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

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

Bloody Foreland from the garden
Living room
Cosy up by the stove in the evening.
View along the driveway
Living room window

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedroomsSleeps 51399.3 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
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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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:30 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 9 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
Pet on request
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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

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.
Map
Downings, Co. Donegal

What's nearby

  • Carrigart Riding Stables - 10 min drive - 6.8 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).

Reviews

9.8

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. 142 out of 157 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 14 out of 157 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 157 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 157 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 157 reviews

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

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Mel D.

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

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.

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

Alison O.

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

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne A.

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.

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

Verified traveller

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

Laureen J., Northern Ireland

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

10/10 Excellent

Grainne C.

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

Verified traveller

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

Cecilia F., Northern Ireland

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

Fantastic

Stayed here before and it was lovely to coming home. Love the cottage and look forward to staying there again.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jane M.

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

A wee gem!

Wonderful house, garden and views. We loved the location, which is just off the beaten track but still handy to local amenities.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

8/10 Good

Mark M.

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

Rural

Quaint old cottage situated over a hill away from everything. Fabulous views very quiet Please note no wi fi and phone reception not great
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne M.

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

Review

beautiful cottage in a beautiful location!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

8/10 Good

Marian O.

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

Our experience

Directions were spot on but would have appreciated a warning about the track leading to the house. The house IS full of character. Don't let the road put you off because it's worth it. We appreciated you going to the trouble of finding out about the house's history as well as the neighbours.. Mary Ann the Housekeeper very helpfull. We would stay again to recharge our batteries.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mary M.

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

Quite special

I stayed there in May and the first thing I heard was the sound of the cuckoo, which was joyous as I had not heard it in such a long time. The cottage is very comfortable, clean and well maintained. The view is fantastic and you can feel the purity of the air. The drive out to the cottage, on the winding road, seems at first to be tricky but other users will see you and pull in. On a night out the local taxis are reasonable and reliable.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jane R.

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

Downings break

Lovely traditional cottage just 2 miles outside Downings. Facilities were as described and the house was very clean. We loved the log burner which kept it cosy and the garden was great for the kids.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

JJ A.

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

True to the description this cottage is idyllic .

An original stone cottage with all your needs for a relaxing comfortable stay in the beautiful Downings area of Donegal. William is a great host , the guest book is full of information and detail for your stay . loved the detail and history local history about the neighbours, area and the building. He has thought of everything, toys and games for kids, light reading for adults tv and dvd if that is your thing. The electric did go off as pre warned and no fault of the host, but it was for a short while and only lent even more ambience to our stay with the candles lit ,fire roaring. we got to have an impromtu "ceili" with our lovely neighbour Moira. We stayed at Easter(just missed the lovely Daffs.)our weather was typical, and changeble , but as my mother used to say, "in Ireland theres no such thing as bad weather, when you have the right clothes) .the views were fabulous especially on the road up, which you may find daunting first mission but take your time and you will get used to it. Teachin will forever hold lovely memories for us and hopefully we will return again soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022

6/10 Okay

john M.

Liked: Check-in, listing accuracy
Disliked: Communication

?

If you want seclusion this is the place. Nice quaint old traditional cottage. Kitchen clean enough but could have been better
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nicoletta M.

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

Amazing views - cosy bothy

A gorgeous cottage steeped in history. Cosy and beautifully snug. Plenty of space, good amenities, lovely and warm with the heaters and fire. Really enjoyed our family break. Thank you William.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2022

8/10 Good

John K.

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

Very chilled

Lovely traditional Irish cottage with lots of charm and appeal. Comfortable stunning area close to beaches and walks. If you’re looking for a country cottage look no further.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Cecilia F., Northern Ireland

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

Lovely cottage

Beautiful cottage, afforded us the peace and quiet we wanted in this stunning rural setting.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Emma

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
This was the most idyllic beautiful cottage I’ve ever seen. Well equipped, super cosy, spotless and with the most unbelievable views. Stunning surroundings too. As we drove up the hill to the cottage, the host had put little fairy lights on for us and a Christmas tree and we could see it in the distance. The fire was roaring. It was dreamy. Couldn’t recommend enough. I’ll definitely rebook. Thank you William
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Avril D.

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

Perfect Christmas get away

Lovely traditional cottage with spectacular views. If you want peace, tranquility, a comfy bed and a big roaring stove then visit here. Can't wait to return
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Toni P.

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

Perfect rental for a peaceful getaway

We had a fantastic time in the property. Extremely clean and cosy, it was the perfect location and cottage for a peaceful getaway. We will definitely be visiting again. Couldn't rate it high enough - it was ideal.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021

About the host

Hosted by William Laverty

Host profile image

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.

Languages:

English, German, Spanish

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests