The five-star Donegal castle hotel scored 93.33 in the reader-voted Best Resorts in the UK & Ireland category, placing it among the region’s leading luxury properties.
The five-star castle hotel, located just outside Donegal Town, was recognised in Travel + Leisure’s annual World’s Best Awards, which celebrate the finest hotels, resorts, destinations, airlines and travel experiences around the globe.
The Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards are among the most respected accolades in the global travel industry, with readers voting for their favourite hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise lines, spas and more. The 2026 awards were informed by hundreds of thousands of reader votes across more than 10,000 properties and travel experiences worldwide.
Set on a secluded lakeside estate at the foot of the Bluestack Mountains, Lough Eske Castle is known for its historic setting, elegant accommodation, award-winning spa, warm Donegal hospitality and exceptional food and beverage offering.
Speaking about the recognition, Lough Eske Castle’s General Manager Donal Cox said:
“We are absolutely thrilled that Lough Eske Castle has been named among the Top 10 Hotels in the UK and Ireland in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards. This is a huge honour for the entire team and a wonderful recognition of the care, passion and attention to detail that goes into every guest experience here at the castle.
“To be included alongside such exceptional hotels and resorts is incredibly special, particularly as these awards are voted for by Travel + Leisure readers. We are very proud to represent Donegal on an international stage and to continue welcoming guests from Ireland and around the world to experience the magic of Lough Eske Castle.”
Since first opening as a hotel in 2007, Lough Eske Castle, continues to attract both domestic and international guests seeking a luxurious escape in one of Ireland’s most scenic regions.
Located minutes from Donegal Town and surrounded by woodland, mountains and lake views, Lough Eske Castle offers a unique blend of heritage, five-star service and contemporary luxury. Guests can enjoy elegant bedrooms and suites, dining in Cedars Restaurant, relaxing treatments at CARA Organic Beauty Spa, and easy access to some of the Wild Atlantic Way’s most spectacular scenery.
