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Sand House Hotel

Perched on the edge of a stunning sandy beach two miles long, the Britton family’s famous hotel lost its trademark crenellated roof-line some years ago, but emerged with an elegant new look, reminiscent of a French chateau.

Wonderful sea views and easy access to the beach have always been the great attractions of The Sand House, which started life as a fishing lodge in the 1830s and completed its latest metamorphosis with a new floor of bedrooms, a panoramic lift (with the best view in the house), a new boardroom and a marine beauty spa.

Existing bedrooms were also refurbished; all are very comfortable, with excellent bathrooms - and everyone can enjoy the sea view from the sun deck.

Things that never change here include the welcoming fire in the foyer, exceptional housekeeping - and the excellent hospitality.

Golf is a major attraction for guests at The Sand House, which is a member of The Emerald Triangle (three strategically placed establishments offering great golf experiences: the other two are Rathsallagh, Co Wicklow, and Glenlo Abbey, Co Galway, see entries). Also partners in ‘Play 3 Great Golf Courses in Ireland’s North-West’ (Donegal GC, Bundoran, Castle Hume).

Spa; fishing, cycling, tennis, walking, tennis on site; horse riding, boating and many other activities available nearby. Details on application.

Conferences (100). Children welcome (under 5s free in parents' room, cots available without charge, baby sitting arranged). Pets permitted by arrangement. Rooms 50 (1 suite, 2 junior suites, 5 executive, 5 shower only, 25 no-smoking, 1 disabled). Lift. 24 hour room service. B&B €96pps, no ss. SC discretionary. Closed Dec & Jan.

Seashell Restaurant:

The restaurant is rather unexpectedly at the front of the hotel, so it has no sea view, but it is well-appointed, in keeping with the rest of the hotel.

John McGarrigle, who has been with the hotel since 2000, presents seasonal 5-course dinner menus, changed daily; fresh seafood and locally sourced lamb and beef (also game, in season) provide the foundation for a traditional repertoire, with interesting side dishes an unusual strength.

Finish with a choice of Irish cheeses or hotel-style desserts - if you ask very nicely you might be able to have them up in the conservatory, overlooking the sea.

Staff are helpful and attentive. Good choice of wines by the glass.

*Soup and sandwiches are also available in the bar at lunchtime, every day except Sunday.

Seats 80; children welcome. D daily 7-8.30pm, L Sun only, 1-2pm. Set Sun L about €30; set D €50; house wines from €20. SC discretionary. Closed Dec & Jan. Amex, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

Coast road from Ballyshannon to Donegal Town