An Irish Idyll - traditional stonewall cottage nestled in hills above Downings

Top rated by guests
Bloody Foreland from the garden
Living room
Kitchen
Living room window
Interior
review stars
9.8Outstanding
(162 Ratings)
"The cottage is adorable. Very secluded. The road in/out takes some getting used to. Very narrow "
Brenda G.
Don't miss out! Price and availability may change
9.8 / 10.0
Outstanding(162 Ratings)

Cottage in County Donegal

5 guests · 3 bedrooms · 1 bath

Reasons to book

Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Great for petsBring all your friends and family, even the furry ones
High-end valueWell priced for this area

About this cottage rental

Teachín is a traditional stone wall Irish cottage located in Ballinacleava (Baile na tSleibhe) in the hills 2 miles outside of Downings and on the Wild Atlantic Way. The cottage is in a rural location (in a Gaeltacht area) and is perfect for somebody seeking relaxation through peace and quiet. The nearest neighbours are only occasionally at home and are located 200m away. When guests arrive, often the first comment is to reflect on how quiet the location is.

The cottage was fully renovated a few years ago in a style that brings its heritage value to the fore. The cottage has 2 double bedrooms and a bed deck with skylight to the rear that is suitable for age 10 and up. There is a living room with eating area, kitchen, shower room, a boot room for those wet days and muddy walks and a small utility room with washing machine and tumble dryer. As we wanted to keep the heritage of the house as much as possible we do not have central heating, instead we have a stove in the living room and energy efficient electric radiators in each bedroom and the shower room. The living room is a very cosy environment and perfect for lazy days and relaxing times together reading, playing games or watching TV together, while listening to the crackle of the fire in the stove.

The house has a parking area suitable for two cars and a large garden for relaxing in and reading or just sitting to take in the stunning view over Sheephaven Bay, the Ards forest park and Muckish mountain.

The house is ideal for photographers as we still have a relatively dark night sky to the rear (north) of our house. As the address of the house suggests we are situated on a small mountain and the cottage is a good base for hill walkers. Downings is a 35 minute walk away by road while Dooey (Dubaih), Tra na Rossan, the Singing pub and Melmore Head are all within a few hours walk away if you are prepared to walk over the mountain through moor and heather. For the more serious walker the Glenveagh mountains home to Errigal, Muckish and the poison Glen are just a 30 minute drive away. Glenveagh Castle and National Park are also well worth a visit. In the park there are mapped out trails and guided tours available.

For golfers the Rosapenna hotel and golf course is located just three miles away.

The Rosguill Peninsula also provides opportunities for water sports such as windsurfing, deep-sea diving, sea angling & boat charters. The Jaws Watersports shop located in Downings and Dunfanaghy also offers courses for children and adults. A day trip to Tory island can also be booked via the Tory Island ferry.

Letterkenny is just a 40 minute drive away and the walled City of Derry 60 minutes.

Here is a link to an aerial view of the cottage and surroundings, the video is hosted on YouTube https://youtu.be/0YCY1tW_JEY

Regarding pets, if you have a pet and are interested in staying in the cottage please send me an enquiry over the website and we can discuss the request.

Amenities at An Irish Idyll - traditional stonewall cottage nestled in hills above Downings

Pets allowed
Family friendly

Map of County Donegal


Things to know


Additional fees to expect

Cleaning & other feesWe include all stay related fees in the Cleaning Fee line, which may include cleaning, property manager, resort, tourism and other stay related fees. All Expedia properties are professionally cleaned after each stay.
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    Ratings and reviews

    9.8 / 10.0
    Outstanding(162 Ratings)
    10.0 / 10.0
    The cottage is adorable. Very secluded. The road in/out takes some getting used to. Very narrow
    6.0 / 10.0
    Its remote, which we like.Kitchen/diner fine for a small group. Stove and radiator worked well to heat the room.Double beds were a bit too small and mattresses were very soft, so not that comfortable.
    10.0 / 10.0
    Beautiful and secluded. We would definitely return! Quiet, clean, cosy, with incredible scenery and local beaches.
    10.0 / 10.0
    Only a short break (3 nights), the house was exactly as described and located five minutes drive from the village of Downings, narrow roads but no passing traffic. Beautiful views from the garden across Sheephaven Bay to Marble Hill Strand and Dunfanaghy. The house is well equipped with everything you could need including a log burner for the colder days / evenings and ample supply of fuel at very reasonable cost. Dog friendly was a bonus, would definitely recommend for a short - or long-get away from it all break.
    10.0 / 10.0
    Dull would (s)he be who could not appreciate this lovely cottage and its breathtaking setting. Not for dullards! Bring your books and your boots, a little raingear and your favourite companion and take it all in, from before sunrise to the advent of the Milky Way (and the occasional falling star) at night. In dhort: fabulous!
    10.0 / 10.0
    Loved the charm of the place. It is relatively remote, but the views are astounding, and all needs were met by the host and a near-by housekeeper.
    10.0 / 10.0
    Had the most relaxing few days at this beautiful cottage.Fantastic panoramic views. Cottage was well equipped, lovely fire and very comfortable all round. Everything you need for a relaxing break and a 5 -10 minute drive into Downings. William the owner was very helpful and made the booking process very easy. Would highly recommend and will definitely return☺️
    8.0 / 10.0
    Teachín cottage is both a step back in time and an oasis from the wider world. It is gorgeously situated with outstanding and ever-changing views pf Sheep Haven Bay, framed from each window of the cottage and from every vantage point along the road. Apart from the odd cuckoo, the cottage is incredibly quiet and tranquil. It is also very comfortable, especially once the stove is stoked and throws some heat. The electric radiators in the bedrooms and bathroom are a godsend! The cottage is very faithfully kept up to its original style and character, and the thick stone walls are a reminder of the constant fight against the elements. The walk in to Downings is beautiful, affording spectacular views in all directions, and the road in is considerably less stressful to walk along than to drive! In short, this is a great place to experience the heart and soul of the gorgeous Donegal landscape, in a space that embraces and reflects its character.

    FAQs

    Is parking included with this cottage?

    Parking is not specified as an available amenity at An Irish Idyll - traditional stonewall cottage nestled in hills above Downings. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.

    Is there a pool at this cottage?

    We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this cottage. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.

    Is An Irish Idyll - traditional stonewall cottage nestled in hills above Downings pet friendly?

    Yes! This cottage is pet-friendly. For more information, we recommend contacting the booking provider about animal policies.

    What amenities are available at An Irish Idyll - traditional stonewall cottage nestled in hills above Downings?

    We found 2 amenities for this rental. This includes pets allowed, and family friendly.


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