights

  • Tidal road crossing
  • Island Roy shoreline walk
  • Views across Mulroy Bay

Before travelling

Island transport is weather dependent. Check the operator’s latest sailing information, accessibility guidance and return times before setting out.