Murray’s Doonmore Hotel
Enjoy Heritage & Music at Murray’s Doonmore 🌊🎻
Perched on the rugged cliffs of Inishbofin, Murray’s Doonmore Hotel is Ireland’s most westerly island hotel and a legendary beacon of West Coast hospitality. Family-run for over three generations and established for over 50 years, the hotel is built around a stone cottage dating back to the early 1900s.
It offers a “front-row seat” to the Atlantic, with panoramic views of the ocean, the neighbouring islands, and the dramatic Twelve Bens of Connemara on the horizon. More than just a place to sleep, the Doonmore is a cultural hub, famous across Ireland for its world-class traditional music sessions and its role as a “genuine mid-Atlantic local.”
Island Stays with Historic Charm
The hotel offers a variety of room types, many of which feature floor-to-ceiling views of the crashing Atlantic surf.
| Accommodation | Atmosphere | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Sea View Doubles | Breathtaking | Direct views of the Connemara coast and the high Atlantic waves. |
| Family & Triple Rooms | Generational | Spacious layouts designed for families who have visited the island for decades. |
| Murray’s Bar | Iconic | Home to impromptu music sessions led by Andrew Murray (formerly of De Danann). |
| The Restaurant | Island Harvest | Famed for homemade desserts, Inishbofin lamb, and locally landed shellfish. |
Island Life & Essential Amenities
Legendary Music: As a hub for musicians, you can often find world-class players sharing a tune by the fireplace.
Stunning Sunsets: The hotel’s western position makes it arguably the best spot on the island to watch the sun dip into the Atlantic.
Direct Booking: The hotel guarantees the best price when booking through their official site.
History: Look for the thick archway near reception; it marks the original walls of the 1900s family cottage.
Note: As an island property, please coordinate your stay with the Inishbofin Ferry schedule from Cleggan.
FAQs about Murray’s Doonmore Hotel
How do I get to the hotel from the ferry?
It’s about a 15-20 minute scenic walk from the pier. The hotel often provides a van for luggage transfer during peak arrival times.
Is there live music every night?
While not guaranteed every single night, sessions are extremely frequent, especially during the summer and weekends.
Is the hotel open year-round?
The hotel typically operates seasonally, usually opening from Spring through late Autumn. Always check their booking engine for exact dates.
About the Inishbofin Hotel
The most westerly island hotel in Ireland. This clifftop hotel, with its amazing views, famous music sessions, award winning food and outstanding service it a top bucket list place to visit in the west of Ireland.
| Feature | Murray’s Doonmore Hotel factsheet |
|---|---|
| Location | Fawnmore, Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway (the most westerly island hotel in Ireland) |
| Distance from City Centre | Approximately 95km from Galway City to Cleggan (90 min drive), plus a 30-minute ferry crossing to Inishbofin |
| Number of Rooms | 20–22 newly renovated rooms including Sea View doubles, twins, triples, and family rooms |
| Restaurants / Bars | Award-winning restaurant specializing in fresh seafood; Murray’s Bar is famous for traditional music and “craic” |
| Breakfast | Full Irish breakfast included in the rate; served daily from 8:15 AM to 10:15 AM |
| Leisure Facilities | Sun terrace, garden, and picnic areas; activities include island hiking, shore fishing, and live music sessions |
| Concierge / Reception | Family-run service; courtesy minibus provides luggage and passenger transfers to/from all arriving ferries |
| Room Service | Limited room service/breakfast in room available upon request |
| Check-In | From 3:00 PM (to 9:00 PM; property does not offer after-hours check-in) |
| Check-Out | By 11:00 AM |
| Parking | Complimentary on-site parking (Note: visitors’ cars cannot be taken onto the island; parking is for local island use) |
| Accessibility | Facilities for disabled guests available; no lift/elevator (historic island property) |
| Pet Friendly | Pet-friendly in designated “Dog Friendly” rooms (fee applies); dog beds and bowls provided |
Tip: If Andrew Murray is in the house, don’t be shy—ask him about his travels with De Danann; he might even be coaxed into singing a song! For the best experience, grab a pint of Guinness and head to the outdoor benches at sunset. Also, their homemade brown bread and local crab salad are island essentials you shouldn’t miss.
Contact & Location Info
Phone: +353 (0)95 45804
Email: [email protected]
Travel Tip: The hotel is located a pleasant walk from the ferry pier. Most guests enjoy the stroll to soak in the peaceful surroundings, but transport can usually be arranged with the hotel in advance.
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