Traditional thatched cottage near the sea: log burner, paddock

Bridge Cottage is one of a handful of traditional thatched cottages left in Donegal. It dates back over two hundred years and is situated in a quiet rural location near the sea, just five minutes' drive from Ireland's 'Wild Atlantic Way'. This beautiful cottage has been carefully restored with many of its original features intact. The relaxed and peaceful atmosphere of a cosy log-burning stove, wooden ceiling and stone tiled floor -with warm rugs in the living areas - is combined with all modern comforts including a strong WIFI connection.

Dogs welcome - STRICTLY BY ARRANGEMENT ONLY - Please ask.
Plenty of outside space. Dogs are not allowed on the sofa or beds.

The fully equipped separate kitchen has an extra large cooker to cater for a family. There are two bedrooms with comfortable beds, colourful bedspreads and wooden furniture; the second bedroom has an adjoining washroom and toilet.

The first bedroom has a double bed and the second bedroom has two single beds. There is also a substantial folding bed (only suitable for a child.) This folding bed will fit in the double bedroom. In addition, there is a travel cot for a baby or toddler. In the living area, there is an additional booster seat for a small child to sit at the table.

To the rear of the cottage is a large relaxing sun terrace equipped with outdoor furniture, with lovely views of blossom in spring and of sheep grazing on the hillside beyond. This terrace and the rear of the cottage are completely private. Adjoining the terrace is a large, enclosed paddock belonging to the cottage. It is bordered by a stream, whose calming sounds add to the relaxing ambience.

There is private parking for several cars in a gated area.

The cottage is located on a quiet country road. The area surrounding it offers beautiful landscapes of lochs and glens and it is a very short drive to experience stunning seascapes - this is an ideal location to discover both mountains and sea. The coastline offers miles of stunning white beaches, rugged cliff tops and sheltered coves - all within easy reach. The lighthouse at St John's Point lies at the end of a wild and scenic peninsula just to the south of Bridge Cottage and provides a fantastic walk, drive or cycle ride. The highest cliffs in Europe at Slieve League and the beautiful Blue Stack Mountains are also easily accessible.

The cottage is not remote - the village of Dunkineely with its village shops and cosy pubs offering traditional music is 5 minutes' drive away. A little further afield, the colourful town of Donegal can be reached in 20 minutes. Killybegs, the largest fishing port in Ireland, is also just 15 minutes from the cottage.

Inland, the countryside is wild and unspoilt with quiet roads winding past vistas of mountains, lakes and waterfalls. The famous Glenveagh National Park is within driving distance, offering wonderful walking, lochs, hills and forests. Nearby Ardara is a centre for the traditional craft of weaving and offers many opportunities to buy Donegal tweed and woolens.

This part of south west Donegal is steeped in cultural history. For instance, in Glencolmcille, there is a fascinating Folklore Museum where visitors can experience local life in a collection of thatched cottages dating through the centuries. In Donegal town, there is a fascinating castle and the Railway Heritage Centre gives information on its history through photographic displays, guides to the old routes and treasured railway memorabilia.

Local activities include horse-riding, sea fishing, hiking and boat trips. Those interested in history will also enjoy the Heritage Centre in Killybegs with its interesting insights into fishing and carpet making in the area over the years. There is a demonstration on the hand-knotting loom and the largest loom of its kind in the world is on display here.

Inside the cottage, you will find a pack of information about the local area as well as local walking maps, guides and books. The Visitor's Book is full of helpful suggestions for excursions, walks, activities and places to eat and shop. Wherever you go, you will be met by friendly locals who always have time for a chat - life is unhurried and uncomplicated in this part of Ireland. Staying in a traditional thatched cottage is a unique experience and, at Bridge Cottage, it is easy to become immersed in a timeless way of life amidst beautiful, unspoilt and peaceful surroundings.

There are sometimes a couple of Donegal sheep in the paddock but they can be moved if necessary!

DISCOUNTS FOR STAYS OF 7 NIGHTS OR MORE
Three nights minimum in summer months.
Seven night stays from Saturday to Saturday preferred in July and August but do ask in case there is availability at late notice.
Charge of 5 euros per large bag for removal of rubbish.
'Trust system' for fuel for the stove. We ask guests to leave enough fuel for the next guests to light a fire on their first evening. This is especially important outside of summer months, in case the weather is chilly when the next guests arrive. After that, coal, logs and peat are readily available from the nearby petrol station.