Portsalon Luxury Camping in County Donegal has announced that it will close after twelve years of operating as a small-scale glamping destination. The business, run by owners Sean and Helen Coll, confirmed the closure in a statement shared on social media in early December 2025. The site operated five furnished yurts and typically opened during the summer tourism season.
According to the owners, the decision follows a period of increasing financial pressure and a decline in demand.
They stated that higher operating expenses, fewer visitors, and fewer amenities available locally contributed to the business becoming unsustainable. They noted that a combination of these factors made it increasingly difficult to continue running the glamping site at a viable level.
“After twelve years of welcoming guests to Portsalon Luxury Camping, we have made the difficult decision to close,” the owners told DonegalDaily.
“Rising costs, a decline in visitor numbers, and reduced local amenities have made it impossible to continue sustainably. Despite our best efforts, it’s time to draw this chapter to a close.”
The statement also acknowledged the support received from guests, neighboring residents, and community members over the years.
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who stayed with us over the years — your enthusiasm and support enriched our lives. Big thanks also go to our neighbours, friends, and the local community for their kindness and encouragement throughout.”
While the closure marks the end of operations for the 2025 season and beyond, the owners said they may return to the sector in the future. “We hope this isn’t goodbye forever. In time, we would like to evolve and return with something new — so watch this space.”
For operators in the outdoor hospitality sector, the closure reflects broader pressures facing small glamping and micro-accommodation businesses, including visitor fluctuations, seasonality, and rising overhead costs.
As competition increases and travelers shift preferences, owners of boutique outdoor stays may need to reassess pricing structures, diversification opportunities, and partnerships with local tourism providers.
Portsalon Luxury Camping’s announcement highlights how external economic conditions and local tourism ecosystem changes can affect long-standing operators, particularly those relying on a limited number of units and short operating windows.