Downings is a picturesque town in County Donegal that is often overlooked, yet it features some of the county’s best scenery. Here is what to know when planning a visit to Downings, Donegal.
Not only is Downings, Donegal a fabulous place to visit because of its sheer beauty, but its ideal location close to Letterkenny, Glenveagh National Park, and Dunfanaghy gives it extra points.
Downings is ideally situated on the Rosguill Peninsula, overlooking Sheephaven Bay, and the town is a perfect base to explore the glorious surrounding areas and undertake the many activities on offer.
This beautiful town has many excellent accommodations, delicious eateries and pubs, and many things to do in and around the area, no matter where your interests lie, so let us inspire your next trip to the northeast with our Downings Donegal guide.
Ireland Before You Dies top tips for visiting:
- Learn a few words of Irish, or a ‘cúpla focal’, before visiting since this is an Irish-speaking area. Plus, you will really impress the locals and integrate into the Gaeltacht community.
- Arrive with your own transport, as this region is best explored by car, and this way, you can be free to visit the many stunning beaches and take on some spectacular drives. Find out all you need to know about renting a car here.
- Golfing enthusiasts will be in their element when visiting here since it is a region home to plenty of championship courses, including Rosapenna Golf Resort.
- Try to visit in the summer when the weather is mildest, the water is comfortable to swim in, and the incredible beaches can be appreciated.
Best things to do in Downings – unmissable activities for all
Glenveagh National Park
This national park is a must-visit attraction and is ideal for nature enthusiasts, photographers and just about everyone who can appreciate stunning landscapes.
This spot has picturesque trails, pristine wilderness and Glenveagh Castle and can keep you captivated for hours – even days.
Visit the beaches
This region of Ireland is famous for its beaches. In saying that, it is often overlooked and has kept its charm.
Some of the most scenic beaches in Donegal to visit are Sheephaven Bay, Downings Beach, Tra na Rossan, Tra Mor and Murder Hole Beach, which are mindblowing.
MORE: Murder Hole Beach: directions, when to visit & things to know
Take on the Atlantic Drive
The Atlantic Drive takes you around the fabulous Rosguill Peninsula, which features stunning coastal views and spectacular scenery of north Donegal.
While the route is just an hour, it may take all day with photo and picnic stops, so take your time and enjoy.
Water sports
One of the best ways to discover the Donegal coastline is to try some watersports such as paddle boarding, kayaking, sailing, surfing, or even windsurfing, all of which can do comfortably during the summer months.
Rentals and lessons are available in the area, so why not pick up a new hobby?
Ards Forest Park
This 481-hectare park is a stunning place with breathtaking scenery and is ideal for families to spend a day out.
Here you can enjoy dunes, salt marshes, vast woodlands and maybe even spot some wildlife. Since the park is so big, allow plenty of time to explore as much as you can.
Where to stay in Downings – the best accommodation options in the area
Downings Bay Hotel
This very cosy family-run hotel overlooks Sheephaven Bay, a fantastic view to wake up to daily. It also features two bars, a restaurant, a disco, and a leisure centre.
Address: Crocknamurleog, Downings, Co. Donegal, F92 H7WK, Ireland
Rosapenna Hotel & Golf Resort
If you fancy treating yourself, this upscale golf and spa hotel is one to consider. Featuring two championship golf courses, gorgeous views over Downings Beach and excellent amenities, Rosapenna Hotel ensures a memorable stay.
Address: Rosapenna, Downings, Co. Donegal, F92 PN73, Ireland
Fishermans Village Lodge
This scenic B&B overlooking Dooey Bay offers a retreat into nature, an authentic Irish stay and three separate cottages, all located next to each other.
Address: Atlantic Drive, Dooey, Downings, Co. Donegal, F92 XV60, Ireland
Eating and drinking – the best spots to dine out
Harbour Bar and The Wee Bar Downings are both great pubs for sports, great pints and good craic, while The Singing Pub offers a local vibe, delicious seafood and traditional Irish music sessions.
Goose & Gander Pizzeria is a fantastic spot for delicious wood-fired pizza and tasty cocktails.
At the same time, you can find excellent fresh seafood, fish tacos and more at Fisk Seafood Bar, which overlooks Downings Beach. Located on the Main Street of Downings, The Galley is a great spot for lunch.
Notable mentions
Doe Castle: This fortress, built in the 1420s, once belonged to the McSweeney family and is well worth a visit to learn about the history of this medieval castle.
Fanad Lighthouse: Located at the mouth of Lough Swilly, this unique Irish lighthouse is popular amongst visitors to the area and is considered one of the world’s most beautiful lighthouses.
Golfing: Golfers will love Downings since it is close to many incredible golf courses, such as the Rosapenna Championship Links Golf Course, Sandy Hills Links and Old Tom Morris Links, to name but a few.
Sheephaven Bay: Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Sheephaven Bay by boat, where you can get a different perspective of the rigged cliffs and hidden coves and spot seabirds and seals.
McNutts Tweeds: Downings, Donegal, is home to the world-famous McNutts Tweeds, who have been producing beautiful tweed products for over 60 years. They have a gift shop in town where you can buy their wonderful products!
Your questions answered about Downings, Donegal
If you still have questions, we have you covered! In this section, we’ve compiled some of our readers’ most frequently asked questions and popular questions that have been asked online about this topic.
What towns are near Downings, Donegal?
Carrickart, Dunfanaghy and Falcarragh are all close to Downings.
What is Downings’ Irish name?
The Irish name is Na Dunaibh which means The Forts and is most commonly used as this is one of the Gaeltacht areas of Ireland.
What is the most excellent part of Donegal?
Mount Errigal and the Sliabh League Cliffs are some of the most beautiful mountainous/cliffside landscapes. The most beautiful beaches include Silver Strand and Portnoo Beach.
From its stunning beaches and world-class golf courses, Downings is a place that will captivate just about anyone.
Here, you can expect to enjoy an array of fun activities, gourmet food, glorious scenery, and a warm Irish welcome. What more could you ask for?
