15 years ago, Lough Eske Castle opened its doors to guests after an extensive restoration project by Donegal man Pat Doherty OBE and Harcourt Developments.
After years of private ownership and operating as a guest house, Lough Eske Castle was damaged by a fire in the 1930’s, leaving the property in ruins for over 60 years. After €40 million investment and renovations, the Hotel opened its doors in 2007 as the 5 star hotel we know today.
Last night invited guests enjoyed the celebrations with a drinks reception, canapés, refreshments and entertainment.
The main man, Pat Doherty was present along with his sons Henry and John Paul, as well as Clement Gaffney, Director of Operations, Harcourt Developments.
The team at Lough Eske Castle pulled out all the stops to ensure all the guests were looked after.
Special Guest, Packie Bonner said a few words saying he was delighted to be at the big event saying it was the people who brings it all together. He gave a special mention to Sinead McGowan, Sales & Marketing Manager and complimented all the team. He wished them well and prosperity for the future.
The General Manager Donal Cox welcomed one and all. They planted 15 oak trees earlier that day, one for every year the hotel was open. The hotel employ 207 staff members and continue to focus on serving and using local suppliers to give back to the local community.
Donal said ‘Today we have saw significant reinvestment in the property and this is also been the cornerstone of our success in the first 15 years. We have redeveloped different aspects of the property, Father Browne bar was opened in 2019, we have extended Cedars restaurant in 2020 offering additional 80 covers for our guests, and the refurbishment and upgrade of our guest rooms which was completed this year. We have exciting new projects for next year and the journey carries on.
We are also adding an outdoor hot tub experience to our Cara Organic Beauty Spa. Planning application has been lodged to Donegal County Council for a further 28 new bedrooms, 26 will be junior suites increasing our bedrooms from 97 to 125. It is all a very positive message but the success of the hotel is accredited to the support from Pat and the Harcourt and the commitment and loyalty of the staff’ he concluded.
The party ended up downstairs in Father Browne’s bar where Barry Sweeney and Sean Gibbons entertained the guests until the early hours. Here’s to the next 15 years!
