Rock Lodge

Rock Lodge

Rock Lodge

this wonderful air, which is like wine in one’s teeth.

J.M Synge
Book This Home

County Kerry

Rock Lodge nestles sensitively in the shelter of a spectacular rocky escarpment on 125 acres stretching above Lough Currane. The rugged beauty of the landscape, the fantastic lake fishing and the proximity to the renowned Ring of Kerry, guarantee an unrivalled experience on the Wild Atlantic Way.

 

Rural Kerry Comforts

The Lodge was built in 1870, and is the oldest house in Glenmore – originally named Inchfarrannagleirach Glebe, Rock is rather more easy on the tongue.
Approached along the meandering scenic Lake Road out of Waterville, a curved stone entrance welcomes you to the avenue, culminating in the large gravel sweep at Rock Lodge.

Modest size windows attest to the age of the house, a taller parallel extension to the back of the original house more than doubles the accommodation.

French doors open informally into the kitchen end of a large country-cottage living area. Fly rods along the beams anticipate tomorrows catch.

AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    Up to 6 guests
    From €1,850 per week
  • Bedrooms
    Three double bedrooms – all ensuite
    Family bathroom
  • Other Rooms
    Open plan Sitting room
    Dining room and Kitchen
    Study
    Entrance Hall, Utility room
  • Features
    Wood burning stoves
    Gas Barbecue, Fire pit
    Al Fresco dining furniture
  • Contempo
    Flat screen smart TV, fast WiFi internet
    DVD and screen
    Good Cell phone reception
  • Availability
    Weekly only: Monday to Monday
  • Restrictions
    Children over 12 are welcome
    One dog permitted

  • CHECK HERE

The kitchen area is fully fitted with presses and worktop, with a huge six ring Rangemaster cooker, fridge-freezer and dishwasher.

An oval dining table with six striking red velvet chairs occupies centre stage. At the other end of the open layout, comfortable sofas cosy up to a wood burning stove. The walls are white throughout and in the southern extension, they are fitted with large picture windows framing views over the ornamental lake and extensive rocky landscape usually dotted with sheep.

An archway cuts through to the hallway and formal entrance of the original cottage.

To one side is the snug – a comfortable me-time reading room which also sports a large collection of DVD’s, books and games, a small desk and a wood burning stove. The deep-set windows on either side emphasize the thick stone walls and add to the cosy feel.

 

The downstairs bathroom and WC has washed sage green wainscotting, and alongside is the utility area with drying room and Belfast sink, all occupying the remainder of the ground floor.


Facilities & Ameneties

Kitchen Appliances

• 6 ring gas Rangemaster with 3 ovens
• Fridge-freezer
• Dishwasher
• Toaster
• Microwave
• Nespresso coffee machine

Utility Appliances

• Washing machine
• Spin dryer
• Iron

Bedrooms

• Sizes – Three King-size beds
• 2 Hairdryers

Tech & Entertainment

• Mesh Wi-Fi Internet & signal booster
• Smart Flat-screen TV
• Freesat and Netflix
• DVD player and screen in snug

Other

• Good selection of books
• Large selection of DVDs
• Outdoor dining furniture
• Gas barbecue and fire pit.

 

Bedrooms

Upstairs in the original cottage, the angle ceiling and knee high windows and plump solid walls confer an intimate atmosphere to the two double bedrooms. These two bedrooms have king sized beds and both have ensuite shower rooms with WC.

On kind days, morning sunshine floods the pine floored principal bedroom – large enough for its own sofa on which to relax with an early morning coffee and soak in the views of the valley through the picture windows. Ensuite shower room and WC and walk in wardrobe.

Outside

Rock Lodge shares this idylic setting with a smaller cottage which is occupied by the affable and erudite owners. The house is sited on 125 acres which front onto Lough Currane and the privately owned Coppal Lake. Historically, one of Irelands finest Salmon and Sea Trout fishing areas, boat hire and ghillies can be arranged.

To the south is an ornamental lake and the entire nurtured in the benign care of the dramatic rocky escarpment and Eagle Hill – all good hill walking and indeed Sea Eagles and other avians can be spotted from time to time. Also the Kerry Way passes right by the gate.

No better place for a spectacular sunset, a small whiskey and a long yarn. Star gazers should note, this is the epicentre of Kerry’s Dark Sky Reserve, minimal light polution here, so bring your scope!

Restrictions

Smoking – No, sorry!
Parties – The owners regret Stag, Hen, Wedding or 21st parties are not admissible.
Pets – One well behaved pet is permitted (not in bedrooms), and must be kept under control at all times – this is a serious sheep farming area.

Please note that some of the local features can be hazardous for young children.

Provisional Booking Form

This Home is normally only let by the week.
Important – A Week’s booking runs from Monday to Monday
Arrival time after 4.30pm with departure by 10.30am

A refundable breakages deposit payable with the rental amount will be refunded within seven days of departure.

Rates Table

  Per week
All year € 1,850

Select your Dates

AVAILABLE BOOKED

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  • Please note all booking requests are subject to 24 hour approval.
  • Once your provisional booking has been placed, the UIH team will verify it, answer any specific queries you may have, and request a deposit to lock in your dates.
  • Please note if your provisional booking is not confirmed and the deposit paid within 3 days it will expire.
  • If your preferred dates are not available, click here to review alternate options.
  • For additional information please contact us on +353 85 860 0027
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Out & About

 

Anywhere along the Ring of Kerry you will be spoiled for things to do. There are truly amazing blue flag beaches, fabulous golf courses, incredible lake and river fishing and brilliant restaurants. We just can’t list them all…

​

Here are some of our favourites…

 

The Locality

 

 
​Waterville on the Ring of Kerry is a twisty ten-minute drive away. There you will find a Centra supermarket for most things; restaurants and fuel.

Wild Atlantic Way
Click here to find out more…

The town blossomed in the late 1800’s when the first undersea telephone cables were being laid between Valentia Island and Nova Scotia, and the region became a communications hub for Europe.

Prior to the laying of the Transatlantic Cable it took approximately two weeks from a message to reach North America from Europe – weather permitting – as all communications were sent via boat.

Renowned as a Fly Fishing mecca for Sea Trout and Salmon, Lough Currane is the largest of several lakes on the Cummeragh River. It is 3 miles long and just under 2 miles at its widest. Ghillies are available, providing boats and engines.
Over 90% of Specimen Sea Trout (6lbs plus) in Ireland, are hooked on this famous lough.
Lough Coppal has its own river system and is around 1/2 a mile wide. Fishing is by boat and available by ticket – more information is available in the house.

photo: Richard Smith

The Kerry International Dark-Sky Reserve has been designated Ireland’s first by the International Dark-Sky Association – one of only three Gold Tier Reserves on the planet, and the only such Reserve in the Northern Hemisphere.
On clear nights the sky in this region of Ireland is simply stunning, with as many astronomical sights visible to the naked eye as in the desert plains of Africa.

Waterville derives its name from the name of Butlers family home – now a hotel. The town was a favourite holiday spot of Charlie Chaplin and his family who used to stay in the Butler Arms Hotel. They first visited the town in 1959 and came back every year for over ten years. Coppal Lake was Charlie Chaplin’s favourite spot in Waterville. There is now an annual Charlie Chaplin Comedy Festival in the town.

The waters around our coasts are remarkably warm – 7° to 8°C warmer than the average global sea temperature at these latitudes, thanks to the warm Gulf Stream drift which comes across the Atlantic from the Caribbean. 

You will not be disappointed by the dazzling views of  Ballynaskelligs Bay, the Skellig Islands and Derrynane on a drive south around the head to Caherdaniel.

The beach at Derrynane is one of Ireland’s truly great strands. While you are there you could pop in to Derrynane House, the ancestral home of the great 19th century politician Daniel O’Connell. It must have been an exhausting ride from here to attend Parliament in London.

The Kerry Way walking route passes the gate and there is an interesting stretch which goes across the mountains behind us and over to Caherdaniel, conveniently ending at the Blind Piper pub for the essential refreshments – more information is available in the house.

The towering Skellig Islands can clearly be seen rising steeply from the ocean about 12km off the tip of the peninsular. On the summit of Skellig Michael there is a remarkably well preserved monastic settlement that bears testimony to the hardiness of sixth century monks.
Renowned for its huge population of gannets, the Skellig islands are also home to Puffins, with more than 4,000 on Small Skellig alone.
The outcrop features as a location in the latest Star Wars movie, and trips to the islands are available from Portmagee – see Out & About section above.

How to get there – Car advised…

By Air: Cheap flights to Kerry Airport (Farrenfore) Cork, Dublin or Shannon.
Kerry Airport – approx 1.5 hour from house.
Cork Airport – approx 2.5 hours from house.
Shannon Airport – approx 3 hours from house.
Dublin Airport – approx 5 hours from house.
By Sea: Ferry crossings from Pembroke/Fishguard to Rosslare.
Stena Express – 120 mins (summer only from Fishguard)
Swansea/Cork Ferry is 2.5 hours from the house.
Rosslare Port is approx 4 hours from house
Dublin City Port/Holyhead has a fast crossing and is approx 5 hours from house

​

Map

Tulach Ard Scottish Highlands

Tulach Ard

Scottish Highlands

Tulach Ard

Scottish Highlands

Tulach Ard

Scottish Highlands

A Hebridean Heaven

Book This Home

Scottish Highlands – West

This lovingly restored and extended 18th Century country rectory overlooks Loch Alsh which separates mainland Scotland from the Isle of Skye.
The listed house sits within thirty acres of private farm and woodland, just metres from the secluded seashore, and with nature on the doorstep, it is a stunning location for hikers and anglers alike.
 

A Manse for all Seasons

The generous main living space spans the full width of the house and encompasses a dining area and a comfortable seating section warmed by a toasty open fireplace.
Window seats surround the room with spectacular sea and mountain views.

In a nod to modernist design walls are lined with broad boards of native timber.
Double doors open out to directly to the front garden which borders the foreshore of the Loch.

AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    Up to 14 guests
    From €7,800 per week
  • Bedrooms
    Three double bedrooms – 2 ensuite
    Four twin bedrooms with shared bathrooms
    Family bathroom
  • Other Rooms
    Open plan Living / Dining room
    Annex sitting room
    Family Kitchen
    Utility rooms
  • Features
    Open Fire place
    Bothy Sauna available
    Big Green Egg Barbecue
    Kitchen garden
  • Contempo
    Smart TV, WiFi internet
    DAB Radio
    Poor Cell phone reception
  • Availability
    Weekly only – Sat to Sat
  • Restrictions
    Children over 12 are welcome
    Obedient dogs are welcome

  • CHECK HERE

Bespoke Scottish oak furniture, flat woven wool carpets and the natural materials of the interior, are inspired by the landscape and colours that surround the house.

​

The family farmhouse kitchen has a rustic warm ambience, an electric AGA range, and more of those wonderful oak and tartan flourishes.

FIREWOOD
We have supplied you with a large basket of firewood however, if you go through it don’t worry, there is more. We charge £20 per large basket of extra wood.

 

Bedrooms

An impressive semi-spiral stairwell leads to three king size double rooms on the first floor, two of which have ensuite bathrooms.

Each bedroom is unique, impeccably decorated, and offers a different aspect and connection to the surrounding landscape. All enjoy particular views of the ancient woodlands, misty Skye Munros and the private foreshore.

The luxury and character of this home is exemplified by the colourful family bathroom with an exquisite free-standing slipper-bath.

On the top floor there are two elegant, understated twin rooms, separated by a shared bathroom.

Outside

Sitting on a raised beach, ten yards from the salty Loch Alsh, the house is reached via half a mile of private track that winds through farmland from the main road.

There are traditional farm buildings, a large lawn and garden on the grounds. At the back of the house is a native Scottish woodland where deer and native wildlife can be spotted.

Dogs are very welcome at Tulach Ard. We ask though that when outside they are kept in sight. Please when outside the garden keep them on a lead, there are sheep grazing on the farm and wildlife surrounding the house – we cannot have them distressed.

There is also a kitchen garden with seasonal herbs, fruit and vegetables.

If you plan on enjoying some wild sea swimming off the rocks right in front of the house, there is a self-contained Bothy Sauna available for a small additional charge. Please let us know if you would like to book use of the sauna a day in advance.

Provisional Booking Form

Bookings are weekly only, running from Saturday to Saturday

A refundable breakages deposit payable with the rental amount will be refunded within seven days of departure.

 

Rates Table

Per week
€7800.

Select your Dates

AVAILABLE BOOKED

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  • Please note all booking requests are subject to 24 hour approval.
  • Once your provisional booking has been placed, the UIH team will verify it, answer any specific queries you may have, and request a deposit to lock in your dates.
  • Please note if your provisional booking is not confirmed and the deposit paid within 3 days it will expire.
  • If your preferred dates are not available, click here to review alternate options.
  • For additional information please contact us on +353 85 860 0027
Available
Booked
Pending
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Out & About

 

Fantastic fish, wonderful walks, invigorating swims and mesmerising scenery, and then there’s the restaurants…

Here are some of our favourites…

 

The Locality

 

 

Balmacara up on the main road, has a small Spar with all the essentials, however for a greater choice, Kyle of Lochalsh is just over 5 minutes away and features the bridge link to the Island of Skye. The town has a good butcher, fishmonger, supermarket and railway station.

If you are visiting Eilean Donan Castle at the other end of the sea loch – and you should – there is a wee bakery as you pass through Ardelve. The picturesque lake castle which frequently appears in the media has a long history of re-building and is connected to the mainland by a 20th century footbridge addition.

photo: Diliff

The chain of islands to the West of Scotland are known as the Hebrides – 79 of them make up the Inner Hebrides of which under half are currently inhabited.
Skye is the second-largest island in Scotland after Lewis and Harris which are in the Outer Hebrides.

photo Cuillin Munros: Stefan Krause, License: LAL

The centre of the island is dominated by the mountainous Cuillin Munros, whose rocky slopes of provide some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the country.
Scottish mountains with summits greater than 900 metres are often referred to as Munros after Sir Hugh Munro, who compiled a list towards the end of the 19th century.
12 of the 283 Scottish Munros are on Skye and are renowned by climbers for their difficulty and danger.

There are about 4,000 Gaelic speakers in the Inner Hebrides, equal to 20% of the population of the archipelago, and a relatively high proportion of them live on Skye.
Students of Scottish Gaelic travel from all over the world to attend its Sabhal Mòr Ostaig school.

Skye has a strong folk music tradition and Jethro Tull singer Ian Anderson owned an estate at on the island at one time. The Hebrides, also known as Fingal’s Cave, is a famous overture written by Felix Mendelssohn inspired by his visit to Staffa.
​

Scotland is known for its ubiquitous castles, and both Clan MacDonald and Clan MacLeod have theirs on the Island and should be on your list of places to visit.
Dunvegan Castle is the oldest inhabited castle in Scotland, and always by the same family, the chiefs of the Clan MacLeod.

There is also an abundance of ruined and abandoned houses on Skye. These date from a difficult 100-year period from mid 1700s know as the Highland Clearances, when attempts at agricultural improvements, landlord evictions, enterprise failure and eventually famine caused emigration on a massive scale.

Skye’s history stretches back to the age of the dinosaurs. Dinosaur’s footprints can be found on the shore at Staffin and there are more dinosaur fossils from Skye on display in the Dinosaur Museum near Staffin.

photo: Christoph Müller

Persecuted to extinction in Britain, the largest bird of prey the huge white-tailed eagle has been successfully reintroduced in the west coast of Scotland, and is now top of the bird watcher attractions in this region.

The main commercial activities of the Hebrides include fishing and whisky distilling.
The infamous Scotch Whiskey, originally derived from malted barley, can be made from wheat and rye and must be aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years before bottling.
There are 17 whiskey distilleries on the islands, which is more than a third of Scotland’s total.

How to get there – Car advised..

By Air: International Flights to Glasgow, Aberdeen and Edinburgh airports, which are all under 4 hours from the house.
Inverness Airport – is under 2 hours from the house.

There is also a terrific 3 hour rail trip from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh only 7 minutes from the house.

​

Map

Rathclaren House

Rathclaren House

Rathclaren House

Rathclaren House

Gracious Georgian living in the heart of West Cork

Book This Home

County Cork

This classic regency rectory has been sensitively modernised and is situated in its own extensive grounds with pastoral views south to the Courtmacsherry estuary and the ocean beyond. Generous rooms, large windows and classic period detailing, plus the versatility of split accommodation augment the magic of this home.
Half way twixt the West Cork Meccas of Kinsale and Clonakilty and just 40 minutes from Cork International Airport, this is perfect spot for a multi-generational gathering.

 

The Main House

Refined Regency Living

Through the entrance gate a sweeping drive leads up via 6 acres of mature private gardens planted with flourishing examples of rhododendron, and azalea to the main entrance at the side of the house.

A decidedly quaint hall door welcomes you to the reception hall, both splendid and spacious, with access to multiple rooms and a graceful staircase leading to the bedrooms.

AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    Up to 11 guests
    including the annex
    From € 6,500 per week
  • MAIN HOUSE
    Bedrooms
    Two double bedrooms – 1 ensuite
    One single bedroom
    Family bathroom
  • Other Rooms
    Two reception rooms, Study
    Family Kitchen / breakfast room
    Entrance Hall, Utility room
  • ANNEX
    Bedrooms
    Three double bedrooms – 1 ensuite
    Bathroom
  • Other Rooms
    Living room, Kitchenette
  • Features
    Open Fire places, wood burning stoves
    Large private gardens
  • Availability
    High season Weekly only: Saturday to Saturday
    Weekends: Friday to Monday
    Midweek: Monday to Friday
  • Restrictions
    Children over 10 are welcome
    Sorry, pets are not permitted

  • CHECK HERE

The two very large drawing reception rooms lead off one side of the hall. Divided by lofty double doors, the rooms span the southern façade of the house and share wonderful views of the garden through beautifully proportioned Georgian windows.

Marble fireplaces, sumptuous sofas, vintage furniture and Persian carpeted wide floorboards, evoke the understated elegance of Georgian living.

Also off the hallway, through classic double doors, is a snug oak-panelled study; book lined and with a large open fire-place.

Beyond the study, is a large dining room that can seat ten in comfort.
This bright room is a recent addition, and features a dazzling glazed roof light, controllable by way of push button automated blinds.

There is also access from here to the lawns for the summer months.

Facilities & Ameneties

Kitchen Appliances

• Aga oil range with 4 ovens and 4 gas rings
• Electric Oven>br>
• Fridge-freezer
• Dishwasher
• Twin sinks
• Toaster
• Microwave

Utility Appliances

• Washing machine
• Spin dryer
• Iron

Bedrooms

• Sizes – Two double beds, Three King-size and one Single
• 2 Hairdryers

Tech & Entertainment

• Wi-Fi Internet
• Flat-screen TV

Other

• Good selection of books
• Barbecue
• Croquet set

Off the northern side of the hallway, there is a generous, modern, well-appointed kitchen and breakfast room.

The budding gourmet will delight in the substantial oil-fired range (AGA) with four ovens supported by a four-ring gas hob. The preparation island has a second handy sink.

As an informal dining room, the breakfast area caters comfortably for six around a circular table. Two French doors give out onto the courtyard with access to the converted stable that is the Annex.

Leading off the kitchen is a large utility room containing washer and drier.

Bedrooms

The two main double bedrooms lead off the landing and overlook the lawns. Softly lit by grand south facing windows, they are both spacious and sumptuous.

The master bedroom incorporates a luminous en-suite bathroom, with an elegant double ended slipper bath, shower cubicle and marble lined double basins.

Across the landing is a neat family bathroom with double ended bath.

A small but delightful bedroom, perfect for kids, is at the end of the landing with windows that look out to the stable block annex.

The Annex

A modest pea-gravelled courtyard is all that lies between the main house and the converted stables, most easily reached through the breakfast room’s French doors.
This is a stand-alone apartment, albeit with a bantam kitchen – and it is wheelchair friendly.

On the ground floor is a sizeable sitting room with a wood burning stove and a large flat screen TV.

Just off that is the small pantry kitchenette.

Adjacent to the sitting room is a charming double bedroom with en suite bathroom.

The bathroom has a walk-in shower and twin pedestal basins. It is also equipped with support for elderly guests.

Two bedrooms and a large bathroom are accessed from an upstairs corridor that runs the length of the stable building.

The pretty panelled bathroom is shared, and has a double ended bath, shower cubicle and twin sinks.

 

Provisional Booking Form

2023 Holiday Breaks

Easter weekend Friday 7th April to Wednesday 12th April € 8,500
Halloween Friday 27th October to Wednesday 1st November € 8,500
Christmas break Saturday 23rd to Thursday 28th December € 8,500
New Year break Friday 29th to Wednesday 3rd January € 8,500
NB. 5 night minimum stay.

Mid-week bookings run from Monday PM till Friday AM – 4 nights
Weekend breaks run from Friday PM till Monday AM – 3 nights
Important – A Week’s booking runs from Saturday to Saturday

A refundable breakages deposit payable with the rental amount will be refunded within seven days of departure.

 

Rates Table

  Per week Weekend Mid-week
October to May € 6,500 € 4,500 € 4,500
June to September € 8,500 Not Available Not Available

Select your Dates

AVAILABLE BOOKED

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  • Please note all booking requests are subject to 24 hour approval.
  • Once your provisional booking has been placed, the UIH team will verify it, answer any specific queries you may have, and request a deposit to lock in your dates.
  • Please note if your provisional booking is not confirmed and the deposit paid within 3 days it will expire.
  • If your preferred dates are not available, click here to review alternate options.
  • For additional information please contact us on +353 85 860 0027
Available
Booked
Pending
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Out & About

 

West Cork is inundated with fantastic food, dramatic vistas, coastal adventures and historical treasures.

We just can’t list them all, so here are a few of our favourites…

 

The English Market – Cork City. Failte Ireland

 

Guitar Festival Clonakilty, mid-September

 
The famous West Cork Music Festival at Bantry (held in June) is just 45 minutes away.

 

The Locality

 

 

Immediately behind the house is the seventeenth century church which until recently was served by Rathclaren’s rector.

Kilbrittain is the nearest village. Its castle, is thought to date from 1035 and remains a family home to this day – reputed to be one of the oldest inhabited castles in Ireland.
Annually in August, Kilbrittain Village hosts a Family Festival which draws large crowds.

In the winter of 2009, an 18-metre (59 ft) fin whale became stranded on a beach in Courtmacsherry Bay. The Lifeboat laboured without success to get the whale back into the sea, and it subsequently died. The skeleton is now on display in a small park to the east of Kilbrittain village.

Timoleague, (10 mins) at the head of the bay, has a ruined abbey dating back to the 13th century. The town is notable for its Brown Pudding sausage – but also has a long tradition of Bee-keeping and obviously honey. Here is also the nearest petrol station with a small Centra supermarket.

On the far side of the bay is the picturesque fishing village of Courtmacsherry – a short 15 minute trip along the water’s edge. Busy during the summer months the village is a centre for sea anglers, whale and dolphin watching tours, plus an array of water sports and skills courses.
It is also home to one of the first and one of the busiest lifeboat stations in the country.

The multi award winning historical town of Clonakilty, 25 minutes away, has quirky shops, cafes and pubs featuring live music sessions, as well as some fine restaurants.
The town is known for its black pudding which is made to a secret spice recipe since the 1880s, but also produces other fine treats such as craft beers, chocolate and gin.

Clonakilty Distillery

image Failte Ireland

Off course these waters are a familiar haunt for Whales and Dolphins, and there are a number of experienced local boatmen offering guided trips to get up close and personal with them – an unforgettable experience.

About 10 minutes east of the house is Ballinspittle. In the summer of 1985, the town received international attention when inhabitants claimed to have witnessed a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary moving spontaneously. As news of the phenomenon spread, thousands of pilgrims and spectators flocked to the site – many claiming the same experience.

The bustling market town of Bandon, 15 minutes to the north, is the largest town in the region, and stages a Saturday morning farmers market.
Graham Norton, BBC chat show host, lived in Bandon and attended Bandon Grammar School.
The town is host to a 3 day Music Festival Jun Bank Holiday.

Kinsale town, extolled by Conde Nast as one of Ireland’s most beautiful towns, is the Southern limit of the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s 2,500km route that follows the coast to Inishowen, in the North.

Wild Atlantic Way
Click here to find out more…

Just 20km away, the genuinely picturesque town has a long and chequered history as a strategic port, but it’s current status as ‘The Gourmet Capital of Ireland’ derives from the quality of its acclaimed restaurants, of which there are many.

The are also the remains of two impressive forts built by the English to protect the narrow entrance from the sea. The 17th-century pentagonal bastion of James Fort, and its successor, Charles Fort on the opposite side of the estuary, which is one of the finest surviving examples of a star-shaped fort from the period. Charles Fort continued to be used by the British Army until February 1922.

In 1915 on a trip from New York to Liverpool, the luxury passenger steamship Lusitania was torpedoed by a German U-boat 18 km off the Old Head of Kinsale. Taking 18 minutes to sink, there were only 764 survivors.

Old Head of Kinsale

image Failte Ireland

The loss of 128 Americans in the tragedy is thought to have contributed to their active involvement in WW2, however a number of controversies and conspiracy theories relating to the disaster persist to this day. A museum and memorial garden at the Signal Tower on the Old Head, commemorate the event.

Garretstown Beach

image Failte Ireland

There are myriad of sandy swimming beaches dotted along the coastline – at least 7 nearby – so we’ll leave it to you to explore here.

How to get there – Car advised..

By Air: Flights to Cork, Kerry, Dublin or Shannon airports.
Cork Airport – about 40 mins from the house.
Kerry Airport – about one hour 50mins from the house.
Dublin Airport – about 3 and a half hours from the house
Shannon Airport – approx 2 and a half hours from house.

By Sea: Ferry crossings
Dublin City Port/Holyhead has a fast crossing and is about 3 and a half hours from the house.
Rosslare Harbour for Ferries to South Wales is just over 3 hours from house.

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Map

Hazelwood

Hazelwood

Hazelwood

Simply Bewitching

Book This Home

County Donegal

This lovingly restored 19th Century stone house, full of traditional and quirky Irish artefacts and with luxurious attention to detail, sits in extensive mature grounds and has an astounding view over the beautiful blue-flag beach of Culdaff.
Wild, windy and rugged, Inishowen is the most northerly part of Ireland – a hauntingly beautiful wilderness, still, within a stone’s throw of the buzzing attractions of our Northern Ireland neighbours.

 

No place like home…

At the centre of the house, in what was the original structure, is a lofty, terracotta dining room. It retains much of the original cooking hearth complete with swinging pot crane and various cooking irons from a long-gone era.

A wonderful communal room for the evenings, with an oak table and seating for eight.

AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    Up to 7 guests
    From €1,600 per week
  • Bedrooms
    One double bedroom – ensuite
    Two twin and one single bedrooms
    Family bathroom
  • Other Rooms
    Sitting room, Dining room
    Family kItchen
    Annex – Games room
    Utility outbuilding
  • Features
    Open Fire place, Wood stove
    Central heating, Patio, Ocean views
  • Contempo
    concealed TV, WiFi internet,
    Good Cell phone reception
  • Availability
    High season Weekly only: Saturday to Saturday
    Midweek: Monday to Friday
  • Restrictions
    Children over 12 are welcome
    Well behaved pets are permitted

  • CHECK HERE

The latched doors, liscannor flagstone floor and small square curtained windows, preserve the Irish heritage evident throughout the home.

​A step down from the dining room is an amply appointed kitchen.
Colourful, contemporary, and of eclectic design, it’s also an ideal breakfast room.

Preparation surfaces are stainless steel, with a tall fridge concealed behind lofty press doors.

There is a door from here directly onto the front driveway – a handy entrance.

Facilities & Ameneties

Kitchen Appliances

• 4 Ring gas hob
• Twin electric Oven
• Fridge-freezer
• Dishwasher
• Twin Toaster
• Microwave

Utility Appliances

• Washing machine
• Tumble dryer
• Iron

Bedrooms

• Sizes – One double bed, four single beds
• Cabin bed
• Hairdryer

Tech & Entertainment

• Wi-Fi Internet
• Concealed TV in sitting room
• CD stereo player

Other

• Good selection of books
• Table tennis table
• Foosball table
• Some board games & music cds

In contrast, the sitting room appended to the opposite end of the house, is filled with light from the south facing windows that line one side, all the while framing that striking vista of Culdaff beach and the headland beyond.

Mustard in colour, and furnished with deeply comfortable sofas and a woodburning stove, the room also has French doors opening onto a stone flagged patio, for those special barbecue days.

The owner has a passion for quality recycled or repurposed furnishings, evident in fittings such as the truly efficient heating radiators, wash handbasins, vintage furniture and artworks.

 

Bedrooms

The master bedroom is of generous size and bookends the kitchen end of the house.

The ensuite features a commodious walk-in wet room shower.

At its centre, an archetypal wrought iron and brass knob bedstead overlooked by a brooding of bird pictures.

Directly off the dining room, there is a whimsical box bedroom paneled in a pale watery teal with views to the beach. The snug, cabin bed is as cosy as it is unique.

Off the passageway that threads through the house, a steeply meandering stairway leads to a long loft bedroom, furnished with a pair of traditional iron beds.

Timber sheeted and long, a charming feature is the novel interior window that overlooks the dining room.

There is a delightful bedroom in soft terracotta, with twin wrought iron and brass bedsteads and a duo of windows accessed from the central passageway.

The spacious family bathroom, also off the passageway, has a quirky bath dressed in rusticated stone tiles, a wet-room style walk-in shower and classic vintage sink.

Outside

The accomplished stonework of the house extends to the Rapunzel-tower entrance columns.

An expansive banked lawn falls away to a heavily shrubbed woodland in the front, where the stunning Culdaff beach view is the hero.

 

Out-buildings at the rear have been re-purposed to serve as a utility room, with an unexpected spacious games room above.

Provisional Booking Form

2023 Holiday Breaks

Easter weekend Friday 7th April to Monday 10th April € 2,500
Halloween Friday 27th October to Wednesday 1st November € 2,500
Christmas break Saturday 23rd to Thursday 28th December € 2,500
New Year break Saturday 30th to Tuesday 2nd January € 2,500

This Home is normally only let by the week, except as follows:
Mid-Week bookings run from Monday PM till Friday AM – 4 nights
Weekend breaks are not currently available
Important – A Week’s booking runs from Saturday to Saturday

A refundable breakages deposit payable with the rental amount will be refunded within seven days of departure.

 

Rates Table

  Per week Mid-week
October to May € 2,000 € 1,600
June to September € 2,500 Not Available

Select your Dates

AVAILABLE BOOKED

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  • Please note all booking requests are subject to 24 hour approval.
  • Once your provisional booking has been placed, the UIH team will verify it, answer any specific queries you may have, and request a deposit to lock in your dates.
  • Please note if your provisional booking is not confirmed and the deposit paid within 3 days it will expire.
  • If your preferred dates are not available, click here to review alternate options.
  • For additional information please contact us on +353 85 860 0027
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Out & About

 

Not only is Inishowen a fascinating and historical peninsula, with endless, empty sandy beaches and great golf, but for food and music it is unrivalled…

Here are some of our favourites…

 

The Locality

 

 

On the way you will drive through Culdaff, which is the nearest village to the house. It has 3 pubs, a restaurant and a coffee shop. Impossible to ignore is the magnificent Culdaff beach which the cottage looks out onto. Lifeguards are on duty in the summer months making it brilliant for swimmers and surfers. The eastern end has rocky coves and a children’s play area.
Boats may be chartered at Bunagee Pier, just down from the house – very popular with anglers and dolphin watchers alike.

Wild Atlantic Way
Click here to find out more…

The market town of Cardonagh – 15 minutes by car – is where you will find a more comprehensive selection of shops, pubs and cafes; see also the famous 7th century St. Patricks Cross.

Inishowen is the largest peninsula on the island of Ireland, and is the starting (or ending) point of the Wild Atlantic Way. Far enough north, and with very little light pollution, you may catch occasional glimpses of the plasma light show that is the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights. There are several websites that do forecasts of when views can be expected.

Just a 25-minute drive northwards is Banba’s Crown – the tip of Malin Head and the most northerly point of mainland Ireland. It is statistically the sunniest part of Ireland and also the windiest. Parts of the Star Wars movies were filmed in this other-worldly landscape.
There is said to be the highest concentration of shipwrecks in the world off the headland, which attracts both divers and fishermen alike. The German U-boat fleet was scuttled here at the end of World War II. A short ramble from the car park is a deep and narrow subterranean cavern known as Hells Hole.

More about Malin here

Inishowen has many historical monuments, dating back to early settlements, including the ruins of several castles, and the circular 7th century dry-stone fort at Grianán Aileach, which is probably the best known. Built some 250m above sea level, it is a windy and exposed place with breathtaking views. The 5m high walls consist of three terraces and accommodation was provided by wooden structures built against them.

Buncrana, half an hour away the second most populous town in County Donegal, after Letterkenny, and the largest in Inishowen. the historic home of the O’Doherty clan, and a major centre for the textile industry in County Donegal. The town is well known for its live music pubs. The renowned Fruit of the Loom clothing plant was a large source of employment in the town before it moved its operations overseas in 2006.

Golf Vacations are extremely popular in Donegal with its many fine courses. The most famous is Ballyliffin Golf Club, home to 2 championship 18-hole courses and just 20 minutes away.

10 minutes west from the house brings you to the inlet that is Trawbreaga Bay.
This is a Wildlife Sanctuary which is an important landfall for migrating geese and other birds.
At the narrow mouth of the bay is the fine sandy beach known as Five Fingers Strand. It is backed by ancient sand dunes which are amongst the highest in Europe – some reaching 30 metres high all held together by tough marram grass that prevents wind erosion.

Five Fingers Strand

The wonderful Kinnagoe Beach is a short trip south from the house, and it is here that in 1588 the Spanish Armada ship ‘La Trinidad Valencera’ was wrecked and lay undiscovered until 1971.

The peninsula is renowned for its traditional musicians and singers, so it will be difficult to avoid coming across a session in one of the pubs or hotels of an evening.

Derry City, the second largest in Northern Ireland after Belfast, is under an hour away by car. Built in the early 1600’s, it is the only surviving example of a complete walled city in Ireland, and one of the finest in Europe.It is one of the few cities in Europe that never saw its fortifications breached, withstanding several sieges and has a complex and troubled history.

Visiting The North of Ireland in the summer months you can avoid Derry altogether and save yourself a good half an hour by using the Lough Foyle Car ferry

The Inishowen 100 tourist route is an approximately 100-mile signposted scenic drive around the peninsula. Here is a link  to illustrate what you can expect in more detail.

Cycling is extremely popular in County Donegal, and the annual Inishowen 100 attracts hundreds of entrants every August.

How to get there – Car advised..

By Air: Flights to Dublin, Belfast or Donegal airports.
Belfast Airport – is about 2 hours away
Donegal Airport – is also about 2 hours away
Dublin Airport – just under 4 hours from the house

By Sea: Ferry crossings
Belfast Port is just over 2 hours away with ferries to Liverpool and Scotland
Dublin City Port/Holyhead has a fast crossing and is just over 4 hours from the house
Rosslare Harbour for Ferries to South Wales is just under 6 hours from the house.

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Map

An Cúlú

An Cúlú

An Cúlú

Clifftop Cottage re-imagined

Book This Home

County Donegal

Confidently perched on a coastal precipice with spectacular views over Donegal Bay, this elemental cottage has been extended and transformed into a luxurious Atlantic retreat.

Its chic contemporary interior merges seamlessly with an opulent floating deck that features integrated seating, firepit and spa.

An Cúlú featured on the RTE program My Bungalow Bliss presented by Hugh Wallace and designed by McCabe Architects.

 

Smart design in Donegal

The canary-yellow traditional stable-door entrance leads through the original cottage into an entirely unexpected elegant open-plan living area annexed to the rear.

Full height glazed panoramic walls define the south-eastern elevation of the home, with remarkable views spanning Inver beach, the Atlantic Ocean and all the way around to Benbulben in county Sligo.

The dining area is sandwiched between the handle-less kitchen and the sitting room, in a continuous extension of monochrome black and white, and furnished with fully upholstered high stools.

AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    Up to 8 guests
    From € 2,950 per week
  • Bedrooms
    Two double bedrooms – 1 ensuite
    One double bunk room – sleeps 4
    Bathroom
  • Other Rooms
    Open plan Living room, Dining room
    Kitchen
    Utility room
  • Features
    Extensive Patio, Jacuzzi Spa, outdoor hot Shower
    Sunken Firepit with seating
    BBQ and Pizza Oven
  • Contempo
    Flat screen TV, fast WiFi internet
    Good Cell phone reception
    Underfloor heating
  • Availability
    High season Weekly only: Saturday to Saturday
    Weekends: Friday to Monday
    Midweek: Monday to Friday
  • Restrictions
    Children over 6 are welcome
    Sorry, pets are not permitted

  • CHECK HERE

The television and its companion electric cassette fire are recessed into a satin black gable end, with more of the impeccable detailing and choice of materials that is a mark of this property.

Two large sections of patio door slide away from the corner of the sitting room to access a stylish glazed-balustrade balcony that almost spans the width of the bungalow.

Facilities & Ameneties

Kitchen Appliances

• Electric cooker with twin ovens
• Ceramic hob with built in extractor
• American Fridge-freezer
• Dishwasher
• Microwave
• Toaster
• Nespresso coffee machine

Utility Appliances

• Washing machine
• Spin dryer
• Iron

Bedrooms

• Sizes – King-size bed, double bed
• and two double bunks (sleeps 4)
• Hairdryer

Tech & Entertainment

• Fibre Wi-Fi Internet
• Flat-screen smart TV

Other

• Outdoor Jacuzzi Spa
• Patio with Sunken firepit area
• Hot outdoor shower
• Selection of books

Outside

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The comprehensive multi-level patio area extending south-west of the cottage, and reminiscent of a cruise liner, incorporates some really exquisite features in addition to barbecue al-fresco dining.

To add a stretch into the evenings, an innovative and spacious outdoor sunken seating area wraps around a welcome firepit and provides some wind shelter.

Just a few hundred metres away, there is a secluded beach, and when you return, there is an inspired outdoor hot shower to flush away the sand…

There is also a sloping lawn with ample parking to the front.

Bedrooms

Bedrooms remain in the original cottage, with the superlative ensuite master bedroom indulging in more of those extravagant sliding doors directly onto the patio with its endless vistas.

Here too a genuinely charming bunk room – in radiant white – with built-in beds for four, is a magical retreat for kids. The beautifully detailed alabaster marble family bathroom with bath, is an absolute delight.

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Provisional Booking Form

This Home is ONLY let by the week.
Important – A Week’s booking runs from Saturday to Saturday

A refundable breakages deposit of €450 payable with the rental amount this will be refunded within seven days of departure, provided there are no issues.

 

Rates Table

May to September €2950 /week
October to April €2,950/week

Select your Dates

AVAILABLE BOOKED

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  • Please note all booking requests are subject to 24 hour approval.
  • Once your provisional booking has been placed, the UIH team will verify it, answer any specific queries you may have, and request a deposit to lock in your dates.
  • Please note if your provisional booking is not confirmed and the deposit paid within 3 days it will expire.
  • If your preferred dates are not available, click here to review alternate options.
  • For additional information please contact us on +353 85 860 0027

Restrictions

Smoking – No, sorry!
Parties – The owners regret Stag, Hen, Wedding or 21st parties are not admissible.
Children – The property is not suitable for toddlers or children under the age of 6.
Pets – No, sorry!

Available
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Out & About

 

Wild mountains and churning oceans, fine food and hospitality, just some of the attractions of Donegal

 

Lifestyle Photography of Donegal for Failte Ireland

Here are some of our favourites…

Festivals and Events in County Donegal

 

The Locality

 

 

​Ten minutes away from the cottage by car, the harbour at Killybegs is home to Ireland’s largest off-shore trawler fleet, so it’s not surprising that some of the best fresh fish food is to be found here.

The town is famous for its tapestries and carpets, some of which were produced on the biggest carpet loom in the world at the Donegal Carpet Factory. The carpets, known as Donegals, are hand-knotted in the Turkish style.

Donegal town, about ten minutes away but in the opposite direction, is the nearest centre for pretty much anything from groceries to fishing tackle. The middle of the town is known as The Diamond, and can get very busy in high season, with great pubs and live music.

You can’t miss the recently restored Donegal Castle, built by Red Hugh O’Donnell in 1474, but there is also a charming harbour which you can reach along the Bank Walk beside the River Eske as it flows into the bay.
The town was invaded by the Vikings in the 8th century and they used it as a port – hence its Gaelic name Dun na nGall, which means ’Fort of the Foreigners’.

County Donegal is the largest county in Ulster and the only one that is not in the UK.
Its Population decimated during the famine, still only about half of what it was in the mid-19th century.

The county is renowned for its golden surfing beaches, such as Murvagh beach, and Rossnowlagh which is one of Europe’s finest. The European Surfing Championships have been held here on three occasions. Donegal Bay’s funnel-like shape encourages huge Atlantic rollers, occasionally as high as 7 metres (20 ft).

The Blue Flag Fintra beach – long and more sheltered, lies just beyond Killybegs, but much closer along the narrow St. John’s peninsula is the small clearwater Coral beach.

Todays weather in Donegal

Historically this beautiful coastal locale was once an important whaling post, and the harpoon gun so associated with the industry was invented here. Whales and dolphins are happily still in evidence all around the shores.

The Blue Stack Mountains straddle the county and its scenic trails are popular with hill-walkers.The Blue Stack Way walk connects Donegal Town with the town of Ardara further north – a three day hike.

The stunning sea cliffs at Slieve Liag are worth a visit. At 600 metres high, they are nearly three times higher than the more famous Cliffs of Moher. A narrow twisting precipitous road will take you to the best viewing point at Bunglass.

Lough Eske is a small and placid lake about 20 minutes from the cottage in the Donegal direction. It is popular with anglers in the summer months, and is has numerous forest paths around its shores and a fine hotel restaurant.

During the Second World War this area experienced a lot of airborne activity as sanctioned flying boats from Lough Erne in the UK flew missions out over the short Republican corridor into the Atlantic. It was a Catalina from Lough Erne that spotted the notorious German battleship Bismarck out in the Atlantic – and this led to her demise by the British Navy who had been in pursuit but had lost contact in heavy fog.

The word Éire remains crafted in white stones on headlands around Donegal, which acted as navigation aid for those flying above.

How to get there – Car advised..

By Air: Flights to Dublin, Belfast or Donegal airports.
Donegal Airport – is about one and a half hours from the cottage.
Knock Airport – is about one and a half hours from the cottage.
Dublin Airport – is just under 3 hours from the cottage.
Belfast Airport – is approx 2 and half hours from house.
Shannon Airport – is just under 3 hours from the cottage.

By Sea: Ferry crossings
Dublin City Port/Holyhead has a fast crossing and is just over 3 hours from the cottage
The Belfast Liverpool ferry is approx 2 and half hours from house.

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Wild Atlantic Way
Click here to find out more…

Map