“We think that St John’s is still a secret that so many people have yet to discover,” Cathal and Jackie Doherty enthuse. “Reggie and Phil Ryan (the previous owners) did a wonderful job building up a reputation for excellent food and warm hospitality, and we intend to carry that on. We want to bring them all back, and we also want to introduce new people to this wonderful experience.”

Both Cathal and Jackie are long-standing veterans of the hospitality industry. The pair started off in the early 1980s working under Brian Harkin at the Strand Hotel, Ballyliffen. After about ten years, Jackie moved up the road to the Ballyliffin Hotel and, after some time, Cathal went over to England, where he spent about a year.

When he returned to Inishowen, Cathal bought Briney’s Bar in Clonmany

As is obvious from a quick look around the building and grounds, the pair don’t plan to change much. “We’re making a few minor renovations, but only what is really, really necessary. Even though the building has been empty for months, it still has a very special, warm atmosphere. As soon as you walk through the door, you feel it, and that’s what sold us on the place.”

It’s clear from their enthusiasm that the couple regard this as much, much more than a financial investment. “This is quite an ambitious challenge we’re taking on, but we’re passionate about what we want to do. It’s not just about the amount of money that passes through the till. We want people who come here to feel that they’re not so much paying guests and old friends who have stopped by for a visit.”

And, even at such early days, they have new ideas. “Because the location is so very beautiful and peaceful, we thought it would be nice to do something during the day, rather than just open in the evening. So, during the summer, we are going to serve high tea in the afternoon, as well as things like chowder and mussels. Not bar food, but something very light, that people who are out for a drive can stop and enjoy while taking in the surroundings.”

They also have plans to cater for small weddings and possibly other functions appropriate to the glorious surroundings.

If everything goes according to schedule, the doors will re-open at the end of this month, just in time for the long weekend. I’d advise you to book early. Reservations will be taken from the end of this week on www.stjohnscountryhouse.ie.