The Little Irish Cottage on the Wild Atlantic Way - experience the real Ireland.
Beautiful 150 year old cottage on the Wild Atlantic Way in west Donegal. Tastefully modernized with free wifi. Three double bedrooms sleeps up to 6 people. Full family bathroom with tub and separate shower cubicle, and second shower room with power shower and WC. Fully equipped kitchen and separate laundry/ utility room. Living room with traditional Donegal open fireplace. Oil fired central heating. Bed linen and towels provided free of charge. Household essentials including cleaning products and basic food items supplied.
Please note that weekend stays of 2 nights are available. Please contact me for details.
A traditional Irish cottage, well over 150 years old, in west Donegal, Ireland, situated right on the Wild Atlantic Way close to beautiful deserted Atlantic beaches, traditional Irish pubs and some of the most spectacular scenery in western Europe. Why not come to Ireland for the craic! Our beautiful family holiday home is decorated in a traditional but comfortable manner and can sleep up to six people. The cottage is at least 150 years old but has been sympathetically modernized and extended and has three bedrooms, all with double beds (smallest bedroom has a small double bed 4ft / 120 cm). There is a family bathroom with full sized bath and separate shower cubicle and an en suite WC and shower room to the main bedroom. The fully equipped kitchen has a full sized oven and hob, dishwasher, fridge, toaster, coffee maker, kettle and microwave. There is plenty of cookware. There is also an additional drinks fridge. The separate laundry room contains a washing machine, tumble dryer and iron. There is a good sized wildflower garden and parking for several cars. Please note that the garden is a haven for wildlife and as such will occasionally will be left uncut.
The cottage is in a remote rural area (on the edge of Crocknamurrin Mountain Bog - a Natural Heritage area) but only a short drive from the heritage village of Ardara, and is incredibly peaceful. The cottage is full of books, fiction and non-fiction, there are board games, a radio and CD player with selection of CDs and an MP3 docking station/ speaker. The cottage is furnished with family pieces and some antiques. There is sky TV and free high speed WIFI. A second TV and DVD player is available to watch the selection of movies provided. You can sit by a traditional turf fire in the evenings with a relaxing drink and really feel that you are hiding away from the world. The sun does not set until after 10pm in summer and it is beautiful to sit outside on long summer evenings watching the sun set into the west.
The village of Ardara is only a few miles away through the glorious scenery of the Glengesh Pass and has loads of pubs and restaurants. Nancy's Bar and the Corner House enjoy fully deserved worldwide reputations for traditional music and craic. Ardara is the centre of the Donegal knitwear and weaving industry and there are many shops selling locally produced garments in wool and tweed. In the other direction, the quaint villages of Carrick, Kilcar and Glencolumbcille nestle in spectacular scenery, and the cliffs at Slieve League, the highest sea cliffs in western Europe, are a must-see and less than 10 miles from the cottage. Surfing is popular at many of the Atlantic beaches nearby, particularly Tramore at Rosbeg, Rossnowlagh and Dooey Strand. Finally, the most beautiful beach in Donegal and perhaps Ireland (in my opinion) is at Maghera which is very close by. There are plans to extend the International Appalachian Trail to this part of Donegal and there are way marked trails for walkers in the area (less than 1 mile away).
Ardara was named the best village in Ireland to live in, and one of the top 5 places (village, town, city etc) to live in by the Irish Times in June 2012. http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2012/0618/1224318138559.html
Other items available: Hairdryer Straightening irons Clock radio/ phone charger/ Bluetooth speaker Beach towels Beach chairs x2 Garden furniture
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Please deposit rubbish into the correct bins. Put recyclables into large blue bin and non-recyclables (bags tied tightly) into smaller blue bin - both outside. We dispose of these at end of stay.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Please note that stays of less than 3 nights are not available between Monday and Thursday inclusive.
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 indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Crowkeeragh
Located in Crowkeeragh, this cottage is in a rural area and by the sea. Sandfield Pitch and Putt Course and Narin & Portnoo Golf Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore International Applachian Trail and Owenea Bridge Standing Stone. Killybegs Maritime and Heritage Visitor Centre and Maritime & Heritage Centre are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with windsurfing and surfing/body boarding nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and horse riding.
Glencolmcille Folk Village - 15 min drive - 16.9 km
Glencolumbcille Beach - 15 min drive - 16.9 km
Getting around
Donegal (CFN) - 73 min drive
Restaurants
Kilcar House - 14 min drive
Fleet Inn Restaurant, Killybeggs - 22 min drive
Evelyn’s Central Bar - 9 min drive
Mrs B's Coffee House - 22 min drive
The Marina Cafe - 19 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is The Little Irish Cottage on the Wild Atlantic Way - experience the real Ireland. pet-friendly?
Yes, pets are allowed at this property. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at The Little Irish Cottage on the Wild Atlantic Way - experience the real Ireland.?
As of 12 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Little Irish Cottage on the Wild Atlantic Way - experience the real Ireland. on 13 Apr 2026 start from £150, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at The Little Irish Cottage on the Wild Atlantic Way - experience the real Ireland.?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at The Little Irish Cottage on the Wild Atlantic Way - experience the real Ireland.?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at The Little Irish Cottage on the Wild Atlantic Way - experience the real Ireland.?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is The Little Irish Cottage on the Wild Atlantic Way - experience the real Ireland. located?
Situated by the sea, this cottage is within 9 miles (15 km) of Glengesh Pass, International Applachian Trail and Ardara Heritage Centre. Glen Gallery Art by Conal and Ardara Fort are also within 9 miles (15 km).
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
In a perfect location to experience the Wild Atlantic Way and environs, and to make day trips to the coastal beaches, cliffs and inland to Gkenvaigh Castle and gardens.
Victoria S.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Jul 2024
Thank you for your kind review. Glad you enjoyed your stay.
We had a wonderful stay at this lovely traditional cottage. We loved that we could have a little dog with us. Would highly recommend. Nice rural location but within 20 mins of lots of villages.
Perfect way to get away from the business of modern day life, where you can switch off, go exploring and just be with your thoughts and the tranquillity of of your surroundings
Loved the remote location and cleanliness. House had everything we needed. We loved the sheep in the road and the twisty drive up to the house. Beautiful view out the front window. Had some wonderful fish dinners at Tara hotel in Killybegs. On the downside the mattresses were not comfortable for any of us. They were thin in the two big rooms and in the twin room it was old style and very bouncy.
Dawn L.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Sept 2025
Thank you for your kind review. I’m pleased that you enjoyed your stay. I will certainly check the mattresses as we’ve never had any comment about them before.
His was our final home in our journey and it was perfect! The house was lovely and we had everything we could need. You are in a remote spot which is what we wanted. Took a morning hike to Mel’s coffee truck with a view of the Gap.
Joanne P.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Jul 2024
Thank you for your lovely review. Really glad that you loved it.
Rural retreat to explore the remoter areas of County Donegal
An excellent base for exploring the remoter extremities of County Donegal. Large cottage, adequately equipped for up to 6 people. Cosy lounge with open fire. Don't expect to sit outside in a garden, there isn't one!
Graham H.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Sept 2020
Hi thank you for your review. As stated in the listing, the cottage is in a Natural Heritage Area and has a wildflower garden which is a haven for wildlife. Garden furniture and benches are provided outside for guests to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Verified
6/10 Okay
Patricia K.
30 Jul 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, listing accuracy
Little Irish cottage
Nice view from kitchen and living room into a nice landscape. Kitchen and living room are fully equipped and everything we needed during our stay was available.
It was a lovely comfortable little cottage with all modern conveniences (except a washing line or clothes horse). Its remoteness was soul refreshing. My daughter was dithering about going for an interview which was in middle of her stay in the cottage. She was able to spend 4 days studying for the exam style interview in the solace of the place. Left for the interview come back two days later saying she had succeeded in getting it. We will be grateful forever to this place with the sheep gently grazing.
The cottage is so cosy and comes well equipped inside. The decor is fantastic. We had a great 5 night stay.
The location is perfect for exploring a very beautiful county! So much to do .
A lovely cottage to get away from it all. Lovely location and the weather for the week was fantastic. WiFi very poor but that helps when it comes to relaxing.
Aidan W.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Aug 2020
Thank you for your feedback and the kind note you left in our guestbook. I checked with our broadband provider who confirmed that there had been issues with reception during your stay. Sorry about that - normally it is pretty good. I’m pleased you enjoyed the relaxation while you were “off grid” and certainly the excellent weather helped!
Le cottage est très bien situé, entre Ardara et Slieve League. Le paysage est sauvage et isolé, très beau.
La maison est fonctionnelle et rien ne manque. Seul petit bémol, le réfrigérateur est un peu petit pour une famille de 5 personnes.
C'était très bien!
Such a sweet cottage in a beautiful setting. We all loved staying.
Mattie N.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2019
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Michael C.
26 May 2019
Scenic country cottage
Stunning view from the front of the cottage. Delightful seating area with a working fireplace, comfortable beds. One shower didn’t work, but there was another one that worked fine. Could have used instructions on how to use the appliances.
Michael C.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Mar 2020
Thank you so much for your kind review. I’m so pleased that you enjoyed your stay. The views from the cottage are indeed stunning!
For the benefit of future guests, hot water for one of the showers is provided by the central heating system. The guests did not need to run the heating system due to the beautiful weather they enjoyed during their stay!
Appliance manuals have now been stored in a more accessible place.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Mike L.
23 May 2019
Perfect Irish Vacation
The cottage was wonderful. Perfect accommodations for 2 couples or small family with children. Great base of operations from which to tour Donegal. Collette (owner) was very, very responsive to any questions we had. Location at top of Glengesh Pass was awesome. We would go again.
Mike L.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2019
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Simone K.
7 Sept 2018
Perfekter Urlaubsort in der Abgeschiedenheit
Wunderbarer Ort der Erholung für Ruhe Suchende. Fantastische Natur. Hilfsbereite und sehr freundliche Einheimische.
Alles rund ums Mieten verlief reibungslos, danke an unsere Vermieterin Mrs Colette Hall. Cottage Einrichtung perfekt für einen angenehmen Urlaub.
Simone K.
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2018
Verified
8/10 Good
Lutz M.
10 Jul 2018
Grünes Irland
Ein Haus für Naturliebhaber und Großstädter die mal Ruhe brauchen.
Atemberaubende Landschaften mit Klippen, leeren Sandstränden und Bergen. Man fühlt sich wie in den schottischen Highlands.
Ein altes modernisiertes Bauernhaus, das mit modernen Geräten und Omas alten Möbeln
ausgestattet ist. Es fehlt an nichts. Der Kühlschrank ist für mehr als zwei Personen nicht ausreichend. Der Außenbereich ist naturbelassen.
Wir hatten eine schöne sonnige Woche und haben uns wohl gefühlt.
Sabine und Lutz aus Berlin
Lutz M.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2018
Verified
8/10 Good
Greig H.
4 Jun 2018
The cottage is as per pictures...very sweet and homely. Beds are comfortable and linen was plentiful
Previous occupants had left any leftover supplies so anything you may have forgotten to bring could be there. Plenty of books,music,dvds etc. If it's remoteness you seek you'll find it here.
Ardara's stores will supply all fire needs as well as groceries...Nancy's serves the very best Guinness I've EVER tasted..That's going some!
All in all a great holiday.
Greig H.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Mar 2020
Thank you so much for your kind review.
To clarify for future guests, the supplies at the cottage, which include a selection of teas, coffee, sugar, condiments and oils are provided by the owner for the convenience of guests, also starter fuel for the fire, liquid handwash, dishwasher tablets, laundry supplies etc.
And yes, Nancy’s Bar does indeed serve great Guinness!
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Steve M.
19 Apr 2018
Fantastic time
The cottage was everything it said it would be and more. We wanted peace and quiet and we certainly got it and never wanted for anything as all was provided. Great location to explore the surrounding area. I can't recommend it highly enough.
Steve M.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2018
Verified
10/10 Excellent
jacqui d.
6 Jan 2018
Great New Year
Spent New Year with friends
Lovely time
Great home as always
jacqui d.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2017
Archival
10/10 Excellent
jacqui d.
6 Nov 2017
Great Stay
As normal really enjoyed this lovely cottage and can't wait to be back
Colette your home is lovely
jacqui d.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2017
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Tracey M.
18 Oct 2017
Amazing cottage in the middle of nowhere. A hidden gem that is just perfect to get away from it all.
The directions were spot on. The cottage is more than we ever thought. A perfect hidden gem. The cottage is beautifully decorated to go with the character of it. Everything was there that you needed. The fire was lovely. It was great to have pure peace, no TV just relaxing, reading books and spending time with my hubby in peace. There is a great mixture of books to read. Plenty of games top if you fancy a games night. I would really recommend this cottage for a great break.
Tracey M.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2017
About the host
Hosted by Colette Hall
We live in Belfast, 125 miles east of our holiday home. We spend a lot of time in our holiday home and have made it cosy and comfortable.
Why they chose this property
We loved this house at first sight. It is a typical Irish cottage, stone built, at least 150 years old. It can be traced in Griffith's Valuation, a book which was prepared in 1854. We love the area, which is off the usual tourist trail and as close to the 'real' Ireland as you are likely to get. There is no mobile phone reception. It's a chance to kick back and relax away from the world.
What makes this property unique
Because this is our family holiday home and not just a commercial rental, you have the advantage of living in a real home with all the home comforts! You can expect to find some of our own stuff here. Please make use of anything you find which may be useful to you during your stay.
The cottage is the top rated holiday home rental in Donegal on tripadvisor, in the top 5 of over 4300 in Ireland, in the top 200 of over 300000 in Europe and the the top 10% worldwide.
The peace and quiet that you experience here stays with you long after you return home.