Because the locals are so splendid, consider staying at any one of the quaint B&Bs available in Donegal. Having that extra hospitality will mean a lot after a day full of exploration. Additionally, choices range from self-catering lodges to luxury spas.

Donegal Manor

Clar Road, Donegal Town, Co. Donegal 074 972 5222 www.donegalmanor.com 70–120+ per room; S/D/F. MC/V

Exploring the town of Donegal can be done in a relatively short amount of time. However, staying at the Donegal Manor makes one want to take as long as possible. This exquisite four-star accommodation sits on a lovely estate, yet is easily reachable from Donegal Town. The wonderful service sets this comfortable and spotless hotel apart from all the rest. During the off-season, you will get excellent mid-week rates by contacting them ahead of time with your reservation. The manor has a capacious family room. Overall, this guesthouse offers amazing amenities, including a baby-sitting service. With perfect ratings on reviews, if you are heading to the northern reaches of the Republic, this is a must stay! To locate the manor, take the N15 toward Ballybofey.

Inishduff House

Largymore, Kilcar, Co. Donegal 074 9738 542 www.inishduffhouse.com 60-100+ per room. S/D/T

If you are heading to the Slieve League Mountains and Cliffs, and searching for a quaint B&B with wonderful service, then the Inishduff House is an ideal choice. With one of the best views overlooking the ocean and the small Inishduff Island, this B&B is located just outside of Killybegs and will delight even the pickiest B&B occupant with its simple yet spotless rooms. Single, double, and even triple rooms are available. Ms. Ethna Diver, the proprietor, can suggest the best sights to see and the best restaurants to try. Getting there can be a tad tricky. Follow the signs through Killybegs, and go up the coastal road R263. You will pass the expensive, yet delicious, Kitty Kelly's restaurant, the affordable, simple Blue Haven restaurant, and eventually come to the Inishduff B&B.

Teac Jack

Gweedore, County Donegal 074 953 1173 www.teacjack.com 40+ per person. S/D/T/F. MC/V

For those who want a location that puts them close to the Glenveagh National Park, this small hotel is the place. Its simple rooms are comfortable enough and its full Irish breakfast will give you an ample day's energy. Throughout the busy season and on weekends, expect excellent Irish and country live music blaring from the restaurant and pub down below. The locals who frequent this area are talkative and fun-loving. This hotel is great for younger couples, families with teenagers, and the like. Seniors or others searching for deluxe comfort, fine amenities, and anything posh should consider elsewhere. This establishment thrives on its attractions, pub, and local popularity, not necessarily its rooms. It serves as a great stopover, along with tasty bacon cheeseburgers with a pint! To get there, take the R257 west of Gweedore, past Derrybeg.

Frewin House

Ramelton, Co. Donegal 074 915 1246 www.frewinhouse.com 70–90+, 500 + weekly cottage. S/D. MC/V

This painstakingly restored Victorian house is a diamond in the rough surrounds that make northern Donegal so attractive. The house sits on wooded grounds near the small town of Ramelton, which sits along the River Lennon. Frewin is located near beaches, golf courses, and wonderful walking areas. The house also has a luxury cottage available for multiday rentals. Do not tell, but the prices are amazing! To get here, take the R245 north from Letterkenny to Ramelton.

Other Accommodations

Here are some other accommodations you might consider while in County Donegal. (In the restaurant listings that follow, = around 25 euros per person.)