Lough Eske, Co. Donegal

Woven into the very fabric of Ireland – into iconic Donegal tweed – Lough Eske is a living piece of history. With a story that reaches back into the 1600s, the castle has always held a certain status and now extends an invitation to feel part of Irish history in the most luxurious setting. Perched on a sprawling lough with stunning Donegal landscapes reaching out in every direction, it’s a place to sink into your surroundings before sinking into refined cuisine at Cedars Restaurant, a soothing spa treatment at CARA Organic Spa and the warm embrace of each of the 96 rooms and suites.

Location

Stood between the calm lough waters from which it takes its name and the Blue Stack Mountains, Lough Eske is in a truly picturesque corner of County Donegal. Perfectly within reach of the beauty of Glenveagh National Park and the tempestuousness of the Wild Atlantic Way, there is all manner of adventures to be had. Be it walking, surfing or golfing that takes your fancy, there’s a place for it all. A two and a half hour drive from Belfast or three and a half from Dublin takes you onto this stretch of the Atlantic Coast with plenty more scenic drives at your fingertips on arrival.

Your Room

Dotted throughout the castle and its grounds, each of the 96 rooms takes on its own distinct personality. United as light-filled spaces where emphasis is placed on the emerald landscapes, interiors are full of warm, neutral hues with plush furnishings and hand-carved furniture. We loved the courtyard rooms for their cozy country feel, set as they are within the old castle stables, but also the garden suites where the sunlight floods through French doors onto Lough Eske’s sprawling gardens.

Why we like it

Ireland is all about the great outdoors and a stay at Lough Eske perfectly captures this sentiment. For our favorite day out, take a boat out onto Lough Eske, cast your rod and wait. The fishing here is some of the best with plenty of trout and salmon to catch. Once you’ve reeled in your prize, head back onshore where the team will teach you how to cure and smoke your fish before serving it up alongside a glass of crisp champagne. A well-earned reward if you ask us.