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

A white house with a stone wall in front, under a night sky with visible stars and a pinkish aurora.
A window with a wooden sign reading "Zeachin" and a vase with flowers.
A cozy room with a stone wall, a fireplace, a wooden table, and a window with flowers.
A stone wall leading to a white building with a yellow door, a potted plant, and a view of the landscape.
A room with a red sofa, a yellow door, and a stone wall.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area

Highlights

  • Beach, waves and sand
    Guests enjoy the stunning beach views at this property.
  • Games
    A rare find - enjoy a variety of games available on-site.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.

Popular amenities

  • Patio
  • Dog-friendly
  • Toys
  • Refrigerator
  • Internet
  • Dryer

Explore the area

View map
Downings, Co. Donegal
  • Place, Downings Bay Beach
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Sandy Hills Golf Course
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Place, Carrigart Beach
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Airport, Donegal (CFN)
    ‪71 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

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

Add dates for prices

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  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
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About the area

Downings

Located in Downings, this cottage is in a rural area and by the sea. Sandy Hills Golf Course and Dunfanaghy Golf Club 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. Gartan Outdoor Adventure Centre and Letterkenny Regional Cultural Centre are also worth visiting. Scuba diving and waterskiing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain biking and horse riding nearby.
View more Cottages in DowningsOpens in a new window
Map
Downings, Co. Donegal

What's nearby

  • Downings Bay Beach - 8 min drive - 5.5 km
  • Sandy Hills Golf Course - 10 min drive - 6.7 km
  • Carrigart Beach - 10 min drive - 7.1 km
  • Carrigart Riding Stables - 11 min drive - 8.4 km
  • Marble Hill Strand - 35 min drive - 32.0 km

Getting around

  • Letterkenny (LTR-Letterkenny Airfield) - 53 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Patsy Dan's - ‬29 min drive
  • ‪The Rusty Oven - ‬25 min drive
  • ‪The Singing Pub - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪The Olde Glen Bar - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Starfish Cafe - ‬29 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.

How much does it cost to stay at An Irish Idyll - traditional stonewall cottage nestled in hills above Downings?

As of 13 Nov 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at An Irish Idyll - traditional stonewall cottage nestled in hills above Downings on 21 Mar 2027 start from NZ$1,191, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at An Irish Idyll - traditional stonewall cottage nestled in hills above Downings?

On-site parking is available at the property.

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 is 4.2 mi (6.7 km) away.

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. 149 out of 165 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 14 out of 165 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 165 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 165 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 165 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Stunning setting . Very traditional. We loved it. Drive is single lane and remote. Sea views exceptional. Suitable for those who love walking or cycling.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
My oh my. This wee cottage was better than I had hoped for. Simple in standing but plentiful in charm, the owner has done a wonderful job in not overcomplicating the property. It had everything we needed for our short break - but it is the spectacular setting with utterly incredible views that really sets this property apart. The heavy clouds in the ever changing sky, the absolute silence and the cool breeze - when it feels like the rest of Europe is burning - all lent themselves to a reset. It was breathtaking. Thank you so much for sharing your cottage William. We loved it.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cottage in Ireland

Very nice place to stay
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

8/10 Good

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

idyllic cottage

perfect, calm and romantic
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cottage

We enjoyed our stay in the cottage
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cottage is adorable. Very secluded. The road in/out takes some getting used to. Very narrow
Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

6/10 Okay

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

Lovely remote old cottage

Its remote, which we like.Kitchen/diner fine for a small group. Stove and radiator worked well to heat the room.Double beds were a bit too small and mattresses were very soft, so not that comfortable.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

8/10 Good

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Absolutely Perfect!

What a wonderful weeklong stay for us. Teachin is a lovely traditional Irish cottage, snug and comfortably quaint though with all modern conveniences, well appointed kitchen, laundry, etc. Off the beaten path, remotely situated on a hillside overlooking the gorgeous Sheephaven Bay, yet just 10 minutes from the village of Downings with pubs, restaurants (Fisk!!), a leisure center with pool, beaches to explore, etc. Be sure to read through the history of the area provided by the owner. Great base from which to explore the beautiful Donegal area. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2019
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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
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