2022 Award Winners FAMILY FRIENDLY HOTEL OF THE YEAR 2022

Doonmore Hotel Inishbofin Island Co Galway

 Family-friendliness is increasingly important in Irish hospitality and our Family Friendly award is more highly valued each year, as times change and people assume the whole family goes pretty much everywhere. We look for the places that cater especially well for families by providing the range of services and activities for varying ages and interests that make for a stress-free meal out or break. While a surprising number of promising ‘family friendly hotels’ fail to come up to the mark (we send real families to assess our shortlisted establishments) the best family-focused destinations inspire a loyal following.

Locally known simply as ‘Murray’s’ after the family who have run it for three generations, this much-loved family-friendly hotel overlooks the sea and sand dunes of Inishbofin. With geraniums along the front lounge, it looks more like a traditional guesthouse than an hotel, and offers good home cooking and old-fashioned comfort. No leisure centre or other bells and whistles, but whether you’re into diving, bird watching, walking, painting, or just a traditional bucket
and spade holiday, it’s a great base for a relaxing break on this delightfully away-from-it-all island – and the staff could not be more friendly or helpful. Music in the bar too.