Donegal has been picked as one of the best regions in the world to visit in 2024.
The exciting nod of approval comes from global travel authority Lonely Planet, which has today unveiled its annual hotlist of trending destinations for the coming year.
The Best in Travel 2024 guide ranks Donegal as the fourth best region in the world.
The list reveals nine other breathtaking places to visit, beginning with the Western Balkans’ Trans Dinarica Cycling Route, Kangaroo Island in South Australia and Tuscany, Italy. Pais Vasco in Spain, Southern Thailand the Swahili Coast of Tanzania and Montana, USA also feature.
Donegal’s natural landscape was one of the top factors for its high ranking. The county boasts the longest coastline in Ireland, one of the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe and 100+ beaches.
Lonely Planet contributor Kathy Donaghy, who lives in Inishowen, describes Donegal ‘as purely wild with a big heart’.
The guide celebrates Donegal’s miles of un-spoilt coastal hiking trails along the Wild Atlantic Way, ancient forts, musical traditions, and rich heritage of the Irish language across its Gaeltacht communities.
LONELY PLANET’S BEST IN TRAVEL DESTINATIONS FOR 2024 REVEALED
This announcement comes just days after the new “Donegal – It’s Ours/It’s Yours” campaign was launched which aims to showcase the unique appeal, breathtaking natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage of Donegal, positioning it as a must-visit destination.
The tongue-in-cheek campaign, featuring Donegal native and comedian Eric Roberts, presents the county as one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets. It humorously highlights the locals’ attempts to keep this beautiful county under wraps amidst the global attention. The campaign is expected to reach a wide audience across digital, PR, social, and VOD channels, encouraging potential visitors to discover the wonders of Donegal.
Donegal Top Region, Lonely Planet 2024. Garry Martin. Director of Economic Development, Emergency Services and Information Systems, Mary Daly, Donegal Tourism, Margaret Sweeney, Donegal Tourism, Martin Marley, Cathaoirleach Donegal County Council, Shane Smyth, Bundoran Tourism Officer, Sarah Nolan, Head of Tourism, Donegal Co Council, Marion Callaghan, Donegal Tourism and James Cassidy, Donegal Tourism. Photo Clive Wasson
Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Martin Harley, is delighted about the Lonely Planet ranking, saying: “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. This again speaks to the rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality that our county offers.”
Chair of Donegal Tourism CLG and Chief Executive of Donegal County Council, John G. McLaughlin, believes this award will elevate Donegal as a visitor destination across the world saying: “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.”
This announcement comes just days after the new “Donegal – It’s Ours/It’s Yours” campaign was launched which aims to showcase the unique appeal, breathtaking natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage of Donegal, positioning it as a must-visit destination.
The tongue-in-cheek campaign, featuring Donegal native and comedian Eric Roberts, presents the county as one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets. It humorously highlights the locals’ attempts to keep this beautiful county under wraps amidst the global attention. The campaign is expected to reach a wide audience across digital, PR, social, and VOD channels, encouraging potential visitors to discover the wonders of Donegal.
To mark its 50th anniversary, Best in Travel 2024 by Lonely Planet has expanded from the top 10 best cities, countries, and regions to include two new categories of best value and best sustainable destinations, recognising a total of 50 locations across the globe offering amazing experiences to enjoy in 2024.
Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel hotlist is voted for by their global community of staff, local writers, and publishing partners, and provides expert insight into lesser-known destinations and new takes on popular places.
Nitya Chamber, SVP Content and Executive Editor commented: “Best in Travel is Lonely Planet’s heart and soul of travel inspiration, responding to the enthusiasm of travellers who want to explore the world in a way that is authentic, led by local guidance and has sustainable values at its core. With new takes on iconic destinations and 50 fresh ideas across five categories, we’re confident Best in Travel opens-up a year of incredible adventures.”
View the guide here: lonelyplanet.com/best-in-travel
Featured photo by Chris Hill / Tourism Ireland