TRAVEL GUIDE COMPANY Lonely Planet has named Donegal the fourth-best region in the world to visit in 2024.

Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2024 publication ranks trends, destinations and experiences for the coming year.

It describes Donegal 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”.

“Its ancient forts, musical traditions and rich heritage of the Irish language also make it an immersive experience for the curious visitor.”

The top three regions were the Western Balkans’ Trans Dinarica; Kangaroo Island’s Cycling Route in Australia; and Tuscany, Italy.

In fifth and sixth place were País Vasco in Spain and Southern Thailand.

The Swahili Coast of Tanzania; Montana, USA; Saalfelden Leogang, Austria; and the far north of Scotland completed the list.

Alice Mansergh, Chief Executive Designate of Tourism Ireland, said it was “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,”" she said.

“It’s another well-deserved accolade which will help position us well for 2024 and set us apart from competitor destinations. I would like to extend my thanks to Lonely Planet and my congratulations to all the tourism and hospitality providers in beautiful Donegal.”

Dublin was declared the seventh-best city in the world to visit in 2022 and Galway the fourth-best in 2020.