Ireland Sustainable Stays: Eco Practices at Doolin Inn
In 2011, Anthony returned home with his family to take the reins of their long-standing hosteling business. Drawing on years of international hotel management—and a track record of earning sustainability awards—he brought a simple but powerful conviction: truly sustainable tourism starts at home. Guided by this ethos, Anthony and his dedicated team transformed the family hostel into the modern country house destination it is today, where quality and service are built on a foundation of local stewardship.
From Humble Beginnings to Modern Country House
What began as shared dorm rooms has, through hard work and millions of euros in investment, evolved into a luxury retreat. Today, the Doolin Inn offers:
Four-star bedrooms, each designed for comfort and efficiency
Townhouse junior suites and Courtyard suites, blending charm with contemporary amenities
The Burrow, our signature luxury pod complete with private jacuzzi and that famous Instagram-worthy view of Doolin
Our guiding principle—“improving a little every day”—has driven every expansion and renovation, ensuring each new addition meets our rigorous sustainability standards.
Award-Winning Eco Credentials
Between 2012 and 2016, when we were still Doolin Hostel, we proudly earned:
Green Hospitality Gold Standard
Best Improvement in Energy Usage
Best Waste Management
Small Tourism Business of the Year (2014)
Since 2014, we’ve been active members of the Burren Ecotourism Network, adhering to the UNESCO Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark Code of Practice—a mark of our commitment to “best practices” in sustainable tourism.
green by Design
Every development—2016, 2019, 2023, and our annual winter renovations—has prioritized sustainability:
Building “A-grade” new structures for maximum energy performance
Retrofitting existing buildings (e.g., extra insulation, triple-glazed windows)
Choosing only energy-efficient appliances (from kitchen ovens to lighting sensors)
Installing low-flow aerators, heating timers, and preventive maintenance on equipment to keep everything running at peak efficiency
Rooted in Community
Sustainability at Doolin Inn goes beyond bricks and energy bills—it’s about people and place. We:
Source the finest local produce for our breakfast and amenity menus
Partner exclusively with local suppliers and tradespeople for renovations
Cultivate our own herbs and vegetables in on-site polytunnels and gardens, fostering biodiversity and creating tranquil spaces for guests
By thriving here in Doolin, we can reinvest in our team and community:
Providing staff housing and career development, with recognition and promotion from within
Supporting Doolin Tidy Towns, Doolin Tourism, and sponsoring the Burren Volleyball Club
Volunteering—Anthony himself crews with the local Irish Coast Guard
Looking Ahead
In 2024 we installed a 62 kW solar array, projected to supply at least 80% of our annual electricity—and exceed 100% during the high-sun months of April through October. We’re steadily replacing biogas-fired systems with efficient electric alternatives, with the goal of eliminating our gas reliance altogether.
We’re also partnering with “50 Shades Greener” to pursue global ESG certification, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and assured by City & Guilds—our sights set firmly on Gold.
Our latest addition? A commercial composter to process 100% of our kitchen waste, enriching our gardens and polytunnel soil. It’s one more small step on a journey of countless strides.
Join Us on the Journey
Over the last fourteen years, we’ve come a long way—and there’s still much to do. But every change begins with a single action. If you’re wondering how to start your own sustainable journey, our best advice is simple: start, one step at a time. And if your steps bring you to Doolin, we’ll be here to welcome you to a stay that’s as kind to the planet as it is comfortable for you.