Irish county named in top five places in the world to visit in 2024

AN Irish county has been named the fourth-best region to visit in the world in 2024.

Lonely Planet has declared Donegal among its top destinations to visit next year in an annual Best in Travel list.

Released this week, the list, which marks the international travel guide’s 50^th anniversary, pays homage to the world’s hottest trends, destinations and experiences for the coming year.

Donegal comes in ahead of places like Southern Thailand, the Swahili Coast in Tanzania and Montana in the United States in the list.

The guide highlights the Irish county as having “the highest sea cliffs in Europe at Sliabh Liag, at 601m (1972ft), and miles of unspoilt coastal hiking trails along the Wild Atlantic Way”.

It also says that Donegal’s “ancient forts, musical traditions and rich heritage of the Irish language also make it an immersive experience for the curious visitor”.

First place in the Lonely Planet Best in Travel list goes to the Western Balkans’ Trans Dinarica Cycling Route.

Kangaroo Island in Australia places second, followed by Tuscany in Italy and then Donegal in northwest Ireland.

"Our picks for this year's Best in Travel seek to both inspire and follow the instincts of today's traveler,” Nitya Chambers, SVP Content and Executive Editor of Lonely Planet, said.

“Best in Travel is the pinnacle of Lonely Planet's travel inspiration, embodying the essence of authentic and sustainable exploration,” she added.

“It caters to the desires of travellers who yearn for genuine experiences, guided by local expertise.”

The travel publication uses its network of local travel experts, writers, and publishing partners to compile their list of most sought-after destinations of 2024.

The full list is compiled across five key categories, including top countries, regions, cities, sustainable travel destinations and best value locations.

Each category features 10 destinations chosen for their “topicality, unique experiences, 'wow' factor and ongoing commitment to sustainability and community”.

Ms Chambers said their anniversary edition, which is available in print this month, celebrates “50 years of travel”.

“We’re offering a window into the sights, cultures and communities of 50 incredible destinations, each a representation of where the future of travel (and Lonely Planet) is headed in years to come."

Welcoming the news of Donegal’s placing, Alice Mansergh, Chief Executive Designate of Tourism Ireland, said:“It’s really great news that Donegal has been named the fourth-best region in the world to visit in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2024.

“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 which will help position us well for 2024 and set us apart from competitor destinations.”

The 19th publication of Lonely Planet's Best in Travel guide is available for purchase at shop.lonelyplanet.com.