01/10/2026
We’re absolutely delighted and incredibly proud to have won the Atmospheric Destination Award 2026 at the Georgina Campbell Irish Food & Hospitality Award 2026
What a wonderful recognition for , and such an honour to be included among so many fantastic Irish food and hospitality businesses.
A huge thank you to Georgina Campbell and her team for this incredible award, and to everyone who has supported us and helped make The Blue Goat what it is.
We’re absolutely thrilled!
Photos: Paul Sherwood
ATMOSPHERIC DESTINATION OF THE YEAR 2026
Next time you head to Donegal, make sure The Blue Goat is on your Must-Visit list… Right on the quay beside the River Lennon in scenic Ramelton, Des Gallen has not only transformed the original McDaid’s mineral-water building - former home to Donegal’s iconic Football Special - into a stylish food destination, but he’s been at the forefront of the (too) recent restoration work that is gradually transforming the town’s historic river frontage. Des may be remembered from one-time Dublin favourite Gruel, and - along with the building itself and its location - it is his background as a chef and endless enthusiasm for good food that give the place its unique character and an ever-changing sense of purpose. Original features,including the old flagstone floor, comfortably play their part in showcasing a carefully curated and seasonally varied display of Irish artisan food - especially cheese, with many from the region offered and raw milk cheeses a speciality – and a bespoke cheese chamber is a particular delight. Pastries and breads (from Belle’s Kitchen in nearby Rathmullan), w**e, chocolate and other treats turn browsing into a wonderfully leisurely business – and, outside, coffee, tea and deli food can be enjoyed at a small seating area, with the river beside you. But it doesn’t end with the food. The Blue Goat is also a place for fresh flowers, handcrafted gifts, art, occasional music sessions upstairs - and accommodation in beautifully tranquil thoughtfully designed waterfront apartments. Ever-evolving, The Blue Goat always offers a sense of discovery. Magic.
Ramelton, Co. Donegal – Wild Atlantic Way
