You have probably seen our member “Downings Coastguard Cottages” on our website (and if not, check them out here) and you surely think that these Donegal holiday homes look amazing and you can’t wait to visit. No wonder, the beautiful remote location of Downings Coastguard Cottages is perfect for a relaxed holiday away from the stress and hustle of everyday life. Picture long strolls along the beach and quiet evenings by the open fireplace… But then, there are people like me who are getting bored easily – or you are travelling with children who want to be entertained (just like me!!!). And to be honest, even the much needed quiteness and time away from it all might get boring after a while. So, what else is there to do in and around Downings??? Let me tell you one thing: A Lot!

Just around the corner:

Downings Coastguard Cottages are situated in the heart of the Old Tom Morris golf links at Rosapenna, which makes them ideal for golfers that are keen to sample two of Ireland’s famed golf links. The modern Sandy Hills links is the challenging new addition at the Rosapenna Golf Resort. Tee times and preferential green fees for both are available via Downings Coastguard Cottages.

Downings village is approx. 0.7 miles away (down the road as we say here in Ireland). Here you can find a selection of pubs including the Harbour Bar, the Singing Pub and bars at the Beach Hotel and the Downings Bay Hotel. Many of the above serve food in case you don’t feel like cooking yourself. There is also a convenience store in the village for all those essentials, as well as a McNutt’s Coffee House serving home-cooked meals & home-baked delights.
Downings Beach (Trabeg) and Tramore beach are both within a mile of the cottages. Also, the Atlantic Drive is just a couple of miles away from the holiday homes. The Atlantic Drive itself is approximately 12km long. You will appreciate the scenery even more if you walk or cycle this relatively short route. The walk can be completed in just over half a day. You can start the drive (or walk) in Downings Village and from there, just follow the signs!

Only 2 miles away from Downings Coastguard Cottages lies a bit bigger village, called Carrigart. The Main Street offers a choice of supermarkets; Joy’s Gift Shop selling authentic Irish crafts; a selection of pubs; a café; and a restaurant at the Carrigart Hotel. There are also the Carrigart Riding Stables which offer horse riding across the sand dunes and strands of the locality.
Carrigart also boasts Donegal’s first purpose-built dive centre, Mevagh Dive Centre. Experience wreck, scenic, or drift dives. Facilities include a shop, changing rooms, lecture room, and provision of all necessary equipment.

Within 30 minutes drive

If you always wanted to see an Irish castle, make sure to visit the medieval Doe Castle near Creeslough. A bit of useless information: Brian McFadden proposed to Kerry Katona at Doe Castle. (Well, we all know how this didn’t work out!)

If you like hiking, then go to the Ards Forest Park which is located in Creeslough as well. There are several walking routes that you can take – you have the choice!

Last but not least, if you are interested in Irish history, you shouldn’t miss the Dunfanaghy Workhouse Heritage Centre which hosts an impressive Famine Exhibition

You can see, there is a lot to do in and around Downings. When are you going to visit?