Breac.House

Hotel review

Perched on Horn's Head, a headland that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, this contemporary B&B-cum-nature-retreat offers guests a true immersion in the wild landscape of northwestern Donegal. With stand-out architecture that has won international attention, plus thoughtful, bespoke interiors, this is a country getaway with a difference. The B&B sits on the site of a modest bungalow, converted into a contemporary design hotel by MacGabhann Architects. The emphasis on local materials, both inside and out, means that the property reflects the palette of its natural setting. Inside, the owners have chosen to highlight local craftsmen, with handcrafted oak fittings throughout the property. A smattering of contemporary design pieces elevates these simple yet elegant interiors. At just three guestrooms, this B&B is truly boutique. The natural landscape is given centre-stage, with nearly floor-to-ceiling windows and a sit-out terrace in each room. Details like the hand-woven Donegal tweed throws inject local flavour into these minimalist spaces. Luckily breakfast is delivered on a tray to you in bed, so you can enjoy the view as long as you like when you wake up. Though there is no restaurant, the hotel does offer cocktail hour most days, with a selection of locally infused spirits. The hotel's location makes it a fantastic unplugged retreat; activities here consist mainly of walks along the rugged coastline or perhaps a trip into the nearby village for dinner. Get cosy in the B&B's wood-fired sauna after a long walk, perfect for a couples' getaway. The hotel also offers a complimentary seaweed bath as standard with the room reservation, using local seaweed which is said to have restorative properties. Between the views, the design and the thoughtful touches, it is unsurprising that booking for this B&B is recommended well in advance.

HG Staff Review published: 03/07/2024