Looking for a unique and beautiful glamping getaway on the Emerald Isle?
Well, you better head straight to Donegal.
From yurts and treehouses to shepherds huts and houseboats, Donegal is home to some of the best glamping holidays in Ireland.
So whether you fancy a more rustic getaway or a luxurious escape, here are 18 amazing glamping holidays in Donegal you need to go on!
1. Lough Mardal Lodge and Yurts
Price per night: From €120 for 2 people
Location: Bradlieve, Ballintra, Co. Donegal
Lough Mardal is probably the most well-known glamping site in Donegal. And for good reason!
This lakeside glamping accommodation is nothing short of picturesque.
At the centre of the site sits the eponymous ‘Lodge’, a communal space and social hub for guests to enjoy.
The uniquely beautiful eco-building was constructed with locally sourced straw and mud with a grass roof.
Inside, you’ll find exposed beams spiralling overhead, amazing panoramic views of the lake and forest, and a big fireplace to cosy up to.
Filled with books, newspapers, magazines, board games and playing cards, it’s the perfect chillout spot.
The Lodge is also where you’ll find a fully equipped self-catering kitchen, dining area, toilets and hot showers.
Thanks to this separate amenity area, the glamping accommodation itself is more of an escape.
Far from the hustle and bustle of daily life, these simple yet magical yurts offer the opportunity to escape from the white noise of modern living and constant connectivity.
Each yurt is made with high-tech insulation, warmth and durability in mind, so you can stay in these yurts all year round.
But that’s not it! The woollen blankets, heavy 15 Tog duvets, sheep-skin slippers, hot water bottles, and wood-burning stove will also keep you nice and toasty.
However, my favourite thing about the yurts is the large clear dome skylight that allows you to stargaze from the comfort of your bed.
2. Frank the Shipping Container
Price per night: From €112 for 2 people
Location: Lettermacaward, Co. Donegal
One of the most unique glamping offerings in Donegal, Frank the Shipping Container is another of my favourite picks.
Not many people can say they’ve slept in a shipping container, right?
Great for those who love to travel sustainably, this 12-metre long shipping container was lovingly recycled by owner and designer, Greg Stevenson, into the modern holiday home you see today.
Set on its own small coastal lake overlooking Traighenna Bay, this is a real getaway-from-it-all getaway.
A third of the structure floats on concrete stilts above the lake, allowing you to sit out on the table and chairs and enjoy breakfast alfresco or evening drinks above the water.
Seems pretty idyllic, if you ask me.
Inside, the story is much the same. With floor to ceiling glass windows, the space is airy and light-filled.
My favourite spot to appreciate the panoramic coastal views is from the cosy sofa. I’d just love to snuggle up there with a good book!
The bedroom also benefits from sea views, as well as a double bed with a super comfortable mattress and a 32″ Netflix Smart TV.
The space comes complete with a full-size, fully equipped kitchen (one of the best you’ll find at a glamping site), so you can cook up some serious meals with your loved one here.
You could easily just spend all your time inside the container.
However, if you do fancy exploring locally, the container is just five minutes from miles of expansive sandy beach.
3. The Birdbox Treehouse
Price per night: From €64 for 2 people
Location: Between Doochary and Fintown, Co. Donegal
This treehouse easily wins the trophy for my favourite place to go glamping in Donegal.
I’m a sucker for treehouse holidays and The Bird Box is no exception.
So where to start with this place? Well, from the second you arrive, you’ll feel like you’re living in a dream.
A 30-metre walk along a stepped wooden walkway through a bank of mature trees leads to the decked area of the treehouse.
Access the decking via a magical rope bridge, that feels like it was plucked straight out of your wildest childhood treehouse fantasies.
Nestled in the branches of mature oak and scots pine trees, five metres off the ground, the handcrafted treehouse is just as impressive inside.
Enter the treehouse through glass double doors at the front that flood the treehouse with light and offer amazing views for you to enjoy from the comfort of your own bed.
Once inside, you’ll be greeted by a sofa on the left and a woodburning stove on the right (which makes the treehouse feel oh-so-cosy!).
Look up to find your unique sleeping area on a mezzanine level above the living area. It even has a skylight and porthole, perfect for long nights stargazing!
In the morning, cook up a tasty breakfast on your double-ring induction hob, oven or grill, to enjoy on the table and stools on the deck alfresco.
And don’t worry, before you ask, the treehouse also comes complete with a flushing toilet and shower. This is glamping, after all, folks!
4. Wild Atlantic Camp Pods and Villas
Price per night: From €55 for 2-4 people
Location: Creeslough, Co. Donegal
The all-year-round wooden glamping pods at Wild Atlantic Camp are great for those who want to go glamping in Donegal on a budget.
With prices starting from just €55 a night, you can choose between a larger four-person pod and a more romantic and intimate two-person pod.
Each wooden pod has lighting, heating and electricity provided.
However, as one of the more rustic glamping options in Donegal, there are no toilet facilities inside the pod. Instead, you’ll have to make the short walk to the main building. Still better than camping though, right?
The ‘Just for Two’ pods are filled with romantic touches such as a wrought iron double bed, lace curtains, chandelier and rattan chairs.
However, if you really want to treat yourself, why not stay in one of the glamping villas?
A big step up from the pods, these modern villas come complete with a gorgeous charcoal sofa, a circular dining table and chairs, wall-mounted Flatscreen TV, a fully-fitted kitchen, and a stylish wet room.
Each villa sleeps four so they’re great for families wanting accommodation that you can stay in on rainy days.
5. Portsalon Luxury Yurts
Price per night: From €98 for 2-4 people
Location: Cashelpreaghan, Co. Donegal
If you can’t get enough of yurts, I’ve got another set for you!
Located in a stunning coastal setting in the North of Donegal, Portsalon Luxury Camping has five yurts to choose from.
Each is kitted out with luxurious king-sized beds, lovely cosy interiors and fabulous wood-burning stoves.
Cosy up to the wood-burning stove while wrapped up in a fluffy quilt on your comfy sofa bed.
Can it get much more romantic than that? Oh wait, it can.
When booking your stay, be sure to treat yourself and your loved one to a bouquet of fresh flowers or a champagne ice bucket for you to enjoy during your stay.
Only open to visitors from April to October, this glamping site has ‘summer getaway’ written all over it.
Not least because their local village of Portsalon has a wonderful 3-mile long blue flag sandy beach.
However, if you fancy staying close to home, outside your yurt there is a decking area, outdoor seating, hammock, fire pit and barbeque area, so there’s no chance of getting bored here.
And the best thing about Portsalon is the stunning views it boasts across to the ocean and mountains.
6. Captain’s Tiny House
Price per night: From €95 for 2 people
Location: Dunfanaghy, Co. Donegal
I’ve always wanted to stay in a tiny house and Captain’s is one of the most beautiful tiny houses I’ve ever seen!
This clever conversion was made from an old garage which has since transformed into a stylish studio complete with a full-size kitchen, shower room and toilet.
The house is beautifully designed and I just love the cosy sofa and bar area by the high wooden-cladded feature wall.
However, one of my favourite things about this space is the unique mezzanine bed which makes very clever use of the space.
Your host, Judith, also lovingly provides an offering of local products on arrival, which is definitely a welcomed treat.
Who can say no to a cold beer and cheese board, ey?
While it doesn’t feel cramped or claustrophobic at all, if you fancy leaving the house you’ll be rewarded with plenty to do in the local area.
Located right in the heart of Dunfanaghy, next to the owner’s Surf School and Shop Narosa, you’re only a few minutes walk from shops, eateries, bars, the beach and all local tourist attractions.
Why not try your hand out at a bit of surfing while you’re here? You’ll be learning from the best, after all.
7. Corcreggan Mill Carriages
Price per night: From €72.50 for 2-4 people
Location: Dunfanaghy, Co. Donegal
Next up are two seriously unique Donegal glamping options provided by Corcreggan Mill.
Firstly, we have the 150-year-old converted Railway Carriage which sleeps a whopping sixteen people!
Transported from County Louth over 25 years ago, it was restored and rebuilt into the five newly-refurbished sleeping cabins you can find today.
Each cabin sleeps between two and four people.
There are two cabins with double beds and three with two bunk beds.
However, the carriage is also available for exclusive hire if you have a huge family or group of friends that all want to get away at once.
Guests have access to shared toilet and shower facilities at either end of the carriage, as well as the adjacent Railway Lounge which includes a large kitchen, dining and lounge area.
There’s a hand basin in each sleeping compartment too so you don’t feel too grubby!
However, one of my favourite things about the carriage is the option to order Breakfast in a Box.
Choose from The Corcreggan Box, The Veggie Box and The ‘Free From’ Box to collect each morning.
Then enjoy the scrumptious food from the comfort of your bedroom, in their designated indoor dining area or in one of the many picnic areas dotted around the site.
If you’re visiting during the high season, you can also enjoy some delicious fish and chips from the Seafood Horsebox.
If you fancy a drink, this is also the place to go for a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Bottoms up!
8. Corcreggan Mill The Boat
Price per night: From €115 for 2 people
Location: Dunfanaghy, Co. Donegal
Ever fancied sleeping on a boat? Well, you’re in luck! This en-suite accommodation at Corcreggan Mill takes quirky accommodation to a whole new level.
Nestled up on the hill with exquisite views over Horn Head, the New Lake Nature Reserve and Tory Island, you’ll find the recently refurbished and converted boat.
Known as ‘The Larry McQuaid’, the boat benefits from an impressive set of amenities, given its size.
Inside, there’s a double bed, en-suite shower room, and a fully equipped kitchenette with a cooker, sink, fridge, crockery and cutlery.
If you fancy cooking and dining alfresco, head to the bow of the ship, where you’ll find your own BBQ facilities.
However, probably my favourite thing about The Boat is its rooftop viewing deck with two wooden seats.
It’s the perfect spot from which to soak up the interrupted views over the surrounding countryside, all lit up by Donegal’s famous fiery sunsets.
9. The Bee Pods Beach Hut and Glamping Pods
Price per night: From €149 for 2 people
Location: Rossnowlagh, Co. Donegal
The Bee Pods aren’t just any old pods.
Nestled on Crockahany Hill overlooking Rossnowlagh Beach and Donegal Bay, these pods are modern and stylish.
Choose between either a double bed or two singles, and get ready to settle down in your oh-so-cosy pod.
Each comes complete with a fully-fitted kitchenette and ensuite, free Wi-Fi, and a luxurious wood-burning stove ensuring a restful ambience.
On arrival, you’ll bee (see what I did there?) welcomed by their famous Bee Pod welcome basket, filled to the brim with freshly homemade granola, wheaten bread, jam, and honey from their bees.
Outside each pod, you’ll find a patio with a BBQ and pit fire, great for cooking up a feast on long summer evenings.
And once you’ve finished chowing down on your delicious BBQ, settle down by the outdoor campfire and toast marshmallows as the sun goes down.
However, if you really want to treat yourself, book a stay in the Beach Hut, a calm coastal hut designed with luxury in mind.
Themed on the sea views you’ll see from the deck of your hut, the Beach Hut is nautical through and through.
The hut has all the amenities of the other pods, but with an added touch of luxury.
And if you want to upgrade your stay one step further, you can do so with an organic hand-harvested seaweed bath.
These detoxifying baths deeply moisturise your skin, increase circulation and promote healing.
A twin bath (how romantic!) will set you back an additional €35.00 per person. But it’s well worth it for the sea views, complimentary organic Voya toiletries and selection of fruit.
10. Romantic Hut
Price per night: From €80 for 2 people
Location: Ballyshannon, Co. Donegal
If you’re after romance in a secluded location, then this romantic hut will fulfil your needs.
Buried in the woods, the hut boasts magnificent views over Assaroe Lake and a small seating area to the front.
Here you can soak up the views through the large glass windows.
Inside, there’s a large king-size bed, small kitchenette and fully-kitted ensuite, plus free coffee, tea, milk, cereal, orange juice, biscuits, and bread for you to tuck into.
It’s safe to say that this is a real off-grid getaway for those looking to disconnect from modern life.
You won’t find a TV or Wi-Fi here – just a radio!
The area surrounding the hut is great for nature and wildlife lovers.
Look out for red squirrels feeding, and if you’re really lucky you might even see a kingfisher or an otter!
If you’re into fishing, head to the private lake to go trout and pike fishing,
And if you fancy exploring the woods on more than just your feet, hop onboard the two complimentary bicycles.
11. Snowdrop Shepherds Hut
Price per night: From €89 for 2 people
Location: Ramelton, Co. Donegal
This clean and minimalist Donegal glamping getaway for two just screams romance!
From the cosy double bed to the stunning countryside views, Snowdrop Shepherds Hut is a getaway you won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
The hut is kept small and simple with just a kettle, toaster, sink and table chairs.
However, guests also have full use of all communal areas including a fully equipped kitchen, and a bathroom and shower area.
And that’s not to forget the communal hot tub and sauna you and your partner can make full use of too!
If a shepherds hut doesn’t take your fancy, the site is also home to a couple of holiday homes, a gorgeous barn-style chalet and four bell tents.
A short walk away from the site is the Lough Swilly and the owners advise taking a stroll over the stone beach to enjoy a little sea air.
Or if you fancy getting a little more adventurous and have a kayak with you, you’re never too far from the water!
12. Cosy Converted Cowshed
Price per night: From €55 for 2 people
Location: Fintown, Co. Donegal
Next up is this Cosy Converted Cowshed which boasts some of the most spectacular views of any Donegal glamping site.
Looking towards the beautiful Glendowan Mountains and Glenveagh National Park, the cowshed is ideal for a peaceful retreat or a great base to explore some of Donegal’s best natural beauty.
You can enjoy these views from your own private garden, seating area and barbeque to the rear!
Inside, the open plan living area comes complete with a wood-burning stove, cosy sofa, dining table, and a kitchen with an electric hob, combination convection oven, microwave and grill and a small fridge.
Your double bed lives on a mezzanine floor which features a skylight so you can stargaze without even needing to crawl out of the covers!
However, I think my favourite thing about the cowshed is the hammock seat which I just want to curl into with a good book.
13. Deluxe Native American Tipi
Price per night: From €100 for 3 people
Location: Ballyshannon, Co. Donegal
Great for adventurers and those who love to get back to nature, this Deluxe Native American Tipi is one of the more rustic glamping holidays in Donegal.
Situated in the magical forests of the Knader, surrounded by deep, clear lakes, mysterious mountains and rugged fields, the tipi is one of the best bases from which to explore Donegal.
Inside the tipi, things are kept simple with just a double and single bed.
However, this means you get to reap the rewards of camping – just without so much of the fuss!
You fall asleep to the sounds of nature under the starry sky and wake up to the chirping of the birds welcoming the morning sun.
There’s a campfire to toast marshmallows on, and a separate rustic log cabin kitchen to cook up a proper meal.
Separate shower rooms will also keep you squeaky clean.
Please keep in mind that although tipis have stronger structures than an ordinary tent, you are still out camping.
There’s no heating in the tipis so if you’re prone to feeling the cold, be sure to bring proper rainjackets, strong boots and cosy sweatshirts along with you to keep you warm and dry.
The hosts provide big, warm blankets and hot water bottles, but it’s still better to be safe than sorry, right?
14. The Hide Cabin
Price per night: From €76 for 2 people
Location: Fintown, Co. Donegal
If you’re looking to stay at a Donegal glamping site with more home comforts, look no further than the self-contained, handcrafted The Hide Cabin.
Nestled on a slope with stunning views towards Glenveagh National Park, this cabin really is a little slice of heaven.
Designed by the host, Pete, to maximise the beautiful mountain views, he and his wife Anna have lovingly decorated the space with as many handcrafted, reclaimed and up-cycled items as possible.
The result is a stunning cabin that you just won’t want to take your eyes off. It’s safe to say you’ll be snapping away!
At the centre of the cabin sits a wood-burning stove, with an alcove double bed with curtains and blinds to the right, and a small bathroom behind the bed.
To the left is the kitchen area with a four-ring electric hob, combined oven, grill and microwave, and fridge with freezer compartment.
Pretty much everything you could possibly ask for, right?
Guests can enjoy the wood-burning stove from the comfy sofa, or exit through the double doors onto the private decked area to soak up the views.
The decking comes complete with seating, table and barbeque, ideal for long summer evenings.
One of the best things about this cabin is that you don’t need a car to explore the beauty of Donegal.
If you enjoy hiking or cycling, there is much exploring that you can do right from your doorstep.
However, if you do visit by car, the Wild Atlantic Way is just a 15-minute drive away and you’d be stupid to miss it.
15. Teacup Vintage Caravan
Price per night: From €48 for 2 people
Location: Near Loughanure, Co. Donegal
Something a little different up next: the Teacup Vintage Caravan.
Set in 18 acres of glorious wild countryside in the hills of Donegal, this rural retreat boasts stunning views from every window.
The double bed looks nothing short of inviting and I could totally see myself lying there all day long with a book in hand and the radio playing.
However, the rocking chair outside may just be enough to tempt me out.
Additionally, there’s a second outdoor chill space with dual fuel BBQ. Perfect for cooking up some grub!
However, if you just want to stay in the caravan, the mix of solar and electric lighting in the caravan powers a kettle and toaster.
Enough for you to make a brew and some toast in the morning!
That being said, you do have to leave your caravan to use the shared hot water shower and dry compost toilet in the adjacent converted barn.
In the barn, you’ll also find a 2 ring hob, if you want to cook more of a feast.
P.s. If you’re visiting for a special occasion, be sure to let your host know. You might just arrive to find some special goodies awaiting your arrival!
16. Donegal Shepherds Huts
Price per night: From €65 for 2 people
Location: Moville, Co. Donegal
If you’re looking for a Donegal glamping site along the Wild Atlantic Way, why not try out this cute little mint shepherd’s hut?
Although it’s only small, enter through the stable door and you’ll find a pullout double bed, kitchenette and en-suite shower room.
While you won’t be able to cook up a proper feast here, you’ve got enough to make some tea and toast in the morning.
The essentials, ey?
Have a cuppa and your breakfast at the indoor table that is conveniently positioned to enjoy views down the hill.
One of the best things about this hut is how great value for money it is!
Who knew it was possible to stay in luxury glamping accommodation for this price?
And, as a sign says in the hut, ‘A little sand between your toes always takes away your woes’.
So head down to the coast and make the most of the hut’s amazing location!
17. Tom Crean’s Eco Cabin
Price per night: From €96 for 5 people
Location: Ballyshannon, Co. Donegal
This A-framed cabin feels like it was taken right out of the USA or Canada, rather than little old Ireland.
If you want to feel a million miles away from Donegal, then why not give Tom Crean’s Eco Cabin a whirl?
In fact, this cabin will not only take you out of Donegal but out of modern life completely.
The very basic and tech-free log cabin is exactly what you need if you fancy a proper detox. Yep, that’s right. No Wi-Fi and no electricity.
Dedicated to the great Irish explorer Tom Crean, this is the perfect place to clock out from hectic daily life and reconnect with nature.
Wake up to the sounds of nature from your cosy loft, and enjoy your breakfast with complimentary homemade bread and free-range eggs.
(I’ve heard the bread is something really special!)
Once you’re energised, it’s time to go wild.
The surrounding area is ideal for surfing, hiking, horse riding, canoeing, cliff-jumping, or whatever it is you want to do.
Use this off-grid escape to dive into Donegal’s mystical ancient history and get lost in this little corner of the world.
18. The Wonderly Wagon
Price per night: From €53 for 5 people
Location: Fintown, Co. Donegal
Last but by no means least, we have the vibrant Wonderly Wagon!
Step back in time by staying at this traditional bow top caravan.
Set in an off-the-beaten-track woodland in the Donegal Hills, the caravan has been lovingly restored so you’ll feel nice and snug in the midst of nature.
Sleeping two adults and two children, it makes for the perfect family getaway.
With streams, lakes and forests all on your doorstep, there will be plenty to do to keep the kids occupied.
But if that’s not enough, there’s a selection of board games and books inside the wagon to keep you all occupied on rainy days.
This is Ireland we’re talking about, after all!
Inside, the caravan is very well insulated and has modern amenities such as running water, a cooker, fridge, kettle and toaster.
Top tip: Order a breakfast basket delivered to the wagon in the morning for a nice treat to wake up to!
If you start feeling the cold, there’s an additional modern wall-mounted electric heater to get you feeling cosy again.
The wagon itself is too small to accommodate a toilet or shower but you’ll find them just a few steps away.