Northern Ireland

Donegal named as one of world's 'best visitor destinations' in prestigious Lonely Planet Guide

County Donegal is already a well establish must-visit destination. Picture by Mal McCann.
County Donegal is already a well establish must-visit destination. Picture by Mal McCann.
By By Seamus McKinney

County Donegal has been listed by the influential “Lonely Planet” guide as one of the best regions in the world to visit.

The north-west county is the only destination in Ireland included in the new Lonely Planet guide.

The travel guide commended the county for its solitude, wild landscapes, friendly atmosphere and pristine coastal hiking trails.

It also highlights the “Wild Atlantic Way” coastal route through the county.

Lonely Planet praised Donegal’s ancient forts, vibrant musical traditions and rich Irish language heritage. Writers said the county would provide an immersive experience for “inquisitive travellers.

Chairman of Donegal council, Martin Harley, pictured centre with Donegal tourism leaders, who said the Lonely Planet listing was 'significant'.
Chairman of Donegal council, Martin Harley, pictured centre with Donegal tourism leaders, who said the Lonely Planet listing was 'significant'.

The Lonely Planet inclusion comes days after the launch of a new “Donegal – It’s Ours/It’s Yours” tourism campaign.

The campaign showcases the county’s unique appeal and includes a tongue-in-cheek moving image advertisements featuring comedian, Eric Roberts.

Chairman of Donegal County Council, Martin Harley said the Lonely Planet praise highlighted everything the region had to offer.

Mr Harley said: “Being ranked by Lonely Planet as one of the best regions in the world to visit is a significant milestone for Donegal. It’s the second time in five years we’ve received recognition from Lonely Planet which named Donegal as the coolest place on the planet in 2017.”

Read More: 

  • Bars in Belfast, Enniskillen and Donegal included in Top 20 best Irish pubs in Lonely Planet guide
  • Sliabh Liag is one of Ireland's best kept secrets
  • Cool Donegal tops National Geographic world must-visit list

Council chief executive, John G McLaughlin said the Lonely Planet award would promote Donegal as a visitor destination

“Lonely Planet is a huge platform for Donegal and the listing will have a positive impact on Donegal for years to come.

“Donegal Tourism and Donegal county council have been working with businesses and representatives in the tourism trade to deliver a very effective collaborative approach to promoting County Donegal over the last number of years; this strategy is proving to be very successful,” Mr McLaughlin said.

The spectacular sea cliffs at Slieve Liag, on the Wild Atlantic Way, are one of Donegal's hidden gems. Picture by Getty Images
The spectacular sea cliffs at Slieve Liag, on the Wild Atlantic Way, are one of Donegal's hidden gems. Picture by Getty Images