Donegal, in Ireland’s rugged northwest, is a county where nature still rules the skyline. It boasts some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country—towering cliffs, pristine beaches, remote mountains, and glittering lakes. In 2017, National Geographic Traveller named Donegal the “Coolest Place on the Planet” for its unspoiled beauty and cultural charm.
If you’re planning a trip and want every morning to begin with a breathtaking view, Donegal offers a variety of accommodation options—from luxury seaside retreats to rustic lodges with panoramic mountain vistas.
Having traveled through Donegal multiple times, I can confirm that the right hotel or guesthouse can completely transform your experience here. Waking up to the Atlantic Ocean crashing against the cliffs or the sun rising over Mount Errigal is nothing short of magical.
1. Harvey’s Point – Lough Eske Perfection
Location: Lough Eske, near Donegal Town
Best for: Lakeside luxury and tranquility
Harvey’s Point is consistently ranked among Ireland’s top hotels for good reason. Nestled on the shores of Lough Eske, it offers uninterrupted views of the still, glass-like lake framed by the Bluestack Mountains.
Why it’s special:
- Spacious suites with lake or mountain views
- Fine dining restaurant using locally sourced ingredients
- Easy access to Lough Eske walking trails
- Ideal for romantic getaways or special occasions
Insider tip: Book a lakeshore suite in autumn when the surrounding forest turns golden.
2. Shandon Hotel & Spa – Wild Atlantic Coast Views
Location: Marble Hill Strand, Dunfanaghy
Best for: Spa lovers and beach scenery
Perched above Marble Hill Strand, the Shandon Hotel & Spa offers floor-to-ceiling ocean views that will make you want to linger in your bathrobe all day.
Highlights:
- Infinity-style hot tub overlooking Sheephaven Bay
- Just minutes from Horn Head for some of the county’s most iconic vistas
- Modern, airy rooms with private balconies
Personal note: I stayed here in spring and watched the sunset turn the water pink from my balcony—it’s an image that has stayed with me for years.
3. Arnolds Hotel – Classic Charm in Dunfanaghy
Location: Main Street, Dunfanaghy
Best for: Village atmosphere with beach access
Family-run for generations, Arnolds Hotel combines traditional Irish hospitality with unbeatable views of Killahoey Beach and Horn Head.
Why stay here:
- Rooms with views over the bay and sand dunes
- Ideal base for exploring Glenveagh National Park
- Cosy bar with live music on weekends
Travel tip: Ask for a front-facing room to catch sunrise over the Atlantic.
4. Rosapenna Hotel & Golf Resort – Ocean Meets Fairway
Location: Downings
Best for: Golfers and sea lovers
Rosapenna offers more than a luxury golf experience—it sits right on Sheephaven Bay, giving you uninterrupted sea views from nearly every angle.
What makes it great:
- Direct beach access
- Multiple championship golf courses
- Elegant dining with panoramic windows
5. Lough Eske Castle – Fairy-Tale Forest Setting
Location: Lough Eske, Donegal Town
Best for: History lovers and romantic stays
A restored 17th-century castle, Lough Eske Castle offers lush woodland views with the lake shimmering just beyond the trees.
Why choose it:
- Opulent interiors mixed with natural surroundings
- Spa with relaxation rooms facing the forest
- Perfect for honeymoons or anniversaries
6. The Waterfront Hotel – Dungloe Sunsets
Location: Dungloe
Best for: Sunset watchers and festival-goers
Overlooking Dungloe Bay, this boutique hotel offers some of the best sunset views in Donegal.
Highlights:
- Stylish rooms with modern amenities
- Walking distance to shops, pubs, and music venues
- Great base for the Rosses area and nearby beaches
7. Ostán Loch Altan – Magheroarty Beach Bliss
Location: Gortahork
Best for: Budget-friendly coastal charm
Overlooking Magheroarty Beach, this hotel is perfect for those who want scenic beauty without the luxury price tag.
Why it works:
- Incredible ocean views toward Tory Island
- Friendly, local atmosphere
- Close to Donegal’s Gaeltacht cultural heart
8. Ballyliffin Lodge & Spa – Northern Coast Panorama
Location: Ballyliffin, Inishowen Peninsula
Best for: Clifftop exploring and spa downtime
Situated near the northern tip of Ireland, this hotel provides sweeping views of Pollan Bay and the surrounding countryside.
Tips for Choosing the Right Scenic Stay in Donegal
When booking, consider:
- View type: Ocean, mountain, or lake—Donegal has all three.
- Season: Winter offers wild Atlantic storms; summer gives long, golden sunsets.
- Activities: Are you here for hiking, beach days, or relaxation?
FAQs
Q: Is it worth paying extra for a room with a view in Donegal?
Absolutely. In Donegal, the landscape is the main attraction, and a scenic room can make your trip unforgettable.
Q: When is the best time to visit Donegal for views?
Late spring and early autumn often provide clear skies and rich colours without peak tourist crowds.
Final Thoughts
Donegal’s charm lies in its raw, untouched beauty—and the best way to experience that is to stay somewhere that puts the view front and centre. Whether it’s a lakeside retreat like Harvey’s Point, a clifftop spa hotel, or a cosy beachside inn, you’ll find options to suit every budget and travel style.
If you’ve visited Donegal and stayed somewhere memorable, I’d love to hear about it. Drop a comment or question, and let’s share more scenic gems with fellow travellers.
Hi, I’m Tanvir, the founder and author of Explore Ireland Now. With a deep love for Ireland and its rich culture, history, and landscapes, I created this site to share everything that makes this beautiful country worth exploring. Whether you’re a local looking for hidden gems or a traveler planning your next adventure, I provide insightful guides, tips, and recommendations to help you experience Ireland to the fullest.
From stunning landscapes to vibrant cities and quaint villages, Ireland is full of wonders waiting to be discovered. Through my personal experiences and research, I aim to bring you the most up-to-date information and inspiration for your journey.
Thank you for visiting Explore Ireland Now—I hope my content helps you uncover all that this incredible country has to offer! If you have any questions or need travel advice, feel free to reach out.
