Riverbend

Riverbend

Riverbend

Contemporary Copper Coast Retreat

Book this home

County Waterford

200 metres from the dunes, on the final reach of the River Mahon, this brilliant white beach bungalow is a seaside escape through and through.
Luxurious and spacious, a short stroll to the village, great coastline, cycling, fishing and golf, this is a unique family vacation choice. Just two hours from Dublin and less from Cork.

 

Contemporary and airy, with a Scandavian aesthetic

At the heart of this lustrous beach bungalow is an expansive open plan living space that absorbs the kitchen and dining area.

To one end, a modular sofa and TV define the sitting room section.

AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    Up to 8 guests
    From €3,500 per week
  • Bedrooms
    Two double bedrooms – 1 ensuite
    Two twin bedrooms
    Family Bathroom
  • Other Rooms
    Open plan Living room, Dining room & Kitchen
    Sitting room
    Entrance Hall, Utility room
    Guest WC
  • Features
    Large Garden
    Barbecue Patios front & rear
    Fire-pit and seating
    River frontage
  • Contempo
    Flat screen TV, fast WiFi internet
    Good Cell phone reception
  • Availability
    High season Weekly only: Saturday to Saturday
    Weekends: Friday to Monday
    Midweek: Monday to Friday
  • Restrictions
    Children over 12 are welcome
    Sorry, pets are not permitted

  • CHECK HERE

The dining table is assigned an entire glazed bay with panoramic views down to the river.

Clean lines, ample storage and uncluttered surfaces characterise the kitchen.

In the centre there is a preparation island flanked by a pair of breakfast bar stools – brilliant for socially inclusive catering.

The sink and dishwasher have a dedicated zone screened from the main living area, that continues through to the sitting room.
A utility room and guest WC are also reached from this section.

A pair of glazed doors open directly onto a sheltered and sunny rear barbecue patio.

Facilities & Ameneties

Kitchen Appliances

• 4 ring induction hob with Black Hole extractor
• Electric Oven
• Fridge
• Freezer, plus another in utility room
• Dishwasher
• Toaster
• Microwave

Utility Appliances

• Washing machine
• Iron

Bedrooms

• Sizes – Two Zip & Link double beds
• Two single beds

Tech & Entertainment

• Wi-Fi Internet
• Flat-screen TV
• Geo-thermal heating

Other

• Wood burning stove
• Charcoal Barbecue
• Multiple outdoor seating/dining
• River access

It’s difficult not to be impressed by views of the meandering river through the large picture window wall in the sitting room. Glazed French doors to the surrounding terrace blur the boundaries and expand the already generous interior.
This is a terrific spot for dining al fresco at any time of day.
An almost invisible balustrade of glass is a special touch.

 

Bedrooms

There is a wing of four bright bedrooms off the dog-leg hallway on the opposite side of the cottage – two doubles and two twin.

The master bedroom has a mirrored wall of Sliderobes and an ensuite bathroom.

The others share a family bathroom with walk-in shower and his & her basins.

Outside

The cottage sits on six acres of landscaped woodland and wildflower meadows that gently sweep down to the River Mahon which is tidal at this point.

A small section to the rear is fenced off for additional privacy.

There’s is 200m of private river frontage to enjoy with several judiciously placed seats for contemplating the busy wildlife – a fox’s den, heron’s nest (particularly noisy), numerous birds of prey, squirrels, even our own resident otter passes by occasionally. A birdwatchers paradise.

The river itself is alive with salmon, sea trout, mullet etc and a fishing platform has been constructed to enjoy this amenity. And of course there is a delightful fire-pit circle for sundowner stories.

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 – please apply for rates.

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

  Per week Weekend Mid-week
September to April €3,500 €1,800 €1,800
May to August €3,500 Not Available Not Available

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.
Children – The property is not suitable for toddlers or children under the age of 12.
Pets – No, sorry!

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Reviews

 

New to portfolio 2021

be the first to leave a review…

Click here for reviews on using Riverbend in Search for Posts

 

Out & About

 

This is Ireland’s Copper Coast, packed with undiscovered gems. Here’s a few suggestions to whet your appetite…

For unique ways to make the most of your stay on the Copper Coast we recommend you contact Waterford Camino Tours

• Dunmore East Blue Grass Festival (end of August)
• Waterford Spraoi (start of August)
• Christmas Festival Waterford (22rd Nov – Dec 23rd)

Here are some of our favourites…

 

The Locality

 

 

Directly across from the cottage, Bunmahon Beach stretches for about half a kilometre. Its sand dunes offer protection to an abundance of unusual flora and fauna.

This region, known as the Copper Coast, gets its name from the copper mines that were active in the mid-19th century. Remnants of the engine rooms and chimneys are still evident, the most locally prominent being Tankardstown, a couple of minutes away.

Directly above the house, overlooking the village, is the Copper Coast Geopark centre where you can discover much about the legacy of the region. Don’t miss the wonderful cakes and sandwiches in the café.

It is a sometimes stormy margin and the coastline is littered with ship wrecks.

You will notice The Engine House Bar and cafe at the corner of the village – great for lunch or dinner.

Dungarvan, about 30 minutes West, is a busy seaside town with good restaurants. The main attraction is King John’s Castle, an Anglo-Norman fortification (1185) which would have originally been entered by drawbridge. It is undergoing reconstruction but there are guided tours, an audio-visual show and exhibitions during the summer season.

They are mad about cycling in Dungarvan, and it was here that the first cycling club in Ireland was founded in 1869. The local club went on to win the first ever bike race in the British Isles. They still have the cup to prove it.

Tramore is about 25 minutes away, and is a popular resort for tourists in the summer. It has a 5km beach, sand dunes looking out onto the Atlantic Ocean, and a well-deserved reputation for surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing.

Road Bowling is a traditional and popular local sport that requires hours of practice and technique to master. 28oz steel balls are rolled in turn for just over a mile along roads from Fenor to Annestown.

Probably the most popular local attraction is a spectacular 46-kilometre off-road cycling/walking trail along an old railway line between Waterford and Dungarvan known as the Waterford Greenway. Bikes can be hired locally and of course you can stop or start wherever you like. Kilmacthomas might be a good place to start- Coachhouse Coffee is great for a lunch break along the way.

Mahon Falls is a dramatic 80m waterfall nestled in the Comeragh Mountains surrounded by breathtaking scenery. There is a car park near 15 minutes away from the house with a not too strenuous thereafter, so don’t miss it.

Waterford, about 30 minutes away, is Ireland’s oldest city. Originally a Viking settlement, it is now a major port with much to see and do. Glass, or crystal, was manufactured in the city from 1783 until early 2009, when the factory there was eventually shut down. There is a great annual Viking marathon in June.

photo Mike Searle

About 45 minutes away, the magnificent Lismore Castle with its long and distinguished history, has splendid gardens open to the public during the summer months, and compelling cultural events are held in the town throughout the year.

How to get there – Car advised..

By Air: Flights to Dublin, Cork or Shannon airports.
Dublin Airport – just over two hours from the cottage.
Cork Airport – approx 1 and half hours from house.
Shannon Airport – approx 2 and half hours from house.

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

​

Map

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 €1,200 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

 

There is a €250 damage deposit applicable.

June to September €1,200 per week N/A N/A
October to May €1,200 per week Weekend €650 Mid-week €650

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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Booked
Pending
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Reviews

 

If you would be so good.

 Piper’s Cottage is new to Unique Irish Homes Summer 2021. If you visit and feel the need; let us know how it went…

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

​

Map

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Aherlow Castle

Aherlow Castle

Aherlow Castle

…many’s the pleasant days we spent...

Book this home

County Tipperary

Originally constructed in 1805 on the tranquil south facing slopes of the Glen of Aherlow, with exceptional views of the Galtee Mountains, the restoration of this cosy, twin turreted country castle has been a labour of love for the owners.

Just an hours drive from either Cork or Limerick City in the heartland of pastoral Ireland.

 

A very homely castle

Essentially just one room deep, almost everywher bar the kitchen, enjoys spectacular southerly views across the glen.
With no obvious entrance portico, and convenient parking in the rear courtyard, normal access is via the impressive kitchen.

Rustic country style, with a generous gas range, Belfast sink, and limestone flooring, this large kitchen is also the main dining area, with sturdy leather upholstered oak chairs and matching table.

AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    Up to 8 guests
    From €2,800 per week
  • Bedrooms
    Four double bedrooms – 1 ensuite with bidet
    One single bedroom
    One family Bathroom & one WC with shower
  • Other Rooms
    Sitting room, Library
    Study, Games room
    KItchen
    Utility room, Larder
  • Features
    Open Fire places
    Large property
  • Contempo
    Sky TV, WiFi internet
    Good Cell phone reception

There is a small larder adjacent, and a separate utility room off the rear lobby.

The spacious sitting room and the library alongside have original polished flooring, high ceilings and open hearths.

Both rooms also open through brass handled French doors, onto the gravelled front and that ubiquitous view.

There is a continuous vista spanning the garden level of the castle by dint of a series of connecting doors.

Past the library, the ground floor of the octagonal tower with its high windows, serves as a study – a more intimate refuge.

Facilities & Ameneties

Kitchen Appliances

• Twin oven Gas range with 5 rings & griddle
• Fridge-freezer, plus freezer in utility room
• Dishwasher
• Twin toaster

Utility Appliances

• Washing machine
• Tumble-dryer
• Iron

Bedrooms

• Sizes – Two double beds, two King-size
• One Single bed
• Ensuite with bidet

Tech & Entertainment

• Wi-Fi Internet
• TV with sky
• DVD player

Other

• Excellent selection of books
• Gas Barbecue
• Patio dining furniture
• Private woodland walks

Beyond that, what was once the oratory retains its distinctive doors and ceiling brackets, and external impressions on the walls reminiscent of a Templar cross; an additional reception room, less formal and great as a games room.

​

A powder blue corridor extends across the back of the castle, connecting the ground floor rooms.​

Bedrooms

The quirky nature of 200+ year old buildings, is that there are two wheelchair friendly bedrooms – a single and a cosy double – off the sitting room at the East end of the house.

They share a small bathroom at the end of the blue corridor.

The remaining three bedrooms are arranged in a row on the next floor; two with magnificent views across to the Galtee Mountains.

The elegant master bedroom boasts a stunning contemporary ensuite bathroom.

The other 2 bedrooms share a generous traditional family bathroom with bath and shower.

There is no guest access to the zenith of the two towers.

Outside

The Castle is at the end of a long avenue that winds upwards between fields. Surrounded by 34 acres of private woods, there are spectacular walks above the property amongst the cover of ancient trees.

There is a ring fort on the property and also an ancient Legaun stone.

​

There is a complete set of furniture and a gas barbecue for dining Al Fresco – which you can do front or back, weather permitting.

The owners occupy the recently converted coach house to the rear should you need anything. They have separate parking and access.

​

Provisional Booking Form

 

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

  Per week Weekend Mid-week
November to May €2,800 €1,595 €1,595
July to September €2,800 Not Available Not Available

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.

Available
Booked
Pending
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Reviews

 

Beautiful, restful, enchanting place. Very special.

We really loved our time here, there is something very special about this place, a deeply restful and calming space that’s incredibly healing. The surrounding environment is beyond beautiful, such a joy to wake to mists over the distant hills.

Sitting in the middle reading room in the mornings with the french windows giving such an amazing view. The silence was restorative and we were able to just ‘be’. Loved the big kitchen, high ceilings, furnishings, everything was so calming. After a very busy and stressful covid few months, we all felt so blessed to have come to Aherlow castle and we left lighter, calmer and ready to face the world again. Freda and Declan are lovely people and kind hosts who gave us our space but were there if we needed them. The walks in the surrounding area are also fantastic and this is an area of outstanding natural beauty.

One of my favorite holidays and the best place we’ve ever stayed in.

September 2020

Click here for reviews on using Aherlow Castle in Search for Posts

 

Out & About

 

Rural peace and solicitude define this ancient crossroads – make the most of it.

Here are some of our tips…

The annual Bansha Show this year is August 24th

 

The Locality

 

 

There are a couple of small grocery shops, some great pubs and a good butcher in the local village of Bansha only 5 minutes away, with several larger ones in Tipperary Town – 10 minutes.

The Galtee Mountains directly across from the Castle are Ireland’s highest inland mountain range. At 920 metres, Galtymore is the highest peak within the range.

A scrupulously maintained 7 foot high white cross, erected in 1975, overlooks the Glen of Aherlow from the Eastern summit – there are two.

Considered a walker’s paradise, there are a variety of mapped walking routes along forest tracks and across open moorland throughout the Glen of Aherlow.

picture Robert Lindsdell

20 minutes away, the feudal Cahir Castle, one of the largest and best preserved in Ireland, is sited on a rocky island in the river Suir. Mostly constructed by the Butler family during the 13th and 15th Centuries, it has featured in several blockbuster productions including Excalibur and more recently, The Tudors.

Discovered in 1833, and close to Cahir, The Mitchelstown Cave is one of the largest and most complex cave systems in Ireland. It features massive caverns with dripstone formations, stalactites, stalagmites, including one which stands some 9 meters in height.

The temperature within the cave remains at a constant 12° Celsius all year.

The Rock of Cashel, 30 minutes away, was once the seat of the High Kings of Munster, though little evidence remains of their time here – most of the buildings dating from the 12th and 13th centuries. This iconic structure which stands out against the skyline has a long and compeling history is one of Ireland’s most spectacular and most visited attractions.

Tipperary Races

How to get there – Car advised…

By Air: Flights to Dublin, Cork or Shannon airports.
Dublin Airport – approx. 2 and a quarter hours from the castle.
Cork Airport – approx. 1 and a quarter hours from the castle.
Shannon Airport – also approx. 1 and a quarter hours from the castle.

By Sea: Ferry crossings
Dublin City Port/Holyhead has a fast crossing and is about 2.5 hours from the castle.
Rosslare Harbour for Ferries to South Wales is just over 2 hours from the castle.

Map

Walled Garden Cottage

Walled Garden Cottage

Walled Garden Cottage

Lough Dergs Heartland Gem

Book this home

County Tipperary

Deep among the woods that border Lough Derg, is a uniquely private cottage with formal gardens, tennis courts and exclusive lake access.
Just over an hour from Galway, and with the lower reaches of the Shannon to explore, this is the perfect rural retreat.

 

A linear spread

This is a commodious cottage, just a single room deep, that spans one side of the walled garden.
From a south facing patio towards one end of the cottage, the entrance opens directly into an expansive living space.

Comfortable sofas and a wood-burning stove define the sitting room at one end. An eclectic country-cottage style kitchen features a large eight seater rustic table at its centre.

Curtained French doors to the gardens mimic the entrance.

AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    4 guests +1
    From €2,500 per week
  • Bedrooms
    Two double bedrooms
    both with large ensuite bathrooms
    plus fold out bed in vestibule
  • Other Rooms
    Open plan Sitting room, Dining room & Kitchen
    Central Vestibule
    large Sunroom
    separate Bar with washroom
    Pantry / Utility room
  • Features
    Wheelchair accessible
    Furnished Terrace
    Stunning Walled garden
    Two tennis courts
    Private woodland walks & access to the lake
  • Contempo
    Flat screen TV, fast WiFi internet
    Bose Bluetooth players
    Good Cell phone reception
  • Restrictions
    Children under 12 are welcome
    Sorry, pets are not permitted

A sizeable pantry off the living area doubles as a larder and utility room.
Rough stone whitewashed walls and unpolished timber flooring are testament to the original cottage.

Beyond the kitchen, a central vestibule comes as a hiatus to the remaining accommodation, with a liberal mix of furnishings that include a gilded Diwan day-bed which can be used as an additional single.

Opposing French doors open onto the walled garden terrace, and a generous sunroom complete with leather swivel armchairs to the front.

Along the corridor, the first bedroom is snug Queen sized double. It is wheelchair accessible with a spacious bathroom, complete with double ended Drummond bath and delightful Victorian fittings.
The bathroom also has a door to the corridor which can be used if the vestibule Diwan is utilised.

Facilities & Ameneties

Kitchen Appliances

• 5 ring range with 3 ovens br>
• Fridge plus Fridge-freezer in pantry
• Additional fridge in bar
• Dishwasher
• Toaster
• Microwave

Utility Appliances

• Washing machine
• Tumble dryer
• Iron

Bedrooms

• Two Queen size beds
• Daybed single (Diwan) in Vestibule
• 2 Hairdryers

Tech & Entertainment

• Wi-Fi Internet
• Flat-screen TV
• 2 BOSE Bluetooth speakers

Other

• Two tennis courts
• Large walled garden and greenhouse
• Access to the lake (Lough Derg)
• Separate Bar
•Gas Barbecue

The master bedroom reveals an impressive mahogany Queen sized bed and a wood-burning stove.

A step up, the substantial master ensuite has an elegant walk-in twin shower and ample wardrobe space.

There are crisp white 800 thread count linen and luxury towels throughout.

The Bar

At the west end of the cottage, with access from either the walled garden or the front, is an autonomous bar, which is a relaxing social nook to chill out in at the end of a day.

The counter is fashioned from storm toppled trees on the estate.

There is an exclusive WC adjoining the bar.

 

Outside

The cottage is obviously named for its spectacular private walled garden. Beautifully maintained and with a magnificent glasshouse spanning the northern facade which will delight the horticulturist.

There is a broad and fully furnished terrace here which is perfect for barbecues.

In addition, guests have access to the two tennis courts, walks around the estate and of course the lake.

Provisional Booking Form

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 – please apply for rates.

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

  Per week Weekend Mid-week
November to May €2.500 €1,400 €1,400
July to September €2,500 Not Available Not Available

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

 

The Shannon and its lakes dominate the midlands, and with that there comes fishing and food.

Just jump right in…

Here are some of our favourites…

 

The Locality

 

 

Terryglass, less than 15 minutes from the house – has a scenic harbor on the lake with Watersports and fine Gastropubs.
Portumna, 20 minutes away, is the nearest sizable town, home to the Workhouse Museum, an chilling example of this much hated alternative to starvation.

Nenagh is a little further away in the opposite direction, but is considerably better served with shops and restaurants.
While you’re there, you might like to check out the medieval Nenagh castle, and climb its 101 step spiral staircase. Access to the tower is through a passageway within the base of the wall.

Lough Derg at 118k sq in area and 39k long is the third largest lake in Ireland, and the last lake on the Shannon system before it meets the Atlantic Ocean.

The river Shannon itself is the longest river in the British Isles, and more importantly, the most navigable…
The best way to explore the lake is by boat, as it is deeply indented with no handy shoreline cycle route.
​

Cycling is best done in the 1,500 acres Portumna Forest Park at the top end of the lake, which is also home to the annual Forest Marathon and 100k Ultra Marathon.

Fishing is one of the main attractions to the region, and the Pike which is the largest of the freshwater predators, is a prime target. There is no close season for pike in Ireland and anglers may fish for pike all year round.

The heritage town of Killaloe at the southern tip of the lough is the birthplace of Brian Boru, high King of Ireland at the dawn of the second millennium. It is also home to Limerick University Sports Adventure Centre – which provides a wide range of activities.

How to get there – Car advised…

By Air: Flights to Dublin, Belfast or Shannon airports.
Shannon Airport – less than 1 and a half hours from the cottage.
Dublin Airport – less than 2 and a half hours from the cottage.
Cork Airport – is also less than 2 and a half hours from the cottage.

By Sea: Ferry crossings
Dublin City Port/Holyhead has a fast crossing and is approx 2 and a half hours
Rosslare Harbour for Ferries to South Wales is approx 3 hours from the cottage.

Map

Gallery

 

Cottage 51

Cottage 51

Cottage 51

Romantic Lakeside Cottage

Upper Lough Erne
Book this home

County Fermanagh

Step inside this magical, wee cottage with a slightly bohemian air; you enter a different world where new surprises lurk around every corner.
A delightful world of natural and recycled materials and honky-tonk pianos, nestled in a rural landscape of lakes, rivers and stone wall bridges.

A magical home that radiates eccentric char, almost from another era…

The small entrance lobby leads through to the airy double storey kitchen, which is the hub of the house. Terracotta floor, Belfast sink, and wood-burning stove make you feel instantly at home.
Put the kettle on..

AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    Up to 7 guests including Annex
    From €1,000 per week
  • Bedrooms
    Two double bedrooms
    Shower room
    Separate Annex
    Double bedroom – ensuite
    & Single bedroom
  • Other Rooms
    Living room, Kitchen, Dining room
    Entrance lobby
    Separate utility room
  • Features
    Central heating, isolation
  • Contempo
    TV, Hi-Fi
    No Wi-Fi in property
  • Availability
  • Availability
    Weekly: Saturday to Saturday
    Weekends: Friday to Monday
    Midweek: Monday to Friday
  • Restrictions
    Sorry, pets are not permitted

  • CHECK HERE

All rooms lead off the kitchen:

We call the sitting room the Piano room, for obvious reasons. A large comfy sofa, armchair and TV if you need it, share this eclectic space with antique wood burning stove in an oak fireplace, books and Victorian memorabilia.
Facilities & Ameneties

Kitchen Appliances

• Electric ceramic hob
• Electric oven
• Fridge-freezer
• Dishwasher
• Toaster
• Microwave

Utility Appliances

• Washing machine-dryer in external utility
• Iron
• Central heating

Bedrooms

• Three double beds and one single

Tech & Entertainment

• Stereo Hi-Fi
• TV
• DVD player in living room
No Wi-Fi in House

Other

• Good selection of books
• Piano
• 2 wood-burning stoves

At the opposite side of the kitchen is the master bedroom – A romantic boudoir in cool cucumber colours with billowing taffeta curtains and a large Louis xvi double bed.

Luxury 200 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets and feather down duvets and pillows, complete the story. French doors open out onto a patio and fabulous views of Lough Scalban.

You can soak away your blues in a classic Victorian free-standing roll-top bath before bed.
The panelled dining room, shrouded in a riot of roses, with hand-painted table, is a very special place to enjoy Chic dinners with panoramic views. Underfoot is an artwork itself, devised from reassembled gym floor boards, and the shelves are stocked with books.
Stairs leading from the kitchen, take you up to the mezzanine bedroom with antique cast iron bed and eiderdown quilt.

There is a charming bathroom with shower, toilet and magazines leading off the entrance lobby.

The Annex

In the self contained annex adjacent to the cottage, there is a single bedroom and a double bedroom with ensuite bathroom.

The style is rustic, vintage and eclectic, with half doors, stone walls, Belfast sink and enclosed double bed.

Provisional Booking Form

 

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

Cottage only €1,000 per week Weekend €495 Mid-week €495
Including Annex €1,150 per week Weekend €565 Mid-week €565

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.

Available
Booked
Pending
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Reviews

Divine atmosphere-so cosy

full of personal touches – interior design is the work of a genius! Love it. Thanks very much.
J.A.Graham, Belfast

Peaceful, charming cottage. Magical views. Magnificent tub!
McAllister Baumann Family, Boston, USA

Nice and cosy cottage, stunning view!
Maecel and Jolanda, Pen Haag, Holland

 ‘We really enjoyed our stay at Cottage 51. ‘ 

Look forward to staying in another of your unique homes in the future 🙂
-Geraldine D, 2021

Click here for reviews on using Cottage 51 in Search for Posts

Out & About

This is an ideal touring base for exploring the Erne waterway, the Pullans, and North West Ireland.

A Mecca for anglers and country walkers alike – there is so much to see and do…

Here are some of our favourites…

The Locality

 

Cottage 51 is located approximately 4 km from the village of Belleek in County Fermanagh, which is one of the six counties in the province of Ulster, with Donegal to the North, and Sligo to the South.

Belleek is the western-most village in the United Kingdom and Sits on the border between the UK and the republic.

The world renowned Belleek Pottery was founded in 1857 by John Caldwell Bloomfield, who declared that any piece with the slightest flaw would be destroyed. The policy still survives today. Pieces are made in Parian porcelain which imitates marble.

The two Loughs of the Erne basin are connected by the River Erne which flows North-Westwards into the Atlantic at Ballyshannon. Lower Lough Erne is further North as it is furthest downstream. The town of Enniskillen lies on the stretch between the two lakes.

A canal, the Shannon-Erne Waterway, runs between the upper end of the River Shannon and the River Erne, and utilises sixteen locks. The lakes are home to a maze of Islands, the largest being Boa which is 8km long and contains notable pagan stone relics.

Lower Lough Erne is a huge expanse of water, over five miles wide at its widest point and 18 miles in length. The lough is dotted with numerous islands, rocky outcrops and reaches depths of over 200 feet in places, making it ideal habitat for Brown Trout and large numbers of coarse fish species.

Upper Lough Erne, on the other hand is a maze of channels and islands with vast reed beds and ideal habitats for Pike.

Lough Erne Yacht Club is based in Gublusk Bay and hosts the Lough Erne Regatta, Ireland’s oldest event for racing under sail, with a lineage beyond 1820.

For walkers, the Creevy Shore Walk is a purpose built coastal footpath 10 miles in length running from Rossnowlagh through Creevy to the mouth of the Erne Estuary in Ballyshannon. It is situated 1km from The Wild Atlantic Way which is a 2,500km route from Malin Head, Co Donegal to Kinsale, Co Cork.

 

​See the natural sea stacks known as the Fairy Bridges complete with their own “wishing chair” in Bundoran, the world renown surfing resort.

In 2011, for the third time in the competition’s history, the European Surfing Championships were held at this seaside town which boasts the natural amenities of world class reef and beach breaks as well as all the ancillary hospitality, catering and entertainment required for an event of this significance on the European calendar.

The guitarist and singer Rory Gallagher was born in Ballyshannon which is said to be the oldest town in Ireland – although there are at least two other claimants.

Enniskillen Castle, originally built in the 15th century by Hugh ‘The Hospitable’ Maguire, was used as a barracks in the 1700s and 1800s. Hugh was the younger brother of the leading chieftain at the time, King Thomas Maguire (Thomas the Great).

Some history/geography

Interestingly, Fermanagh escaped the potato blight during the Great Famine better than any other county, as the county had so many islands – the disease had difficulty travelling over water – whilst the mainland was largely starving in comparison.

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

The highest temperature in Northern Ireland recorded by the Met Office, 30.8°C, occurred at Knockarevan (near Belleek) in County Fermanagh on June 30, 1976.

How to get there – Car essential…

By Air: Flights to Dublin, Belfast, Donegal or Knock airports.
Dublin Airport – approx 3 hours from house.
Belfast Airport – approx 2 hours from house.
Donegal Airport – approx 1 and quarter hours from house.
Knock Airport – approx 1 and half hours from house.

By Sea: Ferry crossings
From Liverpool to Dublin
Or twice a day from Troon in Ayshire to Larne
Dublin City Port/Holyhead has six sailings a day including a fast crossing, and is approx 3 hours drive from house

​

Map

Hunters Lodge

Hunters Lodge

Hunters Lodge

Recherché River Nore

Book this home

County Kilkenny

This opulent, spacious and peaceful country cottage sits in the heart of rural Ireland, with classic period interiors and exceptional views of the Kilkenny landscape.
Just half an hour from the delights of the Medieval City itself and less than an hour from the south coast, it’s an ideal location for cycling, kayaking and canoeing.

 

Spacious and glamorous

From a southerly terrace overlooking the River Nore, you enter an unexpected world; a magical classic interior in the Grand style, set within a country cottage.

AT A GLANCE

  • Sleeps
    Up to 6 guests
    From €3,000 per week
  • Bedrooms
    Two double bedrooms-one ensuite
    One twin bedroom
    Family bathroom with shower
  • Other Rooms
    Sitting room, dining room
    Kitchen, Utility room
    Guest WC
  • Contempo
    Four Flat screen TVs
    WiFi internet, integrated sound system
    Good Cell phone reception

  • CHECK HERE

The greater part of the ground floor is given over to the main reception room, part study and part drawing room. A couple of steps lower than the rest, it is heavily ornate with moulded shelving, vintage leather bound books, gilded mirrors and substantial drapes.

Here too is a large recessed television. Happily, the abundance of table lamps are centrally controlled.

Persian carpets feature throughout the house, and there are premium controls for the lighting, as well as recessed ceiling loudspeakers in the reception rooms.

There is an intimate oak furnished dining room to the other side of the entrance hall, which comfortably seats six in fully upholstered contentment.

The charming and well equipped kitchen is naturally adjacent to the dining room, with the utility room beyond that.

An elegant guest WC is located below the stairs.

Facilities & Ameneties

Kitchen Appliances

• Twin electric Ovens
• Electric 4 ring ceramic hob
• Microwave
• Fridge
• Freezer
• Dishwasher
• Toaster
• Krups coffee machine

Utility Appliances

• Bosch washing machine
• Bosch tumble dryer
• Iron

Bedrooms

• Sizes – One double bed, one King-size double, and two single beds
• 2 Hairdryers

Tech & Entertainment

• Wi-Fi Internet
• 1 large Flat-screen TV
• Plus TV in each bedroom
• Sonos multi room audio system
• Multi dimmer light switches

Other

• Good selection of books
• Gas fired Barbecue

There are three spacious dormer-windowed bedrooms spanning the upstairs floor, all beautifully appointed in period style, with heavy tasselled drapery and Roman blinds, pleated valances, luxurious quilts and upholstered occasional chairs.

The twin bedroom and the second double bedroom have fitted wardrobe space incorporating sconce lit dressing tables.

The master bedroom enjoys an ensuite bathroom and dressing room.

There is also a chic family bathroom with marble framed bath, a separate shower cubicle and dressing mirrors shared on this floor.

Outside

The tranquil gardens which afford magnificent views across the Nore valley, cascade downwards from the front terrace, and feature an ornate fountain and pond and a broad sloping lawn.

The cottage forms part of the estate of an expansive stud farm, and is reached via a dedicated private driveway. There is ample parking.

​

A delightful backdrop for a sunset Barbecue.

Provisional Booking Form

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

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

All Year €3,000 per week

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.

Restrictions

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

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