Situated at the entrance to the picturesque village of Dunfanaghy overlooking the spectacular scenery of Sheephaven Bay, this famous three-star is located in a traditional holiday area that many will have a soft spot for, and some will recall family holidays spent in the fine old Arnold's Hotel itself.
The hotel has been in the same family for four generations and celebrated its centenary in 2022. With a welcoming fire and friendly staff - led by the young General Manager Aisling Arnold, who held her own wedding at the hotel during its centenary year - it immediately conveys the warm and relaxing ambience that is so special to traditional family-run Irish hotels.
Recent refurbishments have included the guest rooms and, while some may still seem a little old-fashioned in a nice way, they have a sense of place (with local tweeds featuring in the colourful soft furnishings, for example), everything works, they're more comfortable than many more expensive establishments and they've managed to fit a full bath into almost all the bathrooms - and the number of contented guests milling around, or enjoying the traditional Whiskey Fly Bar in the evening suggests that things are just fine as they are, thank you.
As a member of the Donegal Food Coast initiative, Arnold's takes pride in promoting the region's best produce and the dining options have been expanded in recent years. In additon to the main Arnolds Restaurant (also revamped), where both breakfast and dinner are served, Arnou Café & Burger Bar offers a casual option next door, with outdoor seating (where dogs are allowed, making it a popular pitstop for locals out walking) and a changing menu through the day and evening.
This beautiful area is known for activity based holidays and the hotel offers special interest breaks - walking, painting, fishing, golfing, cycling etc - with staff very happy to help you to plan the perfect holiday to suit your particular area of interest. It's also convenient to many of the county's most popular attractions including, Horn Head scenic drive, Killahoey Beach, Marble Hill beach, Doe Castle, Dunfanaghy Workhouse/Heritage Centre, Fanad Lighthouse, Ards Forest Park and Glenveagh Castle and National Park, the Glebe Gallery, St. Columcille Heritage Centre - and many more.
This is a special hotel in many ways, and it's no wonder that so many guests make a point of returning.
