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Peaceful retreat in the heart of Ireland close to walking, biking and fishing

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Living Room
Bedroom
Exterior
Main Bathroom
Bedroom 3

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms4+ bathroomsSleeps 81506.9 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Hot tub
  • Fireplace
  • Washer
  • Kitchen
  • Parking available

Explore the area

Map
Birr, Offaly
  • Slieve Bloom
  • Slieve Bloom Display Centre
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Irish High Cross Kinnitty
    ‪2 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed and 1 Crib

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

4 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Downstairs Toilet

Toilet

En-suite 1

Toilet · Shower only

En-suite 2

Toilet · Shower only

En-suite 3

Toilet · Shower only

Main Bathroom

Bathtub · Toilet

Spaces

Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Peaceful retreat in the heart of Ireland close to walking, biking and fishing

No visitor to the house fails to appreciate the time and effort that has gone into restoring this heritage home. From the artfully refurbished original floorboards to the magnificent nineteenth century iron bath, this tastefully restored Georgian residence is a real treat to anyone looking for a refreshing and authentic alternative to much modern accommodation today. The house combines the original character with all the comfort and trappings of modern convenience. Three of the bedrooms are en-suite while the kitchen comes equipped with an array of accessories. All that you could possibly need to make your stay both restive and restorative is included.
The house is situated in the very heart of the beautiful village of Kinnitty, nestled at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains. Magnificent walking and biking trails are at your door while the Shannon river is close, for quality fishing and boating.


Setting: The private and spacious environs are the perfect compliment to the authentic charm and beauty of the tastefully restored Georgian residence. Through double doors, the soothing sounds of the passing stream offer those relaxing on the patio a chance to savour the rugged beauty of the majestic Slieve Bloom mountains.

On your doorstep: Take a step outside and find yourself in the very heart of the beautiful village of Kinnitty, nestled at the foot of the Slieve Blooms. Take a stroll through the centre or stop at the 'Slieve Bloom Bar', where live music is often found or at the Black and White award-winning pub 'Clendenings' where a turf fire and a friendly welcome is guaranteed. A pleasant walk East of the village will bring you to the world famous Kinnitty Castle where all the opulence and luxury of the original castle is combined with a host of activities from equestrian trips to mountain hikes.

Lots to do and see: There is something for everyone. Enjoy the music and atmosphere in the local pubs or take in some of the native Irish field sports played in the area. Walk through the heart of the Bog of Allen and admire the extraordinary sculptures in Lough Boora parklands. Stroll around the heritage town of Birr where the award-winning Birr Castle Demense Gardens can be found. Take a boat on the Shannon down to Lough Derg to fish or simply relax and enjoy the stunning scenery. Marvel at the immaculately preserved Monastic ruins at Clonmacnoise. Catch one of the many festivals or explore the mountains on your doorstep with the local club. Truly, you won't be bored.

Property manager

James O Brien

Languages

English
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Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi

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Cosy Rural Retreat Midway Between Dublin and Galway. Near Slieve Bloom Mountains

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  • Washer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free WiFi
9.4 out of 10, (59 reviews)
Cosy Rural Retreat Midway Between Dublin and Galway. Near Slieve Bloom Mountains

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

About the area

Kinnitty

Located in Kinnitty, this holiday home is in the mountains. An Dun Transport and Heritage Museum and The Dunamaise Arts Centre are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Birr Golf Club and Roscrea Golf Club. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Sky Venue or O'Moore Park. Fishing and swimming offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with horse riding and mountain biking nearby.
Map
Birr, Offaly

What's nearby

  • Bernard's Pyramid - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Slieve Bloom Display Centre - 2 min drive - 2.1 km
  • Irish High Cross Kinnitty - 2 min drive - 2.4 km
  • Leap Castle - 14 min drive - 14.9 km
  • Birr Castle - 17 min drive - 17.4 km

Getting around

  • Roscrea Station - 21 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Dungeon Bar - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Slí Dala - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Peavoy’s - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Library Bar - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Blue Ball - ‬11 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Peaceful retreat in the heart of Ireland close to walking, biking and fishing pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at Peaceful retreat in the heart of Ireland close to walking, biking and fishing ?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Peaceful retreat in the heart of Ireland close to walking, biking and fishing ?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Peaceful retreat in the heart of Ireland close to walking, biking and fishing located?

Situated in the mountains, this holiday home is within 1 mile (2 km) of Bernard's Pyramid and Slieve Bloom Display Centre. Irish High Cross Kinnitty is 1.3 mi (2.1 km) away.

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 38 out of 56 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 16 out of 56 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 56 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 56 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 56 reviews

7.8/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.0/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

8/10 Good

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Kinnity

A wonderful location to tour Ireland. Kinnity is a small village at the heart of Ireland with good access to major roads. The house was clean and comfortable, good facilities in kitchen. Jimmy was on hand to help out if we needed him. Beds very comfortable. I was travelling with an elderly family member with limited mobility and he found the showers too small. That was the only minor negative part of the house. I would definitely recommend this accommodation.
Stayed 19 nights in Jul 2024

2/10 Terrible

Colin N.

Liked: Location
Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, listing accuracy

Bring your own cleaner

Arrived early nobody there to meet us as arranged. Found the keys inside and hoped we had the right place. Let ourselves in. Property requires a good clean and redecorating. Damp/mould in the showers, kitchen and living room. The house was cold even in this extreme hot weather. Washing and dryer in an outhouse full of peat and bird droppings. Yes the house would sleep eight but could not accommodate for eight people. Bedding was stained and smelt sweaty. Outdoor seating area not inviting and overgrown. Lovely location, friendly people. Overall very disappointed with the property.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Joanne E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic house & location

We’ve just returned from a wonderful break in Kinnitty. The house is perfect, lovely and spacious with ample bathrooms and well equipped. Kinnitty itself is a brilliant village with two great bars and centrally located for accessing many different parts of Ireland! Highly recommended!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021

8/10 Good

Lorraine W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wedding party

Great lication to base yourself to tour Offaly.All rooms had own shower / bathroom.Needs a lityle tlc but great value for money.Dealing witj owner via email was very helpful.

10/10 Excellent

Andy D.

Great place.

Great place right next to a great Irish pub. James even came to help when we locked ourselves out.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2018

10/10 Excellent

Alison G.

Lovely holiday....

My family and I spent a comfortable week here. We enjoyed it immensely, from the friendly village and great pub so close and lovely Mr O'Brien next door on hand to help, to discovering the heart of Ireland and all it has to offer. I would thoroughly recommend Lismooney House to anybody.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Betty I.

Lovely, peaceful retreat

Lovely older home in Kinnitty. Great fireplace with wonderful peat fires. Took a little while for this dumb American to figure out the electric, toilets, but once we did it was easy. Wonderful pub next door run by Kieran. Just a warning, food is not served so if you are hungry when you get there plan on going to the little village grocer to buy something to cook or drive to a restaurant . James very graciously led the way to Birr and the County Arms Hotel where we had an excellent meal. The Kinnitty Castlewas wonderful for Easter Sunday lunch. Best night in Ireland was the evening at the pub when everyone brought instruments for their once a month jam session. We were so fortunate to see and hear this. The village would only be better by having some kind of take out service or small restaurant. Although we made breakfast it would have been great to be able to grab a sandwich without driving. Other than that I would not change a thing. Would love to stop back someday! .
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Meabh C.

Perfect for our extended family

The house was great for us as there was plenty of room for 4 adults and 4 kids. The heating is very good so even though we were there in February the house was nice and snug. The owner was very accommodating of any request. We'll definitely stay there again when in Offaly.
Stayed 9 nights in Feb 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Elizabeth S.

A lovely, warm and comfortable house.

This house was the perfect location for us as our son was getting married in Kinnitty Castle on 24th November. We were staying in the Castle for two nights for the wedding and needed somewhere to stay the few days before and a few days after the wedding so we rented the house for a week. Flying in to Dublin from the UK we rented a car at the airport and following the instructions from Connor O'Brien we found the house easily. Mr. Jimmy O'Brien was there to greet us and let us into the house. What could be more welcoming on a bitter cold November afternoon than a roaring fire? Yes Jimmy had one burning for us. The house was lovely. Larger than we expected and provided everything we needed. After exchanging pleasantries and letting us look over the house Jimmy left us to it after assuring us he was just next door should we need anything. With a basket of logs and a garage full of turf for the fire and central heating we were certainly not going to be cold. A trip to the local "newsagent" where the owner, Michael, was a joy to meet, provided us with everything we needed. Milk, coffee, eggs , bacon, sausage, mushrooms etc. He stocks almost everything. The house was just perfect. Plenty of room, 4 bathrooms, 5 toilets, a constant supply of hot water, a kitchen large enough to dance in and all the pots, pans and utensils etc you could possibly need. As we were in Ireland for the purpose of the wedding we did not get time for sight seeing which gives us an excuse to return and we would definately return to this house. It was lovely.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Susheel C.

Lovely large property by the pub

Really homely place with big rooms and a really comfy fire in the living room. Good easy to spot near lots of great walks. Great that it was by the pub (the landlord Keiran, was most really welcoming), though it quite noisy in the front bedroom, which looked out across the pub front.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Ian C.

A Gem of a property

Five of us stayed for 10 days in mid July. The property is great for this amount of people. Four bedrooms and five toilets is always going to be a great combination! The property was clean and well maintained and the owner is right next door to sort out any requirements that you may have that are not already taken care of. I would not hesitate to recommend this property. This place is situated right next door to the famous Slieve Bloom Bar where often there is live traditional Irish music and you will be well looked after by Kieren the proprietor. A great location and a great property that is good value.
Stayed 10 nights in Jul 2016
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne S.

Just like you imagine :)

Lovely home, perfect position for a spot of sight seeing. We were really lucky with the weather - which although was great meant we didn't get to enjoy the open fire LOL! Teenage sons liked having the bar and pool table right next door. Any time we contacted the owner the response was really quick and helpful. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend it if you're looking for a country home in a quiet village.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2016
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Tirion D.

Lovely rural Irish feel, beautiful home

Wonderful homely house, spacious and calm, loved burning turf in the fire. Jimmy the owner lives next door and was a lovely person, true gentleman. The area is beautiful, we hired bikes from the great pub next door,Slieve Bloom bar, who also do the best guiness. Everyone friendly, my dog also had a great time, along with my daughter and my partner. . We travelled a lot each day, up Wicklow mountains, new grange and off to Galway. Best thing about the area is that it's not full of tourists, very Irish and homely. Would highly recommend.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Ginger C., Apopka

Authentic Irish Experience

You can't go wrong renting this charming house. We were thrilled when we arrived to find a spacious, clean and warm (fire blazing in the fireplace) house right in the center of Kinnitty. It truly is situated in the heart of Ireland. We took day trips daily to explore the island always happy to come back "home". We can't say enough good things about the community of Kinnitty. The Slieve Bloom Bar owner took us for a walk/hike to the top of the mountain. The Giltrap Bar owners took us to a traditional community fair, showed us how to hurl (we even went to see Eleanor play in a scrimmage), and the family cooked the most amazing BBQ the night before we left. We felt like we got the REAL Irish experience by spending a week in Kinnitty. The house was as warm and inviting as the community it sits in. Thank you for your hospitality.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Sandy C.

Charming country home.

Plenty of room for 6-8 adults with most everything needed for a comfortable stay. Highlights are the sounds of the rushing stream outside the bedroom windows and the charming landlord. Loved the pub next door also. We felt welcomed into the Kinnity community and had a great time. Good central location for day trips or just hanging out at the local hurling match.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Deborah D.

Lismooney House a Winner !

We stayed at Lismooney House with another couple for four days. So great to be away from the touristy areas, yet close enough to do day trips. The Slieve Bloom Bar had trad music our first night there. What a treat ! The house was spacious with all the amenities including queen size beds. James O'Brian was extremely helpful and such a delight. Would highly recommend Lismooney House in Kinnitty along with the village charm.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Michael K.

Cozy and fun

We stayed 10 days in June 2011. The owner is a wonderfully pleasant fellow and the house is as advertised, very inviting and comfortable. We had 5 in the group and all agreed it was an extremely comfortable location. We had absolutely no problems and would happily return here in a heartbeat. We made a series of day trips from the house including the Aran islands, Cork and and Dingle and explored beautiful County Offaly as well. Kinnitty village is charming. We met the very excellent proprietor of the Slieve Bloom Bar, B&B located conveniently next door who produced an astonishingly great traditional cabbage and bacon supper for us. We managed to miss a trad music session at the Slieve Bloom Bar on Weds but got to the one at Jack Dempsey's pub in Cadamstown the next week and the musicians and singers were first rate. There is no myth of Irish hospitality, we found it every where we went. Our trip to Ireland was spectacular and the lodging and the environs of Kinnitty village figured mightily. Our only regret is that we ran out of time all too soon. Thanks for a grand experience!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Debbie G.

Best place to stay for your holiday in Ireland

We stayed here for a week in April 2011 with our 3 children (ages 11, 7 and 4). It was the perfect place to stay for seeing all around Ireland, right in the center so close to do day trips in all directions. We had such a great time touring around the country by day and relaxing at Jimmy's house in the evenings. This house is truly a rare gem! When we asked our kids what they liked best about Ireland they all agreed "Jimmy's house!" The house was warm and inviting, clean and comfortable and you can't beat the Slieve Bloom pub next door for the best pints of Guiness in Ireland. We had such a lovely stay we will definitely be staying here again next time we are in Ireland. Everything was perfect and each bedroom was spacious, lovely and beds were super comfy. We miss you Jimmy and hope to see you again soon! love, the Gruelles (Debbie, Jon, Vivian, Winston and Truman)
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

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Wonderful accommodation and great hospitality....

My wife and I and two friends (another couple) stayed at this property for a week in late October 2010. The four of us are from Central Queensland, Australia. The house is in the centre of town and is right next door to the local pub. We hired a car in Dublin and based ourselves here doing day trips to various locations. The kitchen had everything we needed to cook meals and we spent many an hour relaxing in front of the living room fireplace. The upstairs bedrooms were very spacious and comfortable. James O'Brien lives next door and he gave us a warm welcome on our arrival and was always helpful with any queries. We enjoyed drinks at the local pub, dinner at the local castle and relaxed walks around the town. Our week went too quickly and we were sad to leave. We promised James we'd be back again to enjoy his hospitality. We would highly recommend this property.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

S O.

What a hidden gem hidden in the mountains...

What a place, and what hospitality! We will definitely be coming back here again!! I am American, and have visited Ireland before, but had never been to this part of the country before - it's exceptional there. We were looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of our daily work lives, and decided, for once, to holiday in our own country. It was like being somewhere else though. The pace of life is so slow, so serene. Jimmy's place is set in a postcard perfect little country village just below the most amazing mountains, with so many hikes on our doorstep. We even had a little stream running through the garden!! The sound effects while drinking a glass of wine out there in the evenings was suberb!! The house itself is stunning, so much love went into the restoration - visible in all of the tiniest little touches. It is a most splendid house, magestic in it' s pride of place at the top of the village, and so down to earth in every other way. The place was completely spotless, and there was even a bog turf fire burning for us when we arrived. It really felt like arriving home. We slotted right into village life, getting to know several villagers in the local pubs. My God, there's so much history to this country that I knew nothing of. There are so many story-tellers there, that really bring history to life (with a pint of Guinness). I have so much to say about this place,and about our wonderful host Jimmy, who was available for every little thing we needed (thanks Jimmy, we'll be back!). Part of me wants to tell everyone I know, another part wants to keep this little gem a secret. What a place!! 10 stars xxxxxxxxxx

8/10 Good

Byron

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A nice place.

My wife and I stayed for the month of September 2024. We wanted a place that was centrally located in order to do day trips as well as overnight trips (or longer) to other places in Ireland. This home was perfect for that. We were expecting another couple and that was the reason to rent this huge home. We enjoyed our stay very much. The landord was contacted by e-mail and was quick to respond with any issues. The house needs attention but it worked out for us very nicely and our stay was enjoyable. The small village was just what we wanted and the hiking around the Sleive Bloom mountains was excellent! I would recommend this place, but remember, it is an old building but the beds are comfy and each bedroom is en suite. There is a Tesco located in Birr, 15 km away and a Super Tesco located in Tullamore, about 27 km. It's an easy drive through nice country. There are many nice quick drives that can be through gorgeous country. We traveled easily through all of Ireland from this location as far north and Giants Causeway (part of our 5 night stay in Donnegal) to the wonderful town of Dingle in the south and Kinsale in the east to Galway in the west to name but a few. This house in Kinnitty became our Irish home and we don't regret it one bit.
Stayed 30 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lisa M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Much better than expected!

What a lovely surprise! The house is much bigger and better than the photos. Fantastic location, offstreet parking, lovely courtyard at the back that could be closed in for the dogs, and walk to two pubs. Loved it.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mb G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing place

We decided to stay in central Ireland to be able to be close to everywhere. Kinnety is a cute little town with 2 pubs, a beautiful castle around the corner and nearby a larger city. The property was super clean and cozy, big house with lots of bathrooms with showers. We loved our host Mr O’Brien and the town locals were very friendly. Definitely would stay again!
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Kinnitty Charmer

Clean, well stocked. Great location. Had a turf fire burning when we arrived. Highly recommended! Go raibh míle maith agat Frank
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

Denise S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming home

Charming home with charming owner living next door. Beds comfortable and plenty of space, wonderful wood fire place. This house is pretty remote in that the town has 2 pubs one tiny grocer and one cafe that closed at 6. Roads are quite extra narrow here so brush up on your driving. Birr castle grounds amazing. We had some difficulty finding places to eat later in the evenings; weekend pubs book up with weddings so closed to general public. All in all great value, lovely but remote area.
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2022

About the host

Hosted by James O Brien

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Languages:

English
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