Pipers Cottage

Pipers Cottage

Pipers Cottage

“Oh Danny Boy, the pipes, the pipes are calling……..”

Book this home

Ardgroom Co. Cork

 

A very special, private home set above the sheltered shores of Ardgroom harbour, Pipers Cottage is surrounded by its own 11 acres of pasture and woodland with its own shoreline and private beach.

But more than that, it’s glorious secluded location and stunning private views makes Pipers the perfect spot to simply unwind and enjoy and explore the extraordinary natural power and beauty that is here in Beara.

 

A Musical Rest..

The house is built within the grounds of the 19th century home of Canon Goodman, the ruins of which provide a magical backdrop to views over Ardgroom harbour towards the Kerry and Caha mountains.

Glorious mature stands of beech, oak and plane trees line the drive and stand proudly in the surrounding meadows. We will tell you later of the great and good Canon, but first to the home, Pipers.

To set the scene, here are just some of the views from the house, sunporch and garden: private, intimate, glorious, unchanged and special.

AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    Up to 4 guests
    From €1400 per week
  • Bedrooms
    One Double Bedroom
    One Twin Room
    Family Bathroom
    w/ Power Shower
  • Other Rooms
    Sitting room, dining room
    Kitchen, 
  • Contempo
    Wi-Fi
    Television
    BBQ

  • CHECK HERE

Pipers is a kilometre and a half from the village of Ardgroom with its excellent shop, cafe and pub (Village Inn).

The home provides modern and comfortable accommodation for up to four in two bedrooms, one a double and the other with twin beds.

The south-facing terrace overlooking the harbour is well sheltered and is an absolute sun trap. A glorious spot to spend the day with the cows grazing on the green hills beyond and wonderful and often rarely seen seabirds and wildlife hunting in the waters below (Gannets, Terns, Guillemots, Sandpipers, Great Northern Divers, Herons, Sea Otters and Hares to name but a few).

The terrace entrance leads into the open plan living area through a convenient and spacious porch.

The living area comfortably accommodates six around a Scandinavian wood burning stove that combines with central heating to ensure maximum snugness on those very occasional dampish days !

Leading from the dining area is a fully equipped modern kitchen. Bright, a delight to use and spacious with views out into the surrounding gardens.

The back door into the house leads from the kitchen providing easy and direct access for car loading and unloading. A well-equipped laundry is also provided next to the kitchen

Bedrooms

The stairs to the bedrooms lead from the living area to a landing above with the master bedroom to the right and the second bedroom to the left.

The master bedroom is spacious and cosey. Three windows offer lovely views across the harbour to the hills and mountains beyond.
The sky light above the bed ensures that the room is always well and softly lit. And on the odd blowy night allows you to really hear the wind. Just magic.

​

The second bedroom consists of two single beds.

The bright and airy bathroom at the top of the stairs provides a power shower with lashings of hot water. Compact, spotless, with all that you need.

 

Pipers was built in 1900 but has been sensitively modernised while remaining true to its proud Beara roots. The house is full of lovely touches which reach back and connect you to the years gone by.

Beara has many fine resident artists and potters. Their work is exhibited in Kenmare, Castletown and Bantry or better still, follow the booklet “Beara Art Trail” and you can visit them in their own studios. Well worth doing, as they are close by.

So now to Canon Goodman; who was truly well named.
Pipers is situated in the grounds of a former rectory that once was his home.

Born in Dingle in 1828 he spent a life-time devoted to the well-being of Ireland and all its people. A fluent Irish speaker from childhood his life was one of service, education and music. Indeed he became renowned for his playing of the Uileann pipes.

His unique collection of over 2000 traditional Irish melodies for the pipe in volumes known as ‘The tunes of the Munster Pipers’ are now housed in the library of Trinity College, Dublin.

It was while in Ardgroom that the Canon commenced this collection.
And so it is that Pipers Cottage came to be named in memory of a very remarkable and good man.
His funeral in January 1896 was of “enormous proportions” and bore testimony to his life of devotion to Ireland, its people and music. “His generosity to the poor left him without wealth at the end. Yet he died rich, for money could not buy the esteem and respect of his countrymen which were without limit or reserve.”

Reflect on this exemplary life, listen to the message in the Piper’s call as you sit by his once fine home and take in, as he surely often did himself, the unspoilt beauty and peace of Ardgroom harbour with Collorus and the Caha mountains beyond.
It has changed little in 200 years and remains an inspiration.

The fine old stone buildings around the Canon’s former home to-day form a beautiful sheltered quadrangle ideal for outside dining. A barbeque is of course provided.

 

Restrictions

Smoking – No, sorry!
Parties – The owners regret Stag, Hen, Wedding or 21st parties are not admissible.
Children – The property is not suitable for children under the age of 12.
Pets – No, sorry!

 

Pipers Cottage is a very special place. And it continues to reach out and touches all those who have had the good fortune to track it down and stay in this lovely place on this beautiful peninsula.

 

Provisional Booking Form

 

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 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 – €1,400
Halloween   27th- 1st October 2023– €1,400
Christmas  23rd to the 28th Dec 2023 – €1,400
New Years’  30th December 2023 to the 2nd January 2024  -€1,400

There is a €250 damage deposit payable with the UIH Booking Contract, it is refundable within 7 days of your departure, subject to the house being left in order.

May to September €1,400 per week N/A N/A
October to April €1050 per week Weekend €750 Mid-week €750

Select your Dates

AVAILABLE – BOOKED

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Book your preferred dates below or Phone us on: 085 860 0027
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 2 days.
If your preferred dates are not available, please click here to review all houses that match your dates.

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Reviews

 

“What a welcome we had…

…after a long journey from Switzerland, with Shelagh leading us to a warm, cozy cottage we fell in love with right away. Knitting, cooking, exploring and even swimming on the private beach made it special here. The tip with the pier down the road had us bringing home fresh mussels, what a treat. Arriving on the Saturday night with a cake in the fridge, a stew in the oven and a fire in the stove made it even more wonderful.Thank you so much, we love Pipers Cottage.

Eveline, September 2022.

The Cottage is deeply appreciated by past guests…

 

“The place is very special. The cottage the best bolthole ever. We could not have asked for more. And the views…………!!!” 

(Sept 2017, Neil and Alan, Lancashire UK.)

“What a beautiful cottage Pipers is. On the website it looked great already, but in real life the views, the atmosphere and the house itself are even better.”

(May 2015, Dick, Carolyn and family. Boston USA)

“We could not have picked a better place to stay in Ireland. These wonderful views from the terrace and cosy cottage will stay in our hearts forever.”

(July, 2020. Karin, Radic, Vaclav. Pila Czech Republic.)

 

Out & About

 

Isolated but not remote, the Beara Peninsula defies analysis.
The sea, the air, the history, there’s so much to explore …

Here are some of our favourites…

 

The Locality

 

 

The nearest town for basic requirements is Ardgroom just 3km away. Close to the village there is a picturesque stone circle, one of a plethora of megalithic monuments to be found in the region.

For more serious shopping, gourmet restaurants, and an informal farmers market on Wednesdays, Kenmare is a delightful 30 minute drive back up the Bay.

The rugged Beara peninsular is shared by counties Cork and Kerry – Cove Lodge is balanced on the border. The Ring of Beara road twists its way around this headland, exposing colourful hamlets in its path. Narrow, but with minimal traffic, it is a splendid tour, and the views are spectacular. For Cyclists or walkers the Beara Way offers a safer route.

Wild Atlantic Way
Click here to find out more…

At the tip of the peninsula a spur off the loop road continues to Ballaghboy. From here you can catch Irelands only cable car for the ten minute ride to Dursey Island. The rickety car carries six passengers (or the equivalent in sheep) about 250m above infamous Dursey Sound, where strong tides make travelling by boat hazardous.

photo – Nigel Cox

With magnificent views stretching from the Skelligs to Mizen Head, only a handful of inhabitants brave this wild and windy island. Dolphins, whales and innocent basking sharks are frequently seen in the surrounding seas.

The Caha Mountain range runs down the spine of Beara, and Hungry Hill is the highest of its peaks. The panorama at the top is of course staggering, but the route is a bit all-terrain and needs fine weather.

To cross back to Cove Lodge, don’t miss the Tim Healy Pass. This zigzag road is worth it for the wonderful scenery, and is one of the classic Irish Car Rally stages.

photo – John Gibson

For a period during the 19th century copper mining was the major industry in the area, and much evidence still exists in the small town of Allihies where there is an interesting museum.

Castletownbere on the southern side of the peninsula is Irelands largest white fish port. The harbour is deep and is reputed to be one of the safest in the world. Sheltered by Bear Island, it has a long military history.

The tiny Garnish Island, just off the town of Glengarrif demonstrates this in a series of gardens flush with rhododendrons, azaleas and other surprising plants.

There are ample sites for fishing into deep water straight off the rocky Beara shoreline. Glenbeg Lake, is also teeming with trout and the short Glenmore river spate is extremely prolific, with runs of Spring Salmon coming in March, and Sea-Trout in mid June to late July.

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 hours from house.
Shannon Airport – approx 3 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)
Swansea/Cork Ferry is 2 hours from the house.
Rosslare Port is approx 4.5 hours from house
Dublin City Port/Holyhead has a fast crossing and is approx 4.5 hours from house

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Map

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Westerly House

Westerly House

Westerly House

A halcyon waterfront haven

Book this home

County Cork

This spacious American-beach style timber home is set amid glorious gardens that slope down to the lapping shores of Bantry Bay, with a private pontoon, moorings and exquisite Atlantic sunset views.
For family breaks, Westerly House is one of those unique treasures that are exclusive to wonderful west Cork.

 

A delightful and idiosyncratic home

A broad canted bay window with panoramic views of the shoreline fills one wall of the living room and introduces a bright interior of mellow timber flooring where conventional leather sofas and quirky Christo-style wrapped armchairs provide the seating.

AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    Up to 12 guests
    From €2,800 per week
  • Bedrooms
    Four double bedrooms- ensuite
    Two double OR twin room
    Three Bathroms – Two Shower Rooms
    Other Rooms
  • Sitting room, Open plan Kitchen/Dining Room
    Utility Room
  • Contempo
    Floating Pontoon
    Paved Patio
    Logs and Turf
    Barbecue
    Fibre internet
    Outdoor Heated Jacuzzi
    65″ Flat Screen TV

  • CHECK HERE

The contemporary kitchen morphs into the dining area where a generous oak dining table takes centre stage in a corner of grid latticed windows.

For quick informal snacks there is the hi-stool breakfast bar, and just outside a alfresco terrace that straddles one end of the house and overlooks the rambling garden.

The upstairs accommodation is accessed by two separate stairs.

The Victorian bedroom is sublime with an unexpected but delightful free standing slipper bath, an open fire place, king size bed, and an eclectic mix of furniture and lighting.

The ensuite master bedroom is on the ground floor and has a king size bed.

Designer basins are plumbed into ensuite vintage genre furniture in the bathrooms.
Lime washed floor boards and furniture prevail throughout.

Designer basins are plumbed into ensuite vintage genre furniture in the bathrooms.
Lime washed floor boards and furniture prevail throughout.

These two rooms share a bathroom and may be twin or doubles.

Outside

There is more than one-and-a-half acres of mature garden with random pathways and benches.
A large outdoor heated Jacuzzi nestles among the trees and shrubs keeping watch across the water.

A private floating pontoon on the bay is accessed from the pine fringed shore via a gangway, making this a perfect spot to sip a sundowner.

Facilities

The house comes equipped with pretty much everything you would expect in a luxury home. In addition there’s a large outdoor jacuzzi, a charcoal barbecue, a 65” flat screen TV with DVDs as well as lots of books and games and internet. The freezer is in the utility room.
Three Kayaks are available on request.

Provisional Booking Form

There is a breakages deposit €800 – refundable within 7 days – applicable to this property.
This Home is only let by the week in High Season.

 

 

2023 Per Week 4 nights  3 nights
7th Jan – 2nd Feb €2,800 €1,800 €1,600
3rd Feb – 6th Feb – €2,100 €1,700
7th Feb- 10th Feb   €2,100 €1,700
11th Feb – 18 Feb €3,300 €2,100 €1,700
18th Feb -16th March €2,800 €1,800 €1,600
17th March-20th March – – €1,775
21st March- 31st March €2,800 1,800 €1,700
1st April -14th April €3,900 – –
15th April-28th April €3,300 €2,100 €1,700
28th April – 2nd May – €2,400 €1,800
3rd May – 26th May €3,600 €2,300 €1,800
27th May – 30th June 3rd to the 8th June  €2800 –
1st July – 1st Sept  €4,950 – –
2nd Sept – 29th Sept €3,900 – –
30th Sept – 27th October €3,300 €2,100 €1,700
28th October – 3rd November €3,900 €2,600 –
4th Nov – 19th December €2,800 €1,800 €1,600
20th Dec -3rd Jan 2024 €4,800 – –

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 is not permitted in this home
Pets and Dogs – No, sorry!
The owners regret Stag or Hen parties are not admissible.
Care obviously needs to be taken with young children with so much accessible water!

Available
Booked
Pending
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Our stay at Westerly House was just perfect…

Annette did a great job of introducing us to the house and preparing us for the week. We had great weather and enjoyed all that West Cork has to offer. We will definitely consider Unique Irish Homes in our next trip.
[The] Westerly House was a solid house with all the amenities. Well stocked for cooking. Great setting. Quiet and conveniently located.
One suggestion: Getting in and out of the driveway was a challenge. We had two vehicles which I would assume is common for a house this size. A well placed “Traffic Mirror” would make the entry and exit so much easier.

Tom Duddy, August 2018

 

Thank you for your email. We had a most enjoyable week in Westerly House. It’s an extremely comfortable and well equipped house in a very beautiful and convenient setting.
The kayaks, hot tub and pontoon were particular highlights for us especially the children.
We will most definitely use your site to book further holidays and may well revisit Westerly House in the future.
 
Kind regards
 
Emma.  17th August 2022.

 

Many thanks to Rose & Graham in Unique Irish Homes for their courteous & informative help when I booked the lovely house “Westerly” in Cork, for the celebration of my husband’s 70th birthday. We were a party of 9 adults & 4 children.

This is my first experience at using Unique Irish Homes & I can honestly say I would use them again. In an age where everything is booked online it was great to have a person at the other end of the phone to guide me & also answer questions that I had. Everything ran very smoothly. There was paperwork involved which was tiresome but I understood that it was necessary. Having done it once now it won’t be a chore next time round.
I have received my deposit for breakages back from Unique Irish Homes in a seamless transaction.

 Marie & Annette from Westerly House made our stay very welcoming & comfortable. My family had a wonderful three days in Westerly. The house was large, very comfortable & very nicely decorated. My adult kids thought it was amazing. The stunning view was visible from nearly all the rooms. The outdoor Jacuzzi was used by the youngest to the oldest. Great fun & merriment was had in it. We lit a fire in the lounge that brought atmosphere & comfort to all.

A lot of thought has been put into the set up of Westerly & all 13 of us had a wonderful time. Thanking all involved.

Geraldine Flanagan, October 2018

We recently stayed at Westerly House,

Cork and had the most amazing holiday, all the finishing touches and welcome gifts was actually why we chose not use air b n b.
Annette our house keeper was exceptional and made us feel so welcome on arrival. The house really works for a large group as there was plenty of space between bedrooms and living areas that everyone had peace and quite when needed. We loved this house so much we’ll hopefully be back soon and the photos and description online was very accurate. Thank you again!

James, April 2019

 

Out & About

 

Bantry is ideally located in magical west Cork between the isolated Beara peninsula to the north and the remote Sheep’s Head to the south. The sea, the air the history, there’s so much to explore…

Here are some of our favourites…

Annual festivals a-plenty include:

 

The Locality

 

 

Westerly House borders Bantry Bay at Ballylickey, in the crook of the sound 5 minutes from the vibrant town itself. There is an excellent gourmet café and deli just two minutes walk from the house. Bantry is host to a fine farmers market on Friday mornings, and there are several supermarkets, restaurants, and Pubs.

Wild Atlantic Way
Click here to find out more…

Bantry Bay is renowned for mussel fishing, and there is a deep water harbour at Whiddy Island (need to take ferry).
The island once served as an oil terminal for berthing supertankers until in 1979 the French tanker Betelgeuse exploded in what remains the biggest maritime disaster in Irish history.

At the end of the 18th century a republican group seeking to overthrow British rule in Ireland, and spurred on by activities in America and France, managed to persuade the French to send a sizeable fleet of ships and some 14,000 troops to Bantry Bay.
Storms and general mismanagement doomed the Armada – an exhibition in Bantry House details more of this, plus the gardens are fantastic.

The narrow Sheep’s Head peninsula spans the southern shores of Bantry Bay and has a pedestrian loop that makes for a completely unique walking experience.

Sailing is the most ubiquitous pastime along this stretch of Corks coastline, and from Crookhaven to Kinsale there are countless regattas throughout the summer, and great opportunities for the serious sailor to up their skills.

West Cork is blessed with an exceptionally warm and wet micro-climate. The Gulf Stream ocean current ensures that summer sea temperatures are about 17 C, approximately the same as Long Beach California. Here you can find palm trees, luxuriant sub-tropical vegetation and exotic flowers growing in abundance. Fuchsia abound, and have become the unofficial emblem of West Cork.
Glengarriff, only 10 minutes away by car, is the jump off point for visits to the magnificent and quirky and exotic gardens on Garnish Island.

The Ring of Beara road twists its way around this rugged headland that forms the northern part of Bantry Bay, exposing colourful hamlets in its path. Narrow, but with minimal traffic it is a splendid tour, and the views are spectacular. For Cyclists or walkers the Beara Way offers a safer route.

At the tip of the peninsula a spur off the loop road continues to Ballaghboy. From here you can catch Ireland’s only cable car for the ten minute ride to Dursey Island. The rickety car carries six passengers (or the equivalent in sheep) about 250m above infamous Dursey Sound, where strong tides make traveling by boat hazardous.

With magnificent views stretching from the Skellig Islands to Mizen Head, only a handful of inhabitants brave this wild and windy island. Dolphins, whales and innocent basking sharks are frequently seen in the surrounding seas.

How to get there – Car advised…

By Air: Cheap flights to Kerry Airport (Farrenfore) Cork, Dublin or Shannon.
Kerry Airport – approx 1 hour from house.
Cork Airport – approx 1.5 hours from house.
Shannon Airport – approx 2 hours from house.
Dublin Airport – approx 4 hours from house.

By Sea: Ferry crossings from Pembroke/Fishguard to Rosslare.
Stena Express – 120 mins (summer only from Fishguard)
Swansea/Cork Ferry is 1.5 hours from the house.
Rosslare Port is approx 4 hours from house
Dublin City Port/Holyhead has a fast crossing and is approx 4 hours from house

 

Map

Beechwood House

Beechwood House

Beechwood House

Woodlands and Water in West Cork

Book this home

Woodlands and Water in West Cork

County Cork

Sheltered behind a small woodland just above Dunmanus Bay, this eco-friendly sea-side home has been designed to blend in beautifully with its surroundings.
It is spacious, luminous, and contemporary, and enjoys some extra luxuries, like an outdoor Jacuzzi and an indoor sauna. An ideal remote retreat for families who relish walking and water…

 

Modern, bright, and roomy

The broad entrance lobby, impressive kitchen, and ample dining room, flow effortlessly into each other. Dove grey and white tones, polished concrete terrazzo floors and clean minimal lines unify these contemporary ground floor rooms into an inclusive family home.


Magnificent glass sliding doors separate the interiors from an expansive south facing terrace that overlooks the woodland and river, sucking in the sunlight.

Typical of the quirky delights in this home, a relaxing coffee area occupies a corner of the kitchen – complete with colourful cocktail chairs, but there are also stools around a central island for casual grazing.

AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    Up to 11 guests
    From €2,500 per week
  • Bedrooms
    Three double bedrooms (one ground floor)
    Two with ensuite showers
    One twin bedroom
    One triple, with double and single bed
    Two bathrooms
  • Other Rooms
    Sitting room, Dining room
    Kitchen with Coffee area
    Landing with Sauna
    Utility room
  • Features
    Hot Tub Jacuzzi, Large Terrace, Pizza Oven, Barbecue
    Woodland paths & Gazebo
  • Contempo
    Flat screen TV, Netflix, WiFi internet
    Good Cell phone reception
  • Availability
    Weekly: Saturday to Saturday
    Weekends: Friday to Monday, September to March
  • Restrictions
    Sorry, pets are not permitted

The ample artisan dining table began life as an Ash tree in the woodlands below, and the floor boards in the sitting room similarly were fashioned from beech trees on the property. Other surplus timber ends up in one or other of the two wood-burning stoves.

Facilities & Ameneties

Kitchen Appliances

• Electric oven
• 4 ring electric hob
• Fridge with ice and water dispenser
• Freezer in utility room
• Microwave
• Dishwasher
• Toaster
• Blender
• Coffee machine

Utility Appliances

• Washing machine
• Tumble dryer
• Iron

Bedrooms

• Sizes – One double bed, three King-size, and three singles
• 2 Hairdryers

Tech & Entertainment

• Wi-Fi Internet
• Flat-screen TV
• Netflix

Other

• Sauna
• Outdoor Hot Tub
• 2 Multi head showers • Good selection of books
• Kids toys
• Children’s high chair
• 2 Wood burning stoves

The large sitting room also faces directly onto the sunny south terrace – a very magical spot for the whole family to enjoy a barbecue or something from the outdoor wood fired pizza oven.

Built to be environmentally conscious this home employs the most efficient modern technologies, with a heating system that ensures endless supply of hot water, a heat recovery unit, with vents located throughout the house, and triple glazed Doors & Windows.

A double bedroom occupies the other side of the ground floor. It is adjacent to a family bathroom – Beechwood House is wheelchair friendly.

A limed white stairway returns onto the generous first floor landing, where there is room for a relaxing seating area. Here too is the sauna – wonderful for heating up the bones after a dip in the sea or a long walk!

There are four spacious bedrooms on this level – two have ensuite shower rooms with multi head showers.

 

One bedroom sleeps three, with a double bed and a single bed, and shares a family bathroom (with bath) with a fourth twin bedroom.

Outside

Just a short stroll from the village, the house is accessed via a small bridge over the river and electric gates – there is ample parking inside. The 5 acre property slopes down towards the bay, a view that is concealed in the summer months by a magical woodland. From the terrace area you can meander down to the river on conveniently constructed paths, or just chill out in the gazebo. There is a Hot Tub Jacuzzi in a small garden to one side of the house.

Provisional Booking Form

This Home is only let by the week.

Important – A Week’s booking runs from Saturday to Saturday

2023 Holiday Breaks

Easter weekend Friday 7th April to Monday 10th April € 3,500
Halloween Friday 27th October to Wednesday 1st November € 3,500
Christmas break Saturday 23rd to Thursday 28th December € 3,500
New Year break Saturday 30th to Tuesday 2nd January € 3,500

NB: A refundable breakages deposit of €600 applies to this home.

Rates Table

Per week
October to May € 2,600
June to September € 2,900
July to August € 3,900

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.
Pets – No, sorry!

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Reviews

 

New to Unique Irish Homes – 2019

I had been meaning to give some feedback…

We were extremely happy with the house in Ahakista. It really is a special place and the whole experience was fantastic. The house itself is beautifully finished and really comfortable, and the grounds make it extra special. Niamh and Damian were very warm and welcoming when we arrived, and eager to help throughout.
We’re looking forward to our next stay!

Karl, August 2020

Sounds like fun…

First I’d like to express, on behalf of the whole group, our thanks for such a wonderful trip. Like for many others, Covid-19 provided an opportunity for us to explore our home country and although the situation has at times been quite bleak, it’s also helped us see what’s been on our doorstep this whole time. We had a great time and I can confidently say that we will be back to you to you in the future for more trips!

 

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Out & About

 

Rugged and remote, this part of West Cork encourages leisurely endeavours, rambling, cycling and of course eating.
Enjoy amazing sailing and boat tours, and equally brilliant restaurants.

 

 

Here are some of our favourites…

 

Festivals

• Ahakista Regatta( August Bank Holiday weekend) – with a Quiz hosted by TV personality & Author, Graham Norton.
• West Cork Chamber Music Festival – Nine days of concerts, masterclasses & talks in various venues in Bantry town – 28th June to 7th July – www.westcorkmusic.ie

West Cork Literary Festival – Week-long celebration of writing & reading for people of all ages in various venues in Bantry town – 12th to 19th July – www.westcorkmusic.ie

• Ellen Hutchins Festival – Celebration of life of Ireland’s first female botanist with walks, talks, workshops all with a botanical theme – 17th to 25th August – www.ellenhutchins.com

Masters of Tradition Festival – Celebrating Traditional Music in its purest form in various venues in Bantry town – 21st to 26th August – www.westcorkmusic.ie ,/p . ,p . • A Taste of West Cork – 6th to 15th September

The Locality

 

The Memorial Garden located at the edge of the village remembers the death of over 329 people in a terrorist attack on an Air India Jumbo Jet in 1985, this being the closest spot to the bombing.

This neck of the woods generally is a magnet for those of us who pursue quality food and quality cooking, and you may be surprised by what’s on offer in the local shops, but you will need to travel the 17km to the sleepy market town of Bantry for larger shops and supermarkets.
Friday is market day in Bantry’s large town square, and should not be missed for the excellent local artisan food on sale.
Bantry Bay is renowned for mussel fishing – be sure to try them.

At the end of the 18th century a republican group seeking to overthrow British rule in Ireland, and spurred on by activities in America and France, managed to persuade the French to send a sizeable fleet of ships and some 14,000 troops to Bantry Bay.
Storms and general mismanagement doomed the Armada – an exhibition in Bantry House details more of this, plus the gardens are fantastic.

Wild Atlantic WayClick here to find out more…

Across Dunmanus Bay to the south is the Mizen Head Peninsula. Its lighthouse marks Ireland’s most south westerly point, and can be reached via a dramatic bridge.

The comparatively warm Atlantic ocean caused by the gulf stream current, ensures an abundance of nourishment for maritime fauna. Apart from whales, dolphins and seals, the whole area is a Mecca for bird watchers.

There are excellent walks, trails and views throughout this popular and remote region – the Sheeps Head Way is a classic. 88km of walking around this narrow finger of land protruding into the wild Atlantic Ocean, although you can drive most of the way. The final loop to the small lighthouse at the very end of the peninsula, is worth the trip with its blow holes and the possibility of seeing dolphins or whales, with a rewarding cuppa & apple tart at Bernie’s Cafe once your round trip is completed !

If you are out on the Mizen, you might like to visit a megalith at Toormore Bay, known as the Alter Wedge Tomb. It is one of a dozen or so similar Stone Age constructions to be found around the peninsula.

Beautiful and busy Barley Cove beach, just around the corner, has extensive sand dunes and an interesting floating pontoon link, which helps to protect the dunes from visitor erosion.

The Fastnet rock lighthouse 14km offshore is the most southerly and the last visible point of Ireland for emigrants traveling to Ellis Island in the 19th century. It is also extremely exposed. The original cast iron lighthouse used to shake violently in storms.
A rogue wave reportedly washed over the 48m tower in 1985.

Sailing is the most ubiquitous pastime along this stretch of Corks coastline, and from Crookhaven to Kinsale there are countless regattas throughout the summer, and great opportunities for the serious sailor to up their skills.

How to get there – Car advised..

However, There is a bus service to Bantry three days per week

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 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)
Swansea/Cork Ferry is 1.5 hours from the house.
Rosslare Port is approx 4.5 hours from house
Dublin City Port/Holyhead has a fast crossing and is approx 4.5 hours from house

 

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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.

 

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