Donegal is one of the top five regions in the world for tourists to visit, according to Lonely Planet.
The travel guide published it’s ‘Best in Travel’ report overnight – with Donegal ranked the fourth-best place in the world to visit in its 2024.
It describes Donegal as “purely wild with a big heart” and notes that with the longest coastline in Ireland and more than 100 beaches, it is easy to “find yourself alone on a deserted strand”.
Mount Errigal, County Donegal. Image: Tourism Ireland“Here you'll find the highest sea cliffs in Europe and miles of unspoilt coastal hiking trails along the Wild Atlantic Way,” it says.
“Ancient forts, musical traditions and the rich heritage of the Irish language also make it perfect for the curious visitor.”
Donegal beat off the challenge of places like Southern Thailand, Swahili Coast and the Far North of Scotland to make the top five.
The full list includes:
- Western Balkans’ Trans Dinarica Cycling Route
- Kangaroo Island, Australia
- Tuscany, Italy
- Donegal, Ireland
- País Vasco, Spain
- Southern Thailand
- Swahili Coast, Tanzania
- Montana, USA
- Saalfelden Leogang, Austria
- Far North Scotland
Tourism Ireland CEO Designate Alice Mansergh said the award is “really great news” for tourism in the county.
“It will surely help inspire international travellers to put Donegal and Ireland on their holiday wish-list for next year,” she said.
“It’s another well-deserved accolade which will help position us well for 2024 and set us apart from competitor destinations.
“I would like to extend my thanks to Lonely Planet and my congratulations to all the tourism and hospitality providers in beautiful Donegal.”
Blue Ferry, Errigal Mountain, Arranmore Island, Co Donegal. Image: Tourism IrelandTourism Ireland said the recognition of Donegal is just the latest Irish success in the Lonely Planet Best in Travel publication.
Dublin was declared the seventh-best city in the world to visit in 2022, while the Burren Ecotourism Network being named a ‘Best Community Tourism Project’ for 2021.
