Donegal is one of Ireland’s top vacation destinations. As you can imagine, the region has some incredible places to stay as a result. These include some great castle stays in Donegal. So if you’re looking for trustworthy recommendations for hotels in Donegal of all kinds – you’ve found them!
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Where To Stay In Donegal
Both Irish county and county town, Donegal is a magical mix of authentic Irish charm and landscapes that take your breath away. It is situated in the historic province of Ulster in the country’s north. Donegal is therefore just a short distance from the border with Northern Ireland.
When exploring, choose your shortlist of Donegal hotels carefully. You can not only explore the best of the Republic of Ireland, but also the top sights across the border. The historic heart and cultural hub of Donegal town is known as The Diamond.
The Diamond sits on the southern banks of the River Eske as it enters Donegal Bay. Opt for one of the fine 5-star hotels in Donegal here, and you’ll never be far from the action and a whole host of important sites.
But one of the main draws for many visitors is the county’s Wild Atlantic Way. Swap hotels in Donegal town for accommodation slightly further afield, and you’ll find yourself in extraordinary surroundings. Walkers will enjoy hikes amongst the Blue Stack Mountains. Surfers will adore the waves from the multitude of excellent beaches in Donegal.
Our Recommendations For The Top Donegal Hotels
| Donegal Hotel | Best For | Rates From | Where To Book |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏨 Lough Eske Castle | 🏰 Best Castle Hotel | €270 | 💶 Check Rates |
| 🏨 Mill Park Hotel Donegal | 💆♀️ Best For Spa Lovers | €150 | 💶 Check Rates |
| 🏨 Abbey Hotel | 🇮🇪 Best For Weekend Getaway | €120 | 💶 Check Rates |
| 🏨 Sandhouse Hotel and Marine Spa | 👨👩👧👦 Best For Families | €150 | 💶 Check Rates |
| 🏨 Harvey’s Point Donegal | 🏅Best Five Star Hotel | €240 | 💶 Check Rates |
Best Hotels In Donegal
Accommodations in Donegal are as varied as they are numerous. Whether you’d like to stay in castle hotels in Ireland’s northern reaches or spa hotels in Donegal town, there’s sure to be the perfect choice for you.
Harvey’s Point Donegal
The 4-star Harvey’s Point Hotel is less than four miles northeast of Donegal town center. What it loses in proximity to the county town’s historic treasures it more than makes up for with a location on the shores of Lough (Lake) Eske.
All but disappearing into the surrounding landscape, the hotel is ideally situated for anyone looking to explore the Blue Stack Mountains. But it’s equally suitable for those seeking luxury hotels in Donegal offering tranquil escapes amidst elegant décor.
Suites have a traditional ambiance rich in dark hardwoods. Bathrooms are finished in Italian marble for that extra touch of class. When it comes to dining, Harvey’s Point The Restaurant has been awarded two AA Rosettes. Diners will not be disappointed with the use of locally sourced Irish ingredients. Afterward, head over to Harvey’s Bar & Terrace, an attractive octagonal bar and terrace ideal for an Irish whiskey or local Irish craft beer.
Check out pricing and availability here.
Abbey Hotel
The Abbey Hotel is just on the edge of Donegal town’s Diamond. It is within a few minutes’ gentle walk of Donegal Castle and the bay’s popular waterbus. A three-star stay, its attractive exterior is reminiscent of a traditional Irish hotel. This theme continues into the public spaces, which are brought to life with contemporary touches.
The hotel’s friendly staff ensures a great stay whatever the purpose. The Market House Restaurant lives up to its name by serving fine international cuisine using fresh local produce. Meanwhile, the separate Food Hall is the place to head for breakfasts, lunches, and light meals.
Regular live music takes place in the unique two-tiered bar space before a great night’s sleep in the comfortable modern rooms. Guests can use the leisure club at the next-door Central Hotel.
Inside is a 13-meter indoor pool, jacuzzi, and steam room. More unusually, the Abbey Hotel also has its very own golf department which can deal with any golfing queries guests may have.
Check out pricing and availability here.
Lough Eske Castle
There’s no secret to the location of Lough Eske Castle. It lies at the southern end of Lake Eske less than a mile from Harvey’s Point Hotel. One of the best castle stays in Ireland, it is also one of the top Donegal spa hotels.
Its spa contains an indoor pool, spa tub, and sauna. There are also several treatment rooms offering massages, facials, and body treatments.
Fit for a king, or at least a lord of the manor, the castle was constructed in 1861 in a neogothic Italianate style. Its rooms and suites are in keeping with this history and provide views over 43 acres of forest and parkland. Just five minutes on foot from the shores of the lake, it is 15 minutes by road to Donegal golf club.
One of many reasons why Lough Eske Castle has been awarded 5 stars is the quality of the dining at the Cedars Restaurant. It specializes in locally-caught fish and Irish seafood. After enjoying an exceptional meal, head over to Father Browne Bar for an even pint of Guinness or cocktail made with local Irish gin.
Check out pricing and availability here.
Mill Park Hotel Donegal
With excellent access to the N56 to Letterkenny, the 4 star Mill Park Hotel Donegal is located only a few hundred yards from Donegal castle. Backed by pristine landscapes that do the Emerald Isle proud, the Donegal golf club can be reached in around ten minutes of walking.
Modern rooms include deep-soak bathtubs, whilst facilities are first class. These include a large gym and an equally impressive indoor pool located within its very own pool house. Guests are able to make use of a spa tub and sauna too.
The Granary Restaurant is known locally for its fine Irish cuisine, which includes a Sunday carvery and various seafood specials. But there’s also more informal dining at The Café Bar. This has a menu including grilled meats and stone-baked pizzas.
Check out pricing and availability here.
Sandhouse Hotel and Marine Spa
The 4 star Sandhouse Hotel and Marine Spa is approximately 12 miles south of Donegal town. It is situated on the stunning Blue Flag Rossnowlagh Beach, part of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Its spacious interiors have a classic and elegant style that’s difficult to fault. Rooms are part-furnished in genuine antiques, with some also having panoramic views across this area of the coast.
The views continue to the award-winning Seashell and Glasshouse Restaurant. It serves fine food from the very best Donegal producers. Between meals, guests are able to relax at the luxury Marine Spa, whose long list of treatments includes Atlantic seaweed baths.
Check out pricing and availability here.
Central Hotel Donegal
Ideally located in the heart of Donegal Town, the Central Hotel Donegal is perfect for exploring one of Ireland’s most scenic counties. The Central Hotel Donegal is only 45 minutes from Slieve League and 25 minutes from Killybegs. Both are must-visit destinations in Donegal.
The Central Hotel Donegal features a wide range of rooms including Double, Family Rooms, and their signature Bay View Triple room. After a day of sightseeing in Donegal, the Central Hotel Donegal offers several dining experiences. The Blazers Burger Bar & Grill and Chapman’s Restaurant offer mouthwatering food and great pints of Guinness.
Check out pricing and availability here.
Holyrood Hotel
With beautiful water views, Holyrood Hotel is a great place to stop for the night or for a week. Located just over the Co. Leitrim/Co. Donegal border, Holyrood Hotel offers a range of comfortable rooms for singles, couples, and families.
Located in the seaside town of Bundoran, Holyrood Hotel is home to The Spa @ Orchids. The Spa @ Orchids features a Japanese-style spa, treatment rooms, and a wide range of massage options.
For food travelers to Donegal, Holyrood Hotel serves up delicious locally sourced Irish dishes. Their Watermelon Restaurant and Waterfront Bar and Grill are renowned for their menus and selection of Irish whiskeys.
Check out pricing and availability here.
FAQs – Donegal Hotels
There are a handful of hotels “near” Donegal Airport. Caisleáin Óir Hotel and the Viking House Hotel are two of the closest and best hotels in Donegal County near Donegal Airport.
For either a quick weekend getaway or a special occasion there are a few hotels in Donegal that are good for couples. Harvey’s Point Hotel, Lough Eske Castle, and the Viking House Hotel are just a few hotels in Donegal to look into.
Over one hundred and sixty years old, Lough Eske Castle first opened in 1861.
County Donegal has some of the best scenery in Ireland. Thankfully, there are a number of hotels and guest houses that offer stunning views. A few worth looking at include Shandon Hotel & Spa, Harvey’s Point, and the Seaview Tavern.
Similar to other hotels in Ireland, pricing for hotels in Donegal differs by category of hotel as well as when you are booking. 4 star hotels in Donegal on average cost over $150 per night. This price increases during the peak summer tourist season. Don’t be surprised to see prices for hotels in Donegal over $200 per night. On the lower end, guest houses and 3 Star hotels average around $120 per night.