2020 Award Winners HOST OF THE YEAR 2020

Mary Sweeney Castle Grove Country House Letterkenny Co Donegal

Parkland designed by “Capability” Brown in the mid-18th century creates a wonderful setting for Raymond and Mary Sweeney’s beautiful period house overlooking Lough Swilly. A reputation for promoting the good food of the area and produce from their own gardens has attracted many a food lover to this hospitable Blue Book property - and, with daughters Karoline and Irene now on the management team, there’s a youthful new dimension to the business. But fortunately that doesn’t deprive guests of the company of Mary Sweeney who - with a keen interest in just about everything, and exhaustive local knowledge - makes Castle Grove a number one choice for many when visiting Donegal. Mary has the gift of making every guest feel special and at home - and, sensing where their interests lie, nothing is too much trouble when it comes to advising on how to spend their time most happily when exploring Donegal. A very special person.