Lough Eske Castle
Donegal, Ireland
Lough Eske Castle overview
The fantastic Lough Eske Castle is a luxury castle hotel near Donegal in North West Ireland. It is a property that allows guests to step back in time whilst enjoying modern comforts and lavish designs from its recent refurbishment.
Although it is a tale of being won, lost, ruined and restored, the new Lough Eske Castle as we know it today was built in 1861 and has been considered one of Ireland’s flagship hotels for many years. A winner of many prestigious awards, the castle embraces the breathtaking backdrop of the Blue Stack Mountains in 43 acres of forest woodland next to the shores of Lough Eske.
Home to three restaurants serving classy food and several places to have a drink whether it be sat by a log fire or in a deep armchair this hotel is the definition of relaxation and calm.
Golf Courses
Part of Ireland’s north west coast appeal, commonly known as the ‘Wild Atlantic Way’, is the remoteness of it all. It is perfectly suited to the true golf explorer who likes to get off the beaten track. Getting to golf courses may take a little longer but the extra effort is well worthwhile.
From Lough Eske Castle you have the likes of Rosapenna and Ballyliffin to the north, with County Sligo (Rosses Point) and Enniscrone to the south. Much closer by is the incredible Donegal Golf Club and for rugged beauty, Narin & Portnoo is a must.
Accommodation
Guests are spoilt for choice with 97 spacious 5-star rooms and suites, with each complementing the restoration of the castle whilst remaining sensitive to its history. Room options range from Courtyard Suites which were converted from the old stables to contemporary garden suites and those looking for the height of luxury the Castle Rooms and Suites.
Restaurant & Bars
Cedars Restaurant is the premier dining option, with a magnificent setting and fine cuisine, whilst The Gallery Bar and Lobby is the perfect chilled hang out with a bistro-style menu. Alternatively, guests can indulge in history whilst enjoying a drink and bite to eat in The Father Browne Bar, which displays over 200 of the greatest images taken by the extraordinary Father ‘Titanic’ Browne.
Spa & Leisure
To complete the 5-star experience, body and mind can be restored in the CARA Organic Beauty Spa which comprises of 7 treatment rooms, a thermal suite and infinity pool.
Location
On the north west coast of Ireland, a 10-minute drive northeast of Donegal overlooking the stunning Lough Eske. International access is best through Dublin Airport which is a 3-hour drive away.
Did You Know
Father Browne is generally considered to be Ireland's most important photographer of the twentieth century. Often known as 'Father Browne of the Titanic', due to the fact he was ordered to ‘get off that ship’ prior to the final leg of the voyage.
Disembarking at Cobh ensured international fame when, following the tragedy of the sinking of the Titanic, his photographs were published on front pages all around the world. Over 200 of his greatest images are displayed in the Father Browne Bar at Lough Eske Castle.
Golf courses near to Lough Eske Castle
Glashedy Links
at Ballyliffin Golf Club
The Glashedy Links at Ballyliffin Golf Club is a Pat Ruddy masterpiece that ranks amongst the top 10 courses in Ireland. Very challenging and hosted the European Tour’s 2018 Irish Open.
Old Links
at Ballyliffin Golf Club
The Old Links at Ballyliffin is for links purists. As traditional as they come with rolling fairways that meander through the dunes. No tricks, just links golf at its best. Ranked top 20 in Ireland.
Old Tom Morris Links
at Rosapenna Hotel & Golf Links
An Old Tom Morris classic links that opened in 1893 and is one of two magnificent courses at the Rosapenna Hotel & Golf Resort. Located in the north of Ireland overlooking beautiful Sheephaven Bay.
Sandy Hills Course
at Rosapenna Hotel & Golf Links
A magnificent modern links course cut through gigantic dunes adjacent to Sheephaven Bay in the very north of Ireland. One of two courses at the Rosapenna Hotel & Golf Resort. Ranked top 50 in Ireland.