Donegal in Top World Regions

Donegal has been named the fourth-best region in the world to visit in 2024 by Lonely Planet, coming in ahead of places like Southern Thailand, the Swahili Coast in Tanzania and Montana in the United States. The travel media company unveiled the ratings at Lonely Planet’s “Best in Travel 2024”, its collection of “the world’s hottest trends, destinations and experiences for the coming year”.

Donegal is described in Lonely Planet's “Best in Travel 2024” as having “the highest sea cliffs in Europe at Sliabh Liag, at 601m (1972ft), and miles of unspoilt coastal hiking trails along the Wild Atlantic Way”. The guide also says that “Donegal’s ancient forts, musical traditions and rich heritage of the Irish language also make it an immersive experience for the curious visitor”.

Welcoming the news, Alice Mansergh, CEO Designate of Tourism Ireland, said: 

“It’s really great news that Donegal has been named the fourth-best region in the world to visit in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2024. It will surely help inspire international travellers to put Donegal and Ireland on their holiday wish-list for next year.”

Tourism Ireland will take every opportunity to maximise this accolade for Donegal and Ireland over the coming weeks and months. Activity to spread the good news will include: