A MAGICAL LAKESIDE GETAWAY AT HARVEY’S POINT
Harvey’s Point along the banks of Lough Eske in Co Donegal - a magical rural retreat. (Image courtesy Harvey’s Point)
STAY & PLAY: HOTEL REVIEW
June 2025
I was always meant to get to Harvey’s Point, I just didn’t know when. Turns out it was worth the wait – and then some! This majestic Donegal retreat was one of those getaways where expectations were exceeded at every turn.
From the moment we arrived at check-in to handing back our room keys we were treated to several days of pure relaxation in luxury surrounds and idyllic location along the banks of Lough Eske.
Sometimes it’s difficult to write a review because you want to come at it with an unbiased and neutral viewpoint, but on occasion you get sucked into a place and just let it consume you. Your reasons for landing at a place are your own, but when it comes to reviews you simply want to remain objective and fair, both to anyone who might read this nonsense and also to the venue, the owners and team at the hotel.
First Impressions
Often a cliché that gets overworked, but on this occasion first impressions were simply exceeded as we were welcomed with genuine warmth. As we wheeled bags from the boot of the car under the entrance canape and into the hotel foyer every effort was made to make us feel welcome. This approach was genuine for it remained at every turn during our entire stay. Nothing was ever too much trouble. It’s all about the people, and usually always is.
Take Eilis at Concierge, one of the most charming ladies I’ve met in hospitality. Softly spoken and with an ever-present smile, Eilis took time to mark maps for our day trip to the cliffs at Slieve League or made sure we had all that was needed when looking to map out a short run and explore the local area. At breakfast, we bumped into Noel who I initially thought was the owner doing his rounds of greeting and regaling with residents during service. After some basic fact-finding, it appears Noel is a Harvey’s Point Ambassador. Owner/Ambassador Noel was the epitome of the Irish welcome and great hospitality on show at Harvey’s Point.
Rooms
This is where things went to a whole new level. I’m not sure I’ve ever stayed in a bigger or better hotel room. It was simply huge, but equally well-proportioned with views towards Lough Eske from the second floor. Expecting a ‘standard’ double room we were in fact in an Executive Suite. Either the person organising this worked a move, or we got lucky with an upgrade. In any case, it was not wasted, and the stay was sublime.
From an oversized king size American bed, to lounge area leading onto a triple exposed window area where relaxation or room service was ideal, to an opulent bathroom that could house an entire hotel room. Double sinks, Jacuzzi bath, standalone shower, subtle music piping through and folding mirrored doors, it was pure luxury. The fact you enter the suite via a hallway gave an early indication of what was to follow. The coffee machine and complimentary cookies etc were another nice touch too.
Food
We ate well and we ate often, and quickly came to realise Harvey’s Point takes great pride in their culinary offering whatever time of the day or part of the hotel you eat in. Both nights we dined in the bar restaurant area and the food was delicious. From exemplary starters and salads to the fish or steak we had on this occasion, it was wonderful dining. The wine choice was excellent too. At the other end of the day, breakfast could not be faulted either. You could see and taste how locally sourced produce was on show at Harvey’s Point.
Summary
We would go back to Harvey’s Point in a heartbeat, from start to finish it was a wonderful couple of days. From relaxing drinks on the raised outdoor area of an evening overlooking Lough Eske to great dining and a simply sensational room, Harvey’s Point ticked the boxes. We were aware there was no spa or leisure facilities, and, on this occasion, it didn’t matter, but perhaps if the weather wasn’t so kind that’s what we might have looked for. It was good to know the hotel has in place an arrangement with a nearby hotel to arrange day passes there if required.
Overall, it was the level of service, the people who made this visit to Harvey’s Point so memorable. The question now is not when will I get to Harvey’s Point, rather, when will we get back to Harvey’s Point.
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Harvey’s Point Lakeside Resort
Lough Eske, Donegal Town, Co. Donegal, F94 E771, Ireland
W: harveyspoint.com
E: stay@harveyspoint.com
T: +353-74-9722208