Lough Eske Castle | 5-Star Spa & Historic Stay

75 photos

Lough Eske Castle Hotel Donegal Town Nearby photo The photo shows a large, light-colored stone building, likely a manor house or castle, situated on a sprawling green lawn. The building has multiple sections and towers, with architectural details suggesting a historical or grand design.

A prominen

Lough Eske Castle Hotel Donegal Town Exterior photo The photo shows a cozy living room with a view of a lush green garden. The room features a dark green leather sofa with two light beige throw pillows, a dark wooden coffee table, and a vase of flowers on the table.

Large glass doors open to a patio

Lough Eske Castle Hotel Donegal Town Exterior photo The photo shows a charming outdoor scene, likely a garden or estate, bathed in soft, natural light. The foreground is dominated by meticulously trimmed, low hedges forming neat rectangular beds. A gravel path winds through these beds, leading towards

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Key details

About the Hotel

Lough Eske Road, Donegal Town, Ireland

Close to Lough Eske Lake

Perfect

9.0

9.6

/10

4.5

4.6

Loved by Lough Eske Castle Hotel guests

Friendly staff
Spacious bathroom
Delicious meals
Comfortable bed
Attentive service
Lovely surroundings

"We stayed here for one night Dinner, Bed & Breakfast with a 50 mins session in the hot tubs and a glass of prosecco."

AoifeHavlin2021 from Ireland

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"The room with a small outdoor area was amazing."

Nadine from Germany

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"We enjoyed exploring the grounds on the bicycles that were provided."

Tabatha from United States

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5-star historic castle hotel nestled in Donegal

Accommodations

Lough Eske Castle Hotel offers 124 luxurious rooms and suites, each uniquely styled to reflect the castle's heritage. The rooms utilize natural materials and abundant daylight, creating a connection to the surrounding landscape. Options include Courtyard Rooms, Garden Suites, and the new Donegal Suites, accommodating various preferences and needs.

Dining Experience

Dining at Lough Eske Castle includes the award-winning Cedars Restaurant, known for its local ingredients from Donegal's land and sea. Guests can enjoy Afternoon Tea in various elegant spaces within the hotel. The Father Browne Bar showcases a collection of over 200 remastered images and offers a cozy atmosphere for drinks.

Wellness and Relaxation

CARA Organic Spa at Lough Eske offers a range of treatments using ESPA products within a stunning setting by Lough Eske. The spa includes an infinity pool, thermal suite, and private hot tubs for guests to unwind. Guests can also access the fitness center equipped with modern exercise equipment.

Family-Friendly Amenities

The hotel offers family rooms with options for roll-away beds and interconnecting rooms to accommodate larger groups. Engaging activities are available for children, ensuring all family members have an enjoyable stay. Complimentary bicycles allow families to explore the beautiful estate and surrounding woodlands together.

Location and Activities

Lough Eske Castle is located close to Donegal Town, providing easy access to local attractions and natural beauty. The hotel is surrounded by lakeside woodlands and trails, perfect for hiking and cycling. Guided tours of the castle's history offer guests insight into its rich past and architectural heritage.

Highlights

Accommodations: 124 luxurious rooms

Dining: award-winning Cedars Restaurant

Wellness: CARA Organic Spa

Family-Friendly: activities and interconnecting rooms

Location: lakeside woodlands and trails

Services: guided tours of the castle

“This castle hotel exudes an enchanting ambiance, particularly for weddings, with stunning grounds that serve as a photographer's dream. Its all-in-one convenience allows couples to immerse themselves fully in the celebration. I think the hotel's commitment to local Donegal produce also elevates the dining experience. It is a spectacular property, making it a place you will want to visit.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.4/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

Spa & LeisurePoolside Bliss

The pool was lovely. I relaxed in the sauna, steam room, and hot tub. I even got a cool sorbet after my hot tea.

Chloe from Canada

Review on

DiningBreakfast Stunner

Breakfast was amazing! There was carved ham with a fried egg on top, plus kippers, eggs royale, and salmon on wheaten bread.

Sean from Ireland

Review on

Room FeaturesSpacious Retreat

Our suite was huge. It had an extremely comfortable bed and a separate dining area that we used for breakfast.

Bianca from Australia

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BathroomLuxurious Bath

The modern bathroom had a large shower, a tub, and separate sinks. Espa products added a luxe touch.

Tonk from United Kingdom

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Select your room type

Lough Eske Castle Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Donegal Suite

2 persons

735 sq. feet

1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed

room details

Double or Twin Room Disability Access

2 persons

500 sq. feet

2 Single beds or 1 Queen-size bed

room details

Deluxe Room

2 persons

500 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

room details

Deluxe Twin Room

2 persons

500 sq. feet

2 Single beds

room details

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Facilities

Lough Eske Castle Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Perfect

9.1/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Allergy-free rooms
Lift
Currency exchange
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Hiking
Horseback riding
Cycling
Fishing

Services

Valet parking
Room service
Housekeeping
Car hire
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Dinner
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Babysitting/Child services
Board games
Children's menu
Children's play area

Spa & Leisure

Indoor swimming pool
Sun loungers
Live entertainment
Garden area
Spa & wellness centre
Sauna
Steam room
Jacuzzi
Pedicure
Manicure
Waxing
Body scrub
Facial
Treatment room
Body wraps
Massage
Pool with view
Make up services

Room features

Heating
Soundproofed rooms
Sitting area
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Media

AM/FM alarm clock

Dining Onsite

At Lough Eske Castle, dining transcends the ordinary, offering a delightful fusion of Irish, local, and European cuisines. Guests can enjoy lush settings with modern and traditional ambiances, where every meal becomes a memorable experience by the tranquil shores of Lough Eske.

Lough Eske Castle Hotel Donegal Town Restaurant photo The photo shows a cozy and inviting bar area. The bar itself is made of dark wood and has a long countertop with various bottles displayed on shelves behind it. There are several bar stools with light green leather seats and wooden frames lined up al

Lough Eske Castle Hotel Donegal Town Restaurant photo The photo shows a beautifully set breakfast table by a large window, bathed in natural light. The table is made of dark wood and is laden with a variety of breakfast items.

On the left side, there's a plate with a croissant topped with what appears

Lough Eske Castle Hotel Donegal Town Restaurant photo The photo shows a large, elegant room set up for a formal event, likely a wedding reception or banquet. The room is spacious and well-lit, with large windows allowing natural light to flood in.

The main focus is on the numerous round tables draped

Cedars Restaurant

Irish, Local, European

Ambiance

Modern and serene environment with calm cream tones and wide windows overlooking lush landscapes.

Key Offerings

Featuring a menu that caters to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets, this restaurant is perfect for romantic dinners or family gatherings. Enjoy refined dining complemented by an extensive wine list.

Reservation

Recommended

Daily from 18:00 - 22:00

Gallery Bar

Irish, Local, International, Grill/BBQ

Ambiance

A warm and inviting traditional setting that serves as a social hub, elegantly designed for relaxation while enjoying meals or cocktails.

Key Offerings

The Gallery Bar serves lunch, dinner, and a delightful cocktail hour, with an array of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options available for a diverse palate.

Reservation

Not required

Daily from 12:00 - 22:00

Father Browne Bar

Irish, Local

Ambiance

A cozy and traditional bar atmosphere resembling a local Donegal establishment while offering a touch of elegance.

Key Offerings

This bar provides a hearty selection for dinner, with options catering to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free tastes, and is perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Reservation

Not required

Daily from 16:00 - 00:00

Lough Eske Castle Hotel Location

Lough Eske Road, Donegal Town, Ireland

Map view

Lough Eske Road, Donegal Town, Ireland

City landmarks

Landmark

Lough Eske

1.1 mi

Landmark

Christ Church

2900 ft

Landmark

Donegal Registrars District

4600 ft

Landmark

St Agatha's Church

1.5 mi

Castle

Donegal Castle

3.0 mi

Landmark

St Mary's

2.0 mi

Landmark

Ardnamona Gardens

2.0 mi

Landmark

Haugh ED

2.1 mi

Landmark

Donegal Parish

2.2 mi

Landmark

Tawnawully ED

2.3 mi

Landmark

Biddy’s O’Barnes

2.5 mi

Landmark

Donegal Railway Heritage Centre

2.8 mi

Landmark

Famine Graveyard

2.7 mi

Landmark

The Schooner Inn

2.6 mi

Church

Church of the Sacred Heart

3.0 mi

Church

Donegal Town Church Of Ireland

3.0 mi

Landmark

Church of the Four Masters

2.9 mi

Landmark

Clogher ED

2.9 mi

Landmark

The Coach House & Cellar Bar

3.0 mi

Landmark

Donegal Town Methodist Church

3.0 mi

Landmark

Mulroy Drive

3.0 mi

Landmark

Daniel O'Donnell Museum

3.0 mi

Church

Donegal Presbyterian Church

3.0 mi

Landmark

The Forge

3.0 mi

Landmark

Carndonagh Parochial House

3.0 mi

Landmark

Mount Errigal

3.0 mi

Landmark

All Saints Parish Church

3.0 mi

Landmark

Bundoran Parish

3.0 mi

Nearby

Christ Church

3200 ft

Restaurants

The Restaurant at Harvey's Point

1.1 mi

Lough Eske

Explore Donegal Town

Local Experiences

Lough Eske

20 minutes' walk

Scenic lake surrounded by lush woodlands, ideal for peaceful walks and fishing. Perfect for nature lovers.

Christ Church

10 minutes' walk

Historic church known for its stunning architecture and community events. An integral part of Donegal's heritage.

Donegal Castle

10-minute drive

Impressive 15th-century castle showcasing Donegal's history and architecture, often featuring guided tours.

St Agatha's Church

25 minutes' walk

Charming church with beautiful stained glass windows, offering a tranquil atmosphere for reflection.

Hiking Trails

25-minute drive

Various hiking trails including scenic routes around Lough Eske, suitable for all levels and stunning views.

Kayaking on Lough Eske

5-minute drive

Rent kayaks for a thrilling adventure on Lough Eske with beautiful views; rentals available seasonally.

Wellness Spa

25-minute drive

Relaxing spa services available near Lough Eske, perfect for guests seeking rejuvenation and serenity.

Local Markets

10-minute drive

Seasonal local markets featuring crafts and produce. Great for cultural experiences and unique souvenirs.

The Restaurant at Harvey's Point

25 minutes' walk

Fine dining with local ingredients; known for seafood and their exquisite tasting menu. Reservations recommended.

The Blueberry Tea Room

10-minute drive

Charming café known for homemade cakes, traditional Irish fare, and cozy atmosphere; caters to dietary needs.

The Abbey Hotel Bar

10-minute drive

Casual atmosphere with a diverse menu, serving local brews and comfort food; family-friendly dining available.

Chandpur

10-minute drive

Indian cuisine with a variety of authentic flavors in a vibrant setting; popular for takeout and dine-in options.

The Balor Theatre

10-minute drive

Local theatre featuring live performances, films, and events; great for all-ages entertainment in Donegal.

The Cottage Bar

10-minute drive

Lively pub hosting live music sessions and quiz nights, perfect for enjoying local brews and a friendly atmosphere.

Donegal Railway Heritage Centre

10-minute drive

Museum showcasing Donegal's railway history with interactive exhibits; suitable for families and history enthusiasts.

Local Festivals

10-minute drive

Seasonal festivals including food and craft fairs, great for experiencing local culture and fun for the family.

Getting around

City Centre

Donegal Town8 min · 3.0 mi

Airports

Donegal (CFN)116 min · 47.8 mi

Ireland West Knock (NOC)188 min · 77.7 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

from 07:00-12:00

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

The hotel Lough Eske Castle provides visitors with a free full breakfast.

Children & extra beds

Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Languages

English, German, Italian, Portuguese, Polish, Irish, Ukrainian

Year renovated:

2007

Number of rooms:

117

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Lough Eske Castle Hotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Lough Eske Castle provides an amazing experience with its gorgeous rooms and beautiful sitting areas ideal for socializing. Guests appreciate the spacious grounds which feature walking trails. The food is considered outstanding, and the breakfast includes a wide selection. Some guests have mentioned that some rooms on the third floor can get uncomfortably hot, but overall, guests consider it great value!

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Review score

Based on 836 verified reviews

9.0/10

Perfect

88%

Recommend

Location

9.4/10

Staff

9.4/10

Value for money

8.3/10

Paid Wi-Fi

8.6/10

Pros

Gorgeous rooms

Excellent breakfast

Spa facilities

Kind staff

Cons

Creaky floor

No heat control

Jackson from Canada

Family with children

Junior Suite

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 10, 2026

9.0/10

A Charmed Stay at the Castle

spacious roomsgreat heaterlovely slippersinteresting photos

The rooms felt spacious. the bathroom had a great towel heater. I found the bathrobes and slippers were a great touch, and I appreciated the spa because it wasn't too expensive. The downstairs bar was interesting because it had photos and history. I also enjoyed the complimentary bicycles to bike around. This was a lovely end to my trip.

During check in, I noticed some basic information wasn't given at arrival.

Dining

9/10

The bar dinner was delicious, and the complimentary breakfast was amazing. The Cedars Restaurant offered an amazing selection of food. I enjoyed my carved roast ham with fried egg on top at breakfast.

Service

9/10

The staff was very friendly, engaged, and helpful. I felt I got assistance. Concierge Shea was very helpful, along with Genute, Spence, and Sabrina at Cedars.

Facilities

8/10

The hotel features a pool and exercise area. I saw many sitting areas and two bars. The Gallery Bar offered cups of nuts and salted pretzels on arrival. There are mature gardens all around the place.

Location

10/10

The hotel is near a lough at the foot of the blue stack mountains. It is a short drive to Donegal Town. A walk brings you to Harvey's Point Hotel. Both were lovely places to spend time.

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Stella from Ireland

Family with children

Deluxe Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 20, 2025

9.3/10

Really good Service and Beautiful Surroundings

friendly staffexcellent foodreally good breakfastgrand castle

The staff at reception were very friendly. They were always ready to help with our stay. The food in the restaurants and pub was excellent. The breakfast the following morning was fantastic. I enjoyed walking around the various trails. The public area inside the castle gives one the feeling of being in a grand castle.

The sofa in the room was not at all comfortable for sitting and watching a movie.

Location

9/10

The hotel is situated in a beautiful location. It is close to local areas with well maintained grounds. Fine views and ample parking spaces enhance the overall experience.

Dining

9/10

The restaurant offered a variety of delicious options for dinner. A delicious breakfast buffet menu was also available. Really good locally sourced food and great menu choices are available to visitors.

Facilities

10/10

The hotel has a gorgeous interior with amazing rooms. There is also a relaxing spa and extensive grounds. Some great walking trails add to the tranquillity of the stay.

0 Helpful

William from United States

Family with children

Deluxe Twin Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 19, 2025

6/10

Acceptable stay, some issues

friendly stafflarge bathroomcomfortable bedlacking informationunclean poolcold pool

The staff were very friendly and helpful throughout my stay. Our twin room was large with a large bathroom. The bathroom included double sinks and a separate shower and bath. The beds were VERY comfortable.

The check in experience lacked basic information. The receptionist did not provide details about the hotel upon arrival. The pool was not very clean or well kept. The pool was VERY cold, so my toddler was shivering.

0 Helpful

Arthur from United Kingdom

Couple

Garden Suite

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 09, 2025

6/10

underwhelming experience

excellent accommodationsroomdead flies

the accommodations were excellent. it was a comfortable space.

the cleanliness in our garden suite was not good! there were cobwebs on the ceilings and dead flies in the room. the same dead flies remained there day after day. it was quite disappointing.

0 Helpful

Gord from United Kingdom

Courtyard Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: November 23, 2025

9/10

spacious roomample towelscoffee facilities

the courtyard room was spacious and clean. i appreciated the double bathroom sinks and espa and ritual toiletries provided. the coffee and tea making facilities included double portions of biscuits.

the pool was a little cool.

0 Helpful

Questions of the users

About Lough Eske Castle

Is the swimming pool available for use by guests, and is it suitable for visitors in wheelchairs?

25 December 2024

The swimming pool is open daily; however, there is no hoist access for wheelchair users.

Can I bring my dog along during my visit to Lough Eske Castle?

15 August 2024

Unfortunately, pet accommodations are not available at this hotel.

What is the notice period for receiving a refund on a booking?

30 January 2025

The notice period for a refund depends on the platform used to make the reservation.

Is the spa accessible to non-residents and can treatments be purchased as gifts?

10 March 2025

The spa is open, and it's advisable to contact the spa directly for treatment availability and gift voucher options.

Are children allowed to enjoy the swimming pool facilities?

5 February 2025

Yes, children are permitted in the pool, provided they are under adult supervision.

Can guests access the hydrotherapy pool, sauna, and steam room without additional fees?

12 July 2024

Guests can utilize these facilities at no extra charge, although treatments and outdoor hot tubs incur additional costs.

Is there a sauna and steam room available for guest use?

18 November 2024

Yes, the facilities include both a sauna and a steam room for guest enjoyment.

Is the hotel equipped to accommodate disabled guests?

22 September 2024

The hotel is fully accessible, featuring accessible bedrooms with en suite bathrooms equipped with walk-in showers and necessary support features.

Are the courtyard rooms situated outside the main hotel building?

27 April 2025

Yes, the Courtyard rooms are located in a separate block outside the main building.

Are spa treatments included in the stay or are they charged additionally?

13 June 2024

Spa treatments are available at an additional cost, but complimentary access to the swimming pool and fitness center is provided during your stay.

Is there a refrigerator available in the rooms?

30 October 2024

Fridges can be requested for use in the rooms.

What historical significance does Lough Eske Castle hold, and are tours available?

21 March 2025

Lough Eske Castle has a rich history reflected in its architecture and grounds. Guests can explore this history through guided tours or by enjoying the estate's woodland trails.