Hugging Ireland’s north-west coast, striking County Donegal is a wonderfully off-the-beaten-track destination for a rugged, outdoorsy escape. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, with country house hotels and B&Bs to suit a broad range of budgets. Whether you’re on the lookout for a fabulous family-friendly castle or a cosy Georgian house for a foodie feast, our pick of the best places to stay in County Donegal promises beautiful views and lots to explore.
The second-largest county in Ireland, County Donegal boasts an impressive array of dramatic landscapes. The legendary Wild Atlantic Way begins in this remote region, ideal for coastal walks and scenic drives. Discover the Derryveagh Mountains in Glenveagh National Park, hike up the Bluestack Mountains near Lough Eske, or head out to the Slieve League Peninsula to look down onto Donegal Bay from the clifftops.
Donegal is a seriously cool spot for surfing, too, with a buzzing surf vibe at Bundoran, and great waves at Dunfanaghy, Rossnowlagh and on the Fanad Peninsula. Surfing aside, there’s diving to be done in Donegal Bay, rock-climbing out on the islands, and salmon fishing in the region’s rivers. For an even more secluded escape, look to Tory Island, still further to the north-west, or venture north along the winding roads of the isolated Inishowen Peninsula, site of myths and legends aplenty.
Home to ancient customs, mysterious shipwrecks, sheer cliffs, crashing waves and cosy seaside taverns, County Donegal is a fantastic destination for adventurous travellers looking to escape the crowds. Hide away in some of the best places to stay in County Donegal as you soak up the charm of one of Ireland’s most wild, enchanting and far-flung destinations as a couple or with the kids.
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County Donegal (Inishowen)
A charming Georgian country house boasting a secluded spot right on the coast. The four suites are each individually styled with soft hues and contemporary furniture; the best offer wonderful sea views. The restaurant is a real draw and serves particularly good seafood. A friendly rural escape.
County Donegal
A magnificent castle set amidst the abundant beauty of rural Donegal. Rooms are luxurious and spacious, adorned with comfortable, tasteful furnishings. In the day unwind in the hotel's extensive spa and at night enjoy delicious locally sourced seafood in the Cedars Grill. A rural Irish gem.
County Donegal
A beautiful country house with five immaculately designed rooms in pretty County Donegal. Offering warm Irish hospitality, an extensive library, indulgent breakfasts and roaring fires. Surrounded by mature gardens and not a neighbouring house in sight - this is the ideal rural hideaway.
County Donegal (Rathmullan)
A charming boutique hotel surrounded by forests, with lawns rolling down to the shores of the Lough Swilly. Rooms are decorated in traditional-style with high ceilings, period furniture, fireplaces and elegant interiors. With a choice of two restaurants,a bar, a pool and tennis court.
County Donegal (Dunfanaghy)
This contemporary nature retreat is located in the rugged landscape of northwest Donegal. Interiors champion local materials and artisan furnishings; each guestroom offers panoramic sea views and doors leading to a sit-out terrace. Escape from the world in the cosy wood-fired sauna. A chic escape.
County Donegal
This hotel has a fairytale setting on the banks of Lough Eske in the Bluestack Mountains. Elegant rooms have rich, dark wood furniture and plush linens in a regal palette of crimson and gold; Italian marble bathrooms complete the luxury experience. Dine at the lakeside restaurant; a unique stay.
