Slipway Cottage

Slipway Cottage

Slipway Cottage

Endless skies and relentless tides

Book this home

County Galway

Situated almost on top of one of Ireland’s most unique locations, this recently refurbished seaside cottage is a magnificent introduction to Connemara at any time of year.
With a ground floor bedroom, and masses of outdoor space, multi generations can have that unforgettable holiday to treasure.
Just one and half hours from Galway but much closer to Inisbofin – Enjoy!

 

Simple comforts with style

The cosiest place to catch a sublime Atlantic sunset, is the west facing conservatory, with its contrasting tones of black & white, and which doubles as the entrance lobby at the front of the cottage.

AT A GLANCE

    • Sleeps
      Up to 10 guests
      From €1,860 per week
    • Bedrooms
      Two double bedrooms, One family bedroom (2+1)
      One twin bedroom with extra fold-out bed (3)
    • Bathrooms
      One ensuite bathroom with shower
      Family bathroom
      Ground floor shower room
    • Other Rooms
      Living room, Kitchen/dining room
      Conservatory / porch
    • Features
      Beach frontage
    • Contempo
      Flat screen TV, WiFi internet
      Good Cell phone reception
    • Availability
      Weekly: Saturday to Saturday

CHECK HERE

The spacious living area which spans most of the seaward side of the cottage, is generously furnished with shabby-chic traditional sofas and casual contemporary rugs.

A traditional turf burning stove occupies one end, while an open quarter-turn stair way, rustically painted, rises from the other.

A large cottage style kitchen-come-dining area fills the extension to the rear, with a long refectory style table at its centre – great for family spreads.

 

Upstairs

The three upstairs bedrooms and a family shower room open off a bright landing.
Walls and floor boards are finished in alabaster with subtle tones of pale pewter, and the elemental interior features rustic sheeted cottage doors, and wrought iron beds.

A twin bedroom with ensuite shower room is above the kitchen annex. A great room for kids, with a third fold-out bed.

From these privileged bedrooms, a row of dormer windows, like unblinking eyes, capture unique and ever-changing seascapes.

The ground floor bedroom has a super king size bed and an adjacent shower room.
It is reached from one end of the main cottage beyond the fireplace.

Facilities & Ameneties

Kitchen Appliances

• Gas cooker with 2 ovens and 4 rings
• Fridge-freezer
• Dishwasher
• Toaster
• Microwave

Utility Appliances

• Washing machine
• Tumble-dryer
• Iron

Bedrooms

• Sizes – Two King-size, one Super King-size & Three single beds
• 2 Hairdryers

Tech & Entertainment

• Wi-Fi Internet
• Flat-screen TV

Other

• Good selection of books
• Travel cot
• Children’s high chair

Outside

The cottage sits on 12 acres of windswept coast where boulders and dry stone walls take the place of woodlands and hedgerows. Directly in front, across a narrow road that leads to a small slipway, is a unique stretch of golden strand that separates Omey Island from the mainland. On sunny days, incoming tides are warmed as they sweep across this fickle isthmus.

Catering discretion

With a day’s notice, the owners can arrange a variety of hearty, fuss free and above all delicious meals or picnics, if required.

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

Christmas and New Year, Easter and school holidays are high season rates.

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

  Weekly Weekend Mid-week
June to September €2,850 7 nights minimum n/a
May and October €2,100 €1,450 €1,450
November to April €1,860 €1,450 €1,450
Christmas
from the 23rd December
to the 28th December		 €2,850 5 nights
New Year
from the29th December
to the 3rd January 2021		 €2,850 5 nights

 

Select your Dates

AVAILABLE BOOKED

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We don't take payment until your enquiry is confirmed.

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.
Children & Pets are very welcome

Available
Booked
Pending
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Reviews

 
New to Unique Irish Homes – 2020
Be the first to leave a review

Click here for reviews on using Slipway Cottage in Search for Posts

 

Out & About

 

For generations Connemara has been the choice of holiday location for families seeking unspoiled tranquillity. There are truly amazing blue flag beaches for swimming and snorkelling, incredible river fishing and brilliant restaurants.

Here are some of our favourites…

 

The Locality

 

 

Connemara is the most westerly part of Europe and exposed to the wild vagaries of weather. In places stunted trees grow, fighting against the winds; plants struggle to survive in this wilderness.

Wild Atlantic Way
Click here to find out more…

Claddaghduff is a 10 minute walk away, and is the nearest village for essential items, petrol and a pint.

The cottage is directly facing Omey Island. It can be reached on foot or by car twice a day via the broad strand – between half tides of course. The island once had a population of over 400 souls. There are great walks here – mind the rabbit holes – and time it right, or you may become a castaway until the next ebb. The last permanent resident of the island, stuntman Pascal Whelan, died in February 2017 aged 75.

‘A grand place for the weather entirely’ as they say.

An annual horse race is held on Omey Strand in late July. The event is carefully planned around the tides, and typically attracts vast crowds for the day out.

photo Galway Tourism

Clifden known as the capital of Connemara is just 10km away. Packed with great shops and restaurants, and catering for all shopping and craft needs, it is the central crossroads for daytrips. Watch out for the Arts festival and Clifden Pony Show.

Keep your eyes open locally for the hardy Connemara Pony. A breed collected internationally, they are known for their athleticism, versatility and good disposition.

To the East the skyline is dominated by the majestic Twelve Bens (or Pins), a series of craggy mountains in Connemara National Park that are a magnet to the serious hill walker.
But it is the fast flowing rivers that have made Connemara the Mecca of Trout and Salmon fly-fishing.

The Aughrus Penninsula is renowned for some of the most unspoiled beaches to be found anywhere in the Europe, with waters that are crystal clear.
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 harbors; sanctuary from the huge Atlantic swells.

photo Bert Kafmann

Inishbofin (White Cow) Island lies 11km off the coast, and can be reached two or three times a day by ferry from the fishing village of Cleggan, less than 5km away from the house. As well as birdwatchers and scuba divers, Bofin is an important centre for traditional Irish music and song.

Ireland’s largest Gaeltacht region is here in Connemara where the Irish language (Gaeilge) is the everyday spoken language. It is estimated that Inishbofin was inhabited as far back as 8000 – 4000 B.C. Passing the signal light into the harbour you will notice Cromwell’s 16th Century Barracks. It was used as a prison for catholic priests from all over the country after the English Statute of 1585 declared them guilty of high treason.

How to get there – Car advised…

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

 

Castlehaven Lodge

Castlehaven Lodge

Castlehaven Lodge

A whimsical haven in an historic harbour

Book this home

West Cork

A quaint and deceptively roomy 19th century cottage, Castlehaven Lodge has been completely modernised and re-furbished. Surrounded by acres of rambling gardens, dazzling views of the Atlantic, it enjoys a private walk through an historic glen to a secluded west Cork cove.

 

A modest lodge with an eastern twist

Built mid 19th century as an annex to the expansive parsonage with which it shares this 20 acre coastal property, the cottage makes a perfect base for walkers and watermen alike.

An open log-burning fireplace is punched into the rustic stone wall, a feature of one end of the open living space. The dining area occupies the opposing end.

For larger groups, Castlehaven House which sleeps 10 may be used in conjunction with the Lodge. More here …

1AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    Up to 4 guests
    From €1,100  per week
  • Bedrooms
    Two double bedrooms-both ensuite
  • Other Rooms
    Open Plan Living/Dining Room
    Kitchen
  • Contempo
    Paved Patio
    Wheelchair Friendly
    Logs and Turf
    Barbecue
    WiFi

  • CHECK HERE

Hardwood marine decking floors unite the rooms throughout.

From here one of three doors open onto every bodies favourite dining area, the alfresco terrace with views out towards the bay, and the tang of the ocean.

There is an alternative dining table in the solid wood all electric kitchen.

The bedrooms are given a Japanese twist with dramatic Shoji sliding doors, concealing contemporary ensuite shower rooms clad in mottled grey marble.

Outside

The extensive grounds are shared with Castlehaven house, which features elsewhere on this website, and include a picturesque private walk along a woodland fern glade pathway leading down to the pebble beach and pier.

There is an historic, if very small, holy well known as Saint Barrahane’s Well, within the grounds. The saint appears in a stained glass window in Castletownsend.

Restrictions

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

Facilities

The lodge is Wheelchair friendly, and is fitted out to a high standard with Wi-Fi, Dishwasher, Clothes dryer etc.
If you have a particular requirement, be sure to tell us..

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

Easter Week 14th-  19th April 2022 – €1,100
Halloween  26th- 1st October 2022 – €1,100
Christmas 23rd to the 28th Dec 2022 – €1,100
New Years’ 30th December 2022 to the 2nd January 2023  –€1,100

 

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

All Year €1,100 per week Weekend €800 Mid-week €700

Select your Dates

AVAILABLE – BOOKED

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Please select a date first.

We don't take payment until your enquiry is confirmed.

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.

Available
Booked
Pending
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We don't take payment until your enquiry is confirmed.

Reviews

 

Please tell the house owners of Castlehaven Lodge that we had the most special holiday in their house.

Noel was absolutely brilliant, really looked after us. The house was perfect, a total sanctuary from a wonderful, but very busy West Cork. The house was beautiful inside and so well equipped, we just loved how generous the bedrooms and bathrooms were. The glen was the perfect family hang out for swimming and supping. We absolutely loved it and hope to go back again next year. Thanks so much

Aoife & Dave Porter, August 2020

We felt relaxed as soon as we went in the door…

the lodge is comfortable and light filled, surrounded by nature, perfect for reading, dinner/ socialising or taking it easy. The layout is well designed and the kitchen is well equipped.
The walk to Castlehaven old church and Harbour through the woods is fun, we enjoyed the beautiful views of the bay. Good base for exploring the area eg Lough Hine, Castletownshend, Baltimore, Lis Ard, toe head, loads to do if you have some nice weather. Look forward to going back soon!

P&G Wall, June 2019

We had a lovely stay in Castlehaven Lodge…

We’ll definitely be going back next year, hoping we can go for longer next time. Noel was very accommodating and a really nice guy.
Thank you for making our holiday so smooth and very enjoyable.

Lorraine, September 2017

We were warmly greeted by our host and he made every effort to make sure our holiday was enjoyable and comfortable. Whether it was chopping wood for a fire or giving advice on the local area, he made himself available without intrusion. The Lodge was home away from home, that is if your home has a little forest walk at the bottom of the garden leading down to a secluded beach cove.
Our accommodation had comfortable beds and lots of white fluffy towels in a spotlessly clean bedroom. Plenty of hot water and great shower pressure in the spacious bathrooms. The kitchen was well equipped and our host very kindly supplied fresh provisions on arrival.
The surrounding area of West Cork is spectacular even at the time of year we chose to visit. We went to Mizen Head to see the light house on the day storm Doris broke and the breaking waves were particularly powerful along the coast that day. Inchydoney beach and Owenahincha beach are beautiful but Barleycove was our favourite, and as you can imagine, completely deserted in February.
Castlefreke woodland walk and the history of the area is captivating but make sure to stop at Union Hall on the way back and pick up some fish for supper.

David and Fiona, February 2017

Facebook Page

using A Home  in search for posts

Out & About

 

Castlehaven Lodge is ideally situated for exploring all that’s great about West Cork. Enjoy great scenery, lively events and festivals, a warm welcome and some great days out and about.
…there really is too much choice and not enough room.

photo Robert Wilcox

Other interesting local attractions include:
St. Barrahane’s Feast Day, December 3 (in Castletownshend)
Baltimore Seafood Festival and Baltimore Wooden Boats Festival in May
Baltimore Regatta August 1st
Concerts at St. Barrahane’s Church in Castletownshend (festival of music) late July to Mid August

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 deep sheltered waters 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.

West Cork is renowned for its long jagged peninsulas and deep bays – the last point of land visible to travellers from Great Britain and Ireland as they headed for America.

photo Whale Watch West Cork

The climate is very mild, with moist Atlantic breezes warmed by the Gulf Stream that sweeps across from the Caribbean. Semi-tropical plants and palm trees are common in this region. Fuchsia abound and have become the unofficial emblem of West Cork.

Wild Atlantic Way
Click here to find out more…

Baltimore is perhaps Irelands 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.br By 1907, after the North Pier had been built, 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.

The Fastnet rock lies 19km to the south of Baltimore. Its lighthouse flashes once every five seconds, and has a range of 27 nautical miles.

In 1985, the lighthouse was struck by a rogue wave measuring about 157 feet (48 m) in height.

Cape Clear island is Ireland’s most southerly, and has a population of 120 Irish speaking persons. It’s a 45 minute boat trip from Baltimore or Schull. The island is 3 miles long and 1.5 miles wide. The islands remote location, coupled with its proximity to the continental shelf, makes it the foremost centre for bird watching in Ireland, boasting Ireland’s only manned observatory. Whale, leatherback turtle, sun fish and shark are spotted every year – dolphins constantly.

 

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

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

Rates for Public Holidays 2022:
Easter Week 14th-  19th April 2022 – €2,750
Halloween  26th- 1st October 2022 – €2,750
Christmas 23rd to the 28th Dec 2022 – €2,750
New Years’ 30th December 2022 to the 2nd January 2023  –€2,750

Christmas, New Year, Easter and Public holidays – please apply for rates.

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 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

Christmas – December 23rd to 28th December  at High Season Rate
New Year – 29th December to January 3rd 2021 at High Season Rate

Select your Dates

AVAILABLE BOOKED

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Please select a date first.

We don't take payment until your enquiry is confirmed.

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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Booked
Pending
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We don't take payment until your enquiry is confirmed.

 

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

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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

#10 Cable Station

#10 Cable Station

#10 Cable Station

Hands across the Ocean

Book this home

Hands across the Ocean

County Kerry

Built 120 years ago as a telegraph relay station between Europe and North America, this historic limestone building has been imaginatively converted into a cluster of contemporary apartments.
Waterville is the only village where Ireland’s legendary Ring of Kerry slips past the Atlantic, and where you can be lulled to sleep by the music of the ocean.

 

Convivial comfort with maritime murmurs

The entrance to #10 is via an almost nautical galvanised gangway.

aerial photos- Terry Gordon

The apartment is on two floors – the majority of the lower level consists of a spacious open-plan, wainscoted living area which seamlessly accommodates the well-appointed kitchen, eight seater dining area and comfortable sitting room.

 

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

AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    Up to 7 guests
    From €1,750 per week
  • Bedrooms
    Two double bedrooms, One twin bedroom
    One single bedroom
  • Bathrooms
    Master has ensuite with shower
    Family Bathroom with shower
    Shower room with WC
  • Other Rooms
    Open plan Sitting room with Kitchen & Dining area
    Entrance Hall & Study
  • Features
    Easy walking distance to the town
  • Contempo
    Flat screen TV, DVD player, WiFi internet
    Good Cell phone reception
  • Availability
    Weekly: Saturday to Saturday
    Weekends: Friday to Monday
    Midweek: Monday to Friday
  • Pets
    Please check with us

A shower room with WC off the entrance lobby separates a single bedroom and a small study, which offers an intimate escape for reading or phone calls.

Large sash windows flood the apartment with light during the day whilst curiously steampunk fittings light up the evenings.

Steep vaulted ceilings with ‘Handmaid’s Tale’ bonnet windows are a feature of the upstairs quarters, where there are two azure blue double bedrooms and one twin room.

The master bedroom has an ensuite with shower – the others share a family bathroom.

Outside

The private gardens are shared with other residents of The Cable Station where there is ample parking.
It’s only a short walk into the village and down to the seafront.

Restrictions

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

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

Christmas and New Year are high season as above, for other Public holidays – see below
Holidays’ Dates for 2022 are priced as following.
Easter Week 14th-  19th April 2022 – €1,850
Halloween   27th- 1st October 2022 – €1,850
Christmas  23rd to the 28th Dec 2022 – €1,850
New Years’  30th December 2022 to the 2nd January 2023  -€1,850

per Week Weekend Mid-week
May to August €1,850 minimum stay –
September to April €1,850 €950 €950

 

Select your Dates

AVAILABLE – BOOKED

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We don't take payment until your enquiry is confirmed.

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

 
Celebrated for two world-class golf courses, internationally renowned fishing, the world famous Kerry Way Walk, stunning scenery and fantastic sea food, the Ring of Kerry is the apotheosis of the Wild Atlantic Way.

 

photo Bernard Gagnon

 

Here are some of our favourites…

 

The Locality

 

Waterville is a busy village situated on Ballinskelligs Bay which is on the world renowned Ring of Kerry. There are two supermarkets, a chemist and other shops, petrol stations and several fine restaurants.

Wild Atlantic Way

Click here to find out more…

The village rose to prominence in the 1880’s when an American telecom company laid two undersea cables across the Atlantic connecting North America with Europe – all routed through this station in Waterville. The purpose was to break the then virtual monopoly of the existing line to Valentia Island and thus bring down the prices. To this end The Commercial Cable Company was formed in 1884 and its fine logo is visible on the outside of The Cable Station.

Siemens in Germany produced some 2,399 miles of cable for the job, and the town rapidly expanded to cater for an influx of some 300 techies and their families, building fine new homes along the Promenade – even eventually constructing a golf links.
The cable station in Waterville relayed its last message in 1962.

The connection, known as the Mackay – Bennett line after its owners, was laid and serviced by a specially designed ship of the same name, which famously happened to be working in the vicinity of the Titanic on that fateful night, and undertook the unenviable assignment of gathering up bodies adrift in the ocean after the disaster.

There is a permanent exhibition of Waterville’s place in the history of the Transatlantic Submarine Cable at the nearby Tech Amergin art centre. In the summer there are walking tours of the village taking in all the important landmarks.

Waterville 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. There is now an annual Charlie Chaplin Comedy Festival in the village during the month of August.

West of the village, there is a long strand adjacent to the golf links, which is bisected by the tidal estuary of the River Inny, excellent for blustery walks.
The beach at Derrynane is one of Ireland’s truly great strands. It is 20 minute drive away around the headland with simply stunning views on the way. 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 a long ride from here to sit in Parliament in London.

15th century Ross Castle is worth a visit if you plan to visit Killarney.

The towering World Heritage 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 Little Skellig alone.
The outcrop features as a location in the latest Star Wars movie.


Renowned Fly Fishing 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.

How to get there – Car advised..

By Air: Cheap 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