THE Crolly Distillery Experience has been recognised with the prestigious TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award 2025, placing it among the top 10 per cent of visitor attractions worldwide.

The honour is based entirely on consistently positive ratings and reviews from visitors from around the world. It comes just weeks after the Visitor Centre celebrated its third anniversary on July 4.

Nestled in the heart of the Donegal Gaeltacht, The Croithlí Distillery has quickly become a much-loved destination for both whiskey enthusiasts and curious travellers seeking an authentic cultural experience rooted in tradition, storytelling, and craftsmanship.

Catherine NicGrianna, visitor centre manager, says the award is a heartfelt endorsement of the warmth and welcome the Croithlí team offers every day: “We’re absolutely thrilled. This recognition isn’t just for the distillery – it’s for every single person who walked through our doors, shared a story, and took the time to leave such kind words. You’ve put us on the global stage, go raibh míle maith agat.”

She added: “The feedback we get from visitors – from locals discovering our rich history to international guests drawn to our Gaeltacht heritage – is what keeps us going. We’re a small team with a big grá for what we do.

“To receive this award just after marking our third anniversary makes it even more special. We’re raising a glass to everyone who made this happen.”

Looking ahead, the distillery will host a special tour and tasting event for the world’s largest travel bloggers conference, TBEX – which is due to bring more than 500 attendees to Donegal early next month.

Another highlight for 2025 is the upcoming release of PX Single Cask, a world-first whiskey distilled in Croithlí by direct flame in traditional Charentais stills, then matured in a rare 500L Spanish oak butt seasoned with Pedro Ximénez sherry. With just 698 bottles available, pre-orders will open in late August via www.thecrollydistillery.com, ahead of its release on 1 November.

Built in 1901 to help alleviate poverty and create employment in West Donegal, the distillery building became home to Donegal Carpets and later to the world-famous Crolly Dolls. It also served as an under-fire RIC barracks during the Irish War of Independence. Today, visitors enjoy immersive tours and tastings, experience unique direct-fire distillation methods, and have the chance to bottle their very own personalised Distillery Reserve whiskey. Tours run daily. Book online at thecrollydistillery.com