Limehouse Cottage
Coomasaharn, Glenbeigh, County Kerry, Republic of Ireland
Hidden in a land where mountains, valleys and lakes collide, Limehouse Cottage in Kerry serves up simple luxury living with one hand and raw, organic beauty with the other. Ride horses across Rossbeigh beach, climb the jagged peaks of Macgillycuddy's Reeks and skinny-dip in the glacial waters below before retreating to the glass box living room to watch silver clouds rush over the lake at dusk. Here is a self-catering hideaway that embraces Ireland's elements in all their untamed glory.
Introduction
Built to house farmhands at one end and animals at the other, old photographs of this once-thatched Irish cottage date back to the Great Potato Famine when it was razed in a fire. Tenderly brought back to life, the cottage was reconstructed with local stone, lime rendered and insulated in hemp so that it could breathe with the natural elements. In its latest form, two modern extensions offer luxury rustic living. On one side, a green iron barn with curved sides echo the Kerry hills, on the other, a glass box with kaleidoscopic views over Coomasaharn Lake and the horseshoe of mountains that tower behind it.
Inside
Beneath the weather-beaten exterior is a smooth, whitewashed haven evocative of the rustic fincas found on sun-bleached Spanish islands and Moroccan hills. Citrus tones add warmth and zest, while materials have been sustainably sourced, such as the kitchen salvaged from London’s docklands. The open-plan living space centres around an open fire, with vaulted ceilings and wooden tie beams. In the curved-roof bathroom, a window runs the length of the bath allowing scents of the meadow to seep inside: wild flowers, fennel and coriander all combining with the intoxicating views.
Outside
The cottage sits at the top of a long valley behind Glenbeigh village just off the famous Ring of Kerry. Resting on the Iveragh Peninsula, the area is enveloped by deep blue bodies of water, the largest being Coomasaharn Lake which glistens the end of the sloped garden, sheltered by rocky mountains on three sides. Whether you spend days exploring or tangled in sheets by the fire, one thing Limehouse Cottage demands is an al fresco bathe. Take a bracing swim in the lake or slip into the outside stone bath set in prime position to watch dusk fall over the mountains, steam dissolving into the starry ether above.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 2 guests
From £1,450 per week, £1,150 per short break - Bedrooms and bathroomsThe cottage has one bedroom with a king-size bed, and the daybed can fold out to a second double bed for cosy film nights. The bathroom features a lime plaster bath, stone sink, WC and separate shower. There is also an outside bath carved from stone.
View bedrooms - FeaturesOutdoor bath tub and fire pit
- PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyBabes-in-arms are very welcome, a highchair and travel cot are provided.
- PracticalitiesThe cottage has space for three cars. The road up to the cottage is narrow, but there are several passing places. The bespoke kitchen is well-equipped for self-catering breaks, including an electric oven, induction hob, dishwasher, fridge and Nespresso coffee machine. There is also underfloor heating throughout as well as a washing machine, tumble dryer and freezer in a separate utility shed.
- Homestay includesA welcome hamper of beautiful Irish produce including artisan sausages, cheese and sourdough bread, luxury soaps, bathrobes, scented candles, Wifi, firewood and kindling to get you started...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
- Private cateringSeeking a celebratory dinner or fully catered escape? Our recommended caterers will work with you to create personalised menus for your stay. Details are shared through our house book on confirming your booking.
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
Glenbeigh
Glenbeigh is considered the ´jewel´ in the crown of County Kerry, a small peaceful village at the foothills of Ireland´s highest mountain range close to the head of Dingle Bay. A place where sweeping coastlines, soaring mountains and glass-like lakes exist amidst the mysticism of many a myth and fable.
Getting there
- On the Map This remote Irish cottage is ten minutes from the peaceful village of Glenbeigh in County Kerry with a handful of neighbouring cottages behind
- By Air Fly directly from Gatwick or Heathrow to Cork (an hour and 40 minutes from the cottage), or from Luton and Stanstead to Kerry airport which is just over half an hour's drive from the cottage. Please contact the team should you want recommendations on arrival by private plane or helicopter
- By Car Car hire is easily available for those who arrive at one of Ireland's major airports. Booking in advance is advised
From the owner
“When you arrive, you will be struck by the drama of the landscape; the wildness, the beauty and the sense of peace. Although you are only ten minutes from Glenbeigh, this feels like a world apart.”
As you walk into the cottage you will feel a sense of space and flow. When you enter the glass room with expansive views of the lake and the mountains, the landscape will strike you again. Here you can sit in total peace and watch the weather pass, whether it be sunshine, rain or wind there is always something to entertain you.
The feel of the natural materials in the cottage, the lime rendered walls, the raw wood, gives the space a special feel.
When it gets dark, light a fire so you feel cosy, whatever the weather outside may be doing. If you are a stargazer then our dark skies are sure to delight, this is a great place to see them. Enjoy a hot outdoor bath and watch the stars above as you soak.
Or have a bath in the barn-like bathroom and open the long window so you feel the air and see the lake and mountains all while in the warm bath.
Catherine
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Glenbeigh with an insider’s perspective.
To See
Carrauntoohil, Beaufort
Carrauntoohil is Ireland’s highest mountain and forms part of the formidable McGillicuddy Reeks. Join local explorer Pat Falvey who will guide you on a route suited to your fitness level and prepare for knock-your-boots off scenery.
To Eat
Emilie´s, Glenbeigh
A new addition to the area, Emilie´s delicatessen, bakery and wood-fired kitchen is already famous for its sourdough bread and pizzas. You´ll spot treats from here in the cottage´s welcome hamper and you can also order wine and prepared meals to be left in the fridge for your arrival.
To Eat
Driftwood Surf Café, St Finian´s Bay
An hour’s drive from the cottage awaits the Skellig Ring, a spectacular drive for those hankering a true Irish road trip. Find the Driftwood Café overlooking St. Finian’s bay and the Skelligs - a scenic spot for lunch or dinner. Try the hake and prawn pil pil and time the drive home at sunset for a dramatic return journey.
To Do
The Kerry Way
Ireland´s longest walking trail, the breathtaking Kerry Way is considered an unhurried version of the world-famous Ring of Kerry driving route. Loop around the Iveragh Peninsula as it meanders country roads, national parkland, forest paths and abandoned coach roads.
Guest Testimonials
Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google
Everything about Limehouse Cottage exceeded our expectations; from the moment we pulled onto the driveway we were blown away by the location and the tranquillity of the cottage, its style and all of the amenities that were included. The owners have thought of everything, right down to the local produce that was provided in a welcome basket on arrival. It is the perfect place for the ultimate relaxation break!
Loved the outdoor bath! Very happy with our stay. The weather was challenging but the cottage was so nice we didn´t mind staying in when the wind and rain were at their worst!
We had an exceptional week at Limehouse Cottage. It is so well appointed and exceeded our expectations in every way. We enjoyed exploring the surrounding area, including a morning hike up the mountain and cooling off with a swim the lake. The recommendations provided were also excellent, with frequent visits to Emilie’s and a fabulous meal at Driftwood Surf Cafe. It was a very special holiday all round.
Our stay at Limehouse Cottage was absolutely perfect. This was one of the best places we have ever stayed! It was spotlessly clean, beautifully furnished and very comfortable. The architectural design of the house is impeccable and makes the most of the incredible scenery. Highlights of the week for us include Champagne or a hot whiskey in the outside bath, listening to the birds and watching the ever changing lake. Rabbits playing in the field outside, sitting beside the fire reading a book. A superb stay, could not have asked for more. We can´t wait to come back!
What an amazing place! Beautifully created and the attention to detail is like to other. (Only improvement was more candles and firewood needed) other than that it was perfect!
We absolutely loved our time at Limehouse cottage. The design and decor are beautiful and the location stunning. The information the owner provides was also excellent. Can’t recommend a stay here enough - a little piece of heaven.
We had a wonderful stay at Limehouse Cottage. The views were stunning and even more breathtaking in person. The cottage design was incredible and beautifully appointed. We ended up abandoning some of our plans just so we could spend more time in the cottage!
The most incredible property I have ever stayed in, the views are absolutely amazing, I spent most of my stay just sitting in the lounge staring out across the water. The outdoor bath is a quirky feature and the property has everything you need to cook and eat at the property too. It really is one of a kind.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Limehouse Cottage and Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
Natural world
25 Beautiful Homes
November 2023Call of the wild
Country Homes & Interiors
November 2022Prospect-refuge theory
Living Etc.
March 202225 of the best autumn getaways
The Times
November 2024Good manors
Condé Nast Traveller
November 2024Ways to improve your life—from our experts
The Times
October 2024The UK´s most relaxing riverside stays
The Times
October 2024At one with nature
25 Beautiful Homes
September 2024
Collections > Couples´ Retreats > Republic of Ireland > County Kerry > Glenbeigh > Limehouse Cottage
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Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
