We are just back from a weekend staying at Fort Royal in Rathmullan, Co Donegal and it was about as perfect a short-break as it is possible to get. The hotel is in a stunning location on the shores of Loch Swilly - rolling lawns lead down to the sand dunes and a beautiful wide, gently shelving sandy beach. The sun shone all weekend and anywhere else the beach would have been packed, but here you have it to yourself (save for the odd horse and rider galloping along the shoreline - you can give it a try apparently!). The hotel also sports a lovely pitch and putt course in its grounds, set amongst the pines that stretch along the shoreline. It was a big hit with the kids and Dad alike and welcome relief from the more challenging courses for which this part of the world is famous.
We have a five and seven year old and they just loved it - they were outside all day and the hotel and grounds are so secluded and safe that Mum and Dad got plenty of R&R. The atmosphere is very relaxed, like a big family house, indeed three generations of the owners live in and around the hotel. There is even an honesty box in the bar! The staff are very personable, efficient and the service excellent (to young and old alike).
Tim who runs the place is also a marvellous chef and there was a great selection of locally sourced dishes on the menu both nights. He will come and share a drink with you afterwards and a few stories about the local area. The kids menu was good also and very generous and reasonable.
We had rooms in the main house which were charming, spacious and had lovely views. Two rooms adjoined by a little sitting room was perfect for us and the kids. I believe there are also converted stables at the back, but the hotel remains small and discreet and seems to attract a good mix of clientele from couples, young families and retired.
Overall, thoroughly recommend it to anyone visiting or passing through Donegal.
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