Nestled in Ireland's County Donegal, Dungloe is an enchanting and family-friendly destination just waiting to be discovered. This charming town offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty, ensuring a memorable holiday for you and your family. Whether you're seeking budget or luxury accommodation, Dungloe caters to it all, with plenty of excitement to be found both in the town and surrounding areas.
In this guide, we'll answer all your questions about where to stay, when to visit, and the best family-friendly activities in Dungloe. So, pack your bags and get ready for a captivating Irish adventure that both kids and adults will love. You've landed on the right page to find the perfect family holiday in charming Dungloe.
Things to do
Dungloe offers an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty for families to experience and enjoy. In this section, we'll showcase the best things to see and do for a memorable family holiday in Dungloe.
Immerse yourself in the town's unique history by visiting the grey stepping-stone, An Clochán Liath, and the 1782 bridge. Learn about Dungloe's Irish name and explore its colourful past at the Dungloe District Court. Dungloe Bay and its surrounding hills are popular tourist attractions, especially during the annual Mary From Dungloe International Festival in July and August. For a mix of culture and history, join the Peadar O'Donnell Festival in autumn to celebrate the socialist writer.
Take a drive on the iconic Atlantic Drive, part of the Wild Atlantic Way, the longest coastal route in the world. Use this opportunity to visit nearby attractions in Donegal, such as Malin Head, Glenveagh Castle, and Slieve League Cliffs, for a well-rounded and memorable family holiday. With so many wonderful family-friendly experiences in Dungloe and the surrounding areas, you and your loved ones are sure to have a fantastic time exploring and embracing the magic of this beautiful Irish town.
When to visit
For warm-weather activities and exploring Donegal's breathtaking landscapes, the best time to visit Dungloe with your family is between early July and early September, when the climate is most pleasant. Attractions in Donegal, such as Malin Head, Glenveagh Castle, and Slieve League Cliffs, are best enjoyed between the months of May and September. Another highlight of the summer months is the annual Mary From Dungloe International Festival, which takes place during July and August and is perfect for families to immerse themselves in Irish culture.
While school holidays are the ideal time for families to visit, it's essential to recognise that travelling during peak seasons may result in higher accommodation prices and a larger number of tourists. However, with so many family-friendly activities and stunning landscapes to explore in Dungloe and County Donegal, any time of the year promises a captivating experience. We recommend having your own transportation, such as a car rental or campervan, for the ultimate Irish adventure.
Things you'll love...
- Explore Dungloe Bay's scenic surroundings and enjoy the annual Mary From Dungloe International Festival in July and August
- Immerse in Irish culture and language during the Peadar O'Donnell Festival in autumn
- Discover the town's unique history of the grey stepping-stone, An Clochán Liath, and the 1782 bridge
- Take a road trip on the iconic Atlantic Drive, part of the world's longest coastal route, the Wild Atlantic Way
- Visit nearby attractions like Malin Head, Glenveagh Castle, and Slieve League Cliffs for unforgettable experiences
