County Donegal Cottages with Hot Tubs

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County Donegal Guide

County Donegal's hot tub cottages offer the perfect base to explore Ireland's most northerly county. From traditional stone cottages to modern eco-homes, there's accommodation for every taste, with prices typically ranging from £400-£1200 per week depending on season and size.

The county boasts some of Ireland's most spectacular landscapes, including Slieve League - Europe's highest sea cliffs. TripAdvisor's top-rated attractions include Glenveagh National Park (4.5/5), Malin Head (4.5/5) and Assaranca Waterfall (4.5/5).

Donegal has strong literary connections - Nobel Prize winner Seamus Heaney frequently visited and wrote about the area. The county's Wild Atlantic Way sections feature in Star Wars: The Last Jedi, with filming at Malin Head.

Self-catering cottages provide freedom that hotels can't match. Many properties welcome groups of 8-10 people, perfect for family gatherings. For something different, try glamping pods with hot tubs near Dunfanaghy or beachfront cottages at Bundoran.

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Sightseeing

Donegal's raw beauty makes it perfect for sightseeing. I recommend starting at Glenveagh National Park (F92 XR56) which opens 9am-5pm daily. The second-largest national park in Ireland spans over 16,000 hectares with mountains, lakes and woodland plus a castle you can tour.

Slieve League Cliffs are a must-visit. These sea cliffs reach 1,998 feet - nearly three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher! The viewing platform at Bunglas (F94 YF63) is accessible year-round and scores 4.8/5 on TripAdvisor.

Fanad Head Lighthouse (F92 RX76) opens April-October, 11am-4pm. Built after the HMS Saldanha shipwreck in 1812, it's rated 4.7/5 on TripAdvisor. The tour costs €10 and takes about 45 minutes.

Donegal Castle (F94 E289) in Donegal Town dates back to the 15th century and opens daily 10am-6pm (March-October) and 9:30am-4:30pm (November-February). Entry costs €5 and visitors give it 4.3/5 on TripAdvisor.

Pet Friendly

We've found Donegal brilliantly accommodating for dogs. Many beaches allow dogs year-round including Narin Beach, Marble Hill and Fintra Beach. Five Fingers Strand near Malin Head has miles of sand for energetic dogs to run off steam.

Glenveagh National Park welcomes dogs in the gardens and grounds but they must stay on leads. The Castle Coffee Shop has outdoor seating where dogs can join you.

The Olde Castle Bar in Donegal Town (F94 X9AO) and The Harbour Bar in Downings both welcome dogs in their outdoor areas and bar sections. They'll even provide water bowls.

Pack towels for drying your dog after beach walks - the Atlantic weather can change quickly! Most hot tub cottages have enclosed gardens, but always check the listing details for specific pet facilities.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in County Donegal

Malin Head (F93 Y9XO) is Ireland's most northerly point and part of the Wild Atlantic Way. The scenery is spectacular with craggy cliffs and the Atlantic crashing below. Star Wars fans will recognise it from The Last Jedi. The Wee House of Malin, a small cave said to have been home to a monk, sits nearby. One visitor told me: "We visited on a stormy day and it was even more impressive - the power of the ocean was incredible."

Mount Errigal (F92 D9W8) is Donegal's highest peak at 751 metres. The hike takes about 2-3 hours round trip and while challenging in parts, the views from the top are worth every step. The mountain's quartzite surface gives it a pink glow at sunset. A recent hiker commented: "The path is boggy at the start but improves. The panoramic views of the Derryveagh Mountains and Atlantic coastline are unbeatable."

Bundoran (F94 V6WF) is Donegal's surfing capital with several surf schools offering lessons. Even if you don't surf, the Waterworld aqua park is great for families (open June-September, 10am-7pm). Bundoran Adventure Park has bumper cars and amusements. A TripAdvisor reviewer noted: "The beach is clean and beautiful. We had a great day bodyboarding followed by fish and chips - perfect Irish seaside day out."

When is the best time to visit County Donegal?

May to September offers the best weather with average temperatures of 15-18°C. July and August are busiest. For fewer crowds but decent weather, June and September are ideal. Winter visits (November-February) mean shorter days but you'll have attractions to yourself and can enjoy your hot tub under starry skies.

Do I need a car in Donegal?

Yes, public transport is limited. The county is Ireland's fourth largest but has no train service. Bus Éireann runs services between major towns, but reaching coastal areas and attractions often requires your own transport. Many cottage rentals are in remote locations.

What's the best area to stay in Donegal?

For beaches, try Bundoran or Rossnowlagh in south Donegal. For wilderness, the northwest around Dunfanaghy or Gweedore offers stunning mountain scenery. Donegal Town provides a good central base with restaurants and shops. Inishowen Peninsula has dramatic coastal scenery including Malin Head.

Is Donegal suitable for children?

Absolutely! Kids love the beaches, Tropical World in Letterkenny (F92 FY39) and Waterworld in Bundoran. Many cottages have games and DVDs for rainy days. The hot tub is always a hit with children too (with supervision).

What should I pack for Donegal?

Layers and waterproofs are essential year-round. Even summer can bring showers. Walking boots for hiking, swimwear for beaches and your hot tub and midge repellent (May-September). Binoculars for wildlife spotting and stargazing are useful too.

Can I see the Northern Lights from Donegal?

Yes! Donegal's northerly position and low light pollution make it one of Ireland's best spots for aurora viewing. Malin Head and Fanad Head are prime locations. Best chances are between September and March on clear nights. Download an aurora alert app to improve your chances.

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