GWEEDORE’S newest bar was unveiled last night amid great celebrations.
The former Railway Bar at An Chúirt Hotel has been transformed and renamed as Fara Óg’s. The impressive bar blends modern styles with a taste of tradition, and with plenty of nods to the West Donegal Gaeltacht community.
Fara Óg’s is one of the first major projects by the Gallen Family since they purchased An Chúirt last year.
Ballybofey Hoteliers Tommy and Bridget Gallen and their children have been adding their own style and touches to the stunning Gaeltacht hotel since the purchase, all the while supporting local employment and tourism.
Friends and family toasted to the new Fara Óg’s at a get-together on Friday night. Entertainment came from the superb Beefsteaks Dancers.
The Gallen Family, from left – Karol, Laura, Bridget, Tommy, Rosemarie, Christopher and Nicole
Staff and family of the Gallen Hotel Group
The new Fara Óg’s in Gweedore
Tommy Gallen and manager Francis Breslin at the new Fara Og’s
Among the special guests was Bernie Anderson, a Ballybofey woman who won a social media contest to choose the new name of the bar. From over 250 entries, Fara Óg’s was the clear winner.
Bernie Anderson, who chose the name of Fara Óg’s, pictured with Dominic Conway
There has been much interest in the meaning behind the name since it was announced earlier this week. A few generations ago, Fara was the nickname given to Tommy’s branch of the Gallen family. With Gallen being such a popular name in Tommy’s local area it was common for each family to be given a nickname to tell the different families apart. Fara Ógs seemed the perfect way to continue the Fara name while paying homage to the new bar’s Gaeltacht location.
The four-star hotel is situated in one of the most breathtaking locations of Donegal, offering views of the Errigal Mountain Peaks and lakes and close to pristine beaches and the outstanding Glenveagh National park.
Leah Gallen, Nicole Gallen, Anne Gallen Campbell, Laura Gallen and Donnacha Gallen
The Beefsteak Dancers entertaining guests at the new Fara Og’s
Darren O’Leary, Eloka Asokuh, Brian Lafferty and Carolanne Byrne
Kirsten Byrnes and Ronan O’Donnell enjoying the new Fara Óg’s bar
Fara Og’s Bar & Restaurant
The Gallen family would like to thank all Gweedore locals for their support so far, not to mention the numbers from the Finn Valley area that have travelled to support them since opening. They are very much excited for the festive season ahead. With gigs including Mack Fleetwood, Conal Gallen (another Fara), The Kilkennys, Abba Sensations & a Rod Stewart Tribute there is much to look forward to at An Chúirt.
There are a few tables remaining on their festive party night this December 11th with an overnight stay, breakfast, 4-course meal, drinks reception and dancing to live band sailor bill for just €89pps. For more information contact the team on 074-9532900.
Follow An Chuirt Hotel on Facebook and Instagram for news and updates. For special offers, visit: www.gweedorecourthotel.com
Moira Doherty, Marjorie Doherty and Teodora Voicu
Darren O’Leary, Joe Dunnion and John Harkin
Dearbhla, Mary and Eilish celebrating the new bar launch