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A driveway leading to a white house with large windows surrounded by trees and bushes at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal Exterior view of a white house with blue doors and windows surrounded by plants and a paved driveway at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal Exterior of a white house with large windows and a garden path at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A sitting area with a white sofa and striped armchair around a glass coffee table near large windows and a skylight at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A dining area with a wooden table and chairs next to large windows and a sitting area with a sofa and armchair at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A dining area with wooden table and chairs next to blue framed windows and a mermaid statue at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A dining area with a wooden table and chairs a kitchen with white cabinets and a wooden ceiling and a small round table with flowers at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A dining area with wooden table and chairs flowers on a small table a piano with sheet music and a chair at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A living room with a piano and wooden furniture near a fireplace at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A living room with a sofa and cushions near large windows overlooking a garden and parking area at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A kitchen with wooden furniture and ceiling and flowers on a round table at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A kitchen and dining area with a wooden table and chairs a wooden cabinet white appliances and wooden ceiling at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A kitchen with wooden cabinets a white refrigerator a stove dishwasher and a wooden cupboard at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A kitchen dining area with wooden chairs tables a wooden cabinet and refrigerator at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A kitchen with white cabinets a stove a dishwasher a microwave a sink and a window at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A living room with a green sofa and a wooden fireplace with a mirror above at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A sitting room with green sofa and bookshelf beside a wooden fireplace and a wooden chair near a window at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A living room with green armchairs a wooden coffee table a fireplace and a television at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A living room with green armchairs a fireplace a wooden round table and a television at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A utility room with a sink washing machine and dryer next to an open door leading to a garden at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A bedroom with a blue bedspread wooden dresser blue rug and slanted wooden ceiling at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A bedroom with a wooden chest of drawers a bed a blue rug and an ensuite bathroom at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A bedroom with a wooden bed frame bedside tables with lamps a dresser and a window with a sloped wooden ceiling at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A bedroom with a wooden bed a large mirror a bedside table with a lamp a chair and framed pictures at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A bedroom with a bed with pillows and a red throw beside a wooden chair and a window at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A bedroom with a bed with decorative pillows and a red throw next to a wooden dresser with a lamp at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A hallway with a wooden ship wheel mounted on the wall and wooden door leading to a room at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A bedroom with a bed with pillows and a striped blanket a bedside table with a lamp and a framed picture on the wall at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A bedroom with a bed a wooden dresser a chair and a framed picture on the wall at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A bathroom with a bathtub sink toilet blue curtains and a shower at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A garden with various green plants and bushes overlooking a body of water and landscape at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A wooden deck with a round table covered by a blue tablecloth and two wooden chairs surrounded by shrubs and a lake in the background at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal An outdoor wooden deck with chairs and a table covered with a tablecloth overlooking a garden and a body of water at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal An outdoor seating area with four chairs around a table covered with a blue cloth and a lantern on the table overlooking greenery and water at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A landscape with water bodies and green vegetation at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A garden path with green bushes and flowering plants at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal A hammock tied between two trees on a grassy area in front of a white house at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal An outdoor wooden deck with chairs a table and a bench overlooking greenery and water at The Mermaid in Dungloe County Donegal

The Mermaid

(Ref. 1004550)

Dungloe, County Donegal Show on map

Customer rating 4.6

How reviews work

A property's star rating is the average of the star ratings received from guests that wish for their review to be published

Sykes rating

  • 8 Guests

  • 4 Bedrooms

  • 2 Bathrooms

  • Pets: Yes

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Open fire
  • Garden / Patio
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • mermaid (11)
  • house (11)
  • cottage (9)
  • location (9)
  • lovely (9)
  • beautiful (9)

24 Customer Reviews

  • "We enjoyed our stay at The Mermaid."

    The property was exactly as described. We were very comfortable, and it was a great central location for us to explore Donegal. My only suggestion would be to move the piano into one of the other rooms and add more seating to the lovely sitting area/dining room so as to maximize the relaxation space with the beautiful view. We would love to rent again.

    Reviewed by Colleen5.0★Sep 2025

  • "Breda was awesome!"

    ! Great house !!!!

    Reviewed by Jill5.0★Sep 2025

  • "This is a fabulous property."

    Loved everything about it: stunning views, bright and spacious living area, beautiful furnishings and details, the wild garden, the piano (!) and the beautiful mermaid theme throughout. There were 8 of us (family of 6 + 2 friends) and it never felt cramped, quite the opposite. The house felt like a haven after a day of touring beautiful Donegal! Caretaker Breda was also beyond lovely to deal with. The only minor thing below par was the main shower. Everything else far exceeded our expectations.

    Thank you for your lovely feedback, Annette. In particular, thank you for alerting me to the problem with the main shower - I hadn't realised it had got so "worn & torn". I have just finished replacing all the fittings, so it is now back up to standard. Maybe you'll return next year to confirm it is OK :) Property Owner

    Reviewed by Annette5.0★Jun 2024

  • "This was our second visit to The Mermaid and we love it."

    Our dog came with us on both occasions and we love the space it provides. I guess the only small issue is the steep wooden stairs but we are in our late fiftys have managed fine on them to date. No doubt we will be back in the future as we love the Dungloe area and coastline.

    Thank you for your lovely feedback. We are also in our late fifties, so we can compare notes about the stairs over the years :) There is a very good quality sofa bed in the downstairs snug that can be used for anyone who finds the stairs a challenge - just let us know in advance if you need it made up Property Owner

    Reviewed by Julie5.0★Apr 2024

  • "We loved the cottage had everything you would need the views were spectacular, only things that we were slightly disappointed in were lack of wardrobes in the bedrooms & also the stairs to upstairs were too steep for my elderly parents."

    Overall we had a fabulous holiday in the Mermaid Cottage & Breeda was excellent to deal with.

    Reviewed by Maria4.0★Jul 2023

  • "Really cute cottage just outside lovely Maghery."

    Breda, the caretaker took care of anything or answered questions right away. Stairs are tricky for sure. The beds are comfortable. I enjoyed my time at The Mermaid.

    Reviewed by Dana4.0★Apr 2023

  • "Lovely spacious property great views quiet ."

    Spotless . Garden well kept

    Reviewed by Garry5.0★Sep 2022

  • "The cottage was in a lovely location but the configuration of the house is not ..."

    The cottage was in a lovely location but the configuration of the house is not great the reason being the steepness of the stairs and the fact that three of the four upstairs bedrooms have to use the downstairs bathroom which to be fair was pointed out before we booked that apart beds were really comfortable the weather was more than kind and we had a really good holiday

    Reviewed by James3.0★Jul 2022

  • "Gorgeous cottage in Maghery."

    It had everything we needed, comfortable & clean. Perfect location close to beach, pub & local amenities in nearby Dungloe. We had a lovely relaxing holiday in our little Mermaid Cottage.

    Reviewed by Nicola5.0★Jul 2022

  • "Beautiful house everything you need clean comfy very homely"

    Reviewed by L4.0★Jun 2022

  • "Absolutely divine cottage, steep stairs which we knew about."

    Beautiful views and lovely to hear the cuckoo, something that’s been missing for too long.

    Reviewed by Christine4.0★May 2022

  • "What a lovely place to stay with everything you need for a stay - very clean, comfortable and well appointed, thank you and a perfect place to stay as I have family in the area."

    The big plus for me was this property was dog friendly which is very rare in this area - the two things that would make me score a 10/10 was some sort of gate - the house is very close to the road and my dog and (if you had kids) they would keep heading for the road so I had to constantly be outside watching. Also a mirror across the road to see traffic coming either way would really help drive out of a very blind driveway. Other than that it's a great place to stay and I will definately be back

    Reviewed by Catherine4.0★Apr 2022

  • "Beautiful house, well situated."

    Exceeded expectations.

    Reviewed by Fran5.0★Mar 2022

  • "Fabulous stay home from home and everything provided ."

    Only downside the stairs but had been made aware of this .Beautiful cottage and a pleasure to spend time in .

    Reviewed by Mark5.0★Oct 2021

  • "The Mermaid was fantastic, great location and hosted to an extremely high standard."

    Reviewed by Claire5.0★Jul 2021

  • "We had a fantastic week in The Mermaid."

    The house is fabulous and had everything and more we needed. A really perfect spot and the 10 min walk to the pub, coffee shop and beach was a winner as well.

    Reviewed by Valerie5.0★Jun 2021

  • "We loved the house and garden, spotlessly clean, comfortable living and sleeping and a magical garden."

    The location of the house is perfect for exploring the northern part of county Donegal and nearby beach a special bonus, as within walking distance (as is the pub!). All appliances for comfortable living available and we especially appreciated the washing line with a roof over it. The stairs in the house are steep, but this was advertised during booking information. We thought it might be useful to install a mirror at the exit of the driveway, as it is currently difficult to see the road when driving out. The landlords provided any information, books, maps, leaflets about the house, area and county Donegal, really appreciated (especially useful was the information about how to avoid being bitten by the midges that certainly were present in abundance in the garden). The care taker was available throughout the stay for answering any questions. Overall the perfect setting for a relaxing holiday and we hope to return to the Mermaid again.

    Reviewed by Christiane5.0★Jun 2021

  • "Fantastically comfortable cottage in a beautiful !"

    Location. The hosts were very obliging and real!y made sure we were comfortable.

    Reviewed by DerekDec 2020

  • "Loved the house and location."

    Quiet with beautiful scenery but enough amenities in nearby locations. Shame the pub was closed in Maghery but that was a Covid related closure. The cafe on beach front was excellent and there are toilets down there too. All in all I would love to go back again.

    Reviewed by JulieAug 2020

  • "The Mermaid cottage is a wonderful place to take a break in Donegal."

    It is beautifully presented and perfectly located being within a short stroll of a wonderful beach.

    Reviewed by DerekAug 2020

  • "Gorgeous house in a beautiful location."

    Reviewed by SineadAug 2020

  • "Great house in a great location."

    Reviewed by MeredithJul 2020

  • "Such a lovely peaceful place to relax & unwind."

    Stunning views across Maghery lough. If the sun shines it's an added bonus.

    Reviewed by GeraldJul 2020

  • "What should I write."

    ...We loved our stay at "The Mermaid". It's a fully equipped cottage in a quite area of Donegal with a superb beach in walking distance and great opportunities for hiking and cycling. So absolutely no party holiday. 4 nearly same size bedroom (one with en-suit bath with power shower), a living room with open fire and 2 sofa to relax, a working piano.... dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer.... The only thing we missed was a hair dryer, so bring yourself.

    Reviewed by SusanneJan 2020

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Summary

  • Four bedrooms: 1 x double with en-suite bath, shower over, WC and basin, 3 x double
  • 1 x double sofa bed in snug (linen not provided, guests can use at their own discretion)
  • Ground-floor bathroom with bath, separate walk-in shower, basin and WC
  • Kitchen/diner with woodburning stove
  • Utility
  • Sitting room with open fire
  • Snug
  • Oil central heating with 1 x open fire, 1 woodburning stove (fire in the snug cannot be used)
  • Washing machine, tumble dryer, microwave, dishwasher, electric oven and hob, fridge/freezer, TV and WiFi
  • Fuel and power inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Off-road parking for 2 cars
  • Decked garden with furniture and fire pit
  • One well-behaved pet welcome
  • Sorry, no smoking allowed
  • Note: No Stag/Hen parties or similar
  • Pub within 0.5 miles, shop within 3.6 miles
  • Please note: Stairs are steep and may not be suitable for persons with limited mobility

The property

Enjoying captivating views of Maghery Lough, the Atlantic Ocean and Arranmore Island on the outskirts of the bustling town of Dungloe is this old country house, The Mermaid.

This spacious accommodation has been designed with large groups in mind, perfect for a number of couples, friends and families seeking to explore Ireland’s rugged coastline and wild landscapes.

Look forward to hosting sociable evenings within the large kitchen/diner with surrounding windows filling the room with natural light and offering picturesque views of your surroundings.

The property is charming with a maritime theme throughout.

Fulfilling your culinary needs is the brightly decorated kitchen, where the designated chef of the group can rustle up a delicious evening meal that the entire family can enjoy together at the formal dining space.

The charm of this room is brought to life by the woodburning stove which rests next to a working piano, promising hours of entertainment during one winter’s evening.

Beyond here is the sitting room where an open fire awaits you and a TV for tuning into to unwind before heading to bed.

If you fancy an hour’s peace and quiet away from the rest of the group, head into the snug with a good book in hand or plan the next day’s adventure.

As the evening draws to a close, retire to the night’s embrace to one of the well-presented bedrooms each boasting plush double beds, ample storage for your belongings and a refreshing ambiance to wake up to each morning.

Look forward to enjoying morning coffee upon the decked area with furniture, where you can soak up the captivating views of the Lough and Ocean.

If you can tear yourself away from this wonderful base, head into Dungloe where a superb selection of amenities awaits you, with many pubs offering traditional Irish music to admire one evening.

From the property you are a short walk away from the beach which is safe for swimming and enjoys picturesque scenery.

Maghery village boasts a pub, a community centre, a sports field and a children’s play park, all within 5 minutes’ walk from the house.

Stunning cliff walks are available around Crohy Head above the village of Maghery.

For those feeling more adventurous, hop onto a boat from Burtonport harbour and travel to Arranmore and Rutland Island, or travel further afield to the Glenveagh National Park where a majestic landscape has reintroduced golden eagles into the skies.

The Mermaid is an outstanding base for a group gathering to this part of Ireland.

Property only accepts a minimum of 7 night stays

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of €300.

Where you’ll be staying

DUNGLOE, COUNTY DONEGAL

Arranmore Island 7.5 miles; Letterkenny 32 miles.

Up until 1762, entry into the town of Dungloe in Donegal was only possible via the stepping stones dotted over the river. Thankfully, now visitors from all over the world can take the much easier route over Donegal Bridge and enjoy this charming town in County Donegal with ease. Dungloe is known locally as 'The Capital of The Rosses', the name given to this region of the county. The town, which has become recognised as a centre for traditional Irish music, has a selection of shops, bars and eating places, as well as events taking place throughout the year, including the annual 'Mary from Dungloe' festival. A fisherman's paradise, the area has over 130 lakes and rivers and is renowned for its fishing and great sea angling, with several charter boats available in nearby Burtonport, from where diving can also be enjoyed. There are also daily boat trips from the harbour to Arranmore and Rutland Island. Wonderful wildlife can be found in the bogs and reed beds, while golfers will love the variety of golf courses found in the surrounding area. With hills and mountains to explore, the dramatic coastline to enjoy and so much to see and do, this is sure to make the perfect base for your Donegal holiday.

Please note: Stairs are steep and may not be suitable for persons with limited mobility

Flexible cancellation terms

If you cancel before 12 noon , get all of your money back:

  • Rent
  • Extras
  • Fees

excluding the Flexible Cancellation fee and any insurance premium.

There are a small number of circumstances where you can’t use Flexible Cancellation. See the Flexible Cancellation Terms that apply.