Business

Harbouring growth in Fermanagh as resort completes £1m expansion

Darren Ward, relationship manager at First Trust Bank, with Darren Johnston, owner and manager of the Rossharbour Resort outside one of the property's glamping pods on the shores of Lower Lough Erne
Darren Ward, relationship manager at First Trust Bank, with Darren Johnston, owner and manager of the Rossharbour Resort outside one of the property's glamping pods on the shores of Lower Lough Erne Darren Ward, relationship manager at First Trust Bank, with Darren Johnston, owner and manager of the Rossharbour Resort outside one of the property's glamping pods on the shores of Lower Lough Erne

ROSSHARBOUR, a family-run lakeside resort in Fermanagh, has completed a £1 million expansion following a £1 million investment with support from First Trust Bank.

Situated on the shores of lower Lough Erne, Rossharbour has completed extensive landscaping across its six acres of land and added three luxury self-catering lodges to the site, bringing accommodation capacity up to 84 guests.

The resort now boasts four unique glamping pods each with a private hot-tub, five wigwams as well as six family-sized cottages.

After initially spotting an opportunity to cater to Northern Ireland’s fledgling glamping market 18 months ago, Rossharbour resort has been steadily growing its business and now caters to a wide variety of guests including couples, groups such as hen and stag parties and families, as well as those looking for a traditional fishing weekend.

Along with a games room, sauna, spa and afternoon tea packages, the owners have also invested in its wedding facilities, and it now has two permanent event marquees along with an outdoor ceremony area.

Owner Darren Johnston said: “My vision for Rossharbour was to create a resort that could capture not only the the beauty and calmness of the area, but also offer adventure and fun in a luxurious setting. This latest expansion sets us well on our way to achieving and building upon this vision.”

Darren Ward, relationship manager at First Trust Bank, which supported the expansion, said: “Armed with an ambitious business plan, we were proud to support Darren and his team as they create a stand-out holiday destination.

"Darren showcases the very essence of what makes a business successful. He did his due diligence - researched the market and approached the project with an innovative and focused mind-set. We look forward to supporting this creative business as it continues its growth plans.”