Shandon Hotel and Spa celebrates eight years of success!

By Rachel McLaughlin • 1 month ago

Mar
2024

The Shandon Hotel and Spa threw a celebratory bash last night to mark eight years since its revival.

The seaside hotel marked the anniversary with a lavish party for staff and ambassadors to toast to the collective achievements.

The Shandon’s story began in 2016 when it reopened its doors under new ownership and under the leadership of General Manager Carolynne Murray. With an initial recruitment drive of 55 new staff, the hotel quickly established itself as a success story in the Donegal region. Since then, the Shandon has undergone multi-million refurbishments and grown its workforce to 140 employees, solidifying its position as a jewel of north Donegal.

The celebratory evening in the McCarthy suite featured a delicious buffet showcasing mouthwatering dishes from the newly launched Beats Bar menu. Staff members from all departments enjoyed the opportunity to let their hair down, savour the food and socialise in style.

Shandon Staff Members: L-R: Ciara Murphy, Ceri McNulty, Donna McGee, Carolynne Murray, Joy Evans, Stacey Stokes, Sarah Stokes and Brian Stokes

Dishes from the new Beats Bar Menu

Speaking at the event, Manager and Shandon Hotel director Carolynne Murray shared her reflections on the hotel’s journey so far: “I remember driving up the windy road to a dilapidated hotel, it was just a building site and I had already promised owner Warren McCarthy that I was going to fill this place.”

Carolynne seized the challenge and made a commitment to create 80% occupancy, even through the winter. With the support of her exceptional team, she reached that goal and picked up national and international awards along the way.

“Thankfully I surrounded myself with the most amazing team members and I am so grateful to say that most of them are still by my side,” Carolynne said.

“I’m so grateful for all senior management, for the managers, and every single team member. They are all instrumental in the success of the Shandon.”

Shandon Hotel and Spa celebrates eight year anniversary

Carolynne said the team all played a pivotal role in reaching key goals: creating an elaborate four-star offering on the Wild Atlantic Way, being listed as one of the top 10 hotels in Ireland, and developing 140 jobs in a remote area.

It’s certainly been a group effort, Carolynne said: “We have created an amazing luxury four star product that rivals some of the best hotels in Dublin. It’s all down to you guys.

“Thanks to the suppliers, business and brand ambassadors, who are also the key to our success.”

Blessed with the stunning Marble Hill beach as its backdrop, The Shandon stands out as one of the most scenic hotels in Ireland.

With recent investments in refurbishments, including the McCarthy Suite, the Leisure Centre, and a new state-of-the-art 24-hour gym and studio, The Shandon is poised to remain a leading hotel in Ireland for years to come.

See photos from the celebration here: