My husband Jim and I  recently spent a few days visiting my relatives in Buncrana in Inishowen, Co. Donegal.  I had a lot of catching up to do and time was short so it was imperative that we stayed at accommodation where we could relax and preferably in a convenient location. St Columbs Luxury B & B was a perfect choice.

It’s in a very handy spot in the centre of town, just a few minutes walk from Buncrana’s main street – convenient for restaurants, pubs and shops and there’s also private parking. Brian Donnachie, who owns the B & B, made us extremely welcome, saying that if there was anything we wanted to know or needed just to ask.  He asked when we would like breakfast and what we would like to eat. Knowing there were no strict rules about breakfast times made us feel immediately relaxed.

Brian, a local man, has put his heart and soul into the restoration of the six bedroom period house. We had an absolutely gorgeous, spacious room that looks out on the lovely Oratory, Catholic Church. The decor of the room, like the rest of the accommodation, was very tasteful. Particularly impressive was the huge four poster bed. It was great to have a comfortable space for sitting and we also appreciated the bathroom with its large bath and separate shower.

The dining room is very light and airy with interesting art and well presented table offering a selection of cereals, fruit, fresh juice, yoghurt – if you fancy you can have a full Irish breakfast. There’s a sitting room for guests that can be used at any time, with tea and coffee making facilities.

We were there at a quieter time of year but it would be wise to book in advance if you are planning a summer visit, Brian Donnachie’s warm welcome and efforts to accommodate his guests ensure that they return. If it’s your first time visiting you will find that Buncrana and surrounding areas of Inishowen has much to offer tourists.

Crana River photo by https://twitter.com/FortCottage

I’ve been visiting Buncrana since I was a toddler as its where my mother’s family come from and I’ve spent many holidays there enjoying the lovely beaches, great walks, the craic in the pubs and music festivals.

Fahan Inishowne https://twitter.com/FortCottage

Since 2014 many more tourists have visited the area following the launch of the  Wild Atland Way, one of the world’s longest coastal routes. The driving route stretches some 2,500km along the dramatic west of Ireland coastline, from Inishowen, in the north, to County Cork in the South.

Isle of Doagh Inishowen photo by https://twitter.com/FortCottage

I can recommend St Columbs as a perfect place to stay whether stopping off from driving the route or if you are looking for a good spot for a base while you investigate beautiful Inishowen.

Pat Byrne, February, 2024.