Swifties inspired by Taylor’s romantic Donegal era

Irish Swifties are gearing up for a sequin-filled weekend as Taylor Swift prepares for her three sold-out Eras Tour shows. But for some fans, the excitement extends beyond the concerts to the star’s special places around Ireland.

Taylor Swift put the spotlight on Donegal in the summer of 2021 when she shared photos of herself tip-toeing through the sand at Portsalon.

The serene shots were taken at a seemingly empty Magherawarden beach during the pandemic. Swift was known to be visiting Ireland frequently at that time with her then-boyfriend, UK actor Joe Alwyn.

Fans were quick to identify the iconic footbridge, which has been recently restored and is expected to be visited by many this weekend.

Tourism officials were thrilled with Swift’s social media shoutout at the time, and are once again celebrating her connection to Donegal ahead of her Dublin visit.

“We are delighted to welcome Taylor Swift back to Ireland,” said Emma Woods at Fáilte Ireland. “Over the years, she has been a frequent visitor here – her love for Ireland translates into her music with subtle nods to places she’s visited woven through her lyrics.”

Speaking of inspiration, Donegal’s Wild Atlantic Way is tipped as a perfect destination for Swifties looking to “Stay Stay Stay” this summer. Fans can embark on a road trip to Portsalon Luxury Camping or Fanad Lighthouse, retracing Swift’s coastal escape. Take a dip in Ballyhiernan Bay or catch some waves with Adventure One surf school.

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If you’re in your ‘Lover’ area, it’s worth noting that Portsalon beach has been listed as one of the top 10 places in Ireland to fall in love.

After all, Taylor Swift is a Derry girl. Last week researchers at EPIC revealed that Swift’s great-great-grandparents left Derry, aboard the ship AMY, for the United States in the 1830s. Susan Davis was a 21-year-old dressmaker and Francis Gwynn a 21-year-old weaver. Their two-month-long voyage culminated in the ship docking in Philadelphia, Swift’s home state. Three years later, the pair married and their love story sparked generations.

This revelation prompted a warm invitation from Derry City and Strabane Mayor Lillian Seenoi-Barr for Swift to visit her ancestral home. Perhaps that potential visit could inspire another trip to the beautiful Donegal coast?