Explore Donegal
Things to Do in Donegal – Your Ultimate Guide from Jackson’s Hotel, Ballybofey
County Donegal is home to some of Ireland’s most beautiful Blue Flag beaches, renowned for their pristine waters, unspoiled landscapes, and spectacular Atlantic Ocean views. These stunning beaches along the Wild Atlantic Way offer the perfect setting for swimming, surfing, walking, family days out, and unforgettable sunsets.
Our Top Recommended Donegal Beaches
Ballymastocker Beach, Portsalon
Frequently ranked among Ireland’s most beautiful beaches, with golden sands and spectacular views across Lough Swilly.
Narin & Portnoo Beach
A local favourite near Glenties and Ardara, perfect for long walks, stunning scenery, and the famous Portnoo Pier.
Rossnowlagh Beach
One of Donegal’s top surfing destinations, ideal for beach walks, family days out, and unforgettable sunsets.
Marble Hill Beach
A peaceful, family-friendly beach known for its crystal-clear waters and postcard-perfect setting.
Distance from Jackson’s Hotel: Approximately 45–60 minutes by car.
Hike the Spectacular Slieve League Cliffs
One of County Donegal’s most iconic attractions, the Slieve League Cliffs are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe, rising almost three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher. With breathtaking Atlantic Ocean views, dramatic coastal scenery, and incredible walking trails, they are a must-visit for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers exploring the Wild Atlantic Way.
Distance from Jackson’s Hotel Ballybofey: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car.
Experience the Wild Atlantic Way Coastal Drive
Discover some of Donegal’s most spectacular scenery along the Wild Atlantic Way. This unforgettable coastal drive takes you through rugged landscapes, charming villages, and breathtaking Atlantic views at every turn.
Our recommended route:
Ardara → Glencolmcille → Silver Strand → Slieve League → Killybegs
Perfect for a day of sightseeing, photography, and exploring the very best of County Donegal.
Distance from Jackson’s Hotel Ballybofey: Approximately 40 minutes to Ardara, the starting point of the route.
Explore Glenveagh National Park & Castle
Discover one of Donegal’s most beautiful attractions at Glenveagh National Park & Castle. Surrounded by mountains, lakes, woodland trails, and roaming red deer, it’s the perfect destination for nature lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Enjoy scenic walks, cycling routes, stunning gardens, and a visit to the historic castle in the heart of the park.
Distance from Jackson’s Hotel Ballybofey: Approximately 35 minutes by car
Discover Donegal Town & Donegal Castle
Explore the vibrant town of Donegal, one of Ireland’s most charming destinations. Wander through colourful craft shops, enjoy traditional Irish hospitality in lively pubs, and visit the impressive 15th-century Donegal Castle, located in the heart of the town.
For a relaxing afternoon, stroll along the harbour or take a scenic cruise on Donegal Bay.
Distance from Jackson’s Hotel Ballybofey: Approximately 35 minutes by car.
Enjoy Traditional Irish Music & Lively Pubs
Experience the rich traditional music culture that makes Donegal famous. From intimate pub sessions to lively weekend entertainment, there’s no better way to enjoy an authentic Irish night out.
Some of the best traditional music can be found in Ardara, Glenties, Donegal Town, and right here in Ballybofey. While in Donegal Town, the Reel Inn is a popular spot for live music throughout the week.
At Jackson’s Hotel, we host live music every Friday and Saturday night, while nearby Gallen’s Bar is a favourite local venue for a lively evening of music, dancing, and craic.
Distance from Jackson’s Hotel: Enjoy great entertainment without leaving town.
Visit Fanad Head & Fanad Lighthouse
Discover one of Donegal’s most iconic coastal landmarks at Fanad Head Lighthouse. Perched on a dramatic headland along the Wild Atlantic Way, it offers breathtaking ocean views, rugged cliffs, abundant wildlife, and some of the best photo opportunities in Ireland.
A visit to Fanad Head is the perfect way to experience the raw beauty of Donegal’s Atlantic coastline.
Distance from Jackson’s Hotel Ballybofey: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes by car.
Discover Donegal’s Craft & Food Culture
Experience the rich heritage and creativity of County Donegal through its famous tweeds, handcrafted gifts, artisan foods, and local craftsmanship. From traditional weaving to unique jewellery and pottery, Donegal is a destination for those who appreciate authentic Irish culture.
Our recommendations include:
• Donegal Craft Village
• Eddie Doherty Handwoven Tweed, Ardara
• Magee of Donegal, Donegal Town
Perfect for finding a unique souvenir, locally made gift, or a lasting reminder of your Donegal adventure.
Visit Grianán of Aileach
Step back in time at Grianán of Aileach, one of Ireland’s most remarkable ancient monuments. This historic hilltop stone fort, dating back thousands of years, was once the royal seat of the Kings of Aileach and remains one of Donegal’s most iconic landmarks.
Famous for its circular stone walls and breathtaking panoramic views across Donegal, Derry, and Lough Swilly, it’s a must-visit for history lovers and photographers alike.
Distance from Jackson’s Hotel Ballybofey: Approximately 40 minutes by car.
Wild Ireland – Wildlife Sanctuary in Donegal
Discover Wild Ireland, Donegal’s unique wildlife sanctuary, home to bears, wolves, lynx, and other animals that once roamed Ireland. Explore scenic woodland trails, enjoy unforgettable wildlife encounters, and learn about Ireland’s lost wildlife in a fun and educational setting for all ages.
Distance from Jackson’s Hotel Ballybofey: Approximately 44 minutes by car.
Meet the Alpacas on the Wild Alpaca Way
Enjoy a unique Donegal experience on the Wild Alpaca Way, where you can walk, feed, and spend time with friendly alpacas while taking in the beautiful countryside scenery. Perfect for families, couples, and animal lovers, this memorable attraction offers a fun and relaxing day out in the heart of Donegal.
With stunning views, gentle walking trails, and plenty of opportunities for photos, the Wild Alpaca Way is a favourite with visitors of all ages.
Distance from Jackson’s Hotel Ballybofey: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car.
Discover the Best of Donegal from Jackson’s Hotel
Ideally located in the heart of Ballybofey, Jackson’s Hotel is the perfect base for exploring County Donegal and the Wild Atlantic Way. From the dramatic Slieve League Cliffs and Glenveagh National Park to Mount Errigal, Fanad Head Lighthouse, and the stunning Inishowen Peninsula, many of Donegal’s top attractions are within easy reach.
With comfortable accommodation, excellent facilities, and a central location, Jackson’s Hotel offers everything you need for an unforgettable Donegal getaway.
Book your stay at Jackson’s Hotel today and start your Donegal adventure.
Click the map below to start exploring
Why Jackson’s Hotel is the Perfect Base for Exploring Donegal
Located in the heart of Ballybofey, Jackson’s Hotel offers the ideal starting point for discovering everything County Donegal has to offer.
✔ Central Donegal Location
Explore the entire county with ease. From the Wild Atlantic Way and Slieve League Cliffs to Glenveagh National Park and Inishowen, Donegal’s top attractions are all within comfortable driving distance.
✔ Perfect for Families, Couples & Groups
With spacious guest rooms, family-friendly facilities, leisure centre access, and a warm Donegal welcome, Jackson’s Hotel caters for every type of getaway.
✔ Easy Access to Beaches, Mountains & Scenic Drives
Experience the best of Donegal’s coastline and countryside, with stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and breathtaking scenery all nearby.
✔ Expert Local Recommendations
Our team knows Donegal inside and out. Whether you're looking for hidden gems, scenic routes, outdoor adventures, or great places to eat, we're always happy to help.
✔ Relax and Unwind After a Day of Exploring
Enjoy free parking, comfortable accommodation, delicious dining, a welcoming bar, and beautiful riverside surroundings, the perfect way to end a day discovering Donegal.
