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Donegal has the highest sea cliffs in EuropeCredit: Alamy
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Greencastle in Co Donegal is so prettyCredit: Alamy
It beat a diverse range of places from around the world including Spain, Thailand and Scotland coming fourth overall on the list.
Located in the North West of Ireland, Donegal is known for its gorgeous scenery and the highest cliffs in Europe.
The list was published as part of travel guide Lonely Planets Best in Travel 2024 list, which is an annual roundup of the most exciting travel destinations and experiences around the world.
Claiming the top spot is the Trans Dinarica Cycling Route in the Western Balkans, which spreads through Slovenia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Hercegovina, Croatia, Albania, Serbia, and Kosovo.
Second on the list is Kangaroo Island in Australia while Tuscany in Italy is third.
Donegal also managed to beat some stunning destinations, including País Vasco in Spain, Southern Thailand, Tanzania’s Swahili Coast, Montana in the US, Saalfelden Leogang in Austria, and Far North Scotland.
Lonely Planet praised Donegal for its extensive coastline and 100 beaches, saying: “With the longest coastline in Ireland and more than 100 beaches, you may find yourself the only person on a deserted strand in Donegal.
“The northernmost Irish county is purely wild with a big heart.”
It praised Donegal’s cliffs, which are the highest sea cliffs in Europe along with coastal hiking trails along the Wild Atlantic Way.
The ancient forts, musical traditions, and rich heritage of the Irish language were also noted as key attractions.
They highlighted some of the top attractions in Donegal, including the Slieve League Cliffs, the Silver Strand, and the northernmost point of Malin Head.
Donegal is often referred to as one of the most picturesque counties in Ireland, with a dramatic landscape and gorgeous scenery.
Commenting on Donegal’s feature in the esteemed list, Tourism Ireland CEO Designate Alice Mansergh said: “It will surely help inspire international travellers to put Donegal and Ireland on their holiday wish list for next year.
“It’s another well-deserved accolade that will help position us well for 2024 and set us apart from competitor destinations.”
In 2022, Dublin was named number seven on a list of the best cities globally to visit.
The Burren Ecotourism Network won ‘Best Community Tourism Project’ in 2021.
Galway was ranked the fourth-best city in the world to visit in 2020.
Belfast and the Causeway Coastal Route took the title of the top region in the world to visit in 2018.
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Glengesh Pass, Ardara, County Donegal, IrelandCredit: Alamy
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Inishowen, Culdaff Bay Gengad HeadCredit: Alamy
Source link : https://www.thesun.ie/travel/14009721/donegal-lonely-planet-irish-europe-voted-best-region-world/
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Publish date : 2024-10-15 14:59:00
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