Pubs
Almost anywhere you go in Donegal, whether it is in towns or villages you will still find small traditional family-run pubs, where the atmosphere is friendly and informal and where locals mingle with tourists over a few pints. An increasing number of these pubs also serve “pub grub”at reasonable rates and also lay on traditional music sessions, especially at weekends and in the high season. Be aware that recent legislation decrees that all pubs are now smoke-free. Below we outline a number of possibilities for clients at Donegal Thatched Cottages. Bear in mind that this is just a sample of what is available. There are lots of other interesting pubs in the general Burtonport/Dungloe area.
Cruit Island Golf Clubhouse
This is just down the road from the cottages, within easy walking distance. Newly refurbished, open to the public, it offers a pleasant spacious ambience with sweeping views over the sea to Owey Island. Perfect if you are out for a stroll but not suitable for late nights as it closes quite early.
Iggy’s
This is “The Local” as far as the cottages are concerned . Iggy’s is in the village of Kincasslagh and is just a plain, old-fashioned one-room family pub with no frills, yet it is a place where people love to have a pin and a chat. Here you are quite likely to bump into such luminaries as Gay Byrne, Stephen Rea or various other familiar faces. Excellent seafood lunches served on request.
Viking House
The Viking House is located just off Cruit Island and like Iggy’s is a place where locals love to gather and have a chat and a drink. Excellent food served.
Bonners Bar
Bonners is situated about 4 miles from the cottages in the small village of Mullaghduff, on the right hand side of the road. It is one of the oldest and best loved pubs in the Rosses and well worth a visit. The interior is dark and atmospheric and perfect for the regular music sessions that take place there. Good wholesome food also served.
Ownies Bar
Ownies is situated in the middle of Main Street in Dungloe. It has an atmosphere all its own. If you are interested in rousing music sessions of a “republican” nature then Ownies is the pub for you.
Lobsterpot
If you are looking for a fisherman’s pub with a seafaring motif the Lobsterpot is located in Burtonport about five miles from the cottages.
Leo’s Tavern
Located just before you come to Crolly, about 10 miles from the cottages, this is the family home of Enya and Clannad. It is run by Enya’s brother and usually offers live music at night.