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Lough Island Reavy Cottage

(Ref. 1011860)

Kilcoo, Mourne Mountains, Newry, County Down, County Down Show on map

5.0

Sykes rating

  • 2 Guests

  • 1 Bedroom

  • 1 Bathroom

  • Pets No

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Ground floor accommodation
  • Ground floor bedroom
  • Open fire
  • Garden / Patio
  • Washing machine
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • cottage (59)
  • philomena (31)
  • everything (31)
  • welcome (31)
  • beautiful (30)
  • views (26)

66 Customer Reviews

  • "Very nice cottage in a beautiful location."

    We had a wonderful week. I've made some suggestions to the owner Philomena to improve guests' stay even more. E.g new knives, chopping board, microwave dishes etc. We've already recommended the cottage to our friends.

    Reviewed by BeverleyMar 2024

  • "We really enjoyed our stay!"

    Great peaceful location | Rural but easily accessible | Amazing friendly hosts Thank you so much!

    Reviewed by RuthDec 2023

  • "Beautiful cottage, well equipped kitchen, stunning views, friendly hosts, ..."

    Beautiful cottage, well equipped kitchen, stunning views, friendly hosts, perfect relaxing holiday, looking at returning very soon

    Reviewed by PaulOct 2023

  • "This is the 2nd time we have stayed at the cottage and my Wife and I absolutely loved our stay and everything was perfect."

    The cottage is kept in a beautiful condition with all amenities provided for a very happy and comfortable stay. 10 out of 10!

    Reviewed by WilliamSep 2023

  • "Wonderful property, stunning location!"

    Philomena was a lovely host, we were met with a warm welcome, ensuring everything was covered. Nothing was too much and we appreciated the extra touches on arrival, really made a difference. Will return!

    Reviewed by HelenSep 2023

  • "Lovely welcome from Philomena."

    Wine,chocs,milk and eggs much appreciated gifts. Cottage was absolutely spotless with everything you would need. Beautiful views across the lake to mountains. Within easy reach to visit lots of places. Good WiFi too. I couldn't fault anything about this lovely cottage.

    Reviewed by MarionAug 2023

  • "My wife and I had a very enjoyable stay at this cosy cottage."

    Philomena was the perfect hostess and catered for our every need. The welcome pack was a lovely thought which just put the cherry on top of the cake with the icing. Everything you need for a holiday is provided in this excellent wee gem stone of a holiday home. We definitely plan to return. Thank you Philomena for your kind and thoughtful help in making this holiday so much better. Best regards Bruce & Bev.

    Reviewed by BruceAug 2023

  • "This has to be one of the best cottages we’ve ever stayed in; the location is stunning with unbroken views of the Mournes over the lough, so peaceful with nothing to hear other than birdsong and the occasional moo."

    The cottage itself is a joy with everything you need provided including a welcome pack with wine and chocs. The bed is really comfortable and the shower is great. Nearby there is so much to do if you love the outdoors; Tollymore and Castlewellan Forest Parks are a great place to warm up for some great walking in the Mournes. There’s some good NT places nearby and lots of good places to eat too. To cap it off what a wonderful host Philomena is - it’s great to be welcomed to a property rather than opening the key safe and wondering where things are.

    Reviewed by PeterAug 2023

  • "A warm welcome awaits your at this beautiful well equipped cottage."

    The peaceful, tranquil setting with the picturesque Mourne Mountains as a backdrop are truly stunning. . A short drive takes you to neighbouring towns which have everything you’ll need. A great place to relax

    Reviewed by NeilJul 2023

  • "We were given a warm welcome by the owner."

    The cottage met all our expectations. It was well equipped, spotlessly clean and comfortable. In a rural setting, with spectacular views of the Mourne Mountains it was an ideal place to chill out yet it was also within easy reach of other areas of interest.

    Reviewed by DavidJul 2023

  • "There are some who might measure this property simply by the square foot or square metre but if they do then they are missing entirely the essence of the place and the absolute glory of the surroundings."

    Bijou certainly but in no way confining. Compact yes; but just as work expands to fill the available time, this place expands far beyond the measure of its walls. it lifts the spirit, calms the mind and allows the crowding cares of this world to fade to the absolute insignificance they really are. Amazing care and attention that has been given to every aspect of the cottage, it wanted nothing by way of amenity and frankly the high quality of every appliance, every utensil and every material thing echoed the care, attention to detail and even love the owners have lavished on every single aspect of this cottage. If you are wanting a place of peace and a place of reflection you could not find better; you can have your solitude, however; within ten minutes you have the bustle of the nearby market town or within twenty minutes the exuberance and excitement of a very Irish but very cosmopolitan seaside resort. One final note ‘The Owners’; are quite a delight and only regret was that due to our ferry timings we were not able to personally express our gratitude before we were forced reluctantly to depart. Now home we have had time to reflect on our good fortune! Serendipity some might say showed us the road to Lough Island Reavy Cottage but we think perhaps and maybe it was something more.

    Reviewed by IanJun 2023

  • "What a perfect base for getting away from it all, yet, 5 mins drive away from the local shop and a further minute from the pub/ restuarant."

    The views of the mountains of Mourne are stunning and we both felt to lucky to have chosen this cottage. My husband tried his hand at sheep herding one day at a nearby farm whilst out walking. The farmer offered him fresh eggs in return. Win, win. This cottage won't disappoint!

    Reviewed by KeithJun 2023

  • "An exceptional property in a beautiful location with helpful and friendly owners."

    I wouldn't hesitate to book this cottage again.

    Reviewed by PaulJun 2023

  • "This well appointed lovely cottage is in such a beautiful location, enhanced by a kind and attentive host."

    Together, these things made for a happy and memorable holiday! All in all a very comfortable and enjoyable experience.

    Reviewed by DavidJun 2023

  • "Small and perfectly formed."

    A very comfortable, well equipped and beautifully appointed cottage, with a stunning view. Quiet, rural location, but access to local facilities and visitor attractions are within easy reach. A very warm and generous welcome from our host.

    Reviewed by SusanMay 2023

  • "Beautiful cottage with everything you might need, plus a welcome pack including some fantastic eggs."

    Plus great views. A great base to visit the surrounding countryside with some great mountain walks. Would recommend.

    Reviewed by PhilippaMay 2023

  • "The cottage was so comfortable and cosy, immaculately clean and tastefully presented throughout."

    Situated in a quiet peaceful location but handy to access all attractions in Northern Ireland. Would highly recommend to anyone wishing to stay in the area.

    Reviewed by AlanApr 2023

  • "A warm friendly welcome received from Philomena on our arrival."

    A beautiful cottage in a perfect location. Would highly recommend this property for anyone seeking peace and quiet but not too far from amenities.

    Reviewed by MichaelApr 2023

  • "We really enjoyed our stay."

    The cottage was clean, well organised and wonderfully relaxing. The views are marvellous and we certainly made the most of it. Castlewellan, just down the road, had everything you might need and the locals were very friendly. Philomena met us at the cottage and her local knowledge was invaluable. I would recommend Lough Reavey Cottage to anyone. We are keen to return. Thank you!

    Reviewed by AdrianApr 2023

  • "Lough Island Reavy Cottage was an absolutely lovely base to explore the Mourne Mountains and surrounding areas."

    The cottage has gorgeous views of the hills and everything you'll need for a fabulous holiday. Would highly recommend!

    Reviewed by KathleenApr 2023

  • "We spent 4 days at Lough Island Reavy Cottage in January 2023 and it was a lovely experience."

    The cottage was exactly as described, beautifully decorated, warm and cosy, with all the amenities available and working. Netflix streaming was a bonus for cosy nights in , and WiFi was superb as I had to work remotely for one of the days. Set in beautiful country side with breath taking views of the Mountains and surrounding landscape. It is a beautiful escape for a quite romantic break for any couple.

    Reviewed by PatJan 2023

  • "Excellent facilities"

    Reviewed by SimonSep 2022

  • "Lough Island Reavy Cottage is a lovely old cottage which has been renovated to a high standard."

    It is situated in a relatively remote area, surrounded by scenic farm land, with spectacular views overlooking Lough Reavy to the Mourne Mountains beyond, yet within easy reach of Belfast and Giants Causeway in the north. There are also plentiful walks, places of interest and attractive small towns nearby. The cottage itself is very picturesque and has everything we were looking for in a holiday cottage. It is very clean, comfortable, well furnished and equipped. The owners, Philomena and Joe were exceptionally friendly and helpful, keen to ensure that we had absolutely everything we needed. They provided an extremely generous selection of essentials and treats (milk, eggs, bread, wine, chocolates and more) on our arrival which was much appreciated. The cottage has a log burner and a very plentiful supply of logs, as well as central heating. We would highly recommend it and would certainly love to return if we are holidaying in the area in the future.

    Reviewed by IanSep 2022

  • "Lough Island Reavy Cottage was ideal for our holiday."

    The owner was very welcoming and friendly and went out of her way to meet us at the property. The cottage was perfect for 2 and had everything we needed. Would definitely recommend it.

    Reviewed by DonnaAug 2022

  • "We were blown away by this cottage!"

    Everything was perfect and spotlessly clean. The welcome pack gifts of milk, eggs, butter, bread, wine, coffee pods and chocolates (Ferrero Rocher, yum) were unexpected but so thoughtful and generous. Our host Philomena, as others have all said, is so welcoming and helpful. My only tiny issue would be that I would have preferred a summer duvet as the weather was so hot, but that’s a minor point. We need to come back in winter as I reckon it would be so cosy. The cottage is dressed beautifully and the space well thought out for holiday use. We loved the drive way up to the cottage and the views over the reservoir & the mountains is just the best you will get anywhere. The local pub, Old Tom’s Bar in Castlewellan is wonderful. A “real” pub, with friendly staff and locals. We felt very welcome and will definitely return next time we stay at the cottage. Absolutely can’t wait to return to this lovely area and in particular this lovely wee cottage. If I could buy this place I would in a flash but Philomena won’t sell, can’t say I blame you! Thanks again for a wonderful stay.

    Reviewed by AlisonAug 2022

  • "This property was perfect."

    It was thoroughly clean with good facilities and a lovely welcome pack. We were greeted by Philomena, the owner, on arrival, and had a message mid-stay to check all was well. The location was perfect, in easy reach of the Mourne mountains, the coast and only 50 minutes from Belfast too.

    Reviewed by SteveJul 2022

  • "We are lucky enough to get away to quite a few holiday cottages and I must say this is one of the nicest we have stayed in."

    A really lovely welcome from the owners. Everything you will need for a week away is there. I know that the weather can't always be guaranteed, but we were lucky and sitting outside overlooking the lough and the Mournes really couldn't be a nicer view. For those that like hill walking this cottage is ideally placed and for those that are less keen, Newcastle and the beaches are just down the road. A great stay.

    Reviewed by GaryJul 2022

  • "A lovely property set in beautiful countryside with stunning views of the Mountains of Mourne."

    The owner of the property was warm and welcoming and nothing was too much trouble as she had thought of everything her guests would need. The facilities and cleanliness of the property were second to none and made for a very comfortable holiday. We would highly recommend this gorgeous little cottage to anyone lucky enough to visit Northern Ireland.

    Reviewed by AlisonJun 2022

  • "It's all about the view."

    It's as good as the photos with a panorama of the Mountains of Mourne, sit out the back and enjoy. The cottage is modern inside and renovated to a high standard. Philomena (and her twin) is local and super hospitable. All on one level so is ideal for those with less than perfect mobility. Rural hideaway with all the luxury.

    Reviewed by RichardJun 2022

  • "This is a stunning cottage with a great view of the Mourne Mountains."

    The cottage was spotlessly clean and had all the necessary requirements for a great holiday. We regularly sat outside and listened and viewed the wildlife, including a Red Kite which flew directly over our heads while we had coffee. Philomena was a great host and greeted us on arrival and checked in with us during the week to see if we needed anything.

    Reviewed by RonnieJun 2022

  • "The owner was very attentive to our needs."

    The cottage is very clean and comfortable and warm has everything we needed for a self catering holiday. The setting Is beautiful above the Lough and in front of the mountains.We have stayed in about six cottages in Ireland and this one is the best so far.

    Reviewed by TeresaMay 2022

  • "A lovely, comfortable cottage overlooking the lake."

    It is a great base for exploring the area; we even drove up to the Giant's Causeway because it isn't that far away. Really relaxing place and thanks to our host Philomena who showed us around. Definitely recommended.

    Reviewed by RichardMay 2022

  • "I had a lovely relaxing week and thoroughly enjoyed it."

    The cottage was really comfortable with great facilities. And the scenery is beautiful with the Lough as a backdrop. A welcome pack was provided which was very thoughtful - a bottle of wine, chocolates, eggs, Wheaton bread and milk. I would highly recommend a stay at this cottage.

    Reviewed by BarbaraApr 2022

  • "The cottage was a wonderful haven to come back to after busy days exploring NI."

    Philomena was welcoming and attentive during the week . We had a fantastic holiday

    Reviewed by MandyApr 2022

  • "Really lovely cottage in a quiet area overlooking the lake."

    Amazing views! Top class shower! We loved the log burner. Also the welcome package was a very pleasant surprise. Very friendly owners! Would recommend to visit Tollymore Park for some lovely walks. Hope to be back soon!

    Reviewed by SusanneMar 2022

  • "The location, attention to detail and cleanliness of the cottage was exceptional."

    The cottage was warm and cosy and had everything we needed. The wood burning stove was a real treat and the view from the cottage was beautiful. We would highly recommend this cottage to others.

    Reviewed by CatherineFeb 2022

  • "This is a perfect cottage for a country getaway, perfectly renovated, perfectly situated and perfectly managed by Philomena."

    The restoration of the cottage is done immaculately, and really is spectacular, leaving you with a cosy, warm, modern yet traditional cottage to stay in. The bathroom is very high quality and the kitchen is too. The log burner is a great touch and heats the place in no time. Philomena was a fantastic host, leaving us a bottle of wine and some chocolates. The place was also decorated with fantastic Christmas decorations as was the time of year. I would thoroughly recommend this cottage to anyone.

    Reviewed by TomDec 2021

  • "The cottage was beautiful."

    Felt like I was staying in a little piece of luxury in such a perfect setting. I was greeted with great hospitality from the hosts. They left a welcome hamper and some food supplies which I was delighted to use throughout the trip. All the ammenities were easy to use - hot water/heating/ stove. The cottage retained good heat and I never felt cold! Perfect location for visiting Castwellan Park or hiking Slieve Bernagh or Hares Head. Great little retreat to come back to and relax!!

    Reviewed by EmmaDec 2021

  • "Philomena was extremely hospitable, meeting us at the cottage, and giving us some starter provisions as well as a bottle of wine."

    She’d also left lots of household supplies, so we weren’t short of anything. Philomena checked up on us mid week to make sure everything was ok, which was also kind.

    Reviewed by NickyOct 2021

  • "Everything was wonderful."

    The cottage was well equipped with everything we needed for the most comfortable stay. The most beautiful scenery and views of the Mourne mountains from the garden. It was very kind of the owner Philomena to provide us with a pack including bread milk and bottle of wine. She also met us at the cottage to welcome us and supplied very helpful information about the local attractions and directed to us to the local supermarket and chippy - just what we needed after a long journey. 10 out of 10. We would love to return in the future. William & Mariola

    Reviewed by WilliamSep 2021

  • "Beautifully well presented cottage with all the amenities you need,cosy and relaxing after a day's walk,situated in an idyllic setting overlooking the Loch."

    Easy access to Castlewellan and Tollymore forest and the seaside Town of Newcastle .Thank you to Philamena for the welcome pack of essentials after a long journey.Overall a 5* holiday.

    Reviewed by TonyAug 2021

  • "The most beautiful cottage in a quiet rural setting with views to the mountains."

    A real relaxing break. Our host Philomena was gracious and helpful and left an unexpected welcome pack. Will certainly recommend this cottage to family and friends

    Reviewed by PhyllisAug 2021

  • "A 5 Star Cottage which is rare."

    Small cottage but excellent use of space. The plot size is massive and has lovely views over fields to the reservoir. Perfectly clean with modern facilities and fibre broadband at 150mbps is unheard of. Having said that there is no mobile phone signal as you have to go down the lane.

    Reviewed by DarrenJul 2021

  • "The cottage was amazing."

    my host was kind & thoughtful. The scenery amazing. I loved everything

    Reviewed by SusanJul 2021

  • "Flawless. Stunning location ."

    Stunning views. The cleanest place we've ever witnessed. Romantic getaway. Has everything you could need and more. Not left wanting for anything. Very welcoming friendly host. 5 star everything! Fantastic! We will be returning soon :)

    Reviewed by RickieJul 2021

  • "Philomena could not have been more accommodating!"

    The cottage was super clean and the fittings are of high quality. Surrounded by fields and cows we really enjoyed the tremendous views across the lough. Highly recommend staying there, 5 stars from us! Karen and Ed

    Reviewed by KarenJul 2021

  • "Beautiful location and great views of the lough and mountains beyond."

    The best in over fifteen years of self-catering holidays! Welcome pack including wine very much appreciated after long journey. Friendly, helpful hosts who met us on our late arrival from England. Everything we needed was there. Enjoyed wonderful weather with walks in the Mourne mountains including the climb to the peak of Slieve Donard, the scenic coastal Lecale Way and Tollymore forest. Local shops supplied us with all our provisions. The Balti house in Newcastle excellent. Didn't want to leave! Thank you so much Philomena and Joe!

    Reviewed by Katherine AnneJun 2021

  • "This was our second Sykes cottage."

    It was excellent in every regard. The facilities in the cottage were all that are required for a week’s active holiday. The outlook to the fishing lake and the Mourne Mountains is fantastic and changes every minute. We enjoyed good weather, bar on day. Our activities included Tollymore Forest Park (highly recommended), a picnic and walk on the Murlough Beach and Nature Reserve, climbing Slieve Donard from the Bloody Bridge car park, walking the coastal paths, a visit to Carlingford with dinner in Diamonds at Warrenpoint and finally half a day at the fabulous Mount Stewart House and gardens. The cottage is beautifully maintained by Philomea and Jo McCann and is 5* in every respect.

    Reviewed by AndrewJun 2021

  • "Beautiful cottage with amazing views of the Mournes."

    Very peaceful and quiet. We absolutely loved sitting out in the evening watching the sun set with a glass of wine in hand. The cottage itself is fantastic with everything you could need. Clean, good wifi, fantastic shower. The welcome pack was very much appreciated. We can't thank Philomena and Joe enough for their hospitality and cant wait to come back.

    Reviewed by KevinJun 2021

  • "What a beautiful, peaceful little haven Lough Island Reavy Cottage is!"

    Well equipped, cosy, hot, powerful shower, much needed after a hike in the Mournes. Castlewellan and Newcastle virtually a stones throw away, and of course, stunning Tollymore Forest. Sat every night looking out at the mountains with a glass of wine with the cows for company, bliss! The welcome hamper made a perfect start to our break, and just one of the many thoughtful touches provided by Philomena and Joe. We shall definitely return.

    Reviewed by RobertMay 2021

  • "My wife and I really enjoyed our 3 day stay at Lough Island Reavy Cottage."

    The tranquil settings - views of the lough and mountains (couldn't ask for more bbqing in the evenings) and the general silence interrupted primarily by sheep and cows took us far away from the normal hustle and bustle of every day life. The cosy cottage with a log burning fire has all you need. Just like the Terminator - I'll be back

    Reviewed by RichardMay 2021

  • "Superb small cottage, clean, comfortable and warm."

    Host was very welcoming and on arrival a nice welcome package was waiting. 10 minutes to Castlewellan and in close proximity to Mourne Mountains for hiking trails. Views stunning. South racing rear of house. WiFi speed and connectivity good. Highly recommended. Property a credit to the owners.

    Reviewed by CatherineApr 2021

  • "Amazingly cosy cottage in beautiful settings."

    This trip away was just what we needed in current circumstances. Philomena and Joe had thought of everything we could need, from essentials like milk and eggs for our breakfast, to an ample supply of firewood. They even left the heating and lights on for when we arrived which was a really nice touch. We were worried we’d be cold on this trip but the cottage was really cosy and easy to heat. We’d definitely recommend this cottage and area to anyone wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle for a few nights!

    Reviewed by AmberOct 2020

  • "Very comfortable."

    Very clean. Philomena keen to do everything possible to ensure we had great holiday. Met us when we arrived and checked again during the week if we had everything we needed. Several lovely Forest Parks with well signposted walks in the area. Local people full of smiles and waves. All that and a great variety of good quality cooked food to take away in Rathfriland .

    Reviewed by KaySep 2020

  • "This wee cottage has it all inside and out very quiet location for relaxing and taken it easy great views of mountains and lough beautiful scenery of fields all around and mostly cows as neighbours great location for hill walks fishing and the beach lovely hosts 100% great welcome cottage is immaculate log burning fire is great."

    thanks again. GRMA.

    Reviewed by CiaranSep 2020

  • "What a fabulous cottage and location, beautiful views, everything we wanted for our walking trip trip the Mournes."

    Very nice greeting from Philomena and Joe, welcome bottle of wine for us, butter, milk, bread and eggs which was very thoughtful. Even the weather was great and loved the friendly cows next door ! Jeremy & Helen

    Reviewed by JeremySep 2020

  • "The location is spectacularly beautiful in all directions and tranquil."

    The cottage is immaculate, very comfortable, stylish, fitted to the highest standard and very generously and thoughtfully stocked. Philomena's warm welcome when we arrived was greatly appreciated and it is obvious that she cares very much about her guests. We particularly enjoyed a beautiful circular walk every morning from the cottage as well as exploring further afield. We have every intention of returning.

    Reviewed by DavidAug 2020

  • "Beautiful cottage in a stunning location"

    Reviewed by DeborahAug 2020

  • "Philomena and Joe's cottage was remarkable."

    They have really thought of everything that you could possibly need. Its a small cottage but beautifully designed to make use of every inch of space. The shower was fantastic, better than any hotel I have stayed in. The kitchen was well equipped , everything was very high quality. The cottage is surrounded by the most beautiful scenery and felt very safe with Storm Ellen raging outside! Location wise, it was perfect, everything we wanted to visit was within a half hour drive. It was lovely to be welcomed by Philomena on arrival and shown around, it was also lovely to have essentials in the fridge on arrival. Can highly recommend Lough Island Reavy Cottage, you will not be disappointed.

    Reviewed by BelindaAug 2020

  • "Philomena was there to welcome us to this beautiful cottage in an absolutely gorgeous setting."

    We were delighted with the welcome. It was first class and immediately put us at ease. Then there was the cottage itself. Fabulous. Truly comfortable and very, very homely. We quickly settled into a house which was designed to have every modern convenience finished to the highest quality imaginable. We were sad to leave ... but are certain we will be back. Thanks Philomena.....Chris & Pippa

    Reviewed by ChrisAug 2020

  • "We had a wonderful break at the cottage It had everything we required and more ."

    Philomena left us a great welcome pack The weather let us down So we were so lucky to have such a comfortable well equipped cottage to relax in .The surroundings are truly amazing We would definitely return .

    Reviewed by KateAug 2020

  • "The cottage is exactly as discribed."

    Everything to a very high standard. Phenomena Is a lovely host. Warm and welcoming and left us a very generous welcome pack. The Mournes are at your doorstep we had some beautiful walks. Had lovely meals in a restaurant in Rathfriland called Loft 56. I have stayed in many cottages in the North and South of Ireland. This was one of the best definitely 5* GMCCann Belfast

    Reviewed by GeraldineJul 2020

  • "This is a lovely cottage, very clean, well equipped and in a fantastic location."

    We had a warm welcome from Philomena who also provided us with some initial supplies and a bottle of wine. We had drinks or dinner outside every night with views of the Mourne mountains over Lough Island Reavey. The location was perfect for walking in the Mourne mountains (we managed five of the big six) with easy access to the coastline and beaches at Newcastle and Murlough.

    Reviewed by ClareJul 2020

  • "The cottage was absolutely beautiful and the view of the Mournes was outstanding."

    The patio area was perfect for having dinner and drinks in the evening. Inside the cottage was just as great with everything thought of. It was extremely comfortable and absolutely spotless. We were nice and close to Castlewellan and Newcastle- just a short drive away. And there were plenty of walks and sights to see. Philomena and her family were so welcoming and they had thought of everything! We will definitely be back!

    Reviewed by SarahJul 2020

  • "I cannot begin to explain how great this short term holiday was; when we arrived we were greeted with smiling faces and a friendly welcome."

    When we entered the cottage we were simply blown away with how amazing it was, they had thought of everything with great finishing touches which really made the stay extra special. With a view that you could look at all day long this cottage really is in the most perfect location and is perfect for that bit of peace and quiet. With Newcastle only down the road, it’s a great place to stay with amenities and things to do and places to see on your door step. Thanks so much for making our stay so special. We will be back!

    Reviewed by JoelJul 2020

  • "A perfect stress free retreat."

    I received a very warm welcome from Philomena and Joe to this stunning traditional Mourne cottage. They have done an amazing job retaining the outward character of this old stone property whilst creating a luxury 5 star + interior that surpasses anything I've ever stayed in before and has set the bar high for future bookings. A lot of thought has gone into re-creating this beautiful cottage for modern living and the quality of the finish and tasteful and modern furnishings is evident throughout. The bed was so comfortable that I slept better than I have done in years - though all the hill walking and fresh mountain air helped too. I looked forward to the powerful shower after long walks that was like a massage at the end of the day. The cosy living room with the log burner and deep stone windows frames the stunning views of the panoramic Mourne Mountains beyond and the lake below. The cottage has been extremely well insulated and on the one night it was wild outside it was warm and snug indoors and lovely listening to the wind howling all around the cottage. The kitchen is well stocked and Philomena kindly left all I needed, tea, coffee, milk, butter eggs and much, much more to make me feel very welcome. Philomena very kindly put up a christmas tree and festive decorations. I had all I needed to be able to cook a full christmas dinner and it was lovely sitting at the breakfast bar at the window looking out over the amazing views. The wifi was great and stable. I had wanted to get away from it all - but not too far - and the cottage was perfect. Set up in the hills it is tranquil with only the sheep in the surrounding fields as neighbours. I walked the surrounding mountain roads with stunning views of the Kingdom of Mourne and her majestic mountains - and they really do 'sweep down to the sea'. Kilcoo village is nearby - where the locals claim that Saint Patrick was waked on his way to be buried in Downpatrick. Castlewellan, a small country market town, is nearby with ample traditional bars, restaurants and coffee shops. Castlewellan Castle is in a forest park overlooking a large lake and is well worth a visit. The walk around the lake is on the level but you can also take the more challenging routes up through the forest or around the beautiful formal Annesley gardens or get lost in the Peace Maze. Not far from Castlewellan is the Victorian seaside resort of Newcastle with its fantastic promeade and backdrop of Slieve Donard sweeping down. A real treat is afternoon tea in the stunning and magnificent Victorian Slieve Donard Hotel on the sea front. There are ample tea shops, icecream parlours and fastfood restaurants to suit all tastes - I particularly recommend Doc's fish and chips restaurant on the Main Street and for amazing home made quality food, Nikis Kitchen Cafe at the other end of the promenade, beside Donard carpark - and then walk it all off on a climb up Slieve Donard mountain. A must is the scenic drive - on the right on the road from Newcastle to Kilkeel - up the Head Road through the mountains looking down over towards the Irish Sea, the stone walls have to be seen to be believed and will leave you awed at the skill of the Mourne men. Stop off and go to the Silent Valley resevoir, high in the mountains, with many walks suitable for all levels. The scenic route takes you back round past Spelga Dam and through Hilltown to Kilcoo and boast some of the best scenery in Ireland. Well worth a visit is the Victorian village of Rostrevor the former Irish home of Elizabeth Bowes-Lyons, the Queen Mother, and childhood holiday home of HM the Queen, now the fabulous Fairy Glen and Kilbroney Park. The Church is a lovely, friendly restaurant and is great for food. The Old Schoolhouse teahouse is great for homemade treats. A must is An Chloch Mhór, (the big stone) a huge granite boulder perched 1000 feet on top of Rostrevor Forest Park which was thrown across Carlingford Bay from the Cooley Mountains by the grumpy giant, Fionn Mac Cumhaill. The views from the big stone are stunning and well worth the climb - there is however a carpark near the top of the mountain if you've had too much home-made apple pie in the Old School House! The Kingdom of Mourne and the Mourne Mountains are known as the 'Heartbreak Hills' for a very good reason. Once visited your heart will ache to get back. I certainly left my heart there. I came to Lough Island Reavy Cottage stressed and with my head filled with the day to day troubles of life. The warm welcome I received and tranquility of the cottage very quickly swept everything away. The fresh air and beauty of the gifts that Mother Nature generously bestowed on this part of South Down left me quickly recharged. I felt very much at home rather than on holiday and didn't want to leave. Thank you Philomena and Joe for everything and I am sure future guests will enjoy their stay as much as I did.

    Reviewed by ColmDec 2019

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Summary

  • All-ground-floor
  • One double room
  • Shower room with shower, basin and WC
  • Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with woodburning stove
  • Oil central heating with woodburning stove
  • Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer under unit, washing machine, Smart TV and WiFi
  • Fuel, power and starter pack for stove inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Off-road parking for 2 cars
  • Lawned garden with patio, furniture, and barbecue
  • Security cameras outside the property
  • Sorry, no smoking and no pets
  • Shop within 1.5 miles and pub within1.3 miles

The property

Set on the outskirts of the village of Kilcoo in the heart of the Mournes, this detached cottage sits overlooking a beautiful lough after which it is named, Lough Island Reavy Cottage.

In a secluded spot with fields of cows as neighbours, this picturesque location, with stunning views and peaceful tranquillity is the perfect country getaway for couples wanting to enjoy a short stay in a designated area of outstanding natural beauty.

It is an ideal location for hill walkers, cyclists, golfers, photographers and anyone looking a romantic break.

In contrast to the exterior, inside the cottage has a modern and contemporary feel to it with open- plan living space containing all you need to enjoy a wonderful break.

With a neat modern kitchen space where you can cook up something on the induction hub, or leave something to bake in the electric oven.

A breakfast bar acts as your dining area, thoughtfully placed looking out of the window so you can enjoy pretty views of your surroundings as you prepare for an adventurous day ahead.

For those quiet evenings when you have spent all your energy walking around the rolling hills, you can look forward to cosying up on the sofa in front of the woodburning stove and the TV.

The neutral but fresh interior continues into the double bedroom, adding further style with pretty bedding, creating a lovely place to wind down.

Finally, the shower room is a delightful space, completely tiled and home to quality fittings, with a walk-in shower, basin and WC. To the outside you can enjoy views over Lough Island Reavy and the Mountains of Mourne beyond, sit outside and admire your surroundings for a perfect moment of peacefulness.

Drive over to the Mourne Mountains further south for more rugged landscapes and vistas, and explore the many outdoor activities the Mournes have to offer.

Castlewellan Forest Park where you can walk around the lake, explore the grounds within the park containing a Victorian Castle or visit The Peace Maze, one of the world’s largest permanent hedge mazes.

Just a short drive away is the seaside resort of Newcastle with its award winning promenade, cafes, restaurants and welcoming gastro pubs.

It is also home to the world famous Royal County Down Golf Course and Tollymore Forest Park, where Game of Thrones was filmed.

The town of Downpatrick lies north-east, and it is said to be the resting place of Saint Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint, with other historical attractions, Inch Abbey, Down County Museum and Saint Patrick’s Visitor Centre.

Lough Island Reavy Cottage is a welcoming cosy cottage for a perfect break in a great spot to explore this part of Northern Ireland.

About the location

KILCOO, NEWRY, COUNTY DOWN

Castlewellan 4 miles; Newcastle 6.6 miles; Downpatrick 15 miles; Newry 15 miles

Kilcoo is a small village situated in a picturesque area of outstanding natural beauty in the heart of the Mournes. Not far from the Irish sea coast, this village is made up of a convenience store, two pubs which both serve food and a church. The city of Newry is a 25 minute drive from the cottage with much to see and do including shopping, sightseeing and a cinema to entertain. Explore the city of Belfast, home to the Titanic Centre which is an hour away, a place packed with culture and fascinating attractions.

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Winter
  • Off-season
  • Last minute
  • Christmas