Donegal: where to stay

Just north of Buncrana town, you’ll find the idyllic setting of Mamore Cottages. These traditional “Donegal style” thatched houses were built 150 years ago and still retain their original charm.

Flagged stone floors, old pine furniture and comfy double beds make for a toasty stay. Be sure to sit back and relax beside the open fire after a day exploring. Bliss!

Set in tranquil wooded grounds overlooking Lough Swilly, Rathmullan House is ideal for those who love the finer things in life. This family-run location pairs timeless décor with modern touches, and the bedrooms are snug and full of character.

Indulge in tasty, homegrown food at The Cook & Gardener restaurant, or for a more rustic meal, feast on stone-baked pizza and local craft beer at The Tap Room. After dinner, wander around Rathmullan for sea views and a nightcap at The Beachcomber Bar.

The wildly exposed peninsula of Fanad Head is a wonderland of wildlife, but the jewel in its crown has to be Fanad Head Lighthouse, which has safeguarded seafarers since 1817. Soak up the majesty of this beautiful spot by staying overnight at one of the lightkeepers’ cottages.

Featured in National Geographic Traveller's Cool List, the self-catering cottages here are perfect for playing lightkeeper, or simply just chilling out on the edge of the world.

With a wood-burning stove and space for up to six people, the yurts at Portsalon Luxury Camping are a world away from your typical tent. Take in views of Donegal's Knockalla Mountain and Mulroy Bay from your plush, king-sized bed, as you drift away into a peaceful slumber beneath the stars.

Roast marshmallows over an open fire and breathe in the salty Atlantic Ocean air at nearby Ballymastocker Strand. Golfers, meanwhile, can test their skills at the seaside setting of Portsalon Golf Club.

Be sure to check into the lovely Ballyliffin Townhouse if you're looking for the perfect base to explore the Wild Atlantic Way's County Donegal. Follow in the footsteps of those who teed off at Ballyliffin – host of the 2018 Dubai Duty Free Irish Open – and journey into the island's only fully walled city of Derry~Londonderry.

Situated in a converted cottage alongside the main building, its cosy restaurant serves up huge portions of fresh seafood, steaks and burgers – not to mention sweeping views of Malin Head. For a change of scene, stroll over to Nancy’s Barn to taste their world-famous seafood chowder.

Castle Murray House Boutique Accommodation is perched on St John’s Point Peninsula, which juts out into the swirling Atlantic Ocean near the fishing village of Killybegs. You’ll discover an oasis of tranquillity in these bespoke bedrooms, as well as outstanding views of McSwyne’s Bay and the crumbling ruins of the ancient McSwyne’s Castle.

While you’re here, visit St John’s Point Lighthouse. Visitors are welcome to stay the night at one of two quaint lightkeepers' cottages, too, where you’ll be soothed to sleep by the sounds of the lapping waves below.

After a windswept walk along the Slieve League sea cliffs, there really is nothing like the warmth of a grand castle hotel, and with its tall turrets, opulent interiors and gorgeous bathrooms, Lough Eske Castle certainly fits the bill.

This lavish, dog-friendly hotel is paved with gleaming marble floors and accented with an intricately carved oak staircase. After a morning of pampering in the hotel's spa, take in the quiet beauty of the surrounding area on the International Appalachian Trail, which passes right by the castle.

Donegal’s Inishowen Peninsula is known for its dramatic scenery and rugged cliffs, and after a long day in the elements you’re sure to want to rest your head somewhere cosy. Situated near Malin Head, the Seaview Tavern is known as Ireland’s most northerly restaurant and also boasts lovely ensuite rooms that make a cosy place to retire to after a hearty bowl of seafood chowder.

Be sure to check out the awesome chasm known as Hells Hole while you’re here, where the mighty sound of the pounding ocean will ring in your ears long after you leave!