About

Woodhill House is an historic coastal manor house dating back in parts to the 17th century and formerly the family home of the Nesbitts, local landlords and Ireland's last commercial whaling family of the 19th century. The 6th century religious relic, St. Conal's Bell, was mysteriously stolen from Woodhill House in 1845. The house which overlooks the beautiful Donegal Highlands is set in its own grounds with an old walled garden. It is half a mile from the sea and a quarter of a mile from the coastal town of Ardara. The house offers unusual and interesting accommodation with private bathrooms/showers, Bord Failte 3 star rated. There is a fully licensed lounge bar, which has occasional music sessions for tourists and locals alike. Woodhill House is well known for its high quality and reasonably priced restaurant which accommodates houseguests and the general public. The menu is French based using fresh Irish produce, especially seafood from nearby Killybegs, Ireland's principal fishing port.

Location

The Ardara area is geographically well placed for exploring the wild and beautiful county of Donegal. "Up here it's different!!" is a frequent comment about the county. This area is famous for its Donegal tweeds and woollen goods. The local factory shops offer exceptional bargains. The Owenea River provides excellent salmon and trout fishing and is regarded as one of the best in the country. Pony trekking along the beaches is also popular. The breathtaking links golf courses at Murvagh, Donegal town and Portnoo/Narin are all within a short drive. Boating and surfing can also be enjoyed nearby with some of the best Blue Flag beaches within easy reach. Cycle hire is also available.

There are many archaeological sites such as ancient Doon Fort and the Dolmen at Kilclooney, again only a short drive away. Ireland's second largest wild life reserve, Sheskinmore, is a few miles north of Ardara. It is a fascinating place at all times of the year. The truly spectacular Slieve League, the highest sea cliffs in Europe, is only 20 minutes away and close to Glencolmcille, an archaelogically rich pagan and Christian centre, with its fascinating folk village. A scenic 3/4 hour drive to the north is Glenveagh National Park, with the most romantic castle perched on the side of majestic Lough Veagh. Apart from some of the most unspoiled scenery in Europe, traditional music can be heard in most of Ardara's twelve unique bars.

Rooms

Woodhill House is a coastal manor house offering unique and varied accommodation. Main House rooms offer beautiful views over the valley and to the hills beyond , while the rooms in the renovated Old Coach House are cosy with a cottage atmosphere with views of the gardens and the hills. The Garden Rooms boast spectacular views over the old walled garden and the Donegal Highlands in the distance. Three of these rooms are on the ground floor with doors leading onto patios situated in the Rose Garden while the three upstairs bedrooms have balconies where one can sit and enjoy the views.

Other

There are many archaeological sites such as ancient Doon Fort and the Dolmen at Kilclooney, again only a short drive away. Ireland's second largest wild life reserve, Sheskinmore, is a few miles north of Ardara. It is a fascinating place at all times of the year. The truly spectacular Slieve League, the highest sea cliffs in Europe, is only 20 minutes away and close to Glencolmcille, an archaelogically rich pagan and Christian centre, with its fascinating folk village. A scenic 3/4 hour drive to the north is Glenveagh National Park, with the most romantic castle perched on the side of majestic Lough Veagh. Apart from some of the most unspoiled scenery in Europe, traditional music can be heard in most of Ardara's twelve unique bars.