“A charming boutique hotel surrounded by forests, with lawns rolling down to the shores of the Lough Swilly. Rooms are decorated in traditional-style with high ceilings, period furniture, fireplaces and elegant interiors. With a choice of two restaurants,a bar, a pool and tennis court. ”

Hotel review

I liked Rathmullan House immensely. Built in the Georgian style in the 1760s, it is now an informal take on a coastal Irish country house. With just 22 bedrooms, the staff were extremely attentive: mine was particularly inviting, with a perfectly appointed sofa positioned for putting your feet up and taking in the glittering sea through a trio of large bay windows. There was oodles of character throughout: quirky, contemporary wallpaper by extravagant cornices, plus the comfort of big beds and freestanding baths.

The ground floor is given over almost entirely to a series of living rooms, each filled with old books, curious antiques and ornate stained-glass windows. Breakfast is something of a sacred affair, with a hearty Irish spread of potato bread, kippers and scrambled eggs, and granola served with carrageenan. Beyond the windows, the beautiful garden slopes gently down towards Rathmullan beach, while the village itself is an easy stroll away. The perfect way to experience the beauty of Donegal.

Recommended for

  • Back to Nature

    • In the beautiful Glenveagh National Park, with lush greenery rolling down to Lough Swilly and the blue hills of Inishowen.
  • Hideaway

    • An elegant and chic country retreat with splendid grounds, swimming pool and fantastic food.
  • Close to nightlife

    • Start your night with a drink at the bar, and then head out to explore the many local pubs and restaurants.
  • Riding

    • Explore the coast line on horseback, the most romantic way to see this stunning countryside.
  • On the beach

    • Rathmullan beach is one of the finest in Donegal and can be access directly from the garden!
  • Golf

    • Golfers will be pleased to find world-class golfing facilities in the local area.
  • Watersports

    • Indulge in various watersports at the beach just at the end of the garden.
  • Great walks

    • Take a hike into the mountains or walk along the beach.
  • Romantic

  • Views

  • Owner managed

  • Quiet

  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Full of character

  • Hills & mountains

  • Restaurant

  • Artworks

  • Historic

  • Chic

  • Antiques

  • Child friendly

  • Retro/Vintage

  • Four poster beds

  • Disabled access

  • Wellbeing

  • Traditional

  • Contemporary

  • Charming

  • Luxury

Facilities

  • Rooms

    32 rooms in this hotel
  • Swimming Pool

    A heated pool for guests
  • Parking

    Free parking on site
  • Bath robes

  • Bar

  • Fireplace

  • Meeting Room

  • Massage

  • No pets

  • Library

  • Bicycle hire

  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Room service

  • Restaurant

  • Garden

  • Child friendly

  • Wifi

  • Disabled access

  • Satellite / Cable TV

  • Four poster beds

Activities

  • Close to nightlife

    • Start your night with a drink at the bar, and then head out to explore the many local pubs and restaurants.
  • Riding

    • Explore the coast line on horseback, the most romantic way to see this stunning countryside.
  • Golf

    • Golfers will be pleased to find world-class golfing facilities in the local area.
  • Watersports

    • Indulge in various watersports at the beach just at the end of the garden.
  • Great walks

    • Take a hike into the mountains or walk along the beach.

Map & Location

Other reviews

Travel Destinations

"Peerless. Imagine a generous expanse of lawn and shrubbery sloping gently to a long Blue Flag beach and the sheltered waters of fjord-like Lough Swilly, with the blue hills of Inishowen on the far side of the water."

Originally published by The Telegraph, UK

Rathmullan House

Originally published by Good Hotel Guide

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