Arnolds Hotel scoop top industry award

Arnolds Hotel scoop top industry award

On Tuesday evening at the Irish Hotel Awards 2018, in the glamorous surroundings of The Heritage Killenard, Arnolds Hotel beat off stiff competition to win Best 3 Star Hotel in Ireland for the very first time. The popular family owned hotel was also shortlisted for Best Coastal Escape and Best Hotel Bar.

Arnolds Hotel.

Speaking after the announcement, Aisling Arnold General Manager of the hotel said she was thrilled with the new accolade. “This is such a fantastic achievement for Arnolds Hotel, for my family and also my hardworking team who support our vision every day running the hotel to the highest standard of Irish hospitality.”

L to R: Keallagh Doherty, Deputy General Manager Arnolds Hotel, Katherine O’Donovan, Regional Business Development Manager AIB, Ceri McNulty F&B Supervisor Arnolds Hotel and Mark Patterson Head of Field Sales, Ireland AIB.

“Donegal has picked up some fantastic awards over the past 12 months and as a result we have benefited hugely in terms of tourism. We’re hoping that our Award will go some way in attracting even more new visitors to the area who have yet to discover all the beauty, activities and charm this scenic part of the Wild Atlantic Way has to offer.”

Aisling Arnold, general manager Arnolds Hotel.

Now a fourth generation family business, Arnolds Hotel has flourished under Aisling’s leadership with events and activity weekends all year around as well as some successful new additions including a café & gourmet burger bar, new look restaurant, cocktail bar and new executive Head Chef. 

Donegal East Tourism Initiative Launched at Oakfield Park

One of Ireland and Britain’s leading businessmen told a gathering of tourism providers in east Donegal he was delighted to be promoting, and living in, ‘one of the best places in the world.’

Sir Gerry Robinson was speaking at the weekend at the launch of Donegal East Tourism, an initiative to promote one of the lesser spotted areas of the county as a tourist destination.

L-R: Sir Gerry Robinson, The Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council - Cllr Gerry McMonagle, Chairman of Donegal East Tourism - Mr Cronan Scanlon.
Image courtesy of Donegal East Tourism

Only formed last year, the organisation showcased the area – from Fintown to Burt - to an audience of tens of thousands at the prestigious Holiday World Shows in Dublin and Belfast January.

Their bright new full colour brochure and website were officially launched by Mr Robinson at Oakfield Park, Raphoe, where he now lives with his wife Heather.

The park has been a huge success since opening to the public, with more than 50,000 visitors expected in 2018.

The former Chairman of Granada Television told representatives of local businesses and community groups within the tourism sector that the area had ‘huge potential'.

He also paid tribute to the new tourism group and hoped it would go from strength to strength.
“This is a wonderful initiative for this part of Donegal and indeed all of Donegal.  The new brochure and website also have the potential to promote all that is that is great about this part of the world,” he told those present.

“Generally, the history of voluntary bodies is that they get off to a great start and then they die away. I hope that will not be the case here. In fact, I hope Donegal East Tourism will be something that will steadily and logically build on this launch and that it will go on to produce something of real value - not in a year, not in five years, but in the next 20 years - to promote an area which is probably among one of the best places in the world.”

The Cathaoirleach of Doneal County Council, Cllr Gerry McMonagle, who was at Oakfield Park for the launch, said after seeing the brochure, he was hugely impressed with what the area has to offer.

"I’m both delighted and honoured to have been invited here today for the launch of what is a major initiative for the east of the county and, indeed, all of Donegal,” he said.

Guest speakers and  invited guests attending the official launch
Image courtesy of Donegal East Tourism

Chairman of Donegal East Tourism, Mr Cronan Scanlon, stressed that the group was not just about promoting the area as a tourist destination. He said it was also its aim to make locals more aware of what they have on their doorstep, take pride in it and to boast about where they come from.

"We would argue that, in terms of tourism promotion, this part of the county has been kept a secret for far too long," he said.
"This is despite it being home to one of Europe's best salmon fishing rivers, the Glenfin Gaeltacht, Bluestack Mountains, McElhinney's Stores, Oakfield Park, Dunmore Gardens, Beltany Stone Circle, Lifford Old Courthouse and An Grianan of Aileach. The region also has a strong tradition of Irish music, an Ulster Scots heritage and much, much more. Donegal East is also the perfect base from which to explore the Wild Atlantic Way, and we should be constantly reminding ourselves of that. I would urge you not just to distribute the brochure to potential visitors, but to give it to your friends and family. Let them know what a wonderful place they’re living in and that it is something to be immensely proud of. Don’t be shy about coming from Donegal East - boast about it.”

He also appealed to tourism providers, and businesses and community organisations, to assist the group in its efforts to build the area as a strong tourist destination.

Guests and Speakers attending the official Donegal East Tourism Launch at Oakfield Park.
Image courtesy of Donegal East Tourism

The new Donegal East Tourism brochure can be picked up for free from various outlets, including Letterkenny and Donegal Town Tourist Information Offices, The BASE in Stranorlar, Kee’s, Jackson’s and Villa Rose hotels, Lifford Old Courthouse and Oakfield Park.

For further information on the latest initiative, visit www.donegaleast.ie ,log on to the Donegal East Tourism Facebook page or email eastdonegaltourism@gmail.com

Donegal East Tourism - new brochure
Image courtesy of Donegal East Tourism

Summer Festivals in Donegal, save the date…

 With the Winter weather coming to a close (finally) we decided to help you plan your Summer calendar with some of our “must be at” events in Donegal this year.

Donegal loves to welcome people and show them what living is all about and throughout the county there are some amazing festival and events on offer for all interests the below are just some of the options, check them all out at https://donegalgathering.com/

APRIL

Inishowen Sea Symposium 2018

The Inishowen Sea Symposium is a must for anyone interested in sea kayaking, whether you’re a novice or experienced kayaker.

With some of the top coaches in Ireland and the UK guiding you, you will see Donegal’s coastline from a unique vantage point. Over three days from April 6^th -  8^th 2018 taking part in this beautiful guided paddle, with talks and demonstrations in the evenings, attendees will experience the activity they love with like-minded people. 

More details available: https://www.inishadventures.com/sea-symposium

The Amazing Grace Festival 2018 - Buncrana

April 4th – 9th 2018 will see Buncrana celebrate the life and story of John Newton, who in 1748 landed in Ireland to find refuge from a violent storm. From this moment he began a spiritual journey that has impacted events in history.

With heritage tours, walks, music and children’s activities, the Amazing Grace Festival is a time of celebration and culture that all the family can enjoy.

More details available: www.amazinggrace.ie

MAY

The “Cup of Tae” Festival – Ardara

Aptly names after an Irish reel, the “Cup of Tae” festival is a long weekend and music in celebration of John “the tae” Gallagher. For those who play instrument, dance or just like to listen this festival is all you need. Classes are offered for all levels, open-air concerts and don’t forget to check out the storytelling by the fire at night.

Enjoyment for all ages!

Ardara, May 4^th – 7^th 2018

More details available: http://cupoftaefestival.com/?page_id=16

Mícheál Ó Cléirigh Summer School

In Rossnowlagh from May 11th – 13th 2018 locals and visitors alike gather to remember a great local man, Mícheál Ó Cléirigh, as one of the four men who studied the lives of Irelands ssints and ancient manuscripts and books, he has left a wonderous account and record of Ireland past in Annála Ríochta na hÉireann (the Annals of the Four Masters). 

With a weekend of learning, walking the beautiful Rossnowlagh beach and local historical site, you will feel more connected to the area and the people of the present and the past.

More details available: http://mocleirigh.ie/home

JUNE

Donegal Garden Trail 2018

With 22 private and public gardens to explore Donegal is the place to be for all those with green fingers.

Gates opened in 2017 and in a variety of locations in Donegal to celebrate and enjoy gardening, with ornamental horticulture, castle gardens, cottage and country houses on the list to see, this versatile trail is a fantastical part in Donegal.

As all seasons are changing you’ll find something magical here each time you visit.

More details available: http://www.donegalgardentrail.com/site/

Sea Sessions Surf & Music Festival 2018

Calling all music lovers… this is the place to be!

A weekend of music, camping, surfing and much more await you at sea session in Bundoran. Running for 10 years this festival is growing better and bigger each time. Giving the opportunity for emerging Irish artist to get onstage with big names, there is a band for everyone to enjoy and a reason from every one to go.

More details available: http://seasessions.com/

JULY

Earagail Arts Festival | 11th - 29th July 2018

Over 19 days this unique festival is an exploration of arts in Irish and English throughout Donegal’s Wild Atlantic Way.

This celebration of the arts has a unique twist with venues including theatres, galleries and even forests and beaches, using the distinctive landscape available. To make production even more remarkable and the experience magical.  

For over 28 years various collaborations have allowed this festival to develop into an inclusive entertaining festival that reaches all people in the county.

Swell Festival 2018: July 27^th – 29th 2018

Arranmore Island, Co. Donegal

Swell Festival is a music and arts festival taking place on Arranmore Island off the coast of Donegal in North West Ireland. You can expect a huge selection of Comedy, Irish Language, Poetry, DJ’s and other performances and activities throughout the weekend.

Arranmore Island is situated off the coast of Donegal and on the Wild Atlantic Way.  The Island is home to Swell Festival running on the 22nd and 23rd July 2017.

Arranmore oozes heritage and culture with day 2 of the festival celebrating Gaelic Culture and transatlantic folk & roots. Arranmore Ferry (Blue Ferry), operates a daily schedule between Burtonport and the Island, journey time being approximately 15 minutes.

In addition to the quality entertainment from Swell festival, there are a number of activities to do on the island including diving, fishing, and hiking, visiting the lighthouse and relaxing on the stunning beaches around the Island.

See you on the Island!

Burtonport Festival 

Week long family festival of fun, music sport and dance for all the family.

Easily described as one of the “Best Family Festivals” in Donegal, the Burtonport Summer Festival keeps the whole family in mind – from an action-packed selection of children’s activities & outdoor adventures for all the family, street music throughout the day and Island adventures that will create unforgettable childhood memories.

AUGUST

Loinneog Lúnasa

Gaoth Dobhair (Gweedore) community opens its arms to the public from 9th – 13th August 2018. Loinneog Lúnasa celebrates the music and culture of the Gaeltacht in Donegal.

With drama, music, culture, and history experienced in a range of activities, Loinneog Lúnasa offers an opportunity to experience the heart of Ireland’s culture and sense of being Irish. 

For more details visit http://loinneoglunasa.com/

Ballyshannon Folk Festival

August bank holiday weekend sees the 41st Ballyshannon Folk Festival take to the stage. With Aslan, Paddy Casey and Flat Out just some of the names taking part this year there’s a band for all music styles and tastes… The festival offers an amazing opportunity for musicians to showcase their talent and share their love of music with others!

Revellers can take part with pub sessions, street entertainment and showcases over the long weekend.

For more details visit http://ballyshannonfolkfestival.com/

For more details on these and many more great festivals and events visit http://www.govisitdonegal.com/