In summary
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Sports
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Duration7 days
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LevelAll levels
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DestinationEurope / Ireland
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AgeFrom 18 - 70 years
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CO₂-Emissions59.4 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
Italian
French
English
Spanish
In a few words
Head to the northwest coast of Ireland for an immersive surfing experience , between secluded beaches and unspoiled nature. For 7 days , let yourself be carried away by the rhythm of the waves in a pristine setting far from the crowds. You'll enjoy 5 surf sessions led by certified coaches, ideal for progressing regardless of your level, beginner or intermediate.
Your accommodation: a spacious and eco-friendly lodge, with private or shared rooms, all with en-suite bathrooms . The bright and welcoming common areas offer panoramic views of Mulroy Bay. Each morning, a healthy, locally sourced breakfast provides the energy you need for your adventures.
Also on the program: Fanad Lighthouse tour , guided hike in a national park, local transfers included , and an underwater photo session to capture the moment.
This stay combines escape, well-being, and connection with nature , for a return to the essentials in all its simplicity. An authentic and rejuvenating journey, where every moment becomes a memory.
The highlights
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Personalized surf coaching (1 instructor for 5 people) on the secret beaches of Donegal
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Spacious and quiet lodge with private bathroom and bay view
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Relaxed, family-friendly & international atmosphere
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
We welcome beginner and intermediate surfers, and our priority is to guarantee safe, progressive and regular sessions.
One of Winki Waves' biggest advantages is the reliability of the conditions : we have access to two complementary surf areas just minutes from the lodge.
- When the swell is small , we choose a spot that captures the swell better , ideal for learning, catching as many waves as possible and progressing calmly.
- When the swell is bigger (or the wind picks up), we also have a more sheltered option, which often allows surfing in better conditions (less impact, more comfort) while remaining suitable for the group's level.
Each day, we adapt the choice of spot (swell, tide, wind) and the course content to the participants' level. The result: more time "in the waves," faster progress, and a more reliable experience over the week.
In figures
Surfing
- Average duration/day: 2h
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 3h30
- Average distance/day: 7 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 100 m
- Average daily descent: 100 m
Management
Alessandro Bonardi is the founder and lead instructor of Winki Waves Surf Lodge. Certified by the ISA (International Surfing Association), he has international experience surfing in Bali, Morocco, Australia, France, Italy, Nicaragua, and Ireland. Multilingual, he speaks fluent English, French, Italian, Spanish, and some German, facilitating communication with participants from all over the world.
Alessandro sees surfing as a philosophy of life, a way to connect with nature and fully experience the present moment. His teaching approach is centered on listening, kindness, and adapting to the individual needs of each surfer, whether beginner or intermediate. Thanks to his expertise and passion, he guides participants with enthusiasm, helping them progress technically while cultivating a true connection with the ocean.
Program
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Arrival and check-in at Winki Waves Lodge
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Participants arrive in the afternoon between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM . This first day is dedicated to relaxation and getting to know each other.
Upon arrival, you will be welcomed at the lodge by the Winki Waves team with a hot or refreshing drink.
You discover your room, the place, the other participants, and the unique atmosphere of the lodge with a view of the bay.
No sporting activities are planned for that day — the goal is to relax, breathe, and start to unwind .
In the evening: dinner on your own, shared kitchen available, warm atmosphere and first conversations around the table.
Day 1 -
First session & surf immersion
- Transportation Minibus - 00h15 - 10km
- Activity Surfing
- Duration of the activity 2h10
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
The trip officially begins with a first surfing session at one of our favorite spots on the northwest coast.
In the morning, enjoy a homemade breakfast at the lodge, then depart by minibus for the beach with the group and the coach. You will receive your equipment (board and wetsuit), followed by a warm-up, safety briefing , and initial exercises in the water.
Whether you are a beginner or already comfortable on the board, this session is designed to build your confidence and offer you your first gliding sensations in complete safety.
The afternoon is free to relax, explore the surroundings, or chat with other participants. You've officially entered the Winki rhythm: surfing, nature, and good vibes.
Day 2 -
Surfing, relaxation & connecting with nature
- Transportation Minibus - 00h15 - 10km
- Activity Surfing
- Duration of the activity 2h10
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After waking up overlooking Mulroy Bay and enjoying a good breakfast, you head out for your second surf session , which is more focused and progressive.
The coach adapts the exercises according to your level and the sensations of the previous day: gaining speed, reading the wave, positioning… Each wave becomes an opportunity to learn in a caring and motivating atmosphere.
Back at the lodge, the afternoon is devoted to active recovery : a walk to the port, a nap in the shade of a tree, reading on the terrace… Or simply doing nothing.
That's Winki luxury: moving, breathing, sharing, without pressure.
Day 3 -
Skiing in the morning, wilderness in the afternoon
- Transportation Minibus - 00h35 - 30km
- Activity Surfing
- Duration of the activity 2h10
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Distance 7 km
- Positive elevation gain 100 m
- Negative elevation 100 m
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
The day begins with breakfast and your third surf session , again guided by our coach. Whether you're catching your first real waves or perfecting your maneuvers, this session aims to strengthen your independence and fluidity in the water.
In the afternoon, head to Glenveagh National Park for a gentle and scenic hike through spectacular landscapes: lakes, moors, forests and perhaps even free-roaming deer.
This contrast between the intensity of surfing in the morning and the serenity of nature in the afternoon makes this day unique — a condensed version of what Donegal has to offer at its purest.
Return to the lodge at the end of the day for a well-deserved rest.
Day 4 -
Surf & salty souvenirs and closing pizza night
- Transportation Minibus - 00h15 - 10km
- Activity Surfing
- Duration of the activity 2h10
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
This is already your fourth surf session , and you can feel the difference: more ease, more waves, more fun. To immortalize this progress, here are some photos to capture your best moments on the water.
These photos are much more than a souvenir: they also allow for post-session technical analysis , to adjust your posture, your gaze, your timing.
The rest of the day is free: swimming, chilling at the lodge, going for a walk.
A moment to celebrate what you have accomplished — and surf some more, if the energy is there!
After the exertion, it's time to relax: in the evening, the whole group gathers for a homemade pizza party , cooked in a wood-fired oven. It's an opportunity to share memories, laughter, and photos, and to celebrate together the end of this wonderful Irish adventure.
Day 5 -
Last Slide & Lighthouse Tour
- Transportation Minibus - 00h15 - 10km
- Activity Surfing
- Duration of the activity 2h10
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After your morning surf session and a leisurely lunch, the afternoon is dedicated to a getaway to the Fanad Peninsula to discover one of Donegal's most iconic spots: the Fanad Head Lighthouse .
We take the road between cliffs, small coastal roads and wide-angle views of the Atlantic, then we enjoy a moment at the lighthouse to breathe, take photos, and savor this “edge-of-the-world feeling” typical of Donegal.
Return to the lodge at the end of the day for a free evening, chilling and sharing before the departure the next day.
Day 6 -
Quiet wake-up & goodbye (10:00–11:30)
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Last wake-up at the lodge, a gentle morning to bring this interlude to a beautiful close. Between 10:00 and 11:30 , we meet one last time for coffee/tea, a relaxing moment, and final exchanges with the group.
It's time for goodbyes , last photos, exchanged contact information… and leaving with salt on your skin, your head full of memories, and the desire to return. 🌊
Day 7
Note
The full stay lasts 7 days and 6 nights , with arrival scheduled for the afternoon of Day 1 and departure on Day 7 in the morning (between 10am and 11:30am) .
The program is designed to offer a balance between surfing progression, nature activities, wellness and moments of relaxation .
The daily organization (surfing times, hiking, Fanad lighthouse, etc.) can be adjusted according to the weather, tides and ocean conditions , in order to guarantee a safe and optimal experience for each participant.
We are committed to providing you with the best possible experience while respecting the natural elements of Donegal — here, the sea sets the pace!
Accommodation
Winki Waves Surf Lodge is a warm house nestled between the ocean and the hills of Donegal.
You will find a fully equipped shared kitchen , a bright living room with panoramic views and indoor and outdoor relaxation areas .
Surf atmosphere, nature, and friendliness guaranteed.
Access
The stay ends on the last day between 10:00 and 11:30 at the Winki Waves Surf Lodge in Kerrykeel. Participants can arrange their return at that time, or enjoy some free time before their departure.
Transfers to Milford or Letterkenny can be arranged in advance for those travelling by bus. We recommend planning a return trip for at least early afternoon, or better yet, in the evening if you are taking a flight on the same day from Dublin, Derry or Belfast.
Go to the starting point
From each airport, it is advisable to rent a car to easily reach Kerrykeel.
From Dublin Airport, you have several options to reach Winki Waves in Kerrykeel:
- Option 1: Bus + local shuttle
- Travelers can book a ticket with McGinley Coach, which offers a direct route from Dublin Airport to Letterkenny . From there, a local shuttle (arranged by Winki Waves on request) provides the connection to the lodge in Kerrykeel.
- Option 2: Private group transfer
- For groups (up to 10 people), a private minibus can be arranged directly from Dublin Airport to the lodge (round trip available). This service is organized in collaboration with McGinley Travel Group.
These solutions make it easier for participants to arrive, avoiding car rental while enjoying a scenic drive through Donegal.
Winki Waves Surf Lodge is located in Kerrykeel, on the Fanad Peninsula, in County Donegal.
From Dublin: take the M1 north, then follow the N2/N14 towards Letterkenny.
From there, follow the signs for Milford then Kerrykeel (approximately 3.5 hours drive).
From Derry or Belfast: allow approximately 1 hour to 2 hours 15 minutes depending on the starting point.
Price details
The price includes
- 6 nights' accommodation at Winki Waves Surf Lodge (private or shared room with bathroom)
- 7 homemade breakfasts
- 5 surf lessons supervised by a certified coach (equipment included)
- 1. Fanad's flagship visit
- 1 guided hike in Glenveagh National Park
- 1 photo shoot in the water during a surfing session
- 1 dinner - homemade wood-fired pizza evening
- Access to all lodge facilities
- Local transfers to beaches and activities
- 1 Sauna Session
The price does not include
- Lunch and 5 dinners (shared kitchen available)
- Personal travel insurance
- Transport to Kerrykeel (see Transport section)
- Personal expenses
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Surfboard suited to your skill level
- Neoprene suit
- Leash and wax
- Transportation to the spots
- Photo equipment for the surf session
- Bed linen and bath towels
Equipment to bring
- Water-resistant sunscreen (essential, even under cloudy skies)
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunglasses
- Small backpack for day trips
- Toiletry bag
Clothing to bring
- Swimsuits (2 if possible)
- Comfortable clothing for leisure time (leggings, shorts, t-shirt, sweatshirt)
- Warm sweater/fleece (even in summer, evenings can be cool)
- Windproof or waterproof jacket
- Walking shoes (for hiking in Glenveagh - optional)
- Easy-to-remove shoes (optional - flip-flops/sandals for beach-lodge journeys)
- Yoga clothes (optional but recommended)
- Bath towel + beach towel
They traveled with us
They traveled with us
Anna
- 25 ans
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august 2025
In a group
The ALESSANDRO team
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