Come to Sligo and set your spirit free. Experience the holiday (vacation) of a lifetime in our stunning holiday farmhouse perfectly located in Ireland's magical northwest. Have a great farm and/or marine based activity holiday or just relax and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you. Our holiday home has a unique 40 foot lounge/reception area with superior views of Sligo Bay, Raghly Harbour, and Queen Maeve's cairn.
Large, spacious fitted kitchen. Two bathrooms and four double bedrooms- three rooms with bay windows facing the sea.
Free fibre broadband. Central heating throughout. Heating costs are included. Large front and side garden and lawns. Outdoor furniture and barbeque.
Guests can participate in farming activities (e.g. feeding cows and calves, etc.). If you would like fresh lobster, just let us know and we will make arrangements with local fishermen (weather/tide dependent). They can be brought to your door (free cooking demo included if desired).
We will bring you on the recently completed Raghly Loop Trail, encompassing the stunning blow holes (where the sea comes in under the land) and views of the Donegal mountains and Mayo's Crough Patrick on a clear day. Our friendliness and hospitality will make this your home away from home.
Our beautifully renovated 4 bedroom vacation holiday farmhouse is on an elevated site facing Sligo Bay. This enchanting area near Lissadell (5km) is steeped in history and mythology and well described by W.B.Yeats for its beauty and creativity. The dramatic limestone mountains of Benbulben and Knocknarea will fascinate you. Experience the holiday/vacation of a lifetime where we can help you and your family/friends plan your holiday or just relax and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you. Enjoy the spirit of Sligo.
Local Attractions: The following sites provide useful information about places to see and visit in Sligo: 1. http://sligotourism.ie 2. http://www.irishtourist.com/directory/places_to_visit/west/sligo/ 3. http://www.sligoheritage.com/links.htm 4. http://www.discoversligo.com/?pagid=arts 5. http://www.discoversligo.com/?pagid=heritage
Things to Do in Ireland's Magical Northwest:
Glencar Lake and Waterfall. After Glencar, you might want to continue on to Parke’s Castle (a restored plantation castle) on the shores of Lough Gill
When in Sligo town, visit Sligo Abbey (http://www.heritageireland.ie/en/North-West/SligoAbbey). Go for a walk in Hazelwood or Dooney Rock Nature Trail http://www.irishtrails.ie.
Creevykeel Court Cairn (http://www.sligoheritage.com) thought to be 4,500 years old. Then continue on to Mullaghmore Peninsula where you can take a walk on the pier and walk along the sheltered beach.
Go towards Strandhill. The first stop is the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery. About 10-15minutes down the road is the car park for your climb Knocknarea (1.2km walk to the summit) to see Queen Maeve’s Cairn and the spectacular views of Sligo (http://www.sligotown.net/knocknarea). Go to the Shells Café, top-rated restaurant in Sligo, for a bite to eat. Then go to the award winning Voya seaweed baths (http://voyaseaweedbaths.com) for a massage or seaweed bath (pre-booking needed) OR for the more adventurous person, go surfing (http://www.strandhillsurfschool.com).
Visit Yeat’s Grave and Drumcliffe Church
Go to the Spanish Armada Interpretive Center in Grange to learn about the Spanish Armada and Captain Francisco de Cuellar. Then go to Streedagh beach, where the Armada washed up.
Eagle’s Flying – Irish Raptor Centre in Ballymote, Co. Sligo. Go to: https://www.eaglesflying.com/
Atlantic Sheep Dogs – One Man and His Dog! Go to: https://atlanticsheepdogs.ie/
Atlantic Way Alpaca Farm – Go to: https://www.facebook.com/wildatlanticwayalpacafarm/
Walking/Hill Walking Exploring North Sligo on foot can be a beautiful way to see the county. Various magical walks include: Lissadell House and Woods; Glencar Lake and Waterfall; Streedagh Point and Beach; Knocknarea and Queen Maeve's Cairn, Glennif Horseshoe at the foot of Ben Bulben to name a few. Go to https://sligowalks.ie; http://www.sligotourism.ie and/or http://www.irishtrails.ie/Trail/Benbulben-loop or http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie for more information on mountain walks, nature trails, coastal walks and more.
Golfing Ireland is renowned for its golf courses and Rosses’ Point is no exception. The County Sligo Golf Club at Rosses’ Point (http://countysligogolfclub.ie) is ranked in the top 10 links courses in Ireland. The club boasts renowned visitors and champions, Rory McElroy and Tom Watson. Or you can go to Berties Pitch and Putt (http://www.bertiespnp.co.nr) or the Sandfield Pitch and Putt course in Bundoran.
Fishing There are plenty of excellent fishing points on the Raghley peninsula, where you can catch mackerel, pollock, bollin or if you are lucky sea trout. Raghley Harbour is located ¼ mile away. Spoil yourself with some fresh lobster and crab caught by local fishermen (available on request). Or try your hand at getting some razor fish or rock fishing. Crab fishing off the pier provides fun for everyone. In Rosses’ Point (http://www.sligoboatcharters.com) (Darryl Ewing can pick you up at Raghley Pier, depends on tide) or Mullahmore (http://www.offshore.ie or http://www.inishmurrayislandtrips.com) charter boats are available for the serious fishermen. We can help with any bookings.
Shopping/ Restaurants / Pubs: Sligo offers shopping with a difference. There is a good mix of shops with hand-crafted pieces, shops passed down through the generations and the more typical shops. Wooden sculpture by Michael Quirke and hand-crafted jewelry at The Cat and the Moon offer some special items while Mullaney’s has been in the center of town for generations. The shopping centers provide a good mix of newer shops. Café’s, restaurants, and bistros are plentiful in Sligo town.
Closer to 'home' there are several tasty meals at Eithne's By the Sea, Lang's Bar and Restaurant, Yeat’s Tavern (or Davis’); and Henry’s Restaurant (within 10-15 minutes of our house). Local Pub: Ellen's and Jordan's - have a pint and meet the locals!
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items
Turn off the lights and return the keys
Please advise us of your check-out time. Allow a few minutes to meet with us to return keys, get feedback and do a quick check for belongings and advise us if there were any issues with the house,
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
If excessive cleaning is required, a cleaning charge of 30 euro per hour will be levied.
Number of People Staying: You must notify us before arrival of changes to size of the group.
Items may break down/get damaged without warning. We will try to repair/replace but can't guarantee it will be resolved during your stay and apologise
Important information
You need to know
Property # 1003516
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
Long-term renters welcome
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 and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Ballinful
Located in Ballinful, this holiday home is in a rural area and near the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Streedagh Strand and Ben Bulben, while Sligo County Museum and The Model are cultural highlights. Travelling with kids? Consider The Niland Gallery and Sligo Riding Centre. Water tubing and windsurfing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails and mountain climbing nearby.
How much does it cost to stay at STUNNING 4 bed, 2 bath big, bright farmhouse. Spectacular Sea/Mountain views. ?
As of 27 Jul, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at STUNNING 4 bed, 2 bath big, bright farmhouse. Spectacular Sea/Mountain views. on 28 Jul, 2026 start from S$2,407, 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 STUNNING 4 bed, 2 bath big, bright farmhouse. Spectacular Sea/Mountain views. ?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at STUNNING 4 bed, 2 bath big, bright farmhouse. Spectacular Sea/Mountain views. ?
Check-in begins at 3:30 PM.
What time is check-out at STUNNING 4 bed, 2 bath big, bright farmhouse. Spectacular Sea/Mountain views. ?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is STUNNING 4 bed, 2 bath big, bright farmhouse. Spectacular Sea/Mountain views. located?
Located by the sea, this family-friendly holiday home is within 9 mi (15 km) of Lissadell House, Streedagh Strand and Ben Bulben. Cooldrumman and Drumcliffe Church are also within 9 miles (15 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Very beautiful location, easy driving access to all Sligo locations. The hosts, Mary and Des are committed to making your stay the best it can be. Very lovely hosts. Great information, and extra tours around the local area if you have a bit of time. It was a memorable stay! Thank you to Mary and Des!!
Jennifer T.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Jun, 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review. We are delighted that you enjoyed your stay with us and that you had the opportunity to explore the beauty of Sligo.
It was our pleasure sharing some of our local knowledge and favourite places. Your kind words about our hospitality mean a great deal to us. We always strive to help our guests make the most of their time here and create lasting memories.
Thank you again for choosing to stay with us. Warm regards, Mary & Des
Great hospitality, great property. Literally no complaints at all. Will return if we ever make it back to Ireland.
John S.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Sept, 2025
Thanks, John. Great you enjoyed your stay with us and your first experience of golfing in Ireland. Happy everything worked out for you and your group. Mary and Des
This lovely home was meticulous and comfortable. It is ideally situated with a view of the sea and the friendly cows. Des and Mary are charming, attentive Irish hosts. We couldn’t have asked for a better week.
Michael R.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Jul, 2025
Thank you for your kind words! We're happy to hear you enjoyed your stay with us and found the home both comfortable and meticulously kept. It’s great that the sea view — and our friendly cows — added to your experience. We were pleased to host you and have the chat. Warm Regards, Mary, Des, Elena, and Tola
Amazing hosts
Beautiful property
If you’re looking for a relaxing holiday with unreal scenery this is the spot. Tons of activities to do in the surrounding areas (surfing, hiking, etc.). Would recommend to anyone!
Sean C.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Sept, 2022
Sean, Thank you for your lovely comments from your stay with us. We are delighted you enjoyed many of the activities around Sligo. What a busy week you had. Thanks for your sincere and kind comments. Mary and Des
Friendly and accommodating owners ensured our comfort and directed us to the best restaurants and attractions in the Sligo area.
The owners provided everything you could hope for in a rental property.
We had a wonderful time here. The property was spacious, cozy, and spotless with breathtaking views and everything we needed. Des & Mary were spectacular hosts who made our stay even more special through their heartfelt hospitality. Fantastic and highly recommeded.
Gerhard S.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 25 May, 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a wonderful stay and that you found the property spacious, cozy, and spotless. It means the world to us that you enjoyed the breathtaking views and had everything you needed. Great to know that our hospitality made your experience even more special. Your recommendation is truly appreciated, and we hope to welcome you back again soon! Mary and Des
Great house in the country but close to activities.
Des and Mary were amazing hosts. The house was clean and equipped with everything you need for your visit. Amazing scenery and gracious hosts.
D R.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Jun, 2024
Derek,
Thank you again for staying with us and your encouraging comments. Delighted you and your friends enjoyed the stunning scenery Sligo has on offer. It was great meeting you and showing you around our beautiful countryside. Thanks again. Mary, Des, Elena and Tola
Just home from a fantastic stay at Des & Mary's property, what a place, hosts were very friendly & helpful, property spotless, best property we have stayed in, views from the bedrooms and sunroom are wonderful. It really was a home from home, the walks and surrounding area picturesque, the harbour walk a nice way to finish the day. Truly recommend this property and will definitely be visiting again!! Thank you for a wonderful stay.
Rodney M.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug, 2022
What a great visit you had to Sligo. Great idea bringing your bikes and plenty of places to enjoy the scenery. Delighted you enjoyed the house and thanks so much for your glowing comments about our house. Great to have three generations enjoying time and games together!! Take care, Mary, Des, Elena and Tola.
I just cannot overstate how good the hosts are here, or how much we enjoyed our stay with our family of 5.
You feel like you're really connected to the community here, and Desi and Mary seem to know literally every person we came across.
It was such a convenient location both for local loop hikes and beach visits, as well as treks up North for Slieve League. Fantastic accomodations all around, highly recommend.
Jonathan S.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Jul, 2022
Jonathan and family, Thank you for your kind compliments about our hospitality and our beautiful area/community. We truly enjoyed meeting and spending time with you both and your children. Great moments and even better memories! We are happy you enjoyed the outdoors so much and we really enjoyed the loop walk with you. What a bit-o-fun with the slugs, sea gulls, big waves, and silent breezes! Take care, Mary, Des, Elena and Tola.
We had the very BEST time in Sligo at the Herdsman and the Sea Barn! Our hosts, Des, Mary and Elena were the MOST generous and gracious people imaginable. They anticipated and attended to our every need and facilitated many adventures throughout our stay. Fantastic hiking, biking, yoga and beach walks. Highly recommend!!
Elizabeth M.
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Aug, 2023
Elizabeth and family, What an exceptional descriptive review of your stay with us at Herdsman's House and Sligo Sea Barn. Thank you very much for the kindest of compliments!! We are trying to help guests create memories that remain with you long after you leave. Individualised welcomes and sharing Irish culture (stories) and experiences is what we enjoy, especially Des!! Delighted Sligo Sea Barn and Herdsman's House had the capacity to accommodate a lovely family reunion. Best wishes and warmest regards, Mary, Des and Elena
Perhaps the best place we have stayed in a VRBO rental and we use VRBO a lot! Hosts were over the top helpful, friendly and informative. Wonderful stories and tractor driving too. Next trip to Ireland we will be back here!! Thanks Mary and Desi!!
kevin z.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Jun, 2023
Kevin, we are so happy you enjoyed our home and the time you spent with us. Thanks for the coffee and the chats in the morning to get you fully immersed in Irish culture/experience. A little bit of tractor driving and taking care of cattle! A vacation is one thing but a vaction with 'experiences' is completely different. We loved having you. Thanks for having us over for dinner - a lovely evening for everybody. See you next time. Warm Regards, Mary and Des
Very clean, very comfortable, beautiful location and warm hospitality. Our best VRBO experience.
Four family members and I stayed for a week and enjoyed the house and all its amenities very much. The quality of the house and its beautiful seaside location was only surpassed by the kindness and consideration of our hosts, Mary and Des. They went out of their way to make sure we were satisfied with all aspects of our stay. I recommed this VRBO highly. And, if one needs a larger space for, say, a family reunion or business retreat, they have beautiful modern accomodations called the Sligo Sea Barn overlooking the bay as well.
Verified traveller
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Sept, 2023
Larry and family, Thank you very much for your kind and thoughtful words and comments. We are delighted you enjoyed our holiday home and the views from Herdsman's House never disappoint! We enjoy making recommendations, sharing stories and spending time with our visitors. Thanks so much for the endorsement of Sligo Sea Barn - a family-run business with direct access to the beach. Thanks again and it was lovely to meet you and your family. Warm Regards, Mary and Des
We could not have had a better time at this wonderful home, in a beautiful area with absolutely terrific owner/hosts. The house was spotless, excellent beds/bedding and appointed with everything you will need to enjoy your time in the house. The home is located in a stunning area outside of the city and offers peace and quiet. You can go for beautiful walks in any direction and are just a short drive to the wonderful city of Sligo. The owners are incredibly knowledgeable of the area and its history. They are a treasure in themselves. My family is already trying to figure when we can come back! If you want a beautiful home, in a beautiful and quiet area than you have found it.
Brian K.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Aug, 2025
Thank you so much for your incredibly kind and thoughtful review! 🌟 We're absolutely delighted to hear that your stay was everything you hoped for—and more. It means the world to us that you found the house spotless, comfortable, and well-equipped, and that the peaceful surroundings and nearby walks added to your experience.
We're especially touched by your words about us as hosts. Sharing the beauty and history of this area is something we truly love, and it's wonderful to know it made a difference in your visit.
Sligo is such a gem, and we're thrilled you enjoyed both - the tranquility of the countryside and the charm of the city.
We’d be thrilled to have you return anytime — you’ll always have a warm welcome waiting for you here.
Warm Regards, Mary and Des
Wonderful hosts who responded quickly to every request and did everything to make our stay pleasant and enjoyable. The country setting allowed us a peaceful, restful stay with great views and easy walking to the beach and around the peninsula. We had last minute changes and the host was very helpful. It was only a 20 minute drive to Sligo for restaurants and shopping. Ellen’s Pub was 5 minutes away and provided local color. It was one of the best stays we ever had and highly recommend this place and this host!!
Odis H.
Stayed 16 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Jul, 2022
Odis and extended family, It was a pleasure to meet you and have you stay with us for 2 weeks. It means a lot to us that our guests are well catered for and get a good Irish welcome!! Sharing stories and life experiences is so rewarding for everyone concerned. Holidays are special times which people look forward to and we are happy to help in any way we can. It was just lovely to have met you. Best wishes, Mary. Des, Elena and Tola
We stayed here for two weeks with our three little kids (all three and under). Mary and Des went out of their way to give us a warm welcome. They provided excellent local recommendations, lots of amenities, and tractor rides for the kids. The space itself was beautifully situated on a quiet road overlooking the beach, calves gamboling in a field, and the hills beyond. It was a very relaxing environment. The house was spacious, extremely clean and well cared for. We hope to stay here again!
Brittany R C.
Stayed 11 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Aug, 2024
Brittany, Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience. We’re delighted that you and your family enjoyed your stay. Great that the local recommendations and the tractor rides for the kids made your visit special. As an Irish family run business, we love providing great accommodation and personalised care. Thank you for your kind compliments on the spaciousness, cleanliness, and maintenance of the house. The image of cows and calves playing in the field with the sea and mountains as a backdrop paints a serene picture. We feel we are so lucky to share a little bit of paradise with our visitors! Thanks again for staying with us. Mary and Des
My worries that Herdsman's house was too far from "things to do" was pointless. It was a perfect location - about 20 minutes drive from everything we wanted to do. Quiet evenings back at the house with a view to the ocean were well-spent. Des and Mary made us feel so welcome and had great suggestions for things to do. The house has to be one of the cleanest places I've ever been too as well. I can't recommend the place highly enough.
Suzanne B.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Aug, 2023
Suzanne and family, It is always exciting meeting someone from a 'new' country, but especially our first visitors from Norway! We were a bit worried too, but also pointless!! What lovely memorable guests you were and it was our pleasure to bring you to all our special spots in the area. Thanks for your compliments regarding the cleanliness of Herdsman's House and the views you enjoyed every day. Warm Regards, Mary, Des, and Elena
Absolutely loved this location. The house is situated on farm lands overlooking the water. Des and Mary are the perfect hosts. This was our first time to Ireland and we chose County Sligo due to family ties there. I don’t know if I could even stay anywhere else when we go back! Perfect mix of location, things to do and good company. Things to due: golf, hike, beach, surfing, horseback riding, drive a tractor and meet great people! Des and Mary, thank you so much, we will be back!
James T.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug, 2022
James and family, Thank you very much for your great description about what we have to offer here. It was a pleasure to meet you and your family - a good connection from the moment you arrived. Delighted you enjoyed the area and the house. Thanks for the very generous donation for Tola's charity climb to Kilamanjaro. Sorry again for the typo error! Des, Mary, Elena, and Tola
I cannot recommend Ballinful House enough! Desi and Mary made us feel so welcome. The house is cozy, the views are out of a postcard! There's hiking just outside the door. The location is amazing!
It was so nice to have a kitchen that was well stocked. There were plenty of towels and the showers were great.
We went to Ireland and stayed in Galway, Sligo, and Dublin. We unanimously agreed that Sligo/Ballinful House was our favorite!
Leslie D.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Aug, 2024
Leslie and family, We are so happy you enjoyed staying at Herdsman's House and you had everything you needed and more. The pictures in our postcard change every day - the mountains, sea and cows, all at peace together! We are in business a long time and it is wonderful to hear that we were your Number One! We strive to make guests feel welcome and have a Magical Authentic Irish Experience. Warm Regards, Mary, Des, Elena, and Tola
Mary & Desmond are great hosts, helpful & hospitable. Our 3 year old grandson enjoyed the tractors while we enjoyed the coastal walks. The 4 BR home is very spacious and comfortable; and the kitchen had all that we needed for a 5 night stay.
The water & mountain views and countryside quiet enhanced the comfort of our stay.
David’s Restaurant & Yeats Tavern had 5-star cod fish & chips! Lots of good hikes nearby. Donegal an hour away.
Even with lite rainy weather, a most active an enjoyable stay was had by all.
Carl C.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Jan, 2022
Carl and family, Thank you for taking the time to let us know about your holiday with us and all the things you enjoyed. It is very exciting for young children to visit a farm, get up close to animals, sit on a tractor and maybe a short spin, as appropriate. It was lovely to meet you and it is very important that our guests enjoy staying with us and enjoy the stunning Northwest of Ireland. Thanks again, Mary, Des, Elena and Tola.
A comfortable well equipped and spacious bungalow with outstanding views of Silgo Bay. The property was very clean, during our 3 weeks stay the the property was cleaned and bedlinen changed to cater for our family who stayed with us during the holiday.
However, the one of the most important element of the holiday was the welcome and great times shown by the hosts Desmond and Mary. They kept the grandchildren entertained with tractor driving and feeding the bullocks.
We would definitely stop at the property if we visited this part of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Mike anbd Tina
michael O.
Stayed 21 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Aug, 2024
Mike and Tina, Thank you very much for your generous compliments! Great you had such memorable experiences with us, and especially the grandchildren. We were happy to cater to your extended family for their overnight stays and visits. Thank you for your compliments on the spaciousness, cleanliness, and maintenance of the house. We take great pride in our property, ensuring it is a clean and inviting space for our guests. The Wild Atlantic Way is a very special place and we are in a great location to take full advantage of everything it has to offer. Thanks again, Mary and Des
Our weeks stay at the Herdsman’s House a few kms from downtown Sligo was magical. The accommodations were as advertised, impeccably clean, spacious and cozy at the same time. Spectacular views of Sligo Bay and the surrounding farmland. Sheep and cows in pasture surround the Herdsman’s House. Des and Mary made us feel like family, with great tips on places to visit, and what Ireland’s northwest has to offer. They also gave us a bit of the history of the community they cherish. We enjoyed this “off season” visit and highly recommend this special place, where farmland meets the sea. We are already planning a return visit. John & Lydia
John F.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Dec, 2024
John and Lydia, Thank you for your kind and thoughtful review! We are delighted to hear that your stay at the Herdsman’s House was magical and you found our home clean, spacious, and cozy. It's wonderful to know that the spectacular views and surrounding farmland added to your experience. We're thrilled that your "off season" visit was a special one and look forward to seeing you again for another memorable stay. Warmest Regards, Mary and Des
Fantastic place, wonderful hosts, the accommodations are TEN star! Des and Mary made us very welcome and know all the best place to visit in the Sligo area. You cannot buy the kind attention they gave us and the 4 kids (ages 10, 8, 5 and 3)…e.g., sitting with the cows, driving the tractor, access to the beach , touring the Sea Barn…we just had a wonderful time. The house has 4 great bedroom, 2 bathrooms, great kitchen, mud room with washer and dryer, lovely dining area and sitting sun room. Highly recommend this house or their Sligo Sea Barn for a family or large group holiday. The Murphy’s and Collette’s
James M.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug, 2023
James and families,
Thank you for the 10 STAR rating! It was an absolute pleasure to have you stay with us. What a great week WE all had! A little meditation with the cows and some tractor driving 'lessons' was great fun. Thank you for your kind compliments on our spacious house and all its facilities. We are passionate about sharing our culture, hospitality, and our beautiful seaside location. We were happy to give you a tour of our new luxury, self-catering group accommodation - Sligo Sea Barn. Exclusivity, stunning views, and a paved path to the sea makes our place special and unique! Thank you so very much again for staying with us. Des, Mary, Elena and Tola
This property turned out to be the perfect location for us. Close to all things and people we love. We spent a month here and by the time we left we felt like part of the community. It was definitely rural but only 10km to N17 and the views were beautiful. I definitely miss watching the calves playing in the field across from the house. My personal opinion - you need a car to see the best of Ireland. The house was stocked with everything you need and spotless. Mary & Des were great hosts and went out of their way to make us feel comfortable. We would definitely stay here again.
Debbie H.
Stayed 28 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 26 May, 2024
Deb and Roger,
Thank you for staying with us and taking the time to write a lovely review. It was our pleasure to have you stay with us and your extended family. We love where we live and delighted you loved it too. The calves are always entertaining to watch and give so much joy and freedom to the soul! Thank you for your compliments on our hospitality and we are so happy that you felt at home with us. We really enjoyed having you. Thanks again, Mary, Des, and Elena
Dezzie and Mary could not have been more welcoming and accommodating especially as we arrived later than anticipated. The house is really excellent for large families ( we are six with four almost adult children) as well as socialising with extended family. The view from the house is wonderful over the bay towards Ben Bulbin and there are amazing walks to beaches and headlands within range of the house. Everyone was so welcoming we even enjoyed a community St Stephens day Swim in the sea. We highly recommend this house for a taste of true west of Ireland warmth and spectacular views over the wild Atlantic Coastline.
Lottie H.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Jan, 2022
Lottie, Thank you for your kind compliments. We are very happy you enjoyed the house, the walks, and the Stephen's Day swim. We are glad you enjoyed the space in the house and the breath-taking views from the house. It was a pleasure to have you and we enjoyed giving you a hearty welcome. Thanks again, Mary, Des, Elena and Tola
Our views consisted of, Ben Bulben, Queen Maeves Grave, Rosses point (and by night it's lighthouses) and miles of ocean. We also were treated to (an afternoon of) the Coastguard helicopter tossing objects into the ocean and dumping the crew out to fetch them back. While training exercises in general may be boring to watch, this isn't something most people ever get to even see.
Aside from the amazing views, the house was impeccable and Mary and Dessie were the fun'nest neighbours we've ever had on a holiday. This trip was an absolute delight and goes directly to our 'will do again' list.
Mike C.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 23 May, 2022
Mike, It was a pleasure having you and your lovely family. Delighted you enjoyed all the views and all the Wild Atlantic has to offer. Hope to see you again soon. Thanks for letting us know your perspective of the local area. Thanks again, Mary and Des
About the host
Hosted by Mary and Desmond Carway
Desmond is the second youngest child in his family of 5 sisters and 2 brothers. His father (Mick) was a dairy farmer and mother (Maureen) was a nurse and ran a tourist business for many years. In August 1985, Des' friendly nature led me to meet the love of my life, Mary. She was on a literature and landscape tour of Ireland and happened to be in Ellen’s pub for some traditional music.
Mary hailed from Arlington, Mass (USA), a suburb of Boston. After a little persuading, I finally convinced Mary that the west of Ireland was the place to be! It is rather ironic that Mary’s mother emigrated from Kinsale, Co. Cork to Boston in the early 1950’s.
Our Wonderful Children: Elena and Tola are attending university now. Both love the outdoors, participating in some farm work, and fishing. They have a great love of the area and enjoy meeting guests.
From the horse drawn caravans, in the field in front of our house, to bed and breakfast we shared our Irish traditions with many visitors. And there are many stories to tell. My grandmother, who had to herd cattle and rear 8 children, could be stuck for a babysitter at any time. She would often tie a chicken to the pram, to entertain which ever child was in the pram at the time, while she did jobs on the farm (playschool Ballymulderry - style).
The experience of meeting new people that came to stay with us was better than going on holidays – it was so exciting. What I loved most was when my mother asked me to greet the visitors at the front door, bring them to the beach, or make some Irish coffees.
Why they chose this property
You will feel like you are living on a farm. And the views from the vestible or 'indoor porch' give a real sense of peace and tranquility. Viewing the animals out the window of the lounge at breakfast is a treat. Then in the evening, the calves ften embark on a session of playing and dancing.
What makes this property unique
Experience a bit of farming life. Moving cattle from one field to another can be tricky but also lots of craic. Walking over the road moving cattle is an interesting adventure. Sometimes the animals (calves/cows) escape, which adds to the excitement. Even if you cannot participate in the movement of cattle, there is always the tractor experience for both young and old. Sitting in the seat and driving from one part of the field to the next is amazing.
Languages:
English, French, German
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests