Ireland’s northern coast is a rugged stretch of soaring cliffs, sandy beaches and dramatic scenery. A destination that is growing in popularity, it is increasingly being populated by luxury accommodation offerings that allow discerning visitors to get the most from a stay in this beautiful part of the world while enjoying the best in creature comforts.
Donegal Boardwalk Resort is just one of these offerings. Its managing director, Ann-Louise Scott says the resort was designed to offer the ultimate in flexible escapes. “It’s the perfect location, whether you’re seeking relaxation, reconnection or adventure,” she explains.
“It’s a place where couples can unwind with sea views and sunsets, and families can celebrate milestones or spend quality time together in a relaxed setting.” She adds that it’s equally suited to walking holidays, watersports getaways, or even wellness-focused stays that begin with yoga on the boardwalk by the beach.
Scott explains that the vision for Donegal Boardwalk Resort was to create a destination that felt both elevated and deeply rooted in its surroundings; “somewhere people could relax in comfort while enjoying the natural beauty of the Rosguill Peninsula”. The self-catering lodges offer a home-away-from-home experience for families and groups, with open-plan layouts that allow people to come together but with enough space for everyone to have their own privacy. These are ideal for reunions, family holidays and extended stays, Scott notes.
The luxury beachside suites, on the other hand, were created for guests seeking a more refined escape. “With high-end interiors, private balconies or patios, and panoramic sea views, they provide a peaceful and luxurious retreat so they are perfect for couples or solo travellers looking to switch off in style. It offers the space and privacy of self-catering, combined with thoughtful amenities that go beyond what a typical hotel or B&B provides, including direct beach access, on-site dining, leisure facilities, and a truly immersive natural setting.”
Later this year, a new boutique spa will open at the resort, featuring a thermal suite and a relaxation room that both overlook the beach, alongside four private treatment rooms. “Whether you’re indulging in a massage or simply unwinding with the Atlantic as your backdrop, it’s the perfect setting to slow down and restore body and mind,” says Scott.
The resort was designed to have everything on-site: two children’s playgrounds, tennis and basketball courts, and a restaurant and bar. There is also the iconic boardwalk that leads to the unspoilt sands of Tramore beach.
“You can park the car and forget about it – everything is here to help you slow down and savour Donegal at your own pace,” says Scott. “At its heart, the resort was developed to offer comfort without pretension, and luxury without losing the laid-back charm of Donegal.”
The resort is ideally placed for anyone wanting to explore the rugged charm of Donegal’s north coast. Guests are just minutes from the Atlantic Drive, and close to standout attractions such as Fanad Lighthouse, Glenveagh National Park, Doe Castle, and the majestic Errigal and Muckish Mountains. Walkers, cyclists, and day-trippers will find plenty of breathtaking routes and hidden spots to discover.
Unsurprisingly, the area is hugely popular with golfers. Donegal Boardwalk Resort is one of the closest accommodations to St Patrick’s Links at Rosapenna, which was ranked #49 in Golf Magazine’s World Top 100 Courses 2023–24; Scott notes it is widely considered one of the most exciting modern links courses anywhere. Also nearby are the spectacular links at Dunfanaghy Golf Club and Portsalon Golf Club, offering top-tier coastal courses within easy reach. Royal Portrush Golf Club, its place in golf history guaranteed, is just a two-hour spin along the northern coast.
For those who prefer a hotel stay, there are many luxury options in Donegal and along the northern coast. Lough Eske in southwest Donegal offers five-star accommodation with a renowned spa, while across the border in Fermanagh, Lough Erne Resort is also five star. Both offer unbridled luxury in opulent settings, while still being ideal bases from which to sample the Wild Atlantic Way.
Luxury glamping is also holding steady in popularity, with more options springing up every year. Kintala Resort & Spa in Derry has six luxury lodges – each with its own private hot tub – and 10 glamping pods, while Lough Foyle glamping offers hot tubs, a sauna and plunge pools.
