The Beach House

The Beach House

The Beach House

Irrepressible Contemporary Coastal Cottage

Book this home

County Wexford

Please Note: This house is only available for a week’s booking excepting Christmas and New Year’s

Overlooking a sweep of more than a kilometre of fine sandy beach on the sunniest stretch of Ireland’s coast, this eponymous home perfectly combines alfresco living with the demands of multi-generational family holidays.
Very centrally located – an hour from the metropolis of Dublin and equally close to the Rosslare to UK ferry – locations don’t get easier than this.

 

From sun-room sofa to lazy lounger

This awesome cottage is defined by the broad elevated sun deck that surrounds it like a balcony hovering above a dazzling beach spectacle.

AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    Up to 8 guests
    From €4,750 per week
  • Bedrooms
    Four double bedrooms-two ensuite
    One twin bedroom-ensuite
    WC with shower room
  • Other Rooms
    Open Plan Living/Dining/Kitchen

    Utility Room
    Tv Room
    Study

  • Contempo
    Surrounding Decking Area
    Terrace Furniture
    Logs and Turf
    Barbecue
    Wine Cooler
    High-Speed Broadband
    Books, Games, DVDs
    Sky TV
    Exercise Machine 

  • CHECK HERE

Opening on to the decking, a series of living spaces meld together in a fluid open plan space that occupies the elbow of this L shaped home, embracing a variety of informal seating and dining areas and incorporating a contemporary cottage kitchen.

 

White walled with panelled ceiling, there’s always a panoramic backdrop of windows designed to exploit this unique location.

Whether it’s lethargic alfresco summertime luncheons or the cosy open fire at the end of a blustery beach walk, here is a holiday home for all generations and all seasons

Boisterous with the paraphernalia of family vacations, there is no shortage of books, and no shortage of corners to read them in.

There is also a dedicated television room – plastered with pictures and wall to wall movies and games – and across the entrance lobby, a smaller library with exercise bike option.

The two principal bedrooms are at opposing extremes of the cottage, each with French doors to the omnipresent perimeter decking, azure skies and lapping tides.
Both have ensuite bathrooms, though the master one shares with a twin bedroom via separate doors.

Outside

It’s impossible to avoid the seductive horizon view and seascape horizon beyond the hardy New Zealand flax that shelters the extensive decking.

There is a gravelled drive and lawned areas front and back if you fancy a bit of croquet, but with Clone Strand just metres away, sandy feet and salty hair beckon to the main beach attraction.

Facilities

This is a home from home, equipped with everything you would expect in a contemporary family residence – barbeque, clothes dryer to microwave, freezer, books, games, videos. However you will need to bring your own High Chair and Child Cot if you require them.
There is high-speed  broadband internet in the property.

 

Click here to see a review of The Beach House in The Guardian

Provisional Booking Form

Important – The Minimum booking is 7 days; thank you.

Holidays’ Dates for 2023 are priced as following:
Easter Weekend 7th- 10th April 2023 – €4,950
Halloween   27th- 1st October 2023 –€4,950
Christmas  23rd to the 28th Dec 2023 €4,950
New Years’  30th December 2023 to the 2nd January 2024 – €4,950

A refundable breakages deposit of €500, payable with the rental amount will be refunded within seven days of departure.

All Year €4,750 per week
Christmas (23rd to 28th December 2023). €4,950.
New Years Eve (29th December 2023 to 3rd January 2024). €4,950.

 

Select your Dates

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Your travel arrangements are important, so all provisional bookings are double checked with the owners to ensure that your plans do not conflict with theirs, this can take up to 24 hours, but we haven’t forgotten about you.!

Provisional bookings will be followed up by email, at which point we can answer specific queries you may have, verify your booking and request a deposit to confirm.

Please note that all unconfirmed provisional bookings will expire after 3 days.
If your preferred dates are not available, please click here to review all houses that match your dates.

Restrictions

Smoking – No, sorry!
The owners regret Stag or Hen parties are not admissible.
Pets – Possibly, check with us.

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Reviews

 

The Beach House offered so much…

– true respite during these challenging pandemic months. Everything we needed in a functional kitchen, and access to a second large fridge post the big grocery shop. The living areas of the house are mainly open plan with unobstructed sea views all around, plenty of space for the full family to gather to chat, play cards or the large selection of board games on hand. At the same time, plenty of alcoves for some privacy, whether a snooze, or to give adults and children some personal space. Two separate quiet rooms – a library and a TV room with long sofa seating for everyone and stocked to the hilt with DVDs. Each of the bedrooms deliver what is most important – extremely comfortable beds and excellent bed linen, bathroom robes and towels. A bonus, most of the bedrooms allow you to wake up to the wonderful seaview. Outside a large 180 degree deck and seating overlooking and with direct access to Clone Strand with more than 2 km of uninterrupted walking. The house was spotless on arrival, clearly mindful of current extra hygiene requirements. In this era of internet being essential, it works well most of the time, with the odd hiccup. Will be back.

Boylans, July 2020

A perfect place for a family get together…

we had a wonderful week at the Beach House in June of this year. The house is so well appointed with a great decking surrounding two sides where we enjoyed breakfast on one side and lunch and dinner on the other. We were blessed with glorious weather and good use was made of the beach underneath the house.
There are lots of different comfortable sitting areas in the house and a great television room, lots of games, dvd and books. Good supermarkets 20 minutes away and all you could want in the way of cooking utensils and tableware etc. Comfortable beds with great linen and towels.
We would certainly consider a second visit.

Geraldine Hickey, July 2018

We had a marvelous time…

at the Beach House. We would highly recommend it. Very enjoyable break in a very comfortable family home.

Lisa Vard, January 2018

Just a quick note to say everything went great. The process was simple and everything turned out great. Very easy to book with you. The beach house was amazing. It was cozy and charming. We totally enjoyed the house. It is a great place to take it easy for a week.
You guys definitely have some great looking houses on your website. I will definitely be looking at the site for my next trip back to Ireland.

Fran Regan, July 2018

Click here for reviews on using Beach House in Search for Posts

 

Out & About

 

County Wexford is at the centre of Ireland’s Ancient East, with magnificent beaches, fascinating history, festivals and wildlife – plus it’s all within easy reach of Dublin city…

Here are some of our favourites…

 

The Locality

 

 

The Beach House is located on the coast half way between the largish towns of Arklow and Gorey – both 20 minutes drive away. Dublin city is just over an hour by motorway to the north.

The nearest pub is the Golden Anchor – a 5 minute walk.

This is the region that receives the most sunshine in Ireland, averaging more than 7 hours a day in the early summer. Boasting some 50 kilometres of white beach, not surprisingly, it is also a very popular retreat, with multiple holiday homes along the coast.

Click here for more information on Ireland’s Ancient East

 

There are terrific walks locally – north or south along the beach – but also there is a spectacular trail across Tara Hill, clearly visible form the house.

photo megalithicireland

The fine weather also encourages the fruit and veg industry, most famously strawberries, which can be bought from stalls along the roadside throughout the summer. The Strawberry Festival is an annual event in the town of Enniscorthy, when a festival Queen is coronated.

Off the strand below there is excellent fishing for codling, bass and flounders especially where the river crosses the beach. The area fishes particularly well after a strong easterly wind.

photo – David Barrie

Wexford town lies just over an hour to the south. Founded by the Vikings around 800 AD it is probably best known for its International Opera Festival, which takes place every year in the Theatre Royal, and runs for several weeks.

How to get there – Car advised…

By Air: Flights to Dublin airport.
Dublin Airport – approx 1 and a half hours from house

By Sea: Ferry crossings from Pembroke/Fishguard to Rosslare ferry port, which is less than 1 and a half hours from the cottage.
Dublin City Port/Holyhead has a fast crossing and is approx 1 and a half hours from house

 

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Map

Garafin House

Garafin House

Garafin House

Memories are made of this...

Book this home

County Galway

At the tip of the Rosmuc peninsula is a big house with a busy history.
Sitting on two acres, with a mile of private rocky shoreline to discover, Garafin House is the consummate luxury holiday retreat from which to explore wild and rocky Southern Connemara.
A profusion of islands confuse the horizon to the south, the Twelve Ben mountains beckon to the north, and warm fires await inside…

 

A heritage home restored

A long driveway leads through partially wooded parkland to this charming Period residence set in a striking and tranquil coastal setting.

Prior to 1980 Garafin House, together with its extensive outbuildings had served the local community for over 150 years as a general store, famine relief centre, Surgery, Court House, and travel agents.
The original house built in the 1750’s was somewhat different and probably resembled a long cottage. It remains in the family to this day, albeit in a much altered and more comfortable incarnation.

RAT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    Up to 10 guests
    From €3,000 per week
  • Bedrooms
    Four Double Bedrooms- three ensuite
    One twin bedroom
    Family bathroom with shower
  • Other Rooms
    Kitchen with Breakfast Table
    Larder, Porch,
    Entrance Hall with Guest W/C
    Utility Room and Boot Room
  • Contempo
    Dog Friendly
    Two Super King Beds 
    Logs & Turf
    Barbecue 
    DSL Internet w/ Wi-Fi
    Two Wet Suits 
    Basic Fishing Tackle

  • CHECK HERE

A grand multi-light doorway occupies the enduring castellated entrance in the elbow of this angular layout.

The lobby opens onto an L-shaped tiled hallway – Left runs to the large drawing room.

This radiant room features an elegant antique marble fireplace facing a broad catty-corner bay window with views across to the islands.

Much of the original house has been modified across the centuries, and much remains, such as sash windows with flush wooden panel shutters.
The plain white walls are thick and the ceilings high.
Oak boards with under-floor heating now replace the original.

The magnificent encaustic coloured tiles typical of the period, are hardly worn.

Two classic English Arm sofas, create an informal divide to the study area with TV.
A mixture of antique and contemporary furniture, Persian rugs and curios grace the home.

A second black marble fireplace confers a cosy atmosphere on the dining room at the opposite end of the hallway.

In the dining room, the extendable table will comfortably seat ten – long meals followed by long walks.

Adjoining the dining room is a generous modern kitchen, in pastel painted style.
Everything is here for some seriously creative cuisine – or simply breakfast together around the kitchen table.

The spacious back porch off the kitchen is very warm – perfect for drying coats and boots should you get caught in a Connemara shower.

There are two bedrooms off the hallway on the ground floor, with a third beyond the dining room.
All are ensuite – this one has half-paneled walls, original tiles, and a fine free standing roll-top bath.

The addition of a second storey to Garafin House is comparatively new and the upstairs reflects that. Here the styling is contemporary, with white floorboards, lime-washed tongue and groove ceilings, and velux windows.

A shared shower-room on this level is at the far end of adjoining double and twin bedrooms, requiring neighbourly compromise to pass.

 

Outside

A few steps across the yard is the utility, laundry and boot room.

The names of some of the outbuildings at the back of the house reflect their earlier employment – the local doctor held a weekly surgery in the Dispensary; the Courthouse hosted the quarterly Magistrate’s court. These are not part of the rental property.

The foreshore at the house is rocky, and in places covered in seaweed, but offers safe and current-free swimming. To the east of the house a lane runs down to a small public pier, where there is excellent swimming from half tide onwards.
In times gone by boats from here brought supplies from Galway, turf to the Aran Islands, distributed bread from the house bakery, and ferried cattle and sheep to and from the local islands.

Garafin House comes with access to about a mile of private foreshore, which you may wander at will. There are no paths, so the walking is quite rough in places. Look out for seals and otters – nature at its best.

Facilities

The house is equipped with everything you would expect from a five star home – from WiFi to barbeque, clothes dryer to microwave, books, games, videos ..

TV reception is terrestrial channels only.
There is Oil fired central heating, and logs and turf are supplied.
Crisp Egyptian cotton bed linen, feather duvets and pillows and soft cotton towels are provided in all the bedrooms. There are heated towel rails and wall heaters in the bathrooms.
Two of the rooms have super-King size beds that can be divided into twins, and all the bedrooms have ample storage space.
There are also a few wetsuits and a small supply of basic fishing tackle in the boot room.

Restrictions

Smoking – No, sorry!
Parties – The owners regret Stag, Hen, Wedding or 21st parties are not admissible.

Allergy Warning! Please note that this is a Dog Friendly Home. If you intend bringing a dog, please tell us about him/her when booking.

Provisional Booking Form

This Home is normally only let by the week, except as follows:
Low season only – Mid-week bookings run from Monday PM till Friday AM – 4 nights
Low season only – Weekend breaks run from Friday PM till Monday AM – 3 nights
Important – A Week’s booking runs from Saturday to Saturday.

Holidays’ Dates for 2023 are priced as following:
Easter Weekend 7th- 10th April 2023 –€2,750
Halloween   27th- 1st October 2023 – €2,750
Christmas  23rd to the 28th Dec 2023 – €2,750
New Years’  30th December 2023 to the 2nd January 2024 – €2,750

Allergy Warning! Please note that this is a Dog Friendly Home.
If you intend bringing a dog, please advise below whether there will be more than one, and approximate size, as large dogs may need to be cleared by the owner.

A refundable breakages deposit of €350 is payable with the rental amount will be refunded within seven days of departure.

  Weekly Weekend Mid-Week
May to September €2,750 per week not available not available
October to April €2,250 per week €1,300 €1,300

 

Select your Dates

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Your travel arrangements are important, so all provisional bookings are double checked with the owners to ensure that your plans do not conflict with theirs, this can take up to 24 hours, but we haven’t forgotten about you.!

Provisional bookings will be followed up by email, at which point we can answer specific queries you may have, verify your booking and request a deposit to confirm.

Please note that all unconfirmed provisional bookings will expire after 3 days.
If your preferred dates are not available, please click here to review all houses that match your dates.

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Reviews

 

Everything at the house was perfect…

We didn’t lack for anything. The house was beautifully appointed and Anne, the caretaker, was a delight and always available when needed. In addition, the owners went above and beyond the call of duty in supplying us with cots and high chairs for our grand babies.
We built fires every evening and enjoyed our walks on the property and the peace and tranquility of the Rosmuck Penninsula. We definitely will come back.
Thanks also to Unique Irish Home’s. You were great to work with. Please continue to expand your inventory of exceptional homes.

Alice Stockdale, September 2018

We were not disappointed in Garafin House…

I found the kitchen probably the best provided in any place we have rented and once I got used to the electric hob i really enjoyed cooking on it… We loved swimming off the pier and we got great enjoyment watching the mother wren feeding her babies in the nest in the Virginia creeper. The garden was an unexpected bonus, as was the high chair and ample parking space – thank you so much.

ffrench Davis family, July 2018

Your heading “Memories are made of this” never rang truer…

We had a wonderful time last week in Garafin House. Our family ages ranged from youngest at 10 years to two grannies, 87 years per granny, and we ALL had an amazing week and created lots of memories to cherish!! None of us wanted to leave!
The house is truly wonderful and is fitted out with everything you could imagine, cooking became a family affair, each night cooking up a storm, eating in the relaxing dining room and retiring to the beautiful, most comfortable living room for plenty of chat, games and a load of laughs!!
We even got the weather to sit out in the November sunshine with coffee whilst the house hugged us and protected us from the wind!! The area is truly beautiful and the people we met very friendly, Anne was lovely and it is a testament to the house that we had no need to contact her all week, proving how well equipped and comfortable the house is.
Garafin House had everything. The dogs also had a ball, with the great garden to the front and the walks in and around the pier and rocks. Thank you all in UIH for giving us the chance to holiday in this truly, wonderful home.

I love your webpage but find that a lot of the houses you feature don’t allow dogs. Whilst I understand it would not suit a lot of owners I would love to be able to click to an area which features the houses that do, it would save a lot of time having to check each individual property and checking the details before this becomes clear. Perhaps you could under the ENJOY section on your page add “Dog Heaven” (or similar name!!) and include those houses that are willing to let dogs stay. [ thanks Orla, we’ve done just that.]
Anyhow thank you again for a super website and I have sent a request to book Garafin for Easter – we loved it soooo much.

Orla, November 2016

While the rest of Ireland shivered and cowered from the rain, we toasted by the fires in Garafin…

This house is blessed and historic. In fact the history of the house and Conroy and related families was of great interest and new to us. We enjoyed being indoors looking out and exploring the outdoors thanks to the detailed and knowledgeable guide provided by the owners. Find those beaches (Ardmore, Kilkerrin etc) and you won’t be disappointed. Finally thanks to Anne for her help and advice.

Thornton family, Easter 2018

I can’t express how magical our time spent at Garafin House was.

We are a family who are living all over the world and last year we decided to gather somewhere special and spend Christmas together. Through Unique Irish Homes I found the perfect location and accommodation – Garafin House in Connemara.
We arrived a few days before Christmas from Australia, Boston and mum from Co Tyrone ❤️ Garafin House exceeded our expectations. It was not only beautiful but overlooked one of the most magnificent landscapes you could wish for…..we were met by Anne who welcomed us and even went to the effort of providing us with a spare Christmas tree and decorations from her own home.
We had a 5 year old with us and I’m glad to say, Santa Clause delivered to Connemara which was truly magical. The accommodation was spacious, welcoming, high quality and very homely. Everything was available for our use and the quality of the bed-linen etc. was of the highest quality.
Thank you Graham and all at Unique Irish Homes and a special thank you to Anne for her warm welcome. I would recommend Garafin House and Unique Irish Homes to anyone and I hope to return one day.

Lynda Emerson, January 2017

Click here for reviews on using Garafin in Search for Posts

 

Out & About

 

Connemara is quite simply one of Europe’s great treasures.
A wilderness on the Wild Atlantic Way, it is packed with almost deserted beaches of gin clear water, incredible lake and river fishing, and of course brilliant restaurants. We just can’t list them all, so here are a few of our favourites…

Here are some of our favourites…

 

The Locality

 

 

The secluded Rosmuc peninsula finds itself in an inlet already crowded with islands on the northern stretches of Galway Bay.
The area is typical of the spectacularly broken Connemara coast, with dry stone walls and boggy fields, and big skies.

There are a few local cottages near the house, and a small shop 3 km away.
The nearest large supermarket is in Oughterard some 40 km away on the southern shores of Lough Corrib.

A drive or cycle around the deeply indented coastline reveals many beaches of staggering beauty, and some of golden coral. You will also discover quirky little fishing harbours; sanctuary from the huge Atlantic swells.

Tra An Doilin at Carraroe is a Blue Flag beach made of very rare biogenic gravel resembling tiny pieces of coral. It’s half an hours drive away, with lifeguards, toilets, and great swimming.

Carraroe is today most important centre for traditional Galway Hooker fishing boats. Every August bank holiday, the town hosts the Galway hooker festival, one of the largest maritime festivals in the country.

The Aran Islands can be reached by ferry from Rossaveal which is just half an hour away by car.
The trip takes 40 minutes and you can bring a bike, or hire one there.
The spectacular semi circular stone fort of Dun Aengus which backs onto a 90 metre cliff is considered one of the most important pre-historic sites in Western Europe, and not to be missed. It is reckoned to be about 2,500 years old.

Wild Atlantic Way
Click here to find out more…

A day out in Clifden, the capital of Connemara would be well rewarded.

Rosmuc is a Gaeltacht region, in fact the most strongly Irish-speaking area in the country.

Pádraig Pearse, who was involved in the 1916 revolution in Dublin had a cottage in Rosmuc where he wrote many of his pieces including his famous ” … the fools, the fools, the fools! …” oration.

With quantities of lakes and fast flowing rivers has been the Mecca of Trout and Salmon fly-fishing for nearly two centuries. There are numerous sites where a boats and ghillies can be hired. Copies of appropriate fishing guidebooks and brochures are held in the house.

Excellent sea angling charters can easily be arranged from Roundstone – where there are wonderful beaches for those who prefer to stay ashore!/p

Unique to the region, Connemara marble shows twisted and interlocking bands of soapstone, in various shades of light and dark green. It has been used over the centuries as a means of exchange, for features in stately buildings and is recognised for its beautiful colour and resilience, with no two pieces being similar.
A broad range of souvenirs and ornamental products are produced from the stone which is more than 500 million years old.

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How to get there – Car essential..

By Air: Flights to Dublin or Shannon airports.
Shannon Airport – approx 2 and half hours from house.
Dublin Airport – approx 3 and half hours from house

By Sea: Ferry crossings
Dublin City Port/Holyhead has a fast crossing and is approx 4 hours from house.

 

Map

Drishane House

Drishane House

Drishane House

Stories Preserved for Posterity

Book this home

County Cork

Romantically situated on the edge of one of Ireland’s prettiest villages and overlooking Castlehaven bay. Winding down the Hydrangea lined avenue and many old Azeleas and specimen trees you arrive at the spacious Georgian family house full of history, Edith Somerville creations and stories.
With full days of adventure from the 2 private coves, in boats/kayaks or dingies, or just a relaxing time spent within the Drishane estate you will feel there is nothing more unique and Irish.

 

Grand Expectations in Lofty Rooms

Built around 1780 in classic Georgian style, Drishane House has been in the same family for nine generations.

Impressive double doors with fleur de lis strap hinges allow entrance to a baronial hall. And it’s newish – the front door was re-located here from the east wall in 1820.!
Original lancet panelling conceals a side door to the kitchen. Already the sense of history prevails. In one corner, there is a fine example of a masonic Worshipful Master’s chair – stories everywhere.

AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    Up to 11 guests
    From €6,000 per week
  • Bedrooms
    Three double bedrooms (two ensuite)
    One twin room (ensuite).
    -in annex-
    One double bedroom w/ seperate bathroom
    One kids room  w/ensuite
  • Other Rooms
    Entrance Lobby
    Sitting room, Living/Dining room,
    Kitchen with breakfast area with Patio,
    Pantry, Utility room
    Guest bathroom with shower
  • Features
    Central Heating
    Built in fireplaces in all main rooms.

    Full-size Aga in Kitchen
    Double Fridge Freezer

  • Contempo
    Flat screen TVs, DVD player,
    WiFi internet
    Extensive Library
    Filtered drinking water
    Good Cell phone reception
  • Availability
    Weekly/Biweekly: Saturday to Saturday
    Special Rates for Public Holiday 
    -See ‘Rates’ Below- 

A sweeping stair case, dominated by a soaring, arched, multi-light window, occupies the centre of the house. Interconnecting double doors link through to the original entrance foyer, with its dramatic fan-lit glazed portal spilling out onto the east lawn.

The classical dining room is august and formal; dressed with gilded ancestral portraits hanging mutely on rich wine walls. Swags above the curtained windows date from 1820, and yes, there’s still a chamber pot hidden behind the shutters – lest a gentleman get caught short.

Across the foyer, the generous and sunny drawing room is well populated with furniture, loose cover armchairs, and a vintage baby grand piano. Someone conveniently added French doors to the southern lawn at the start of the last century.

Some rooms still bear their 1830s wallpaper, including the anteroom and its octagonal study, which is cosy in scale with a wood-burning stove and flat screen TV…

The modern kitchen has been fitted out in light oak and has a gas hob and a raised electric oven to compliment the traditional four oven Aga. There is a full height fridge and a matching freezer, and a utility room for laundry and pantry requirements. A tight little secret stairs runs up to the west wing bedrooms.

Adjacent to the kitchen, the spacious breakfast room opens onto the garden patio – excellent for long al fresco luncheons.

Upstairs accommodation

consists of three generous double bedrooms, two with ensuite bathrooms, and two with romantic half-tester canopies above the beds.

There is also a south facing twin bedroom, with stunning sea views, that shares a contemporary family bathroom – complete with free standing claw foot bath.

A broad passage lined with books links the main house with more accommodation, including an impish kid’s bedroom with its own ample ensuite bathroom.

The acclaimed writer Edith Somerville lived in Drishane House for most of her life, and her legacy is to be found throughout the home, not least in her capacious bedroom with its ensuite on stilts.

Facilities

The house is equipped with everything you would expect from a traditional large home – and sometimes more than one of them. The house is centrally heated in parts and there are wood-burning stoves or open fires in all the public spaces.
If you have a particular requirement, such as a chef, catering staff or a babysitter, please be sure to tell us in advance…

Outside

Dressed in local slate, the house is elevated on eighteen acres that cascade down ever more steeply to Castlehaven Bay. The informal gardens vary with the seasons; in spring the woodland floor is carpeted with daffodils and bluebells. Amongst the mature trees and shrubs are many specimen varieties and botanical curiosities.
The climate here is very mild, with moist Atlantic breezes warmed by the Gulf Stream that sweeps across from the Caribbean.
There is also a small herd of diminutive black Dexter cattle, an historic breed of Irish origin.
The property is situated at the top end of and within easy walking distance of Castletownshend village.

Restrictions

Smoking – No, sorry!
The owners regret Stag, Hen, or 21st parties are not admissible.

Allergy Warning! Please note that this is a Dog Friendly Home. If you intend bringing a dog, please tell us about him/her when booking.

Provisional Booking Form

 This Home is only available for 2 week minimum stay, except for high season, which may be for one week, and Christmas period as shown below.
An additional two person apartment is available for assistants – details on request.

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

Heritage Week (August 14th-22nd) House Available – Please Apply for Rates

8th January to 12th March €3,500 per week, 2 weeks minimum stay
12th March to 13th April €4000 per week, 1 week minimum stay
13th April to 30th May €5,500 per week, 2 weeks minimum stay
30th May to 1st October €6,500 per week, 1 week minimum stay
31st October to 22nd December €3,500 per week, 2 weeks minimum stay
Christmas week – 23rd December to 28th December 2022. €6,500 for those dates.
New Years Eve – 30th December to 2nd January 2023 €6,500 for those dates.

 

Select your Dates

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Your travel arrangements are important, so all provisional bookings are double checked with the owners to ensure that your plans do not conflict with theirs, this can take up to 24 hours, but we haven’t forgotten about you.!

Provisional bookings will be followed up by email, at which point we can answer specific queries you may have, verify your booking and request a deposit to confirm.

Please note that all unconfirmed provisional bookings will expire after 3 days.
If your preferred dates are not available, please click here to review all houses that match your dates.

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Out & About

 

West Cork is like a charm on the bracelet of the Wild Atlantic Way. We have food, festivals, folklore and the ocean – all inviting exploration.
We can’t list everything, so here are a few of our favourites…

Here are some of our favourites…

Annual festivals a-plenty include Traditional Irish music Festival, Fastnet Maritime and Folk Festival, Skibbereen Food Festival, Cape Clear Storytelling, and many sailing events including Calves Week

 

The Locality

 

 

The history of Castletownshend village, and Drishane House are entwined. Originally built by the son of a vicar resident at Castlehaven Castle, the house was purposely positioned to monitor the comings and goings of his ships as they traded with America. The silent h in the middle was added in 1870.

The deep sheltered water of Castlehaven Bay was the scene of the sinking of a small Spanish Armada in 1602 that subsequently led to a game-changing event in Irish history known as the Flight of the Earls.

Wild Atlantic Way
Click here to find out more…

Edith Somerville (1858-1949) spent most of her life in Drishane House. Memorable for her writings in collaboration with her cousin under the pseudonym Somerville and Ross– of which The Experiences of an Irish R.M is probably the best known – she was also a highly regarded painter, with many examples of her work in the house.

painted by Edith of local girl Mary Ann

There is a sheltered beach at Castlehaven – five minutes away – which is ideal for launching kayaks, but for a more sandy and south facing beach, Tragumna blue flag beach is about 15 minutes away, and an easy cycle.

There are three stained glass windows by the renowned Art Nouveau illustrator Harry Clarke in St.Barrahane’s Castletownshend church which you may find interesting. He was a particularly obsessed with blue qualities.

Just ten kilometres away to the North is the thriving market town of Skibbereen. Every Saturday there is a lively farmers market here with excellent artisan food and crafts.

30 mins away, Drombeg Stone Circle or The Druid’s Altar, is one of the most visited megalithic sites in Ireland – go early to avoid crowds.

photo – Cawlef

Baltimore is perhaps Ireland’s most southern town. A 30 minute drive away, it is the terminal for ferries to Clear and Sherkin Islands. The town has a long tradition of wooden boat building. Between 1880 and 1926 Baltimore was the largest fishing port in the country and 78 fishing vessels were registered locally.
By 1907, the fleet was so numerous that you could, it was said, walk to Sherkin across the decks of the boats! At one stage there were seven trains every day out of Baltimore, all carrying fish for the American market.

How to get there – Car advised..

By Air: Cheap flights to Kerry Airport (Farrenfore) Cork, Dublin or Shannon.
Kerry Airport – approx 2 hours from house.
Cork Airport – approx 1.5 hours from house.
Shannon Airport – approx 3.5 hours from house.
Dublin Airport – approx 4.5 hours from house.

By Sea: Ferry crossings from Pembroke/Fishguard to Rosslare.
Stena Express – 120 mins (summer only from Fishguard)
Rosslare Port is approx 4 hours from house
Dublin City Port/Holyhead has a fast crossing and is approx 4 hours from house.

 

​

Map

Ballintubbert House & Gardens

Ballintubbert House & Gardens

Ballintubbert House & Gardens

Theatrical flourishes & Artistic intrigue

Book this home

Theatrical flourishes & Artistic intrigue

County Laois

This fine example of a Georgian country house, brings style and quirkiness to this sleepy corner of Laois.
Surrounded by spectacular gardens with water fountains, wildflower meadows and woodlands, this luxury home can accommodate large family groups celebrating a gathering, or just seeking some special R&R just over an hour from Dublin.

 

A period piece with panache

The heavy hall door pushing through Virginia creeper exposes a thick walled interior evenly divided to the right and left of a central staircase. Rooms share five split levels – seesawing between the front and rear.


A sitting room enhanced with chinois influence shares broad floor boards with the curious Egyptian blue Map room across the entrance hall, making up the two principal reception rooms overlooking the formal front canal. Like all the rooms, they are blessed with classic Kilkenny Black Marble fire places.

 

AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    18 guests
    From €2,240 a night 
  • Bedrooms
    Four double bedrooms
    Two with full ensuite bathrooms
    One with steamroom
    One with ensuite WC
    Plus twin/double bedroom
    with ensuite WC
    plus Family bathroom
    Garden Wing is 3 twins
    1 double, all ensuite
  • Reception Rooms
    Sitting room, Map room
    Salon, Dining room
    Kitchen & utility room
    Cellar Bar
  • Features
    Designer outdoor garden rooms
    Reception patio, BBQ area, fountain
    Catering available
  • Contempo
    Flat screen TV, DVD player, WiFi internet, central heating
    Good Cell phone reception
  • Availability
    Weekly: Saturday to Saturday
    Weekends: Friday to Monday
  • Restrictions Children over 12 are welcome
    Sorry, pets are not permitted

A handful of steps down brings you to similar antique floorboard in the rear salon, a reception area that fluently divides cooking from dining on this level. From here French doors open onto a broad terrace ideal for summer soirees.

Facilities & Ameneties

Kitchen Appliances

• 5 ring electric ceramic hob
• Electric Oven
• Fridge
• Dishwasher
• Twin Toaster
• Microwave

Utility Appliances

• Washing machine-dryer
• Electric heating
• Iron

Bedrooms

• Sizes – Two single beds, one double, one King-size and one Super King-size Zip & Link
• Hairdryer

Tech & Entertainment

• Wi-Fi Internet
• Flat-screen TV
• USB charger sockets
• DVD player

Other

• Some books
• Selection of games

The lofty stone flagged farmhouse kitchen is expansive and traditional with both Aga range and gas hobs, plenty of workspace and a comprehensive catering fridge. There’s also a six seater breakfast table, and a utility pantry that escapes to the walled garden at the side.

The opposing formal ochre dining room will comfortably seat ten to eighteen guests. All the rooms can be isolated with tall paneled shutters if required.

There are two split levels above the ground floor. The one to the rear is home to two magnificent dual aspect bedrooms, both featuring stunning bathrooms complete with steamrooms – new additions.

To the front, one landing up and with double windows onto that magnificent formal canal, there is a gorgeous double bedroom, and a twin bedroom with double potential. Both have hidden ensuite washroom closets.

The bedroom to the east boasts floral painted murals above a four poster bed in an awesome whirl of romance.

An additional family bathroom with shower separates the two rooms off this landing.

 

 

A fifth, cool, eccentric double bedroom is hidden downstairs, half submerged below the living room.

The Garden Wing

Across the Shackleton Gardens myriad of colours, a stretch of out-buildings has been cunningly converted into a chic run of separate double bedrooms, each with its own ensuite shower room and individual contemporary aesthetic.
These are available as a supplement if additional space is required when renting the main house.

Poet laureate C. Day–Lewis was born in these Garden Sheds in 1904.

Outside

The 14 acres of beautifully designed organic gardens that surround the house, are a work in progress that started in 1850 and are at the core of what this estate is all about. The property is divided by hedges, trees and shrubs into a series of garden rooms, with tantalising glimpses through openings and down hidden walkways.

The enclosed side garden is named after the acclaimed Irish Garden Architect, Arthur Shackleton who designed it; the Water Garden is Sir Edwin Lutyens, complimented by Gertrude Jekyll style planting schemes.

A 100m long tree lined formal canal which points at the front of the house is recent addition, built in the early 2000’s.

Dotted among orchards and rose garden you will find semi-permanent structures which come into their own for occasions such as weddings.
Immediately adjacent to the garden is the associated 1780 Church of Ireland.

Provisional Booking Form

 

Allergy Warning! Please note that this is a Dog Friendly Home. If you intend bringing a dog, please tell us about him/her when booking.

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

Please email Graham here for rates.

Nightly Rate – €2,550  High Season (April 15th til the 1st of October)
Nightly Rate – €2,240 Off Season (October til April 15th)

 

Select your Dates

AVAILABLE – BOOKED

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Your travel arrangements are important, so all provisional bookings are double checked with the owners to ensure that your plans do not conflict with theirs, this can take up to 24 hours, but we haven’t forgotten about you.!

Provisional bookings will be followed up by email, at which point we can answer specific queries you may have, verify your booking and request a deposit to confirm.

Please note that all unconfirmed provisional bookings will expire after 3 days.
If your preferred dates are not available, please click here to review all houses that match your dates.

Restrictions

Smoking – No, sorry!
Parties – The owners regret Stag, Hen, Wedding or 21st parties are not admissible.
Pets – Yes, but please confirm with us first. All pets are to be confined to the kitchen of the main house, or the garden wing. 

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