Sandrock Holiday Hostel
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Sandrock Holiday Hostel

Traveller (51)
one of the roomy dorm rooms
Room & Suite (10)
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Dining (3)

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About

5.0
#1 of 1 hostel in Malin Head
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Location
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Value
Sandrock Holiday Hostel is situated at 'Ireland's Most Northerly Point' in Malin Head Donegal above the small fishing pier at Port Ronan. From within the hostel there are ever changing breathtaking spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean [White Strand Bay], the headlands of Inishowen and Fanad Peninsulas and the Highlands of Donegal. These ever changing seascapes and landscapes including spectacular sunsets/sunrises at Malin Head are especially very popular with photographers and artists. The hostel at Malin Head is at a premier scenic rural location, which is a perfect base for touring, walking or cycling. Descriptive circular routes in various languages are available at the hostel. These routes highlight the local points of interest and facilities including: where to collect semi-precious stones, places of historical interest; where to buy or catch local fish including salmon [when in season] lobsters, crabs, mussels and oysters which can all be cooked in the hostel; where to view dolphins, seals and whales; and where to locate rare birds including the corncrakes, all sea birds and various birds of prey. Malin Head has also become extremely popular with divers interested in the numerous wrecks submerged just off the coast because of the unique good visibility underwater here. [Often referred to in diving magazines]. In very recent times they have located long lost wrecks. Also more and more surfers are using Malin Head. This is an unhurried hassle free area, with a welcoming friendly community with bars and shops that do not close until 1am. Bar food and restaurants. Other facilities at hostel include: Cycle hire - at special rates for guests! Musical instruments for loan to hostel guests. Nearby there is horse riding available and a unique Famine Farm attraction. Eating out and socialising in bars is considerably cheaper than in urban areas and local characters, many of whom are storytellers and/or musicians, are just waiting to meet our guests. Free WIFI access available for guests In common with other tourist hostels we provide quality budget holiday accommodation. We can accommodate up to 20 guests in two comfortable en-suite dormitories. Each dormitory has large bunk beds [duvets and pillows are provided] two showers, two wash hand basins and a toilet. There is an additional toilet, shower and wash hand basin for persons with limited mobility. There is a double self-catering kitchen equipped with utensils, hobs, microwave ovens, sinks etc and a solid fuel range with an additional oven and cooking facilities. Utensils and instructions are available for cooking locally caught fish [salmon when in season] lobsters, crabs, mussels and oysters! There are spectacular views available from a comfortable dining and lounge area, shared by all guests. A private car park and cycle shed is available for guests. Cycle hire is also available - at hostel - at special rates for guests! We are Tourist Board Approved and are members of IHH and IHO [Hostel organisations]. We welcome any enquiries and will give advice on other local accommodation [if ours is not suitable] and the daily transport facilities to Malin Head from places like Dublin, Belfast, Letterkenny and Derry. Directions: Long Distance Bus Services: If coming direct to Sandrock Holiday Hostel from Dublin or Galway get the DERRY bus'. Derry has local services to Inishowen.Mondays to Fridays there are bus services, by request thro hostel, to Sandrock Holiday Hostel.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Wifi
Beach
Shuttle bus service
Non-smoking hotel
Self-serve laundry
Room features
Kitchenette
Microwave
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Budget
Family
65Reviews4Q+A7Room tips

Reviews
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Detailed Reviews
mosstin wrote a review Jul 2020
Miri
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Beautiful, quiet, atmospheric hostel run by the warm and welcoming Rodney. Presently limiting visitors due to Covid-19 restrictions but every precaution being taken in the hostel - great to see.
The hostel looks out on a bday from which I spotted dolphins jumping on my first night there. Five minute drive from Malin Head itself and right next to village shops and takeaways. Superb place and highly recommended.
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Date of stay: July 2020Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lyle G wrote a review Sept 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I got a great welcome from Rodney. Great comfy warm facilities. I recommend to everyone visiting the area.
I don’t understand why more people don’t enjoy the possibilities offered staying in hostel accommodation.. it’s cheap as chips and the experience is warmer and more welcoming than most b and bs or hotels! Great restaurant only 5 minutes away as well.
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Date of stay: September 2024Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John Quigley wrote a review Apr 2024
Manchester, United Kingdom
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sandrock is situated overlooking Port Ronan and the White Strand shoreline. The stunning views out to the wets and south West of Inishowen are spectacular and beautiful. Rodney is a wonderfully welcoming host, and his knowledge of the area is encyclopedic. He is a lovely man and he made our stay special and memorable. Thank you Rodney, we shall return 💚
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Date of stay: April 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Darlene E wrote a review Jul 2022
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Wonderful hosts. Very thoughtful and hospitable.
Great value.
Exciting roads and wonderful scenery.
The best sea views from front, with views from bedroom, from lounge, from outside seating.
Would highly recommend.
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Date of stay: July 2022Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Loula wrote a review Jun 2022
Conwy, United Kingdom
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I was lucky enough to have the whole hostel to myself and it was exactly what I needed after a long drive. Rodney and Margaret could not have been more welcoming, and made me a lovely mug of tea and biscuits on arrival.

Total solitude, a comfy lounge with a view to die for! It was a struggle to leave my cosy spot but there are lovely beaches and ocean views all around.

An absolute gem of a place, with years of love invested in it, a high point of my trip to Donegal.
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Date of stay: June 2022
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sean M wrote a review Apr 2018
The Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield, United Kingdom
5.0 of 5 bubbles
What a wonderful place! The best view out the front window you could ever hope for.
The beach is 100m from the front door and there are plenty of walks around. The nearest shop/pub is a couple of miles away. Rodney and Margaret are the owners and are extremely helpful regarding any advice you need on where to go etc. If you're going to Malin Head then stay here. It's an absolute bargain as well.
Amazing place!
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Date of stay: April 2018Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MissyMoran wrote a review Jul 2016
Oxford, United Kingdom
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I had the perfect stay here. I wish I had stayed an extra night in fact as 2 wasn't enough. My favourite thing was being given a pot of tea by Margaret, after a long trip, and being sat down in the cosy living room to try and spot dolphins! The views and location are unbeatable and the hosts amazing, friendly people. The whole area was so welcoming. I'd recommend cycling round the head.
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Date of stay: July 2016Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
notallwhowandrrlost wrote a review Oct 2015
5.0 of 5 bubbles
First of all, County Donegal is just so beautiful in general and is a must-do in Ireland. It is so worth it to go up to Malin Head and stay at this hostel- it's the perfect place to get away for a few days or overnight if you're driving the Wild Atlantic Way. I had great weather when I was there and the view from the hostel room was amazing. The owners are just lovely and so knowledgeable about everything. The hostel itself was great- dorm rooms but they are big and mine had two bathrooms in it. Really clean, met some nice travellers, and got to explore the area with the helpful maps and advice provided by the owners. I would definitely come back here and would highly reccommend staying here.
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Date of stay: May 2015
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
4.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled solo
Room Tip: The dorm room to the left when you walk in has the best views!
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
IncisPincis wrote a review Jun 2016
Riga, Latvia
5.0 of 5 bubbles
After long cycling ride, i finally reached the ireland north point. And then i found out that there is hostel. So i went and i was pleasantly surprised. Its so cosy, so relaxed. The hosts are wonderfull people, helpfull. I stayed for one night, but would love to stay much longer. Its so quite there!
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Date of stay: June 2016Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Em_G555 wrote a review Jan 2016
Dublin, Ireland
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Stayed at the Sandrock for New Year's Eve and had a wonderful time. We had a wonderful welcome from the owners who gave us a lot of information and a lovely pot of tea and biccies. We stayed in the dorm room at the back which was really warm and comfortable with a shower room and a toilet and shower at each end of the room. Bring a sheet or sleeping bag or you can rent a bottom sheet for not much money. The kitchen is incredibly well equipped with multiples of everything you could ever need and its like a home away from home in the wonderful lounge area which looks out onto the sea. The front dorm room has this view too. Its a fantastic location and very peaceful place to relax in.
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Date of stay: January 2016
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled with friends
Room Tip: Front dorm has sea views, bring a bottom sheet/sleeping bag or rent for €1.50. There is a duvet...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Answer from Li R
There is a one local shop that takes you about 25 minutes by foot. There's no bus connection in the village other than the shuttle bus that you have to call on first that takes you to the hostel and that one only goes once a day. I advise you to get in touch with Rodney from the hostel and he'll help you with local stuff!
Answer from Portronan
Greetings from Ireland's Most Sunniest and Northerly Point - Malin Head in Co Donegal and Sandrock Holiday Hostel! Thank you for your enquiry Local Buses available Direct to Hostel From Donegal Town either get a bus to Derry City to arrive in Derry City before 3pm. OR Go to Letterkenny and catch the 1pm bus to CARNdonagh which arrives at .2-20pm and connects with the Rural Transport Bus at 4pm to the hostel as detailed below. . The easiest way by public transport is on Mondays to Fridays (but not on Bank Holidays) to be in Derry at 3pm to catch the North West Busways connection to Carndonagh (3.10pm) at Patrick Street, Derry which is opposite the cinema. Then in Carndonagh catch the 4.pm Inishowen Rural Bus to Malin Head and ask for Sandrock Holiday Hostel. They will bring you to the hostel. They will also pick up at the Hostel at 11-45am any day Mondays to Fridays (but not on Bank Holidays) to connect with other buses in Carndonagh to Derry and Letterkenny. To find out more detailed information about us, you can look us up on our website You can see guests comments on this site and details of bus services to the hostel under ‘Travel’
Answer from Portronan
Hello Anne Greetings from Ireland's Most Sunniest and Northerly Point - Malin Head in Co Donegal and Sandrock Holiday Hostel! Thank you for your enquiry for 21st to 29th July 2015 at Sandrock Holiday Hostel. At this time we have vacancies on those days. We can accommodate 20 guests in two ten bed ensuite dormitories at a basic price of 13.50 euro pppn ( payable in Euros on arrival ). If you do not bring your own sleeping bags/ bedsheet. A sheet can be hired at 1.50 Euro extra. Duvets and pillows are supplied . So full bedlinen can be provided. No deposit is required but payment is requested on arrival please. The hostel is entirely self catering and ingredients for meals can be purchased in the nearby supermarket or in local pub/shops for preparation in hostel. There is also a good restaurant at the Seaview Tavern and pub grub (pizzas) at Farrens Bar nearby in Malin Head. Free WiFi available for guests with own laptops. . To find out more detailed information about us, you can look us up on our website. You can see guests comments on this site and details of bus services to the hostel .There is a new You Tube guest entry showing a group visit at Sandrock Hostel see ‘Sandrock Holiday Hostel, Malin Head, Ireland 2014 If you require any further information or wish to make a definite booking please contact us. We hope you enjoy your holiday in Malin Head! Best Wishes Margaret and Rodney Sandrock Holiday Hostel "At Ireland's Most Northerly Point" Port Ronan Pier Malin Head Inishowen Peninsula Co Donegal Ireland Tel:074 93 70289 from Ireland 00353 74 93 70289 from rest of World
Em_G555 wrote a tip Jan 2016
Dublin, Ireland
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Front dorm has sea views, bring a bottom sheet/sleeping bag or rent for €1.50. There is a duvet and a pillowcase there.Bring cash."
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notallwhowandrrlost wrote a tip Oct 2015
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"The dorm room to the left when you walk in has the best views!"
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Neil F wrote a tip Aug 2014
Cookstown, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"The dorm at the front has got views of the sea."
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Frits B wrote a tip Jul 2013
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"There is only a little to pick. There is nothing for Meditarian boatcruisers."
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Amy H wrote a tip Mar 2013
Chicago, Illinois, United States
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"The dorm next to the common area has a great view of the beach!"
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LOCATION
IrelandCounty DonegalMalin Head
NUMBER OF ROOMS
2
Prices are provided by our partners for one room, with variable occupancy rules as provided by the property, and reflect nightly room rates, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
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SANDROCK HOLIDAY HOSTEL | UPDATED 2024 Reviews (Malin Head, Ireland) - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Sandrock Holiday Hostel
Which popular attractions are close to Sandrock Holiday Hostel?
Nearby attractions include Wild Alpaca Way (4.0 km), Doagh Famine village (6.0 km), and Malin Head (2.5 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Sandrock Holiday Hostel?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free parking, and shuttle bus service.
Is parking available at Sandrock Holiday Hostel?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Sandrock Holiday Hostel?
Conveniently located restaurants include Seaview Tavern, Farren's Bar, and Kitty Sean's.
Are there any historical sites close to Sandrock Holiday Hostel?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Doagh Famine village (6.0 km) and Wee House at Malin (2.7 km).
Is Sandrock Holiday Hostel accessible?
Yes, it offers wheelchair access and reduced mobility rooms. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.
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