County Donegal

Photo of County Donegal
Photo of County Donegal
Credit: flickr user orientalizing
Photo of County Donegal
Credit: Ana _Rey
All hotels in County Donegal Apartments & villas in County Donegal Find more hotels in County Donegal

About County Donegal

Perched on Ireland’s wild north-west coast, County Donegal is the place to be for dramatic scenery, windswept beaches, and a laid-back vibe. Hotels here cater to every kind of traveler – think charming budget stays in Donegal Town, luxury castle hotels near Lough Eske, or chic design boltholes along the rugged Wild Atlantic Way. Families love the space and activities around Bundoran, while foodies can tuck into gourmet delights at cozy country houses hidden in the hills.

County Donegal is where the legendary Wild Atlantic Way begins, winding past rugged cliffs, sweeping beaches, and mountain passes that seem untouched by time. Whether you’re wandering through Glenveagh National Park, tackling the Bluestack Mountains, or standing in awe atop the Slieve League cliffs with Donegal Bay spread out below, the scenery never stops putting on a show.

It’s not all about hiking boots and photo ops, though. Donegal has a lively surf scene in Bundoran and epic waves along the Fanad Peninsula and Rossnowlagh. Offshore, there’s diving, rock climbing, even salmon fishing in the rivers for a change of pace. And if you really want to get away from it all, Tory Island or the remote Inishowen Peninsula offer windswept beauty, local legends, and a slower pace of life. Add in cozy seaside pubs, ancient customs, and a sense of adventure around every corner, and you’ve got one of Ireland’s most captivating escapes.

The Best Places to Stay in County Donegal

For a country house

  • Harvey’s Point is a grand lakeside retreat on Lough Eske, framed by the Bluestack Mountains. Expect antique-filled rooms, gourmet dining, golf, fishing, and hiking trails galore. With generous spaces for families, kids, and pets, it’s a luxurious yet laid-back countryside escape.
  • Set in 7 acres of woodland on Lough Swilly, Rathmullan House blends Georgian charm with 34 elegant rooms, an award-winning restaurant, and country walks. Families love its tennis court, pool, and suites, while The Tap Room’s craft beer makes the perfect post-adventure treat.

For luxury

  • Lough Eske Castle Hotel & Spa pairs historic grandeur with modern luxury on Lough Eske’s shores. Unwind in elegant rooms, a lavish spa, and over afternoon tea. Ideal for families, yet equally romantic for weddings, it’s a perfect Wild Atlantic Way escape.

For an intimate hideaway

  • Breac House is a sleek, minimalist three-room B&B perched on Horn’s Head with sweeping Atlantic views. Expect bold design, hearty breakfasts, and cocktails infused with local flavors. A serene, private retreat perfect for switching off in breathtaking coastal surroundings.

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!

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The best hotels in County Donegal

Lough Eske Castle Hotel & Spa

Lough Eske Castle Hotel & Spa

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.

  • Families - The perfect spot for a rural getaway, with plenty of space and lots of activities to keep the little ones busy!
  • Local exploring - In a superb location on the shores of Lough Eske and only a ten minute drive from the town.
  • Spa - Cara Organic Beauty Spa with thermal suite, infinity pool and extensive range of restorative treatments.
  • Fishing - Great place for fishing, bring your catch back to the hotel and learn how to cook from the experts!
from $210 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Rathmullan House

Rathmullan House

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.

  • Back to Nature - In the beautiful Glenveagh National Park, with lush greenery rolling down to Lough Swilly and the blue hills of Inishowen.
  • Hideaway - An elegant and chic country retreat with splendid grounds, swimming pool and fantastic food.
  • On the beach - Rathmullan beach is one of the finest in Donegal and can be access directly from the garden!
  • Great walks - Take a hike into the mountains or walk along the beach.
from $209 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Breac.House

Breac.House

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 cozy wood-fired sauna. A chic escape.

  • Back to Nature - Set on a headland overlooking the Atlantic, on the wild coastline of Donegal, this hotel offer a serene back-to-nature retreat
  • Hideaway - With a remote location and just three guestrooms, this hotel makes a perfect choice for an unplugged holiday
  • Romantic Break - This boutique design bolt-hole is popular with couples; enjoy a seaweed bath after a couples' sauna
  • Great walks - Explore the dramatic coastline on a long walk; ask your hosts for their favourite routes and a picnic to take with you
from $261 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Harvey's Point

Harvey's Point

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.

  • Active Holiday - There is lots on offer here for active guests, with golf, hiking and fishing among some of the activities available at the hotel
  • Back to Nature - Set in a dramatic landscape against the backdrop of the Bluestack Mountains, this hotel makes a unique back-to-nature retreat
  • Hideaway - Set in a remote natural setting on the banks of Lough Eske, choose this hotel for your next hideaway holiday
  • Sights nearby - Visit the Scottish Baronial-style Glenveagh Castle, an 1870s manor house renowned for its Victorian-era gardens
from $301 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia