Ballyshannon & Bundoran, Co. Donegal

The worlds of music, art and professional surfing collide in this scenic slice of southern Donegal – which has become a hub of energy, innovation and creativity over the past few years.

Located just 10 minutes apart by car – with taxi, Local Link and Bus Éireann services available – the neighbouring towns of Ballyshannon and Bundoran tick all the boxes for a life-affirming getaway along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Ballyshannon not only claims to be the oldest town in Ireland, but is also home to what’s believed to be the oldest festival of its genre in the world: the Ballyshannon Folk and Traditional Music Festival (returning for its 48th edition from July 31–August 3).

The people of the area have embraced that deep musical spirit in other ways too: from the massively popular Rory Gallagher Festival (May 29–June 1) – which pays tribute to the Irish guitar legend in his hometown of Ballyshannon – to special gigs in the towns’ intimate pubs (Sigrid, Anna B Savage, Niamh Regan and Junior Brother have all played in the past few years).

These pubs also happen to be the best spots to properly soak in the personality-packed region’s famed hospitality. Some Ballyshannon favourites include McIntyre’s Saloon Bar (only open one Saturday a month, but makes it count), The Thatch, and Dicey Riley’s. Out in Bundoran you’ll find great pubs like The Railway Bar (the town’s oldest pub) and The Kicking Donkey/George's Bar – as well as The Chasin’ Bull, if you’re looking for something even livelier.

Dicey Reillys, Ballyshannon

Of course, it would be criminal not to take a dip somewhere along this stunning stretch of coast – which includes tidal pools, and a popular diving board, in Bundoran. If you take a drive out to the beautifully wild Mullaghmore Head, you’ll also find a sheltered natural swimming pool, known locally as Bishop’s Pool.

The area around Bundoran has also built up a reputation as a renowned surfing destination – particularly Tullan Strand and nearby Rossnowlagh Beach. Sign up for a lesson, or rent a board, from Bundoran Surf Co., Rossnowlagh Surf School, or Fin McCool Surf School.

Bundoran Surf Co

Alternatively, if you fancy enjoying the coast in an entirely different way – Donegal Equestrian Centre offers unforgettable beach rides along Tullan Strand.

Where To Stay: There’s plenty of holiday rentals and campsites in the area – and an idyllic glamping experience at Lough Mardal Lodge, just a 15-minute spin from Ballyshannon. Visitors also continue to flock to long-established spots like the Great Northern Hotel.

Where To Eat: Sample the seasonal breakfast and lunch menu – and the exceptional coffee – in Bundoran’s foam. For dinner, it’s worth making the trip down the road to The Selkie in Tullaghan.

Don’t Miss: A trip to the Salt and Ember Sauna – a gorgeous mobile sauna, located beside the water at either Bundoran Pier or Creevy Pier.

Salt & Ember Sauna

Read the full Staycation Special in the current issue of Hot Press: