Home & Away with Robert Walshe
www.robertwalshe.com
Weekend Hotspot – Solis Lough Eske Donegal DONEGAL is Irelands most ancient and traditional county. The landscape is stunning with unspoilt sandy beaches, top golf courses and the best surfing in the world. Lough Eske Castle on the outskirts of Donegal town is the perfect base for sightseeing throughout the northwest where you will discover scenic coastal tours along the stunning Wild Atlantic Way. The region takes its name from the O’Donnell’s - one of the most powerful families
■ Solis Lough Eske Suite
who were the original inhabitants of Lough Eske Castle back in the 1400s. The castle that we see today was built in the mid 1800s. In fact a stone engraved with the year 1621 still remains on the property as a memory of its history. Renovated in recent years and transformed into Ireland most luxurious rural retreat, Solis Lough Eske Castle is perched on Lough Eske between Donegal Bay and the Blue Stack Mountains surrounded by 43 acres of ancient woodland. The setting is grand and
the drive imposing as you approach this most gracious Tudor Baronial property. Step into the castle and you marvel at the imposing lobby which has been lavishly refurbished and extended to create the modern comforts and graceful luxury that instantly competes with any world class hotel of its size. Here you can escape into a world of relaxed elegance and personal service with spacious public rooms, impressive fireplaces and leaded windows. The 98 bedrooms and suites vary with the most luxurious castle accommodations offering a blend of antique charm and modern comfort. The guestrooms at all levels exude a natural beauty and charm with a stylish blend of contemporary and traditional interiors. The antiques with specially commissioned artwork bring this historic building into the 21st century. On my winter visit I was spoilt by a secluded deluxe suite hidden away
For our best deals call 0044 28 9038 1111 or visit www.mooneyhotelgroup.com from any sign of people or life and I returned home feeling totally recharged assisted by a signature facial at Spa Solis. The dining room is stunning with floor-to-ceiling, button-back upholstery and modern crystal light fixtures. The A la carte menu at Cedars Grill offers fresh, locally sourced and sometimes organic produce – resulting in perfectly cooked dishes. The pork belly and Kettyle lamb rump were my course choices and ■ Solis Lough Es the quality and servke ice as usual impeccable. The wine listings while alongoverly pricey also impressed. side full access to the The leisure centre and spa in Spa Solis swimming pool, fitthe walled garden is designed ness room and thermal suite. to look like an old glasshouse This offer is valid for any with the 12m swimming pool three consecutive night’s positioned in a bright garden midweek (Sun-Thurs) and is setting. based on 2 people sharing. Solis Lough Eske, Ireland’s As the days get warmer leading 5 star resort are offer- and brighter, there is an ing a two night stay in a deluxe abundance of activities to do room with a third night free around the Solis Lough Eske. from £306 per couple mid- Explore the estate’s lakeside week. The accommodation for woodland trails, take a castle two people includes full Irish history tour or head off with breakfast daily at “Cedars” your loved ones or friend
using complimentary bikes at any time during your stay. This is a hotel that’s got the wow factor and continues to evolve. www.solislougheskecastle.ie Robert Walshe is a travel broadcaster with Q Radio in Northern Ireland and Travel Editor for River Media newspaper titles across the island of Ireland. www.robertwalshe.com