🏨 Jackson’s Hotel
Set on the banks of the River Finn beside Drumboe Woods, Jackson’s Hotel has a warm, welcoming feel and a great location, with the main street of Ballybofey just a short stroll away for a wee wander. Guests regularly mention the friendly, helpful staff and how enjoyable the food is, which is exactly what you want on a relaxing multi-night stay.
A real highlight is the on-site leisure centre, with a 22-metre heated indoor pool, plus a jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and gym for proper downtime. There’s lift access to all floors, comfortable lounge areas, and on-site dining and bar spaces for an easy, settled evening, with live entertainment also featured on some nights.
🌊 Donegal Town & Rossnowlagh
Donegal Town is a great stop for a wander, with its central Diamond area, handy little shops, and plenty of places to grab a coffee. If you fancy a quick hit of history, Donegal Castle sits right in the town centre and is one of the standout sights, with a strong “old Ireland” feel the moment you arrive.
Rossnowlagh is all about sea air and space - a long stretch of golden sand with lovely views across Donegal Bay. It’s ideal for an easy walk along the shoreline, a relaxed sit and watch the waves, or even just a quick paddle if the weather’s kind. It’s also well known as a surf beach, so there’s often a bit of atmosphere down by the water.
🏙️ Derry
Derry is brilliant for a day out because so much of what you’ll want to see is close together and easy to enjoy in a few hours. A walk on the 17th-century Derry City Walls is the big must-do - you get cracking views over the city and a real sense of the history as you circle the old town.
From there, it’s a natural wander down to the Guildhall, Derry to see the stained glass and soak up the atmosphere in Guildhall Square. If you fancy stretching your legs a bit more, the Peace Bridge is an easy walk and gives you a great viewpoint over the River Foyle. And if you’re in the mood for something more reflective, the Bogside area’s murals and the Museum of Free Derry add a powerful layer to the visit without taking up the whole day.
🛍️ Letterkenny
Letterkenny is a lively Donegal town that’s great for a full day out, with a good mix of shops, cafés, and easy walking routes between the main sights. A lovely place to start is Donegal County Museum, set in an atmospheric old stone building, with exhibitions that give you a clear feel for the area’s story and culture, and it’s an easy visit to fit into your day.
If you fancy something more modern and creative, the Regional Cultural Centre and An Grianán Theatre are well known locally for exhibitions and a strong programme of shows, and they add a nice “something different” option alongside a relaxed town-centre wander. While you’re exploring, you’ll also spot St Eunan’s Cathedral - a striking landmark that’s worth a look for its architecture and sense of place.
