When we think of celebrity getaways, our minds often wander to glitzy destinations like the French Riviera or the Maldives. But Sarah Jessica Parker, the iconic actress who brought Carrie Bradshaw to life, has a different kind of escape. For the past three decades, she's found solace in a quiet corner of Ireland, specifically on the coast of County Donegal in the northwest.
This region, with its dramatic sea cliffs, rugged beaches, and unpredictable weather, offers a stark contrast to Carrie's chaotic New York City life. It's a place where Parker can unwind and immerse herself in nature's raw beauty.
A Love Affair with Donegal
Parker's love affair with Donegal began with an inherited holiday home in the tiny village of Roelough. She and her husband, Matthew Broderick, have visited numerous times over the years, and their commitment to the region is evident in their recent plans to expand the home for future family holidays.
Even after all these years, Parker's passion for Donegal remains strong. In a 2025 Instagram post, she gushed about the region's beauty, emphasizing that photos simply can't capture its essence. Surrounded by grazing livestock, rocky hills, and breathtaking cliffs, it's no wonder she's fallen head over heels for this part of Ireland.
Exploring Donegal's Highlights
For visitors, Donegal has much to offer. One of the main attractions is Sliabh Liag, Europe's highest accessible sea cliffs. These towering cliffs, reaching 600 meters above the ocean, provide a habitat for nesting seabirds and offer a breathtaking view. While the One Man's Pass hiking route is reserved for the most adventurous, the Pilgrim's Path is a more accessible option, providing a 2.5-mile stroll with a rewarding view at the end.
Donegal's coast isn't all about dramatic cliffs. It also boasts enchanting beaches like Fintra Beach near Killybegs, with its soft golden sand stretching almost 2,000 feet wide. A half-hour drive north, Portnoo Beach offers a unique experience with a sand spit connecting to a tiny island at low tide, and a beachside sauna for a wild spa adventure.
A Taste of Donegal's Retail Therapy
For those who enjoy a spot of shopping, Donegal has some unique offerings. Parker has been known to indulge in the handwoven blankets from Studio Donegal in Kilcar, just a stone's throw from her home. She's also worn the finely tailored tweed from Tríona, which was featured in the show "And Just Like That."
A visit to the Tríona visitor center in Ardara allows you to witness the weaving process firsthand, followed by a pub lunch at Nancy's, a local favorite known for its snugs and dining nooks, and its delicious locally smoked salmon and Guinness beef stews.
Accommodation Options
If you're planning a trip to Donegal, there are various accommodation options to choose from. For a self-catering experience, there are plenty of good-quality holiday homes available, such as a restored sheep farmer's cottage in Kilcar with sea views, or a modern house on the shores of Fintra Beach.
For those seeking a more luxurious stay, the Lough Eske Hotel offers a five-star experience. This 19th-century castle hotel, set on the shores of a large lake, provides spacious bedrooms, a fabulous spa, and a restaurant serving the best of Irish cuisine. Plus, with a Lucian Freud portrait of Andrew Parker-Bowles on display and the Queen Consort's ex-husband as a director of the owning organization, you'll feel like royalty during your stay.
Conclusion
Donegal's appeal to Sarah Jessica Parker showcases the region's unique charm and beauty. It's a place where one can escape the chaos of city life and immerse themselves in nature's drama. From its breathtaking cliffs to its enchanting beaches and unique shopping experiences, Donegal offers a slower, wilder pace of life that's hard to resist. As Parker's continued visits and Instagram posts attest, this corner of Ireland has a special magic that keeps drawing people back.
