A landmark coastal hotel in Donegal, steeped in history, has been listed for sale.
The Fort Royal Hotel, boasting stunning beach views in Rathmullan, is seeking offers of €1.6 million.
This distinguished 19-bedroom country house was originally constructed in 1805 by Charles Rae. Rae, a former member of the British Navy under Admiral Lord Duncan, chose the seaside town for his retirement after sustaining injuries in service. Inspired by his time in the Caribbean, he named the property after Fort Royal, the then-capital of Martinique.
Fort Royal, Rathmullan, Co Donegal. Photo: Savills Ireland
In 1878, General George Montgomery of the Indian Army acquired the estate. The Montgomery family, relatives of the renowned Field Marshall, retained ownership of Fort Royal until 1940. Due to the Second World War and other factors, the property remained vacant for seven years.
In 1947, Dr. Bill Johnstone, a County Derry General Practitioner, and his wife, Connie, discovered Fort Royal and decided to purchase it as a holiday retreat. The building was in a dilapidated condition. After spending a summer there, Dr. Johnstone resolved to convert it into a hotel. Fort Royal commenced operations as a hotel in 1948, managed by various individuals.
The property was last sold at auction in 2013.
Fort Royal, Rathmullan, Co Donegal. Photo: Savills Ireland
Fort Royal, Rathmullan, Co Donegal. Photo: Savills Ireland
Savills Ireland is now handling the sale, highlighting the property’s significant potential for various uses, including hospitality, a nursing home, or residential development, subject to planning approval.
The three-story hotel spans 10,118 sq ft and is described as being “in good order, offering the potential for rapid income generation with minimal capital investment.”
The ground floor comprises a conference room/events space, a restaurant, a lounge, offices, restrooms, a kitchen, and several reception and storage areas. The first floor features 9 bedroom suites, 8 with ensuite bathrooms, along with storage and linen rooms. The second floor offers 5 bedrooms, 4 with ensuite bathrooms, including a family suite.
Set on 5.9 acres, the property includes a charming two-story building, mature gardens with established trees, enclosed private gardens, manicured lawns, and direct access to the beach, making it a ‘truly rare find’.
Three independent residential units with multifunction accommodation at Fort Royal, Rathmullan, Co Donegal. Photo: Savills Ireland
Historic beachfront hotel on the market for €1.6million was last modified: July 14th, 2025 by
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