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The Visiting House

(Ref. 21606)

Gorteen near Dunmore, County Galway Show on map

5.0

Sykes rating

  • 6 Guests

  • 3 Bedrooms

  • 2 Bathrooms

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Hot tub
  • Swimming pool
  • Off road parking
  • Ground floor accommodation
  • Ground floor bedroom
  • Open fire
  • Garden / Patio
  • Cot available
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher
  • Games Room
  • Sky TV
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • cottage (28)
  • house (24)
  • lovely (21)
  • stay (20)
  • great (20)
  • hot tub (20)

62 Customer Reviews

  • "The only thing that wouldn’t get 10/10 was the inconsistent WiFi signal."

    Then again,what did I expect in The Irish Countryside. Lovely place to stay and the wee one loved the horse,donkey and the frequent visits from the very friendly cat.Spotlessly clean,great heating.

    Reviewed by KieranFeb 2024

  • "We had a lovely week here."

    We loved the country setting, hearing the donkey and the local horses. The location was great as we used it as a base to travel to Galway, inis mhor, roscommon and out to Connemara national park. We had rest days at the meeting house where we played board games, sat in the hot tub and played pool and darts in the play room. The accommodation was warm and comfortable. Highly recommended.

    Reviewed by StephenFeb 2024

  • "House was as described and owners were excellent."

    Just to note home has very limited phone reception and the Wi-Fi was broken when we arrive initially (likely due to the storm). This makes working from the home was challenging. Overall the house and surrounding area was very nice.

    Reviewed by PatrickJan 2024

  • "Lovely well maintained rural accommodation with loads of character."

    Warm, clean and comfortable. The solid fuel fire with firewood supplied was most welcome in mid winter as was the delightful hot tub. Well equipped kitchen. Bed a bit soft but that's an individual opinion. Friendly informative helpful hosts. Would definitely recommend.

    Reviewed by PatriciaJan 2024

  • "Really beautiful cottage."

    The owners have given such thought to the decor, equipment and comfort. We had a toddler with us and the games, toys and dvds much appreciated as were the high chair, cot and utensils and of course feeding the donkey and horse. Owner Paul was very friendly and super helpful. Great base to explore Galway and the West. Peaceful and the hot tub relaxing- shame in November it was just a bit too cold to use the natural pool. Loved this place and hope to visit again. Went home restored and happy!

    Reviewed by TeresaNov 2023

  • "We appreciate the welcome, bread and wine on arrival and guidence ."

    A well thought out and comfortable accomodation with all amenities.Great location for the west of Ireland.We would recommend this accomadation to families and adults.Thank you for a lovely stay.! Jo and Mike Roisin Calum and Dane

    Reviewed by JoanneSep 2023

  • "Great stay we al had a wonderful time at the visting house"

    Reviewed by RonJun 2023

  • "I found the cottage to be very peaceful, modern and relaxing surrounded by beautiful views of countryside."

    The cottage came equipped with games, a hot tub, Bar-B-Que, tv, and the place was so comfortable and it was dog friendly which was a major plus!!!! The owners were so friendly and approachable We had an amazing stay, no hesitation recommending the visiting house

    Reviewed by WayneMay 2023

  • "Loved our stay!"

    Home baked bread (made by our host) and bottle of processco as a welcome gift; very well equipped and spacious; enclosed garden (for the dogs who lived every moment); private with views of the countryside - who could ask for more! Definitely recommend *****

    Reviewed by LynApr 2023

  • "Another fantastic visit to this beautiful cottage."

    Just as we remembered if not better. The cottage is stunning and the facilities and hosts are excellent. Would definitely recommend The Visiting House to anyone and we will definitely be planning another return.

    Reviewed by LisaMar 2023

  • "The house is bigger and nicer than the pictures."

    We were pleasantly surprised. Lovely host. Perfect surroundings. Arriving to fresh bread, cake and chilled Prosecco was a lovely touch. Highly recommended.

    Reviewed by LouiseFeb 2023

  • "We had a wonderful stay in The Visiting House."

    It is set in a beautiful location with country views all around. The cottage has been renovated to a high standard and everything is thoroughly clean and modern. Often dog friendly places are a little bit basic but not here - it was fantastic! Great secure garden and the hot tub was a real bonus - so luxurious to have a dip in the evening when the sun was setting - and what views! The hosts were welcoming without being intrusive and the welcome gifts were thoughtful too. Also very child friendly - we had a 15 month old baby with us and everything was provided. Highly recommend staying here.

    Reviewed by JulieFeb 2023

  • "Beautiful, welcoming homely atmosphere."

    Everything you could need. Rustic cottage with a modern twist. Hot tub was Amazing and cleanliness was top class. Games room a fantastic extra. Lots more to find and explore with this magical getaway.

    Reviewed by TerryJan 2023

  • "Really enjoyed our stay at the Visiting House, lovely cosy property really nice ..."

    Really enjoyed our stay at the Visiting House, lovely cosy property really nice for relaxing this time of year, Thank you

    Reviewed by KarenDec 2022

  • "Simply wonderful."

    A hidden gem.

    Reviewed by KenNov 2022

  • "A fabulous little cottage, clean and comfy."

    The hosts are lovely, and I would definitely recommend this place to anyone. The games room was a hit and we fell in love with the donkey and the horse.

    Reviewed by DeborahSep 2022

  • "Just perfect, thanks!"

    !

    Reviewed by DawnAug 2022

  • "Fabulous property."

    Hosts so friendly but never intrusive. So much to do ... pool and hot tub such a hit with the kids. Games room board games DVDs nothing is overlooked. House is so modern yet cosy.

    Reviewed by MariaJul 2022

  • "The most incredible holiday in Ireland we have had, our three young children and our golden retriever could not have been more comfortable and safe and the hosts went above and beyond to ensure we had a great stay, would highly recommend and will be returning next year."

    Reviewed by ClionaMay 2022

  • "The house was very clean and cosy."

    The kids loved the plunge pool and hot tub this was a great feature as too was the games room. The WiFi being slow was a bonus as it kept my teenagers off their phones. All in all a great stay I will be recommending the visiting house to friends and family.

    Reviewed by ClaireApr 2022

  • "Absolutely stunning cottage in a fantastic area."

    The owners are fabulous hosts and the cottage has everything you could need to relax and unwind. I travelled with my two small children (aged 1 and 2 years old) and we found the cottage to be extremely family friendly for them as well. We can’t wait to visit again.

    Reviewed by LisaFeb 2022

  • "We had an amazing stay such a beautiful home in a beautiful area we didn't want to leave thankyou so much"

    Reviewed by EricNov 2021

  • "Very peaceful and beautiful setting."

    Spacious accommodation with all needed. Owners are very friendly but don't impose. Had a much needed relaxing break. Very keen to return! Thank you Peter and Elsa!

    Reviewed by JulietOct 2021

  • "The visiting house is a fabulous retreat away from the every day hustle and bustle of the world."

    The hottub, pool, games room and enclosed garden area for the dogs was absolutely brilliant! We brought our 3 dogs with us and I’m not sure who had more fun us or them! The beds are unbelievably comfortable and the house is very cosy. All the small touches including the welcome bottle of Prosecco chilling on the fridge really made the stay. There were loads of lovely walks around the area on quiet country roads and we got to meet a lot of the locals and their dogs out on walks too which was lovely. The house is in the heart of the countryside and given its an old restored cottage with thick walls our phone reception and WiFi was a bit spotty but this just meant we didn’t get distracted on social media and instead whipped out the board games and had some laugh! The house has tons of board games in it so you’ll never have a dull moment! Thanks for creating such a lovely wholesome fun home away from home.

    Reviewed by CarolineSep 2021

  • "This was the best equipped holiday home we’ve ever stayed at."

    The restoration works and layout of house was really nice and hot tub was great. We really liked meeting the doggy ambassadors Oliver and Dara. The nearby town Dunmore has excellent Eurostar and chipper with hefty portions. Walks around the area we’re very pleasant. Overall a perfect treat for anyone tired of the city.

    Reviewed by KirstyAug 2021

  • "Plunge pool & hot tub!"

    Really comfy house - Host Peter couldn’t have been more helpful - with a warm welcome to include brown bread, milk. Butter & Prosecco ! :) We loved our break and would definitely return. O Cinneide Family

    Reviewed by Maria CurtisAug 2021

  • "From start to finish we had a lovely time."

    Homemade bread and prosecco on arrive which was a lovely touch. The kid's wanted to stay in the pool all week. It's really private as well. Was just lovely to meet Peter, very friendly and welcoming and really look forward to going back.

    Reviewed by EmmaJul 2021

  • "Great spot for some R&R."

    Host helpful and friendly and provided homemade bread on arrival which was very welcoming. We made full use of the hot tub and loved sitting out at night looking for shooting stars. We visited in October so the pool was to cold for us! You do need a car for a stay here as the area is quite rural. Cottage is beautifully renovated with a good mix of traditional and modern and we would recommend a stay.

    Reviewed by ClareOct 2020

  • "Absolutely brilliant!"

    !!! Such a lovely place to stay and so clean we loved it and so did the dogs the graden the perfect as we were able to sit at the table and chairs and let the dogs play round with us and take them out for walks.

    Reviewed by MandySep 2020

  • "Fantastic property"

    Reviewed by TerryAug 2020

  • "The cottage had everything ."

    It was just what we needed after a day out sightseeing to relax, And being able to take a walk nearby with the peaceful surroundings was a bonus , We very much enjoyed our stay. from David. & Maureen. Schofield,

    Reviewed by DavidAug 2019

  • "We had an absolutely fantastic stay at The Visiting House."

    Peter & Elsa were wonderful hosts and have obviously put a lot of thought and effort into creating the perfect retreat - the cottage is cosy and well equipped (there was nothing we needed that wasnt there). Beds were very comfortable and the property was very clean. Great location for those who love peace and quiet, but within close proximity to local shops, takeaways, eateries and places for days out. Our visit to Lough Key country park and activity centre and Galway were amongst our favourite. We made good use of the bbq, pool, hot tub, games room, bikes and enjoyed the greeting from the 2 dogs Oliver and Darragh, not forgetting Honey (horse) and Henry (donkey) at the end of the driveway who loved a daily treat of carrots/ apples. Thanks Peter & Elsa, we had a fab stay, were blessed with great weather and were sad to leave. If you are reading this review and are wondering if you should book a stay - do it! The Visiting House is a place which is good for the soul and perfect for creating memories from.

    Reviewed by KarenJul 2019

  • "Wonderful cottage Met all expectations and more Greater with fresh bread and bubbles Beautiful surroundings too set in the middle of no where Which is perfect Perfect relaxation We went to knock and Galway BBQ and hot tub was fun Our dogs loved it too but Can’t wait to go back you set the bar high visiting cottage !"

    !

    Reviewed by SusanJul 2019

  • "This cottage is beautiful and a home from home."

    Nothing is too much trouble for Peter and Elsa and they accommodated my children's many requests to see various farm animals! Highly recommended.

    Reviewed by ClareMay 2019

  • "This is the best holiday cottage we have ever stayed in in 30 odd years of renting holiday cottages in Scotland, Ireland, England and Wales."

    The hosts are lovely and very welcoming. The house itself has everything you could want and is beautifully presented. A big bonus is the swimming pool, hot tub and games room and a proper television that works and has Sky!! We would definitely recommend this cottage to anyone looking for a fantastic relaxing holiday but within easy reach of lots of tourist destinations.

    Reviewed by BrendaMay 2019

  • "The visiting house has EVERYTHING you need."

    Spacious, comfortable, very clean. Lovely welcome pack on arrival, tea, coffee, milk, butter bottle of prosecco (which my husband enjoyed in hot tub) and not to mention homemade bread..hot tub was amazing! Esp at night to hear all the nature sounds (Coming from a town) games room was a great hit with us we haven't played pool since our going out days. My two children settled in straight away aged 3 and 1 and our pet dog. Thankyou so much for having us. Donal Carolyn Thomas and hannah x

    Reviewed by DonalApr 2019

  • "This holiday was outstanding."

    The cottage was cosy with all the mod cons. The kids loved the garden and the hot tub. Our garden backed on to a field which we used loads. Hosts were outstanding very friend wine on arrival. Games room was a lovely touch. Kids used the go kart and bikes provided. We all all enjoyed. Adults could relax because kids were so busy and happy. Well stocker information file with local attractions. Loved the farms. Perfect memories made. A big thank you. Would one hundred per cent go again x

    Reviewed by KayleighApr 2019

  • "We had a fantastic time at the visiting house, we had 2 boys aged 10 and 11 and 2 girls aged 15 and 16 with us and not once did we hear the cry of I'm bored due to the fact the owners had thought of everything, the games room and the hot tub were a complete hit."

    The beds were extremely comfortable with thick plush matresses. Our 2 dogs loved walking about in the lovely enclosed garden overlooking the fields. The kitchen was well equipped I was able to make a roast and all the family favourites with no difficulty. We will definitely be back to visit again.

    Reviewed by VickyApr 2019

  • "1st off the hosts Peter & Elsa are so welcoming even providing a welcome pack with fresh bread which was very much appreciated."

    The cottage itself is absolutely beautiful..so warm & welcoming.. Everything you need for a week's stay is here & the hot tub an added bonus, swimming pool to ( but wasnt that brave to use.. too cold for us ) .... Nothing negative to say here.. Highly recommended will be returning one day for sure ... Thank you for a lovely stay x

    Reviewed by DeborahMar 2019

  • "Excellent property well equipped and maintained."

    The owners were very helpful and had fresh bread milk and wine for us on arrival ( nice touch) the house was very warm and cosy and very comfortable with a very high standard of furnishings. Would definitely recommend this property. Not a lot to do in the immediate area, some local walks and Forrest parks a short drive away was good for those with dogs. Nice quite area for a relaxing break.

    Reviewed by DonaldFeb 2019

  • "Lovely cottage."

    just what we wanted a relaxing Christmas break. Loved the peat burner Super hosts

    Reviewed by PhilipDec 2018

  • "Beautiful cottage in a great setting."

    Not much to do in immediate area but absolutely ideal if looking for a quiet break. Hosts were welcoming and friendly. Cottage had great facilities and is nicely decorated and maintained. Would highly recommend.

    Reviewed by IanNov 2018

  • "This was the perfect holiday for our little family."

    Everything was perfect from start to finish. Would recommend this cottage to anyone for peace and tranquility. Peter and Elsa are the perfect hosts.

    Reviewed by StaceyOct 2018

  • "This is our third time to this property and it won't be our last."

    Cant recommend highly enough.

    Reviewed by FionaSep 2018

  • "The best cottage that we have ever stayed in!"

    !!! Will be going back pretty soon, just wonderful!!!!!!!!

    Reviewed by ElizabethSep 2018

  • "Property was really good."

    We loved the Visiting House.

    Reviewed by IanAug 2018

  • "The visiting house was one of the best houses I’ve ever stayed in."

    The house was so comfortable and the surroundings was perfect. Having a wonderful family close by really made our holiday more enjoyable especially for the children. The facilities are brilliant and we really couldn’t of asked for a better house, briliiant central location. I hope to stay here again. Thank you .

    Reviewed by DeniseAug 2018

  • "The family where extremely helpful and kind but also respected our privacy ..."

    The family where extremely helpful and kind but also respected our privacy really appreciated the welcome package a very nice touch would highly recommend this property

    Reviewed by MichaelJul 2018

  • "We made great use out of the outdoor pool and hot tub, they were just what we needed during the heatwave."

    The house was just amazing, we went there not knowing what to expect but all I can say is that we were blown away with this little piece of heaven.

    Reviewed by ShaunaJun 2018

  • "This is a great wee cottage."

    Very dog friendly which is the first thing we look for when booking anywhere.Great area for cycling as well.

    Reviewed by BrendanJun 2018

  • "Can only describe it as superb, owners Peter & Elsa great hosts, cottage has everything you could want, games room has bikes for adults and kids (with helmets) , sets of golf clubs etc."

    House has some Interesting books, loads of games, cards etc, drawer full of places of interest. Situated in a lovely peaceful setting.

    Reviewed by PaulMay 2018

  • "Peaceful quiet cottage."

    Warm and cosy with beautiful walks and views

    Reviewed by SuzanneMar 2018

  • "This is the second back to this property."

    It is a beautiful home in lovely surroundings. I couldn't recommend this property highly enough. A perfect get away from it all. Can't wait to return. The Scott family Carrickfergus

    Reviewed by FionaJan 2018

  • "Peter and elsa were great hosts, so friendly and welcoming."

    They were very relaxed, left us to it so we had total privacy but we always knew they were there if we needed anything (a hard balance to find!) Cottage was like a dream come true. We wernt too keen on local area but the cottage was a perfect little hideaway. Unfortunately we had to leave a day early to get back to work, but after only 3 days in the cottage we both felt about 10 years younger! We will absolutely be back!

    Reviewed by AveNov 2017

  • "Fantastic Hosts best holiday in Ireland"

    Reviewed by NicholasSep 2017

  • "The owners were fantastic and lovely and friendly."

    We felt extremely welcomed and safe. The cottage was amazing and cosy with so much to do at the cottage itself .

    Reviewed by NikkiMay 2017

  • "Lovely house brilliant amenities great base for touring west of ireland the ..."

    Lovely house brilliant amenities great base for touring west of ireland the hosts are brilliant and so friendly the hot tub is an excellent idea after a long day house is spotless and my kids enjoyed the games room would 100% recommend

    Reviewed by CiaraApr 2017

  • "Needed more instructions on the directions of the cottage, but overall was a ..."

    Needed more instructions on the directions of the cottage, but overall was a great holiday and owners of the cottage were very helpful and made our stay very enjoyable

    Reviewed by ClaireMar 2017

  • "I would like to say how amazing the cottage was so much better than in the pictures the couple who own the property was kind and very helpful, everything needed was there and more, the couple that owned the cottage was willing to help with anything advising things they could alter to make the stay more enjoyable before we had even thought of anything that could be changed the quality of the property and the time and effort put in to keeping it looking nice and been the best it could was seen, and couldn't of asked for anywhere better."

    Just to finish off would like to again say how amazing our stay was and would like to thank the couple running the place for making our holiday amazing and stressfree. It's hard when you go to a new country to feel like you are welcome and feel at home and they did that! -amazing service!!

    Reviewed by PeterNov 2016

  • "The best holiday home we have ever visited!"

    Had absolutely everything you need plus so much more. Definitely a 5 star property. Stunning location, beautiful decor, cannot wait to rebook! Thank you Elsa and Peter!

    Reviewed by JessicaNov 2016

  • "The owners, Peter and Elsa were so welcoming; they left us homemade bread a lovely bottle of wine; they had anything you could think of, which I didn't expect, the cottage was very modern and so cozy with many things I don't see in the U."

    S, I highly recommend this location!

    Reviewed by DavidSep 2016

  • "I was especially please with how easy it was to pay my holiday off over time, just an phone call said the amount and it is done, brilliant."

    The visiting house has everything you could possible need and then they have added to you comfort, the people are friendly and the welcome you receive starts you holiday off in the best possible way. The location is great for touring, thank you

    Reviewed by DavidAug 2016

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Summary

  • All ground floor
  • Three bedrooms: 2 x doubles (one with en-suite shower, basin and WC), 1 x 4ft double
  • Bathroom with bath, separate shower, basin and WC
  • Open plan living area with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with woodburning stove
  • Utility
  • External games room with pool table.
  • Oil central heating with woodburning stove
  • Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, tumble dryer, dishwasher, TV with basic Sky, WiFi, selection of books
  • Fuel, power and starter pack for stove inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Travel cot on request
  • Ample off road parking
  • Lawned garden with decked area, furniture, hot tub and natural swimming pool
  • Three well-behaved pets welcome
  • Sorry, no smoking
  • Shop and pub 3.5 miles
  • Note: Steps up to decking with pool and hot tub
  • Note: Pool water unheated and not chemically treated, but filtered via a reed bed and UV light
  • Note: Guests are welcome to visit and feed farm animals by arrangement (dexter cattle, poultry and a donkey).

The property

Dunmore 3.5 miles.

This superb, detached cottage with hot tub and natural swimming pool sits on the owner’s farm, just a few miles outside the town of Dunmore in County Galway, close to the borders of counties Mayo and Roscommon.

Tastefully renovated, this stone-built, single-storey cottage echoes the characteristics of a traditional Irish dwelling, but with all the modern comforts and conveniences of a contemporary building.

The main body of the property encompasses a superb open plan living area with a tall ceiling adorned with grand apex beams, and with stylish, sleek furnishings and wide patio doors, the well-equipped kitchen with dining area looks out the rear garden.

Retire to the cosy sitting area, which is complete with a woodburning stove for chilly evenings, and sink into the sumptuous leather corner sofa.

Three double bedrooms lie towards the back of the cottage, one with en-suite facilities and a door to the garden, and each is furnished to a high standard so you can enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep.

To the rear are the beautifully maintained gardens where you can relax in an Irish paradise with a natural swimming pool and heated hot tub, the perfect recipe to wind down after a day of sight seeing!

Why not settle in the summerhouse and dine alfresco, making the most of those sunny afternoons with your loved ones?

As the owner is a keen beekeeper and farmer, you can sample some of the local honey, and children are welcome to feed the animals, adding to the wonderful country experience at this cottage.

Guests can pass a couple of hours playing darts or pool in the separate spacious games room, which also has golf clubs and bikes, courtesy of the owner so you can make the most of your Irish getaway!

The town of Dunmore is roughly half an hour’s drive from Knock Airport; set beside the Sinking River, it’s home to a selection of shops and pubs and the iconic Dunmore Castle, which watches over the water.

The ruins of an old Augustinian church also lie to the east of the town, and with a large number of ring forts in and around Dunmore, history lovers will adore this area.

Venture to the city of Galway and meander the cobbled streets, soaking up the atmosphere, or spend the day in the charming town of Westport with its pretty cafes and galleries.

A wonderful destination with everything you could wish for!

About the location

DUNMORE, COUNTY GALWAY

Tuam 10 miles; Galway 30 miles.

Dunmore town lies 10 miles northeast of Tuam, boasting an original fort and a stone castle whose four storeys, towers and wide windows date back to the early 17th century. On the Eastern side of the town stand the impressive ruins of an Augustian Abbey. The town’s Demesne Golf Club is a 9 hole parkland course designed by highly respected golf course architect, Eddie Hackett. The Dunmore Festival is held annually in late July - early August, when the town hosts pub events, children's fancy dress, pavement art, walking, bicycle and car treasure hunts, so there's plenty of fun for all the family! The nearby town of Tuam is best known as a centre of church affairs, and has two cathedrals. The area has lots to offer, from beautiful countryside to great pubs with traditional music and restaurants offering varied types of cuisine. You are also ideally placed for touring Galway and Mayo. Spectacular sunsets are a feature here, and nature lovers will enjoy birdwatching and walking. The cosmopolitan delights of Galway City are 30 miles away, and with Connemara and Lough Mask offering scenic days out, your stay here can encompass all that Ireland has to offer.

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Winter
  • Off-season
  • Last minute
  • Christmas