Run - don't walk to Mary's beautiful country cottage in Raphoe! My husband and I are just returning from a magnificent stay and we cannot speak more highly of Mary and her husband, Peter as hosts, and of the beauty of County Donegal.
When we arrived for check in, Mary met us with freshly baked Irish soda bread (as I think she does for all of her guests). I am not exaggerating when I say that this may be the best bread I have ever tasted in my life. My husband and I finished off the entire loaf in two days.
Homemade touches, like freshly baked bread, characterized Mary and Peter's style as hosts. They gave us detailed recommendations for day trips, all of which exceeded our expectations. From the exotic cliffs of Slieve League and Malin Head, to the classic sea-side towns of Ballyliffen and Downing, to the rolling walking trails of Glenveagh National Park, and an archeological site predating Stonehenge (Beltany Stone Circle - a five minute walk up the road!), each of Mary and Peter's recommendations proved to be well worth it. Our eyes were wide open and our jaws on the floor for most of the trip.
If we were to book the trip again, the only thing that we would do differently is stay longer! We loved loved loved the area and Mary and Peter are incredible, gracious hosts who are more than happy to share their love for their home of Donegal.
Go and support local tourism in this beautiful part of the world. And if you have the chance, chat with Mary and Peter about their recommendations and experiences in County Donegal. They are a wealth of knowledge and their hospitality made the trip for us.