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Sun Room with views of ocean/sea and our rural landscape. Ever Changing Skies!

Extensive Dining Area with spectacular views.

Sun Room looking out to the Wild Atlantic Way and Knocknarea Mountain.

Overview
Rooms
Location
Policies

Exceptional

Popular amenities

Kitchen

Free WiFi

Check-in time

3:30 PM

Check-out time

11:00 AM

Explore the area

Ballinfull, Sligo

Lissadell House7 min drive
Voya Seaweed Baths23 min drive
Strandhill Beach42 min drive

Most relevant reviews

10/10 Excellent

A comfortable well equipped and spacious bungalow with outstanding views of Silgo Bay. The property was very clean, duri...

michael O.

Nov 7, 2023

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Double Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Outdoor play area

Garden

Dining Area

About this property

STUNNING 4 bed, 2 bath big, bright farmhouse. Spectacular Sea/Mountain views.

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 (tractor rides, feeding calves, etc.). If you would like fresh lobster, just let us know and we will make arrangements with local fishermen. 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/

Nearby Beaches within 10 minutes): Yellow Strand (Tra Bui); Streedagh Beach; Lissadell Beach.

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!

Property manager

Mary and Desmond Carway

Premier Host

Languages

English, French, German

Amenities

Free WiFi

Luxury Vacation Rental. Exclusively yours along the Wild Atlantic Way

Ocean view

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

House Rules

Check in after 3:30 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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

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

This property uses a grey water recycling system and eco-friendly cleaning products

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Ballinful

Located in Ballinful, this farm stay 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. Water tubing and windsurfing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain climbing and ecotours nearby.

Ballinfull, Sligo

What's nearby

Lissadell House - 7 min drive
Voya Seaweed Baths - 23 min drive
Strandhill Golf Club - 23 min drive
Knocknarea - 26 min drive
Strandhill Beach - 42 min drive

Getting around

Sligo Mac Diarmada Station - 26 min drive
Knock (NOC-Ireland West) - 69 min drive

Restaurants

‪Honestly Farm Kitchens - ‬27 min drive
‪Shells Cafe - ‬27 min drive
‪Resurrection Coffee / No Reservation Pizza - ‬25 min drive
‪Sunny Brees - ‬24 min drive
‪The Little Cottage Cafe - ‬18 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is STUNNING 4 bed, 2 bath big, bright farmhouse. Spectacular Sea/Mountain views. pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this 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 farm stay 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).

Exceptional

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

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Debbie H.

20 May 2024

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

A Month In Ireland

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.

Stayed 28 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

D R.

20 May 2024

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

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.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

michael O.

7 Nov 2023

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

An amazing holiday in a great location

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

Stayed 21 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

28 Aug 2023

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

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.

Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

James M.

18 Aug 2023

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

Nailed it it!

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

Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne B.

7 Aug 2023

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

Didn't want to leave

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.

Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth M.

31 July 2023

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

Family trip to explore our Irish roots

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!!

Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie F.

22 July 2023

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

Wonderful Stay!

We stayed with our two teens for 6 days and I cannot begin to describe how much my family enjoyed our time at this beautiful property. Mary and Des are exceptional hosts and will welcome you warmly, and go above and beyond to meet your needs and ensure that your vacation is exactly what you want it to be. The home is immaculate, the views from nearly every room are lovely and there is just something magical about the area. Whether you want to just rest and read a book, walk the beach or cliffs, venture into the lovely town of Sligo, or drive to Slieve League for the day, The Herder's House is the perfect home base. Sligo is an easy drive and grocery is about 15 min. This is a place to restore, explore, and connect. I have been back for two weeks and still miss it. They also own The Sea Barn across the street which is absolutely gorgeous for a large group stay and is fully accessible. Thank you Mary and Des for giving our family an unforgettable holiday. We will be back!

Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

kevin z.

20 May 2023

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

Ocean view and cows too!!

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!!

Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carol D., Harrison

6 May 2023

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

Highlight of our Ireland Excursion

If you want to travel into the past and see Ireland the way it used to be, then this is the place to stay. The sun slowly rises over the local mountains; the owner will tell you the name of any mountain you point to and the ancient tale that accompanies it. The light is ever-changing: mist and scuttling clouds cast shadows against the mountains, the bay and the fields. There is something magical about this spot. We have stayed in many rentals, but this above the rest. We enjoyed long walks on quiet country roads where lush green fields, misty mountains, and choppy bay waves were always in sight. Des and Mary, the owners, let us explore the fairy fort on the property and showed us the walking trails along ocean cliffs. The meticulous modern house is spacious, well-lit, with spectacular views from most windows. The large kitchen is furnished with quality dishes, glasses and cookware. We were able to prepare wonderful meals. The bathrooms are clean and generous in size. The bedrooms are large and comfortable. The hosts are more than hospitable and knowledgeable. They tell you where to find traditional Irish music at a local pub, the best restaurants, and where to pick up basic items. Situated overlooking Sligo Bay, the house is minutes from Yeats’ tomb, Ben Bulben, close to ancient passage burial tombs older than the pyramids (5-6 thousand years old), and local waterfalls. The town of Sligo is just 30 minutes away. Amazing place!

Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gerald P.

8 Oct 2022

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

Greatest

Des and Mary were amazing hosts we were allowed to look through the the sea barn conversion it is unbelievable if you have special needs family or friends it has everything you could possibly require we will be back we in the herdsmen house perfect for a grope of

Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

David G., Richmond, Virginia, USA

31 Aug 2022

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

Perfect Getaway

We stayed in this house for one week in August 2022 . There were eight of us, so a big group! The house was perfect with four bedrooms and two bathrooms. It was spotlessly clean, beds comfy, good working kitchen and laundry facility (washer/dryer, clothes line) The house was very comfortable with absolutely beautiful views, especially from the sunroom. We had wonderful walks each day both on the beach and around Raghly headland on a pedestrian walk encountering magnificent views at every turn. Although a little out of the way we became quickly familiar with the winding roads and were only short drives to the various and wonderful attractions of Sligo. Our hosts Mary and Dessie lived next door, were around to answer all our queries. I would definitely recommend this home and I hope to one day return.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Andreas R.

20 Aug 2022

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

Klasse!

Desmond & Marie waren jederzeit bereit zu helfen. Die Gegend ist traumhaft für alle, die abschalten wollen :-)

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sean C.

13 Aug 2022

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

Perfect Getaway Vacation

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!

Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Rodney M.

7 Aug 2022

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

Perfect destination

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.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

James T.

25 July 2022

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

Perfect Ireland vacation

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!

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan S.

13 July 2022

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

Heavenly Stay in Sligo

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.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Odis H.

2 July 2022

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

RELAXING FAMILY VACATION

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!!

Stayed 16 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mike C.

22 Mar 2022

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

Relaxing and fun break

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.

Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lottie H.

30 Dec 2021

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

Wonderful Christmas break

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.

Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Carl C.

23 Oct 2021

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

A Heavenly Slice of Coastal Farmland

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.

Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2021

8/10 Good

Patricia F.

7 Aug 2021

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

Unique stay with friendly family host

Hosts were family living next door to house and were very approachable about where to visit and places to eat. They made sure we knew about lots of hidden gems on their doorstep and went above and beyond to make sure we had a memorable week. The house itself is quite dated but well stocked. Remote location. 10 min drive to supermarket. 20-30 min drive to Rosses point, Mullaghmore, Bundoran, Sligo town. Had access to stony beach across the road for part of the week. Lovely to walk with Benbulbin in the distance.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Martina O.

30 July 2021

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

A lovely stay in Sligo

We had a very enjoyable stay at this property, it was super clean & had everything we needed & beds were really comfy. The kids loved all the space both inside & outside. The owners are so friendly and accommodating. Beautiful sea views and a lovely walkway down to the beach in front of the house. Would definitely recommend.

Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Rosaleen O.

29 July 2021

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

Rest and relaxation with Dessie and Mary.

Comfortable 4 bed house with 2 bathrooms that suited our family perfectly. Views to die for, walks on the beach or beaches as there were a few within walking distance of the house. Short drive to shops restaurants ,pharmacy and take away. Very scenic area with plenty to do. Mary and Dessie take their jobs seriously and were very covid aware. They were on tap if we needed any help or information about the area. We were really happy with our stay there. A spotless house with all mod cons and plenty of space for 7 people.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lisa M.

6 July 2021

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

Amazing location with the most wonderful hosts

This was our first-time visiting Sligo & it surpassed all our expectations. The location of the house suited our family perfectly. It was breathtakingly beautiful, quite, & gave us access to fishing & beaches at any time of the day. The hosts really made the visit more incredible. They were so kind & generous with their hospitality & knowledge of the area. We will miss the very entertaining stories and look forward to returning again. The house was extremely well equipped & had everything you'd need for a family vacation. Thank you for giving us such memorable holiday in a wonderful part of Ireland.

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021

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, my 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 it 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 and/or sheep often embark on a session of playing and dancing.

What makes this property unique

Experience farming life for a day, a week or just a few hours every day - whatever suits your fancy.

Moving cattle and/or sheep from one field to another can be tricky but also lots of craic. Walking over the road moving cattle or stopping in sheep is an interesting adventure. Sometimes the animals (calves, cows, sheep or lambs) escape, which adds to the excitement. Even if you cannot participate in the movement of cattle/sheep, 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.

If the weather suits, we will cut a crop of grass to try to get some bales of hay. The smell and texture of the cut grass as it turns to hay is intriguing for both young and old.

It may be possible to have a short boat trip about the bay - depends on the availability of the skipper as well as tides, weather and sea conditions. Often some of the leisure fishermen will drop in a few mackerel depending on their catch! We have a unique relationship with the harbour and its amenities.