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My Irish Cousin

Car rental at Donegal Airport

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1 hrto Slieve League
40 minto Glenveagh
GaeltachtIrish-speaking heartland
Finding us

Picking up at Donegal Airport, made simple

Donegal Airport, Braade, Carrickfinn, Co. Donegal, F94 X2RH, Ireland
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Why start here

What makes this spot special

your cousin's local knowledge
Donegal Airport

Donegal Airport is Ireland's most remote commercial airport, perched on the coast of Carrickfinn with the Atlantic on one side and Errigal Mountain on the other. Flights land on a runway that practically ends at the beach.

This corner of Donegal is one of the least-visited parts of Ireland, and it is spectacular. The Gaeltacht villages of Gweedore and Dungloe are minutes away. The sea stacks at Slieve League, twice the height of the Cliffs of Moher, are an hour south. Glenveagh National Park is forty minutes inland.

A car is not optional here. There is no public transport to speak of, and that is part of the appeal. You will have these roads to yourself.

Pick your travelling companion

Small

Small

Ford Fiesta or Similar
32
Compact

Compact

Opel Astra or Similar
52
Standard

Standard

Skoda Octavia or Similar
53
Small SUV

Small SUV

Kia Sportage or Similar
53
SUV

SUV

Skoda Kodiaq or Similar
55
9 Seater

9 Seater

Opel Vivaro or Similar
98
Zero excess on every classTolls includedRequest a quote
Driving from Donegal Airport

Where the road takes you from here

Driving from Donegal Airport offers incredible coastal scenery. Follow the Wild Atlantic Way north to Gweedore or south toward Dungloe and Glenties. It’s the ideal starting point for exploring Ireland’s northwest.

Donegal features heavily

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includes the northwest

10-day Ireland itinerary

A 10-day Ireland self-drive itinerary: Kerry, Connemara, Mayo, Sligo and Donegal — the route that gets you to the northwest.

Arranmore is close

Ireland's coastal islands

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Good to know

Questions cousins ask about Donegal Airport

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Is a car necessary at Donegal Airport?
It is essential. Donegal Airport has no rail connection and very limited bus services. The nearest town, Dungloe, is 10 minutes by car. Without a car, you are effectively stranded.
What can I see near Donegal Airport?
Carrickfinn Beach is right beside the runway. Gweedore and the Bloody Foreland are 15 minutes north. Glenveagh National Park, with its castle and gardens, is about 40 minutes east. Slieve League's sea cliffs are an hour south.
Are the roads in Donegal difficult to drive?
Most main roads (N56, R259) are well surfaced but narrow and winding. Take your time, use passing places, and you will be fine. A Compact or Small car is ideal for these roads.
Can I drive from Donegal Airport to the Giant's Causeway?
Yes. It is about 2 hours 30 minutes east via Letterkenny and Derry. You cross into Northern Ireland, which is included in every rental. It makes a great day trip.
Is Donegal Airport open year-round?
Donegal Airport operates scheduled flights year-round, though the winter schedule is reduced. Check your airline for seasonal timetables. The car hire desk operates to match flight arrivals.
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