Top 10 BEST hotels in Donegal for all BUDGETS (luxury, budget, family stays, and more)

If you’re looking for the best hotels in Donegal to suit all budgets, you’ve come to the right place. This article reveals the ten best places to stay across the county to suit all needs and budgets.

Ireland is home to some of the most beautiful hotels you’re likely to find across the whole of Europe, and luckily for us, County Donegal is no exception.

Home to epic scenery, such as the majestic Bluestack Mountains, the beautiful Lough Swilly, the incredible Glenveagh National Park, and some of the most breathtaking beaches Ireland has to offer, Donegal offers endless reasons to visit.

So, whether you’re looking for a romantic five-star hotel to enjoy with your partner or want a cosy, kid-friendly stay perfect for the whole family, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the best hotels in Donegal for all budgets.

IB4UD’s top tips for picking the best hotels in Donegal:

• When choosing where to stay, consider nearby attractions, amenities, and public transport links. Think about what you want to see and do while you’re there.
• Check reviews from previous guests, particularly relating to your own priorities, to ensure you enjoy the best experience possible.
• Check the hotel’s amenities and facilities ahead of time to ensure they meet your needs and desires.
• Book as far in advance as possible to get the best value on your room.
• Booking.com is the best site for booking Donegal hotels.

The rundown – our top picks for the best hotels in Donegal

• Best boutique hotel: Lough Mardal Lodge
• Best budget hotel: The Central Hotel Donegal
• Best family hotel: Mill Park Hotel
• Best country house hotel: Rathmullan House
• Best hotel in Inishowen: Redcastle Hotel and Spa
• Best spa hotel: Sandhouse Hotel and Marine Spa
• Best hotel for views: Smuggler’s Creek Inn
• Best family hotel: Highlands Hotel
• Best hotel with a pool: Lough Eske Castle
• Best luxury hotel: Harvey’s Point

Where to stay in Donegal – the best areas in the county

Dunfanaghy: A stunning seaside town nearby beautiful beaches and the famous Horn Head Peninsula, Dunfanaghy is the perfect base from which to explore northwest Donegal.

Home to plenty of great shops and restaurants and offering a bustling atmosphere, there is always plenty to see and do around here.

Ardara: Regarded as one of Donegal’s most charming towns, Ardara is a must-visit while exploring the county. A small village that was once voted the best place to live in Ireland, Ardara is only a short drive from countless things to see and do.

Plus, it boasts a friendly vibe with lots of top-class local pubs and eateries to check out.

Letterkenny: Located in the heart of the county at the base of the Inishowen and Fanad Head Peninsulas and close to the border with County Derry, Letterkenny is the perfect base from which to explore the northeast of Donegal.

A large town with plenty of cafes, shops, pubs, and restaurants, you’ll be spoiled for choice of things to enjoy here.

1. Lough Mardal Lodge – a stunning eco-lodge with private yurt accommodation

Overview: First up on our list of best hotels in Donegal for all budgets is the unique and beautiful Lough Mardal Lodge located in Ballintra.

Offering a quiet and secluded location surrounded by lakes and meadows, guests can truly soak up the panoramic surroundings at this quiet eco-lodge, allowing themselves the opportunity to be truly at one with nature.

This hotel is close to: Donegal Town and Donegal Castle

This hotel is perfect for: A unique escape in nature

IN HIGH DEMAND: This is an extremely popular hotel. Never book last minute!

Facilities here include:

• Private yurt accommodation
• Super king beds plus extra single beds for families
• Self-catering kitchen in the shared lodge
• Woodburning stove with full supply of firewood
• Pet-friendly accommodation with supplies provided for extra fees

Address: Lough Mardal, Bradlieve, Ballintra, Co. Donegal, F94 W4FE, Ireland

2. The Central Hotel Donegal – a cosy place to stay in Donegal Town

Overview: Located in the heart of Donegal Town, The Central Hotel offers cosy, family-friendly accommodation and a perfect base from which to explore the surrounding area.

Located just minutes away from beautiful coastal drives, stunning beaches, and more, you’ll have plenty to enjoy when staying here.

This hotel is close to: Donegal Town

This hotel is perfect for: A comfy town centre stay

Facilities here include:

• Comfortable single, double, twin, triple, and family rooms
• Various onsite restaurants, including Blazer’s and Chapman’s Thai Fusion
• Onsite bar and afternoon tea
• Leisure facilities for guests to enjoy free of charge
• Event spaces

Address: The Diamond, Co. Donegal, Ireland

3. Mill Park Hotel – a relaxing break close to Donegal Town

Overview: Located just outside Donegal Town, Mill Park Hotel is the perfect base from which to explore the surrounding attractions. With comfortable rooms and fantastic dining and leisure facilities, you’re sure to enjoy a fantastic stay here.

This hotel is close to: Donegal Town

This hotel is perfect for: A relaxing break close to Donegal Town

Facilities here include:

• Double, twin, and family rooms
• Junior and deluxe suites
• Onsite Chapter Twenty Restaurant
• Leisure centre with state-of-the-art facilities
• Pool, steam room, and jacuzzi

Address: The Mullins, Mullans, Donegal, F94 HD99, Ireland

4. Rathmullan House – for a four-star luxury stay

Overview: A luxury four-star hotel overlooking the beautiful Lough Swilly, Rathmullan House is the ultimate place to treat yourself to an indulgent break in the heart of the county.

With individually decorated rooms offering modern luxury in a traditional setting, you can enjoy a truly unforgettable stay here.

This hotel is close to: Lough Swilly

This hotel is perfect for: Old-school glamour

Facilities here include:

• 32 individually decorated rooms
• Comfortable family rooms
• The Cook and Gardener Restaurant serves local, seasonal cuisine
• Batt’s Bar and The Cellar Bar
• Indoor heated swimming pool

Address: Rathmullan Terrace, Rathmullan And Ballyboe, Rathmullan, Co. Donegal, F92 YA0F, Ireland

5. Redcastle Hotel and Spa – a luxury spa hotel on the Inishowen Peninsula

Overview: Located on the Inishowen Peninsula, Redcastle Hotel is the perfect place to stay and relax and spend some time exploring the northeast of County Donegal.

With a luxury and elegant feel, you can truly treat yourself to a special experience by booking a room here.

This hotel is close to: The Inishowen Peninsula

This hotel is perfect for: A spa break and exploring the northeast of the county

Facilities here include:

• Double and twin rooms with beautiful sea views
• Luxury suites and family rooms
• The Edge Restaurant, Captain’s Bar, and The Deck
• Waterside afternoon tea
• State-of-the-art spa facilities

Address: Inishowen Peninsula, Redcastle, Co. Donegal, F93 Y660, Ireland

6. The Sandhouse Hotel and Marine Spa – one of the best hotels in Donegal

Overview: Overlooking the picturesque Rossnowlagh Beach, The Sandhouse Hotel and Marine Spa is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in Donegal that needs to be on your bucket list.

With beautiful sea-view rooms, top-class spa facilities, and excellent dining options, this is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing getaway by the coast.

This hotel is close to: Rossnowlagh Beach

This hotel is perfect for: A spa break at one of Donegal’s most iconic beaches

IN HIGH DEMAND: This is an extremely popular hotel. Never book last minute! Donegal is a very popular destination. Booking at least three months in advance will make your trip much better value.

Facilities here include:

• Deluxe and superior sea-view rooms
• High-level conference facilities
• Fine-dining Glasshouse Restaurant
• Surfers’ Bar and Durnish Bar
• Fantastic spa offering marine therapies

Address: Rossnowlagh Beach, Rossnowlagh, Co. Donegal, Ireland

7. Smuggler’s Creek Inn – for cosy accommodation and breathtaking views

Overview: Located on a cliff edge and offering breathtaking panoramic views for miles around, Smuggler’s Creek Inn is the perfect place to relax and take in the epic scenery that Donegal is so famous for.

Overlooking Rossnowlagh Beach and Donegal Bay, you can enjoy tasty dishes and drinks, cosy accommodation, and good craic.

This hotel is close to: Rossnowlagh Beach and Donegal Bay

This hotel is perfect for: A relaxing surf break

Facilities here include:

• Breathtaking views
• Cosy accommodation
• Award-winning onsite bar and restaurant
• Free Wi-Fi
• Traditional Irish breakfast served daily

Address: Cliff Road, Rossnowlagh, Co. Donegal, Ireland

8. The Highlands Hotel – a beautiful family-run hotel in southwest Donegal

Overview: A family-run hotel operating for over 70 years, The Highlands Hotel offers cosy accommodation and a true taste of Donegal.

Located in the southwest of the county in the quiet town of Glenties, you can easily explore all that this area has to offer while also enjoying the peace and tranquillity of a quiet Irish village.

This hotel is close to: Glenties

This hotel is perfect for: A relaxing family break in southwest Donegal

Facilities here include:

• Comfortable double, twin, and family rooms
• Close proximity to Glenties town centre
• Bed and breakfast offers
• Navvy Poet Bar and Grill serving Irish and international cuisine
• E-board rental

Address: Address: Main Street, Drumnasillagh, Glenties, Co. Donegal, Ireland

9. Lough Eske Castle Hotel – a beautiful five-star castle hotel

Overview: Located on the shores of Lough Eske, Lough Eske Castle Hotel is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in Donegal.

Offering spacious accommodation, including luxury rooms and suites with beautiful private bathrooms, you can truly indulge with a stay here. Offering a beautiful spa and various onsite restaurants, there’s plenty to enjoy here.

This hotel is close to: Bluestack Mountains and Lough Eske

This hotel is perfect for: A luxury spa break

Facilities here include:

• Luxurious rooms and suites
• Free Wi-Fi all throughout the premises
• Various onsite dining options, including Cedar’s Restaurant and The Father Browne Bar
• Onsite spa with a sauna, steam room, swimming pool, and fitness centre
• Various spa treatments available

Address: Lough Eske Castle Hotel, Lough Eske, Co. Donegal, F94 HX59, Ireland

10. Harvey’s Point – one of the best four-star hotels in Ireland

Overview: One of the most popular hotels in Donegal, Harvey’s Point is a beautiful four-star hotel offering luxurious rooms and suites where you can truly relax.

Offering an idyllic setting in beautiful surroundings with breathtaking views of the Bluestack Mountains, you can truly soak up the natural beauty that County Donegal is so well known for here.

This hotel is close to: Lough Eske and the Bluestack Mountains

This hotel is perfect for: A luxurious escape in nature

IN HIGH DEMAND: This is a trendy hotel. Never book last minute! Donegal is a trendy destination. Booking at least three months in advance will make your trip much better value, and you will stay in the best hotels.

Facilities here include:

• Luxurious rooms and suites
• Fine dining lakeside restaurant
• Onsite bar and terrace
• Conference rooms and event spaces
• Electric car charging point
• Helicopter landing pad

Address: Lough Eske Rd, Friary, Donegal, F94 E771, Ireland

Notable mentions

Boutique hotels: Customs House Country Inn, Teac Campbell Guesthouse, Diamond Lodgings

Budget hotels: The Abbey Hotel, Jackson’s Hotel, Madden’s Bridge Bar and Guesthouse

Family hotels: Beach Hotel Downings, The Gateway Lodge, Donegal Town, The Great Northern Hotel

Spa hotels: The Shandon Hotel and Spa, The Holyrood Hotel and Spa

Luxury hotels: Rosapenna Hotel and Golf Resort, The Ballyliffin Lodge and Spa, Sea Vista Boutique Accommodation

Hotels with a pool: The Villa Rose Hotel & V-Spa, Mount Errigal Hotel, Inishowen Gateway Hotel

Hotels in Ardara: The Lookout Ardara, Nesbitt Arms Boutique Hotel, The Green Gate B&B

Hotels in Dunfanaghy: The Mill Dunfanaghy, Corcreggan Mill

Hotels in Letterkenny: Radisson Blu Hotel, Castle Grove Country House Hotel, Clanree Hotel and Leisure Centre

Your questions answered about the best hotels in Donegal

Why is Donegal so popular?

Known for its stunning coastline, beautiful views everywhere you look, abundant history, and friendly local feel, Donegal has plenty to offer visitors, from surfing to hikes to relaxing in the pub with live music and a pint of Guinness.

What is the main town in Donegal?

Either Letterkenny or Donegal Town could be considered the county’s main town.

How long do you need in Donegal?

We would recommend at least one week to explore Donegal