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

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Entire home

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

2 bedroomsSleeps 51399.3 sq ft

Popular amenities

Parking available
Dryer
Washer
Fireplace
Pet-friendly
Kitchen

Explore the area

Downings, Co. Donegal

Ards Forest Park
‪30 min drive‬
Horn Head
‪39 min drive‬
Marble Hill Strand
‪57 min drive‬
Letterkenny (LTR-Letterkenny Airfield)
‪67 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Single Beds

Bathroom 1

Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio

Kitchen

Outdoor play area

Garden

Dining area

About this property

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

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.

Property manager

William Laverty

Premier Host

Languages

English, German, Spanish

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Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Pet-friendly

Free WiFi

Outdoor space

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Pet-friendly
Parking available
Laundry
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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 21

Check out before 10:30 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 9 kg per pet (limit one pet total)

Pet on request

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

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

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Downings

Located in Downings, this cottage is in a rural area and by the sea. Sandy Hills Golf Course and Ashtree Stables are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Carrigart Riding Stables and Dunfanaghy Stables. Scuba diving and waterskiing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling and hiking/biking trails nearby.

Downings, Co. Donegal

What's nearby

Killahoey Beach - 28 min drive - 25.8 km
Ards Forest Park - 30 min drive - 23.2 km
Horn Head - 39 min drive - 32.3 km
Marble Hill Strand - 57 min drive - 24.7 km
Portsalon Beach - 58 min drive - 26.5 km

Getting around

Letterkenny (LTR-Letterkenny Airfield) - 67 min drive

Restaurants

‪The Harbour Bar - ‬7 min drive
‪The Shack - ‬28 min drive
‪Singing Pub - ‬4 min drive
‪Patsy Dan's - ‬23 min drive
‪Goose And Gander - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

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

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 9 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at An Irish Idyll - traditional stonewall cottage nestled in hills above Downings?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at An Irish Idyll - traditional stonewall cottage nestled in hills above Downings?

Checkout is at 10:30 AM.

Where is An Irish Idyll - traditional stonewall cottage nestled in hills above Downings located?

Situated by the sea, this cottage is 2.4 mi (3.9 km) from Sandy Hills Golf Course and 2.8 mi (4.5 km) from Carrigart Beach. Carrigart Riding Stables and Ashtree Stables are also within 12 miles (20 km).

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Mel D.

23 Apr, 2025

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

Beautiful location and great wee cottage

Beautiful and secluded. We would definitely return! Quiet, clean, cosy, with incredible scenery and local beaches.

Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Victor McKee

17 Apr, 2025

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

Beautiful Downings Retreat

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.

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jillian R.

24 Apr, 2024

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

Cottage in Ireland

Very nice place to stay

Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Common P.

7 Sept, 2024

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

September 2024

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.

Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gary M.

23 Jun, 2023

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

Wonderful stay

A very private scenic home . A beautiful place for a quiet stay .

Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jörn F.

10 Apr, 2024

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

idyllic cottage

perfect, calm and romantic

Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Terry

27 Sept, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication

Loved this little rustic cabin. It actually had three bedrooms!! Views were fantastic. Great spot to explore this part of the country.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

Thomas S.

24 Aug, 2023

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

Lovely rural retreat

Wonderful week in a true Irish cottage with a few modern conveniences (microwave, washer & dryer). Plus stunning views!

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Claire C.

13 Jun, 2024

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

Short break

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☺️

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

17 Aug, 2023

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

Cottage

We enjoyed our stay in the cottage

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

4 Jan, 2023

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

Wonderful quiet getaway

Yet another great stay in this quiet, peaceful and beautiful cottage. All you could wish for in rural Donegal with views of the wild Atlantic quite literally on your doorstep.

Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

6 Nov, 2019

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

Tranquility framed in rugged beauty

Yet another relaxing stay in this beautiful cottage, set amongst Donegal's rolling hills and with the most spectacular views of the North Atlantic's dramatic coastline.

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2019

10/10 Excellent

Daniel G.

15 Sept, 2024

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

Earth hath not anything to show more fair

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!

Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Willem & Lenneke B.

24 Jul, 2023

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

wonderful place!

It was difficult to reach the house, but once you had arrived you never wanted to leave: a dazzling view and no moment the same...the house itself had tasteful furnishings and colours and a good working stove. Also a good place to start walking (first to make a trip bij car to reach the starting point).

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne A.

7 Dec, 2023

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

A little haven.

I loved everything about this cottage, it’s remoteness, the peace, the view, how quiet it is, and how it sits in the landscape, a beautiful part of Donegal. I would have no hesitation in going back. Both the owner, William, and Maryann the property manager were friendly and eager to help.

Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

8/10 Good

Judith M.

4 Sept, 2023

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

Teachin

We had a wonderful week in this beautiful part of Donegal, loved the cottage and so grateful to Michael for sharing his lovely cottage and to Maryanne for all her help.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Denis S.

18 Mar, 2023

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

Loved it

Absolutely loved my stay. My wife, son, and my brother stayed for several days in February. The house was genuinely cozy--set a lovely fire in the parlor and electric heat in the bedrooms. Step out the door in the morning and you have a gorgeous view of Muckish and Sheephaven bay. We were also fortunate to have gorgeous weather and were treated to the Northern Lights.

Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christine P.

25 Nov, 2023

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

Great stay in a beautiful location

The cottage is exactly as listed on VRBO. It’s charming and absolutely lovely. The road to the cottage was easy to navigate in our small rental, even arriving at night. The fireplace easily heated the living room and made a very stormy night nice and cozy inside. Everything we needed for a self-cater vacation was provided in the cottage. The welcome book provided a lot of interesting information about the area. Communication with the host and housekeeper were excellent. Our stay at Teachín was a perfect winter vacation, we hope to be back soon!

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carol H.

20 May, 2023

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

Remote retreat

The directions to the cottage were excellent, however the first time we drove there the road was a little daunting, especially when you went over a rise and had no idea what was on the other side. Loved the remote location, with cows for our only neighbors. The tree out front in the yard turned greener each day we were there as the leaves were opening up. Loved our stay. Explored the area around Downings, but still lots to explore.

Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Grainne C.

10 Apr, 2023

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

The most perfect peaceful getaway

Have just returned from our 4 night stay in this quaint little cottage with my family. It was everything I had hoped it would be. A beautiful place to just take some time away from the treadmill of life. The cottage is cosy and was catered with everything we needed and the view from the front door is simply stunning. We walked to the Singing Pub (approx 2 miles away and the food is delicious). An extremely enjoyable walk, made even more so on the return to Treacin cottage because of the wonderful sunset views we experienced. All in all a special place where memories are made.

Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mark R.

13 Oct, 2023

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

Everything it promised ... and some

Driving up the road to the property was interesting to say the least - but the description did say "... nestled in the hills above Downings" - it certainly is. This lovely old stone cottage was perfect for out 4 night stay in Donegal. It's comfortable and well equipped - perfect for those wanting to self-cater. William, and his wonderful local property manager, Maryann, are very professional and take pride in ensuring their guests enjoy their stay. We definitely did. We have no hesitation in recommending the property to a couple or family and we would absolutely stay here again if ever we are back in the region.

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Pauline M.

14 Sept, 2021

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

Tranquility and beauty

The cottage lived up to our expectations and more. We had a lovely few days here and only wished it was for longer. For anyone seeking peace and tranquility it is in an ideal location in a beautiful setting. The cottage has been beautifully renovated in keeping with the character of the property and everything you could possibly need during your stay has been provided by the owner. We liked everything about the cottage and especially loved the cosiness of the living area with the wood burning stove. Overall we had a short but wonderful stay in Teachin but would hope to return for a longer stay in the future.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Laureen J., Northern Ireland

18 Jul, 2023

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

Beautiful cottage with breathtaking views.

We’ve just returned from a 3 night stay in what can only be described as an idyllic cottage. Everything you could expect from an old Irish cottage with the added bonus of a few modern extras to make it even more comfortable. We were very lucky with the weather so breakfast and supper in the garden was a must taking in the surrounding breathtaking scenery. Far enough away from the main town of Downings to enjoy pure tranquility but still close enough if needed. We visited 7 different beaches within the area, each one more stunning than the next. Murder Hole being our favourite and Dunfanaghy and Ballymastocker close second. This cottage is definitely worth a visit if you wish to escape from it all. Would definitely return.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

8/10 Good

Stephen Z.

19 May, 2024

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

A Great Escape!

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.

Stayed 14 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alison O.

31 Dec, 2023

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

Perfect Christmas getaway

Everything was perfect about our stay at Teachín. On arrival we found a lit Christmas tree waiting for us as well as a lit fire, which was a very warm welcome. The instructions for getting to the cottage were perfect and we navigated the windy road with ease. By the end of the trip we were experts in going along the track! The location is remote and with few neighbours, we never saw nay other cars or people whilst near the cottage. It is only a short drive in to civilisation, if that is what you require. We managed to explore the coastline nearby and went on many lovely walks. It was all simply stunning and we will definitely be coming back. The cottage had everything we needed for our stay, we just had to bring food. There was a well stocked kitchen with plenty of utensils and pans to rustle up any dishes you want, we managed to make a full Christmas dinner on the big day! There was fuel for the fire left and you can also purchase more from the housekeeper, it's left at the back of the house and you can leave them cash in the honesty jar. All very convenient. We didn't require any help whilst there, but I got the impression that if we had needed it, we would have been sorted straight away. If you are wondering if you should stay here, then I would wholeheartedly tell you to. Don't expect mod cons, there are other places you can stay for that. This was a simple cottage set in a beautiful location, absolutely perfect for mine and my girlfriends first Christmas together. Thanks

Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

About the host

Hosted by William Laverty

What makes this property unique

Rural, excellent views and very quiet. If you want to hear the wind in the trees, the birds cheeping, the hum of a bumblebee or the sound of the sea then this is the place for you.