The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland?
What makes it 78% Couple-Friendly: Couples can stroll scenic loops with castle views, share a lakeside picnic, and adopt a donkey together, creating an inexpensive, peaceful date in the countryside.
Positives:
- No entry fee: Enjoy all walks and facilities without an admission charge.
- Up-close donkey encounters: Donkeys often approach the fence, letting you feed or photograph them safely.
- Flexible timings: Open Friday–Monday, 9:00–16:00, for a quiet weekday morning visit.
Challenges:
- Limited opening days: Closed Tuesday–Thursday—plan your trip around the Friday–Monday schedule.
- Muddy trails: After rain, paths become slippery—bring sturdy shoes or boots.
- No regular guided tours: Private tours must be arranged in advance by contacting the sanctuary.
What is The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland?
- A non-profit donkey sanctuary and rescue centre in Liscarroll, Cork dedicated to the rehabilitation and lifelong care of neglected and abandoned donkeys
- A working farm that houses over 1,700 donkeys and mules across rolling pastureland, providing veterinary treatment, social enrichment and specialised feeding regimes
- A base for The Donkey Sanctuary charity’s welfare initiatives in Ireland, integrating rescue operations, adoption programmes and community outreach
What is so special about The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland for couple trip?
- Several scenic self-guided loops let you stroll alongside friendly donkeys.
- Lakeside picnic tables provide a quiet spot to relax and enjoy your own lunch.
- The visitor centre serves free hot drinks and sells unique donkey-themed gifts.
- Adopt-a-donkey scheme supports care and gives you a certificate and portrait.
- Easy half-day outing with no admission fee—perfect for a couple’s escape.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time for a self-guided walk, lakeside picnic, visitor centre stop and browsing the gift shop without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland
Lime Kiln & Rock Walks:
Follow way-marked loops past paddocks and ruins.
Tip: Start at opening to catch donkeys grazing near the yard.
Lakeside Picnic:
Relax at sheltered tables by the lake.
Tip: Bring a packed lunch and pick a shaded bench for a quieter spot.
Visitor Information Centre:
Enjoy complimentary tea, coffee or hot chocolate and browse donkey crafts.
Tip: Try the hot chocolate and shop early to avoid midday queues.
Adopt a Donkey:
Support the sanctuary with a €25 annual adoption.
Tip: Sign up on-site or online in advance to get your certificate and portrait before you leave.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland
- Arrive early: Get to the gates at 9:00 to enjoy empty paths and early donkey activity.
- Download trail map: Grab the PDF map from the website before you go to plan your route.
- Use reserved parking: Call ahead to reserve the disabled-access spot close to the centre if needed.
Reviews of The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland
Aimin Nimia
Incredible day out, we travelled 3 hours to get here and we would do it again, friendly and welcoming staff. Well worth the day trip
Swea Ann Hagenhoff (Swanhaho)
This place is absolutely lovely! There are three different paths that take you around the Sanctuary, each offering views of the beautiful creatures (and they are up for a little pet) and stunning scenery. There's a small gift shop on the premises, as well as a picnic area. I will definitely return to visit my little adoptee! 🤗
Margaret Rayner
Very cool place for donkeys! Highly recommended if you love donkeys and have an hour to kill. ! And IT'S FREE!!!!!!
Kayla Chislett
A lovely day out, suitable for all ages. Staff were friendly, the donkeys are well looked after, the paths around the sanctuary are well marked and clean.
Mairead Kelly
A group of us visited the donkey sanctuary as I had given one of my friends a gift of adopting a donkey for her 60th birthday. We were so impressed with it, between great parking, a lovely visitor centre and picnic area. Most importantly though was how clean the place was and you could just tell the donkeys were well looked after. There are three choices of walks you can do, short to long. The sta...
When is the best time to visit The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland (Cork, Ireland)?
April–June brings wildflowers along the trails—ideal for photos. After rain, paths get muddy: wear waterproof footwear. Summer weekends fill up by noon, so aim for a Friday visit.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adopt a donkey (1 year) | EUR 25 |
| Hot drinks (2) | EUR 4 |
| Ice cream (2) | EUR 5 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 34 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland
Address: The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland, Knockardbane, Liscarroll, Co. Cork, P51 PH29, Ireland
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About The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+353 22 4839810 BEST nearby Activities
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