CNN - Andrew Stevens looks at the shipyards where the Titanic was born, and now are being transformed into a tourist destination and a commercial hub.
Hotels
Condé Nast - On the steely shores of Lough Eske, with the Bluestack Mountains as a backdrop, this ranks right up there among Irish castles you can bed down in. Donegal has become one of Ireland’s worst-kept secrets in recent years, a wild and rugged county that quietly impresses with its knockout scenery – and slickly operated Lough Eske Castle plugs you right in.
People
Alastair Fullerton has been appointed executive chef at the Titanic Hotel Belfast, which is part of the Harcourt Collection.
He will oversee the 100-cover Wolff Grill restaurant, which takes its name from Titanic shipbuilders Harland & Wolff, who were previously headquartered at the 119-bedroom hotel.
Fullerton has over 40 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, having been educated at Belfast Met before starting work under Paul Rankin in Roscoff.
Hotels
Food. Drink. Life - County Donegal is stepping into the international spotlight. With a steady rise in visitor numbers in recent years, Ireland’s northwestern corner is drawing global travelers in search of rugged coastlines, charming villages and open spaces far from the usual tourist trail.
It didn’t take long for me to understand the appeal. There’s a rhythm to life up here that feels different. You’re not rushing to check sights off a list but lingering to take in the breath-taking views, pulling over because you spotted a castle ruin or a wool shop tucked into the side of the road. It’s spontaneous, a little daring and completely enchanting
Hotels
Lough Eske Castle, County Donegal’s only five-star hotel, has taken a significant step forward in sustainable hospitality through a comprehensive suite of eco-conscious initiatives. Leading the way is the castle’s full transition to renewable energy, achieved through a long-term partnership with a leading green electricity provider. The historic estate is now powered entirely by clean, renewable energy marking a key milestone in its ongoing commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and aligning with Ireland’s national sustainability goals.
This move to renewable power is just one part of the castle’s broader mission to embed sustainability into every aspect of its operations.
Art
Irish Examiner - A major exhibition of Lucian Freud's work is currently on at Titanic Belfast. Marc O'Sullivan spoke to two of the key people who were involved with the German/British painter
Pat Doherty has the distinction of having sat for three portraits – two paintings and a copperplate etching – by the legendary British painter Lucian Freud.
Several copies of the etching feature in the exhibition, Lucian Freud’s Etchings: A Creative Collaboration, which has just launched at Titanic Belfast in partnership with the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.
