The Rusty Mackerel
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Summary of reviewsNestled amidst the stunning landscape of Donegal, The Rusty Mackerel offers an exceptional base for travelers seeking to explore the majestic Sliabh Liag cliffs and the surrounding natural beauty. Its scenic location close to Teelin Harbour, along with the cliffs and local attractions, effortlessly blends accessibility with a peaceful retreat.
The Rusty Mackerel excels in providing a warm and inviting atmosphere both inside and out. The pub experience is a highlight, featuring delicious pub fare and live music that guests frequently praise. The food, especially breakfast and dinner, receives high marks for quality and variety. The traditional Irish breakfast is a standout with fresh, hearty portions and friendly service enhancing the morning experience. Dinner consistently impresses with items like fish and chips and upscale dishes, served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere often complemented by entertaining live music.
Accommodation at The Rusty Mackerel is described as modern, clean and comfortable, though some rooms are compact and lack windows. Despite this, guests appreciate the spotless conditions and comfortable beds, ensuring a restful night's sleep. The rustic charm is further amplified by exceptional cleanliness standards, although occasional lapses are noted. The hotel staff are overwhelmingly commended for their friendliness, attentiveness and the personal touch they bring to the service, notably enhancing guest satisfaction.
Functioning WiFi adds to the convenience, particularly in common areas, although some rooms may experience limited coverage. Parking is generally ample and accessible, though it may occasionally fill up due to dining crowds. The establishment’s commitment to accessibility is evident, catering well to travelers needing wheelchair access and functional rooms.
Importantly, The Rusty Mackerel is celebrated for its dog-friendly environment, welcoming pets across the premises, including dining areas, which earns it high praise from pet owners.
In summary, The Rusty Mackerel provides a picturesque, welcoming and comfortable retreat that combines stunning natural surroundings with top-notch hospitality, making it a favored destination for many travelers.
Categories
The Rusty Mackerel excels in providing a warm and inviting atmosphere both inside and out. The pub experience is a highlight, featuring delicious pub fare and live music that guests frequently praise. The food, especially breakfast and dinner, receives high marks for quality and variety. The traditional Irish breakfast is a standout with fresh, hearty portions and friendly service enhancing the morning experience. Dinner consistently impresses with items like fish and chips and upscale dishes, served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere often complemented by entertaining live music.
Accommodation at The Rusty Mackerel is described as modern, clean and comfortable, though some rooms are compact and lack windows. Despite this, guests appreciate the spotless conditions and comfortable beds, ensuring a restful night's sleep. The rustic charm is further amplified by exceptional cleanliness standards, although occasional lapses are noted. The hotel staff are overwhelmingly commended for their friendliness, attentiveness and the personal touch they bring to the service, notably enhancing guest satisfaction.
Functioning WiFi adds to the convenience, particularly in common areas, although some rooms may experience limited coverage. Parking is generally ample and accessible, though it may occasionally fill up due to dining crowds. The establishment’s commitment to accessibility is evident, catering well to travelers needing wheelchair access and functional rooms.
Importantly, The Rusty Mackerel is celebrated for its dog-friendly environment, welcoming pets across the premises, including dining areas, which earns it high praise from pet owners.
In summary, The Rusty Mackerel provides a picturesque, welcoming and comfortable retreat that combines stunning natural surroundings with top-notch hospitality, making it a favored destination for many travelers.
Dog Friendly Lodge
This lodge in Carrick Teelin welcomes pets, providing a cozy and comfortable stay. It's an ideal spot for those looking to explore the rugged coastline with their dogs.
Accessible Lodge
Small Lodge
Guest Reviews
Perched amidst the breathtaking scenery of Donegal, The Rusty Mackerel offers travelers an unparalleled location for exploring the majestic Sliabh Liag cliffs. Guests consistently praise its proximity to the cliffs, making it a prime choice for hiking and sightseeing in the area. The setting is described as both stunning and picturesque with the property ideally nestled in a serene and scenic part of Ireland.
The surrounding area is lauded for its natural beauty, providing a magnificent landscape that enhances the overall experience. Situated close to Teelin Harbour, the cliffs and local attractions, The Rusty Mackerel stands out as an excellent base for exploring the region. Visitors also appreciate the rural yet accessible location, providing a peaceful retreat while being a mere five-minute drive from the cliffs.
Beyond the location, the pub atmosphere and the quality of the food are noted highlights, offering very good pub fare that complements the superb live music and cozy ambiance. The accommodation is quiet and comfortable, set in beautiful surroundings that enrich the travel experience.
Whether visiting for the stunning hikes or simply to soak in the beautiful countryside, The Rusty Mackerel is perfectly situated for an unforgettable stay in one of Ireland’s most scenic areas.
The breakfast experience at 'The Rusty Mackerel' is frequently praised by guests for its quality, variety and the friendliness of the staff. Many guests highlight the excellence of the traditional Irish breakfast featuring freshly cooked ingredients and hearty portions. The breakfast menu is described as extensive and capable of meeting diverse dietary needs with standout items like porridge with red berries, smoked salmon and scrambled eggs receiving special mentions.
Guests appreciate the relaxing and quiet atmosphere of the breakfast room, making mornings a pleasant start to their day. The friendly and attentive service, particularly from staff members like Sheila, adds a personal touch that enhances the overall experience.
While the majority of reviews are overwhelmingly positive, a few guests note occasional issues such as a lack of certain breakfast items like fruit or yogurt and rare instances of poor service or delays. Despite these isolated comments, the general consensus is that breakfast at 'The Rusty Mackerel' is a delightful and satisfying treat, making it a highlight of the stay for many travelers.
The dinner experience at The Rusty Mackerel consistently receives high praise from guests. Words and phrases like "delicious," "amazing," and "excellent" are frequently used to describe the food. Diners were particularly impressed by the ample portions and the freshness of dishes such as the fish and chips, often touted as the catch-of-the-day. The pub's cuisine ranges from superb pub-style eats to dishes that one might consider upscale with items like a goat cheese starter standing out.
Guests also commended the friendly and efficient service, although there were occasional mentions of the service being chaotic and the menu being limited due to running out of items. Despite these minor hiccups, the majority of reviews emphasize the consistently high quality of both the food and the dining experience, making it clear that dinner at The Rusty Mackerel is something to be relished. The atmosphere is described as warm, welcoming and complemented by great entertainment, adding to the overall positive dining experience.
The Rusty Mackerel offers a distinctive stay with its modern, clean and comfortable rooms. Guests consistently praise the cleanliness, highlighting spotless conditions and well-maintained accommodations. The rooms, though described as small or even cramped, are functional and equipped with essential amenities, making them suitable for a short stay. The modular, pod-like design is unique, providing a cozy, warm and fresh atmosphere, although some rooms lack windows, which can lead to poor ventilation and a sense of stuffiness.
Despite their compact nature, the rooms are modern, newly done and tastefully furnished. Beds are comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep. The shower facilities are notably good, further adding to the overall positive experience. The accommodations are described as quiet, which benefits those seeking a peaceful retreat.
However, it's important to note that the lack of windows in many rooms might not appeal to everyone and some guests found the rooms to be very warm and without adequate airflow. Additionally, the walls were mentioned to be thin, potentially affecting privacy and quietness.
Overall, The Rusty Mackerel’s rooms are well-suited for travelers looking for clean, basic and efficient accommodations with particular praise for their modern touch and spotless condition.
The Rusty Mackerel provides a cozy escape with its functional yet comfortable accommodations. Guests frequently praise the beds for being remarkably comfortable, cozy and clean, often comparing them favorably to those found in higher-star establishments. Despite the fact that the rooms, including those with bunk beds and narrow double beds, might feel a bit tight or small, the overall sense of comfort isn't compromised. The careful layout ensures that the small space is used efficiently, allowing for a good night's sleep on comfortable mattresses. Some guests noted that the beds could be a bit larger and there were occasional mentions of less-than-clean bedding, but these issues were relatively rare. Overall, the blend of functionality, cleanliness and comfort makes The Rusty Mackerel a solid choice for a restful stay.
Despite some inconsistencies in the reviews, 'The Rusty Mackerel' predominantly receives high marks for cleanliness, making it an attractive choice for discerning travelers. Guests frequently describe the rooms as spotlessly clean and well-maintained, pointing out the fresh and modern decor that enhances the overall experience. The accommodation is often praised for being both comfortable and functional, suitable for overnight stays without sacrificing cleanliness or comfort.
While most rooms are referred to as impeccably clean with spotless beds and generally well-kept spaces, some reviews suggest that there could be occasional lapses in housekeeping, mentioning instances of uncleanliness. Nonetheless, these cases seem to be the exception rather than the norm.
The hotel doesn't just excel in cleanliness but also offers a beautiful location, modern amenities and cozy accommodations, contributing to a satisfying stay. This consistent focus on maintaining high standards of tidiness and order ensures that it meets and often exceeds, guest expectations.
Nestled within a picturesque setting, The Rusty Mackerel offers an experience heightened by its exceptional staff. Renowned for their friendliness and helpful nature, the team consistently goes above and beyond for guests. Described as attentive, accommodating and superb, the staff creates a welcoming and positive atmosphere that enhances the overall stay. Many reviews highlight the staff's ability to make guests feel valued and comfortable, often noting their efficiency and competence.
Despite a few mentions of mixed friendliness and occasional demotivation among some younger team members, the overwhelming sentiment remains positive. Guests frequently commend the cheerful, polite and hardworking nature of the personnel. The hospitality extends beyond basic service, as the staff are not only professional but also exceptionally warm, making guests feel at home.
The management, especially figures like Dymphna, receives high praise for ensuring no request is too much trouble, embodying a can-do attitude that permeates throughout the team. Whether it’s in the bar, the dining area or at reception, the genuine friendliness and helpfulness of the staff shine through, leaving a lasting impression on visitors. Overall, the staff at The Rusty Mackerel are a key component of its charm, significantly contributing to its reputation as a welcoming and enjoyable destination.
Guests have had varying experiences with the WiFi at The Rusty Mackerel. Many found the WiFi to be functional and appreciated the complimentary service. Descriptions such as super functional, WIFI is great and wifi was perfect indicate that the connectivity in common areas is generally reliable. Some noted that the WiFi was fine or good with a good connection making it satisfactory for basic needs. However, there were mentions of poor cell reception and limited WiFi coverage in certain areas, especially in individual rooms. While some guests enjoyed a seamless experience for applications like WhatsApp, others faced challenges with internet browsing and experienced an internet outage that affected credit card usage. Despite these inconsistencies, the WiFi, along with other amenities like the shower, was highlighted positively by a number of visitors.
Parking at The Rusty Mackerel is generally well-regarded with many guests noting the ample availability of spaces and the large, accessible parking areas. Free parking is a notable perk with plenty of space often found right in front of the accommodation, making for convenient access. The new car park has added further to the available parking options. However, there are occasional mentions of crowded or limited parking, particularly due to the influx of restaurant patrons, which can lead to full spaces. Despite this, most visitors find the parking situation satisfactory and not a significant inconvenience.
The Rusty Mackerel offers a solid choice for travelers seeking accessibility features. Located in a prime spot, it's easily accessible from the pub area, making navigation straightforward. The establishment is particularly recommended for accessibility with features like wheelchair access and functional, well-equipped rooms that enhance the overall stay. Guests appreciate its proximity to Slieve League, Glencolumbcille and the Atlantic megalithic tombs, making it an excellent base for exploring the area's natural landmarks and hiking trails. Additionally, the beach is conveniently close, providing guests with more outdoor activities.
Rooms are quite accessible and, while some guests note they are on the smaller side with no windows or TV, they still find the location superb for tours and relaxation. The hotel also offers a little picnic area exclusively for lodgers, adding a cozy touch to the already accessible environment. Despite some limitations like small showers and a lack of ventilation, the hotel remains a favored choice due to its overall functional and accessible design.
The Rusty Mackerel stands out as an ideal destination for those traveling with their furry companions, earning high praise for its dog-friendly facilities and services. The accommodations are tailored to welcome pets, allowing guests to bring their beloved dogs along without any hassle. The atmosphere throughout the venue is exceptionally welcoming for dogs with multiple reviews highlighting the great dog-friendly pub stays and pet-friendly accommodations.
Dining with pets is a seamless experience with the option to dine alongside pups, ensuring that pets are not left out of the social experience. The hotel staff are attentive and show incredible treatment towards guests' dogs, ensuring that both the pets and their owners feel comfortable and valued. With a policy that allows pets throughout the premises, including the rooms and dining areas, The Rusty Mackerel has clearly invested in creating a hospitable environment for all its visitors, canine or otherwise.
Location Show Map
Location
The surrounding area is lauded for its natural beauty, providing a magnificent landscape that enhances the overall experience. Situated close to Teelin Harbour, the cliffs and local attractions, The Rusty Mackerel stands out as an excellent base for exploring the region. Visitors also appreciate the rural yet accessible location, providing a peaceful retreat while being a mere five-minute drive from the cliffs.
Beyond the location, the pub atmosphere and the quality of the food are noted highlights, offering very good pub fare that complements the superb live music and cozy ambiance. The accommodation is quiet and comfortable, set in beautiful surroundings that enrich the travel experience.
Whether visiting for the stunning hikes or simply to soak in the beautiful countryside, The Rusty Mackerel is perfectly situated for an unforgettable stay in one of Ireland’s most scenic areas.
Breakfast
Guests appreciate the relaxing and quiet atmosphere of the breakfast room, making mornings a pleasant start to their day. The friendly and attentive service, particularly from staff members like Sheila, adds a personal touch that enhances the overall experience.
While the majority of reviews are overwhelmingly positive, a few guests note occasional issues such as a lack of certain breakfast items like fruit or yogurt and rare instances of poor service or delays. Despite these isolated comments, the general consensus is that breakfast at 'The Rusty Mackerel' is a delightful and satisfying treat, making it a highlight of the stay for many travelers.
Dinner
Guests also commended the friendly and efficient service, although there were occasional mentions of the service being chaotic and the menu being limited due to running out of items. Despite these minor hiccups, the majority of reviews emphasize the consistently high quality of both the food and the dining experience, making it clear that dinner at The Rusty Mackerel is something to be relished. The atmosphere is described as warm, welcoming and complemented by great entertainment, adding to the overall positive dining experience.
Rooms
Despite their compact nature, the rooms are modern, newly done and tastefully furnished. Beds are comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep. The shower facilities are notably good, further adding to the overall positive experience. The accommodations are described as quiet, which benefits those seeking a peaceful retreat.
However, it's important to note that the lack of windows in many rooms might not appeal to everyone and some guests found the rooms to be very warm and without adequate airflow. Additionally, the walls were mentioned to be thin, potentially affecting privacy and quietness.
Overall, The Rusty Mackerel’s rooms are well-suited for travelers looking for clean, basic and efficient accommodations with particular praise for their modern touch and spotless condition.
Beds
Cleanliness
While most rooms are referred to as impeccably clean with spotless beds and generally well-kept spaces, some reviews suggest that there could be occasional lapses in housekeeping, mentioning instances of uncleanliness. Nonetheless, these cases seem to be the exception rather than the norm.
The hotel doesn't just excel in cleanliness but also offers a beautiful location, modern amenities and cozy accommodations, contributing to a satisfying stay. This consistent focus on maintaining high standards of tidiness and order ensures that it meets and often exceeds, guest expectations.
Staff
Despite a few mentions of mixed friendliness and occasional demotivation among some younger team members, the overwhelming sentiment remains positive. Guests frequently commend the cheerful, polite and hardworking nature of the personnel. The hospitality extends beyond basic service, as the staff are not only professional but also exceptionally warm, making guests feel at home.
The management, especially figures like Dymphna, receives high praise for ensuring no request is too much trouble, embodying a can-do attitude that permeates throughout the team. Whether it’s in the bar, the dining area or at reception, the genuine friendliness and helpfulness of the staff shine through, leaving a lasting impression on visitors. Overall, the staff at The Rusty Mackerel are a key component of its charm, significantly contributing to its reputation as a welcoming and enjoyable destination.
Wi-Fi
Parking
Accessible
Rooms are quite accessible and, while some guests note they are on the smaller side with no windows or TV, they still find the location superb for tours and relaxation. The hotel also offers a little picnic area exclusively for lodgers, adding a cozy touch to the already accessible environment. Despite some limitations like small showers and a lack of ventilation, the hotel remains a favored choice due to its overall functional and accessible design.
Dog Friendly
Dining with pets is a seamless experience with the option to dine alongside pups, ensuring that pets are not left out of the social experience. The hotel staff are attentive and show incredible treatment towards guests' dogs, ensuring that both the pets and their owners feel comfortable and valued. With a policy that allows pets throughout the premises, including the rooms and dining areas, The Rusty Mackerel has clearly invested in creating a hospitable environment for all its visitors, canine or otherwise.
No, The Rusty Mackerel doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The Rusty Mackerel.
Yes, The Rusty Mackerel welcomes dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at The Rusty Mackerel.
No, The Rusty Mackerel doesn't have a gym.
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