From Beachside Hotels to Luxury Yurts, unplug and unwind in a range of rural retreats…
The last time I visited Rossnowlagh in Donegal was three years ago, one of my first solo road trips with my twins. We stayed in a cozy cabin up in the hills, spending our days exploring Bundoran, Donegal town, Sligo, and the countless other charming towns and beaches we stumbled upon along the way. Among these, Rossnowlagh Beach stood out with its vast, drive-on sandy beach. I remember glancing across at the big yellow Sandhouse Hotel, perfectly perched on the beach, thinking, “Wouldn’t that be a beautiful place to stay next time?”
Fast forward three years, and I find myself driving from Dublin to the Sandhouse Hotel in Rossnowlagh. It is everything I imagined and more. As soon as you park, you’re immediately immersed in the sandy, holiday atmosphere. For me, a holiday means being near a beach or a lake. I need to swim, breathe in the sea air and let the children burn off their energy on the sandy shores. Our room offers stunning beach views from all four windows. The spacious triple room is perfect for me and my twins, featuring a special spot by one of the windows that’s ideal for writing or simply gazing at the sea.
Within minutes, we are in our swimsuits, running and screaming into the sea, instantly awakened by the cool bite of the Atlantic. We enjoyed a casual dinner from a local chip van on the beach and lounged around the hotel’s cozy nooks and crannies. The oceanside seating area, including refurbished, airplane-style domes, is perfect for watching the waves and chatting to other people. The friendly staff, late-night biscuits and tea ensured we were quickly asleep, lulled by the sea air. And the breakfast was by far one of the best, not a crumb or sausage was left on the plate by us all.
The next day, we move to our second accommodation, Lough Mardal Lodge, just a 15-minute drive from Rossnowlagh. First, we took a detour into Bundoran to visit the Nun’s Pool. With the tide low, it was just a dip but photos of high tide reveal a fantastic secret spot for a swim. After a lunch break at Buoys and Gulls, known for the best sandwiches and cakes, we set off for Lough Mardal. After a short drive on the N15, we veered onto single roads, following signs to Lough Mardal Lodge. The gravel pathway revealed immediate views of the lake, instantly relaxing us as we spot the skydome yurts scattered across the bogland.
Parking is at the main building—the lodge—where you follow instructions sent by email to collect your key and rechargeable lanterns from individual lockers. The main lodge is impressive, featuring cozy seating areas, a selection of books and board games, and a magnificent fireplace as the centrepiece. It’s a welcoming, authentically Irish space with a Donegal twist. Owners Claire and Marcus discovered Lough Mardal in 2014, moved onto the land in 2015, and began construction in 2017. Using Donegal-sourced timber, they built the external walls of the lodge with straw bales for insulation and a breathable lime render. The lodge opened in 2019, offering a unique blend of sustainability and comfort. Inside a yurt, feels like an open umbrella with stretched-out slats and a circle at the top revealing a sky view. The furnishings are distinctly Donegal, with handmade tweed throws and bed linens adorning the beds, chairs and floors. The good-sized room features wooden antique furniture, a stove with a basketful of logs, plump pillows and they also provide shower and swim towels. The lodge kitchen is well-equipped, with all condiments provided and lockers labelled with your yurt’s name for your food, plus a shelf in the fridge. You can also order breakfast and pizza packs to cook in the kitchen. Bring some drinks and snacks so you don’t have to leave and can enjoy the ultimate tranquillity. There’s even a spot for a swim in the lake, possibly accompanied by a four-legged friend named Archie. This location is perfect for a family digital detox, offering nature and fresh Atlantic air.
Our road trip then takes us to Dunfanaghy, a scenic hour and 30 minutes’ drive away. We stay at the impressive Wild Atlantic Camp, nestled in the picturesque village of Creeslough, Donegal. I’ve passed this spot many times en route to Dunfanaghy and finally decided to check it out. This family-friendly campsite has cozy glamping pods, luxury chalets, spacious motorhome pitches, all set against Ireland’s stunning northwest coast.
Kids can explore the playground, arcade, and sports area, while solo moms like me can relax in the chalets or enjoy a coffee at the on-site café the Happy Camper. There are bike rentals, fishing, kayaking, and numerous nearby hiking trails that showcase Donegal’s breathtaking landscape. We’ve also ventured to local attractions like Glenveagh National Park, Ards Forest Park, Ards Friary and Doe Castle and also the numerous beaches close by. If you’re looking to unplug and slow down, the Wild Atlantic Camp is the perfect solution for the whole family. This gem offers a fantastic mix of outdoor fun and relaxation in one of Ireland’s most gorgeous regions—another Donegal digital detox destination.
Next, we head to Muff in Donegal to stay at Wildwood Lodge. Nestled among lush greenery and leafy hills, Wildwood Lodge is a spacious retreat and family home accommodating up to 10 guests. Located just off Donegal’s Wild Atlantic Way, this detached, self-catering property is ideal for retreat gatherings and family holidays. Recently redecorated, the interiors are warm and stylish, featuring modern comforts. The front door opens into a full-height hallway, leading to a cozy living area and an open-plan kitchen, perfect for cooking together or enjoying breakfast overlooking the lush surroundings. On one side of the hallway, there’s a spacious ensuite double bedroom and a separate family bathroom.
The property also has two additional bedrooms, each with four single beds. These rooms can be arranged dormitory-style for retreat weekends or set up as twin or single rooms for smaller groups and families. The house is surrounded by a secluded, level garden with a gravel driveway that provides parking for up to 12 cars. Outside and from every window in the house, you will enjoy stunning views of the countryside, woodland and a nearby private lake. Open the door, put down your bags and breathe. This is the perfect place to retreat, relax and replenish before heading back to urban life. They also have a quaint one bed cottage, Bothy Cottage, for holiday rentals, if your group/family need additional space.
Whether you want a rural escape, a digital detox break, or to swim at the sandiest beaches in the most tranquil surroundings, this part of Ireland is a must-visit for beach lovers and adventurers. Lose yourself along the Wild Atlantic Way and discover the true essence of Donegal.
#gifted
Published in the Irish Daily Mail on 7/9/2024