Dog Friendly Hotels in Donegal
Updated On: February 05, 2024 | Published On: September 20, 2021
Being the start of the world-famous, Wild Atlantic Way coastal trail, Donegal should definitely be at the top of your list for your next staycation destination. Donegal boasts 500 of the 2,500km of Wild Atlantic Way and countless discovery points with breathtaking views and unspoiled landscape for you and your four-legged family member to explore.
County Donegal is the perfect location for a weekend break or for the start of a new adventure. Explore the sandy beaches, rustic pathways, enjoy good food, great music, and the craic. You will not only experience Irish Culture at its best, but you will also leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
Below are 7 pet-friendly accommodations along with each location's pet policy.
Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
Ballydevitt Retreat in Ballydevitt
This 3-bedroom dog-friendly cottage is located only 1.5km from historic Donegal Town. Being able to sleep 5, this self-catering accommodation is the perfect place to bring the entire family, including the pup! With lots of dog-friendly beaches nearby and great walks along the Wild Atlantic Way, there will surely be something for the whole family.
- Dog amenities - Water bowls
- Size Limit - All sized dogs welcome
- Leash Options - There is a large enclosed garden with a hedge surrounding the house.
- Pet Limit - 2 dogs allowed
- Extra Charge - None, dogs stay free!
Creevy Cottages in Rossnowlagh
This traditional Irish 2 bedroom dog-friendly self-catering cottage is based at Creevy Pier, halfway between the sand dunes of Ballyshannon and the cliffs of Rossnowlagh, and less than one minute walk from the sea. These two dog-friendly Donegal cottages have free wi-fi, patio log burners and open fires, allowing you to cosy up and enjoy the brisk Irish winters.
- Dog amenities - Water bowls
- Size Limit - Small and Medium-sized dogs only
- Leash Options - Must be on a lead when outside. The garden is not secured.
- Pet Limit - 2 dogs allowed
- Allowed Areas - Dogs are not permitted into the bedroom areas of the cottages.
- Restricted Breeds - Dogs listed on the dangerous dogs list per the Control of Dogs Acts will not be permitted.
- Extra Charge - None, dogs stay free!
Dog-Friendly Glamping
Lough Mardal Lodge is a lakeside, eco-friendly glampsite on the Wild Atlantic Way. With 2 luxury dog-friendly yurts available on the shore of Lough Mardal, and 90 acres of land to explore, you and your furry friend are sure to have a great time. Each yurt is furnished with comfortable seating, woollen blankets, fluffy pillows and crisp linens, everyone in the family will be sure to have a refreshing night sleep under the stars. The Grove and The Bog yurts are their pet-friendly accommodations. While staying, make sure you enjoy some of the local blue-flag beaches, forest walks and villages all located a short drive from the glampsite.
- Size Limit - Big Dog Friendly
- Leash Options - Must be on a lead when outside.
- Pet Limit - 1 dog allowed per yurt
- Allowed Areas - Dogs are not permitted on furniture or beds.
- Extra Charge - €20 per stay
Dog-Friendly Hostel
Moville Boutique Hostel in Inishowen
Moville Boutique Hostel is located at the tip of Donegal, Inishowen, within mature woodlands and opposite the Breadth River. Converted from farm buildings, this dog-friendly accommodation features the original stonework in many of the rooms. Our furry friends are welcome to explore the trails and beautiful beaches just a short walk from the hostel. While visiting, take your pup on the scenic 5km Moville Shore Path walk, or try the 8km Inishowen Head loop for pups with a bit more energy to burn. Moville Boutique Hostel has also created a very helpful blog post full of recommendations for dog-friendly walks, restaurants and beaches in the area.
- Size Limit - Big Dog Friendly
- Pet Limit - Maximum of 1 dog per room
- Leash Options - Must be on a leash outside
- Allowed Areas - Not permitted in the Kitchen and Dining areas.
- Pet Fees - €10 per night
3-Star Dog-Friendly Hotels
The Highlands Hotel in Glenties
A family-run hotel for the past seventy years, The Highlands Hotel is perfectly located to allow you and your best friend to explore the heritage, beauty and wonder of the Wild Atlantic Way. With plenty of dog-friendly walks nearby, your furry friend will be pleased with all the new smells to discover and paths to explore in the surrounding countryside. Don't miss the chance to visit Portnoo Beach, just 20 minutes away, and if driving is your thing, try the Glengesh Pass, one of the most unique and picturesque roads in all of Ireland with some hair raising bends.
All of the rooms have been recently renovated and decorated to a very high standard with Donegal Tweed color themes, everyone in the family will be sure to have a restful evening.
- Size Limit - Big Dog Friendly
- Leash Options - Must be on a leash when outside.
- Allowed Areas - Not allowed in any of the dining areas.
- Pet Limit - 1 dog per room
- Extra Charge - None, dogs stay for free!
Castle Murray in Dunkineely
With sea views over the shores of McSwyne’s Bay, Castle Murray House is a perfect choice for you and your pup if you prefer to escape the hustle and bustle. Their dog-friendly guest house is located just behind the McSwynes Castle which is perched on the rocks reaching out into the Atlantic Ocean. During your stay, make sure you explore the Wild Atlantic Way and some of its impressive viewing points such as Muckross Head or Glengesh Pass, both of them which are only a 30-minute drive away. There are also many pet-friendly walks and beaches in the area.
- Size Limit - Small dogs only
- Leash Options - Must be on a leash while outside.
- Allowed Areas - Times are restricted, depending on the season, when dogs are allowed in the lobby/bar area.
- Extra Charge - €15 per stay
5-Star Dog-Friendly Hotel
Lough Eske Castle in Lough Eske
* UPDATE - AS OF JANUARY 2O22, LOUGH ESKE CASTLE IS NO LONGER PET-FRIENDLY *
Lough Eske Castle is a luxurious 5-star, 150-year-old castle situated on 43 acres of rolling green Irish countryside.
Lough Eske Castle is a luxurious 5-star, 150-year-old castle situated on 43 acres of rolling green Irish countryside.
When planning your staycation it is important to call ahead and reserve a pet-friendly room as demand is outweighing supply.
While you are away, be sure to find the best dog-friendly restaurants, cafes, shops, and vets in the area by searching our online directory at www.pawsfriendly.com.
Be sure to tag us @PawsFriendly in your holiday snaps!!
*Each hotel's pet policy was confirmed at the time of publishing.
*Each hotel's pet policy was confirmed at the time of publishing.
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