2 Best Hotels in Killybegs, The Northwest

One of Ireland's most historic hotels, Bay View is well placed for seeing Donegal Bay and the nearby Slieve League Cliffs; its shiny guest rooms and lively bar and restaurant are all part of the scenic package. Soothing tones of beige carpets and curtains complement cream walls in the clutter-free rooms and pave the way for a relaxing stay at a hotel that is back at the top of its game after more than 300 years of trading. Luke's Restaurant serves steak, lamb, and Guinness-and-venison pie, while fishy delights include fillet of hake, monkfish, cod, and mixed seafood pappardelle. Carvery lunches are available in the Wheelhouse bar from noon to 3 pm, and bar food is served up to 9 pm. There's also live music in the bar on weekends. Famous Bay View residents of days gone by include Eamon de Valera and the soldier and statesman Michael Collins. Midweek or special weekend deals are available that include some meals.

This modern, bright, and airy harborside hotel—an ideal base to explore this alluring corner of southern Donegal—has 31 well-equipped guest rooms tastefully decorated in warm colors with dark-red carpets and teakwood; most have expansive harbor vistas, and some come with small balconies. Regular specials at the Turntable restaurant include the roast topside of beef from nearby Castlefinn and lamb casserole. On the menu you will also find steak, chicken, and pork. Station 59 (named after the last train that came into Killybegs in 1959) is a spacious bar looking out on the busy harbor, and with five plasma-screen TVs, it is especially popular with sports fans. Bar meals may include fresh Atlantic salmon, monkfish medallions, burgers, sandwiches, and chicken salads, accompanied by local craft beers such as Donegal Blonde or Dungarvan Red ale.