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.

The Best Places to Stay in County Donegal

For a country house

• Frewin offers five pretty rooms in an ivy-clad country house, with a well-stocked library and mature gardens. Pick this place for a charming rural escape in a calm and secluded setting. Breakfasts are delicious!
• Harvey’s Point is a big, sumptuous country hotel set on the shores of Lough Eske, against the Bluestack Mountains. Come here for beautiful views, lots of activities — including golf, fishing and hiking — as well as great food. Think antique beds, wood panelling and lots of space for kids, family groups and pets.
• Rathmullan House is an attractive Georgian hotel with 34 comfortable, luxurious rooms in 7 acres of wooded gardens alongside Lough Swilly. Stay here for traditional interiors, award-winning food at The Cook & Gardener restaurant and lots of relaxing country walks. Kids will love the tennis court, indoor pool, extensive grounds and family suites. Don’t miss enjoying a pint of craft beer at The Tap Room after a big day of exploring!

For Luxury

• Lough Eske Castle Hotel & Spa offers stylish rooms and suites in a striking historic castle on Lough Eske. Explore the Wild Atlantic Way, relax at the indulgent spa and dine on creative gourmet fare. Afternoon tea is a sure-fire hit, too. Family Suites are great for those travelling with little ones, whilst this is also a romantic spot, popular for weddings!

For an intimate hideaway

• Breac House is a super-chic, minimalist B&B with three rooms offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean from atop Horn’s Head. Unplug and unwind in spectacular surroundings, enjoy hearty breakfasts and savour cocktails with locally-infused spirits at happy hour. Pick this place for bold, contemporary design and plenty of privacy.

For Foodies

• The Red Door is a charming rural retreat near Inishowen on the Wild Atlantic Way. A lovely Georgian house with four gorgeous bedrooms, the hotel boasts a relaxed, award-winning restaurant. Herbs and vegetables are grown in the hotel gardens, whilst meat and seafood are locally sourced, and Sunday lunch draws a real crowd — including many locals.

For an apartment or cottage

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Dublin International Airport or take the ferry from Holyhead to Dublin, and hop aboard the train or drive to County Donegal. Expect a 3.5-hour drive, or approx. 4.5 hours on the train.
• Alternatively, City of Derry Airport in Northern Ireland offers regular flights from England and Scotland. You could also take the ferry from Birkenhead to Belfast for a shorter drive on to County Donegal.
• This is an impressive region to explore by road. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit between June and September for warmer temperatures and bright, long days. Temperatures peak at around 16°C on average, so bring jumpers and coats!

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in County Sligo.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Ireland.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in County Donegal