Travel | Things to do in Donegal

Donegal may not exactly strike you as a celebrity holiday hotspot, but there must be something in the north western air to attract Sarah Jessica Parker and her crew there every year.

Forget Miami or Hawaii, if you want to see or enjoy some world class surfing then Donegal should be on your hitlist this summer.

The north western county has garnered international attention for its epic waves, with the Atlantic Ocean now the perfect playground for children to try out this popular sport. 

There are plenty of surf schools dotted around the county, including the Adventure One Surf School in Rathmullen, Fin McCool’s in Rossnowlagh and TurfnSurf in Bundoran.

If you don’t want to do anything but inhale and enjoy Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, Donegal is the ideal county. And a drive to Malin Head, Ireland’s most northerly point, is the best route to absorb it all.

Also located within the Inishowen Peninsula is the Doagh Famine Museum, a must for history lovers.

Donegal is littered with a number of Blueflag beaches for all of the family to enjoy, including Portsalon, Downings and Cudaff.

Visitors can also do some great island-hopping for day trips, with boat access for Tory Island, Aranmore and Inishbofin. This is a great way to explore some of Ireland’s most unspoilt and timeless regions. The Glenveagh National Park is another great day out for all of the family.

Donegal is the Links Golf Capital of Ireland, with five of the country’s championship courses. Ballyliffin and Rosapenna are the favourites for many, with North West, Narin & Portnoo and Portsalon are also ideal for those that want to perfect their swing.

Walkers and cyclists tend to flock to the county to take advantage of the many trails lined out, while the county is also known for its fishing and hiking.