Downings, a Gaeltacht village in County Donegal, Ireland, is a delightful destination for families seeking a mix of culture, history and outdoor adventure. With its stunning Blue Flag beaches, rich heritage, and captivating landscapes, Downings offers a remarkable family holiday experience. Whether you're seeking budget-friendly accommodation or a luxurious stay, Downings has a variety of family-friendly options to meet your needs. Find the perfect hotel that'll make your family feel right at home and enjoy a memorable escape in this beautiful Irish destination.
Things to do
From its beautiful beaches and breathtaking landscapes to its fascinating history and culture, Downings and its surrounding areas offer a variety of attractions and activities to suit every member of the family. Here's our pick of some of the best things to see and do during your stay.
One of the must-visit attractions in Downings is the captivating Atlantic Drive, a dramatic scenic route that takes you along the breath-taking Rosguill Peninsula. This enchanting drive is perfect for a family adventure, showcasing some of Ireland’s most stunning coastal scenery and offering ample opportunities for exploration and discovery. Visiting the McNutt of Donegal tweed factory and shop is a great way to immerse yourself in the local history and culture. Explore the intricacies of Donegal's tweed-making tradition, learning about the history of the craft while picking up some beautifully crafted souvenirs. Downings is blessed with three stunning Blue Flag beaches – Downings Beach, Tra Na Rossan, and Murder Hole Beach – each offering soft sands and safe swimming conditions for the whole family to enjoy. Spend your days building sandcastles, swimming in the turquoise waters, or simply soaking up the sun. For more adventurous families, Jaws II Watersports offers adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities such as surfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, perfect for getting up close and personal with the charming coastline. Golf lovers will delight in visiting the Rosapenna Links Course, a remarkable course designed by golfing legend Old Tom Morris. Set within the dunes connecting the Rosguill peninsula to the mainland, this historic course offers an unforgettable golfing experience for families amidst some of Ireland's most spectacular coastal landscapes.
When to visit
The best time to visit Downings for a family holiday is during the warm spring and autumn months. With May and June providing pleasant temperatures, over 10 hours of daily sunshine, and the least amount of rainfall, these months are perfect for experiencing the area's many outdoor attractions and activities. Though it may be tempting to visit during the quieter spring and autumn months, it's always wise to plan your family holiday around your children's school schedules. This ensures you won't face any issues with term time absences and can fully enjoy your family getaway.
Things you'll love...
- Embark on the breathtaking Atlantic Drive for a stunning coastal adventure with the family
- Explore the rich history of Downings with the famous McNutt of Donegal tweed factory and shop
- Visit the beautiful Blue Flag beaches of Downings Beach, Tra Na Rossan, and Murder Hole Beach
- Get active with outdoor watersports like surfing and kayaking at Jaws II Watersports
- Delve into Ireland's golfing heritage at the Rosapenna Links course designed by Old Tom Morris