10. DHS - Daniel O'Donnell and the Viking House

Shrine Ten: the first son of Donegal. Location: 55.012867, -8.400807Speaker: Jacqui SharkeyTheme: gathering to salute the county's favourite son.This is Donegal's version of Graceland with maybe a hint of Father Ted thrown in. This hotel, formerly owned by legendary local singer, Daniel O'Donnell, has become a shrine to the great man, despite the fact that he doesn't live here nor indeed still own it. Hailing from Kincasslagh, Daniel frequently makes appearances back home and this seems to have become a base camp for those on the lookout for him. Chances are he'll be negotiating the jaw-dropping sixth hole on nearby Cruit Island Golf Club. There had been Daniel O'Donnell Visitor Centre from 2012 to 2019 in Dungloe, but it closed. However, the Viking House Hotel is still an integral part of any devotee's pilgrimage to these parts in the absence of his famous annual tea parties of yore. Daniel is by far Donegal's best ambassador and love him or loathe him, he has thrilled millions of folk from 8 to 80 years of age. Often forgotten is the man's wicked sense of humour and his ceaseless work for charity, all done quietly and without fuss. To the thousands who flock to to this area, it is nothing less than a place to salute the man who has given them such delight over the years. Hail wee Daniel, a veritable living legend and all round good egg. Traveling far and wanting the visit to include a definite sighting of the man? Well, Daniel is always about for The Mary from Dungloe festival and usually plays two shows - book early and enjoy the wild surroundings while you're at it. Audio taken from Donegal's Hallowed Sites on the Racontour Archive.Spotify URL: Donegal's Hallowed Sites playlist on Spotify