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Whispering Willows - The Thatch

(Ref. 928919)

Carndonagh, County Donegal Show on map

4.8

Sykes rating

  • 2 Guests

  • 1 Bedroom

  • 1 Bathroom

  • Pets No

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Ground floor bedroom
  • Open fire
  • Garden / Patio
  • Cot available
  • Pub/shop < 1 mile
  • Washing machine
  • Sky TV
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • cottage (17)
  • beautiful (7)
  • comfortable (7)
  • back (7)
  • lovely (6)
  • cosy (6)

20 Customer Reviews

  • "Even in July it was somwhat dark and cool."

    Musty smell in plate and glass cupboard. Central heating with coin meter is irritating and surely unnecessary in 2024.

    This is an old cottage with small windows but thereby providing the traditional Irish comfort experience. We are really sorry that you found the coin meter inconvenient, this is in use for safety purposes, if we do not have the coin operated feature, the oil heating could be at risk of being left on permanently on guests' departure. We do feel that this is a very minimal cost feature to guests and only necessary if they do not want to use the fuel stove available with the turf provided. We feel our property benefits from this feature well and the stove provides a great amount of heat as well as a perfect ambience for an evening in. The coin meter is only an additional alternative. Property Owner

    Reviewed by John3.8Jul 2024

  • "Lovely cottage, comfortable, quiet location."

    Fiona our host was very welcoming. The extra bits provided were a nice touch. Front room was warm and cosy when the heating kicked in. The bathroom needs the mould sorting, the lack of heat in there made it chilly first thing and after a wonderful shower the room stays damp even with window left open slightly. Other than that we both enjoyed our stay.

    Thanks for your feedback. There was an issue with a leak ahead of your stay which has been resolved now and redecorations completed. This is an old cottage and whilst we have tried to bring as many modern home comforts into play there are some old features we still manage. However, we feel this brings a bit of tradition to the home. We continue to offer the most comfortable experience possible. Thanks Property Owner

    Reviewed by Paul4.7Sep 2023

  • "Very comfortable and clean."

    Everything needed was in the cottage. We had a great stay.

    Reviewed by Daniel5.0Sep 2022

  • "I’ve been using Sykes’s cottage’s for a number of years now and never been ..."

    I’ve been using Sykes’s cottage’s for a number of years now and never been disappointed the service has been excellent all cottage’s have been first class

    Reviewed by Brenda5.0May 2022

  • "We had a very relaxing time at the cottage."

    We found it very warm and all items we required to make our stay comfortable were to hand. Unfortunately the weather was bad but that allowed us more time to relax and enjoy the surrounding of the cottage I would not hesitate to highly recommend this cottage for a break away. Fiona was extremely helpful on the build up to our stay.

    Reviewed by Nikki5.0Oct 2020

  • "We had the most beautiful week in this surreal thatched cottage."

    Our little piece of heaven from the log burner to the roll top bath. If you are looking to escape from a busy life or just need some quiet time then this place is a must. Thank you Fiona for sharing your beautiful home the turf were an added treat. We will be back. Thanks again.

    Reviewed by Catherine5.0Jul 2019

  • "Beatifull cottage, very well equiped, comfortable."

    Quiet place in beatifull country. A lot of things to see in raidus of few miles.

    Reviewed by Jan5.0Jul 2019

  • "What a beautiful thatched cottage ,it was so cosy and had everything you could ask for and restored to an extremely high standard, we spent three fantastic night's by the lovely warm stove relaxing, exactly what was needed ,we will definitely be back ."

    Reviewed by Marian5.0Dec 2018

  • "Beautiful Cottage in a peaceful setting yet a short drive to the town of carndonagh."

    Cottage itself inside was lovely had everything you needed for you stay including iron hairdryer etc. The kitchen had pots pans even coffee,teas,sauces, jams nice touch. We have really enjoyed our stay at the whispering willow lovely cosy warm nights by the big log burner. We will definitely be back thanks for a fantastic stay.

    Reviewed by Sabrina5.0Nov 2018

  • "Perfect holiday cottage for two."

    Spacious Peaceful, yet only five minutes from all the facilities you might require. Perfectly positioned for exploring the whole of the Inishowen peninsular. Would love to go back again.

    Reviewed by Donald5.0Sep 2018

  • "I have used Sykes cottages for a number of years and all cottages have been excellent."

    This break was my first time travelling alone and to get rest to recuperate - this cottage; the welcome by the owner and standard of finish and facilities - were perfect in every way.

    Reviewed by Moira5.0Mar 2018

  • "We had a wonderful stay at Whispering Willows."

    The cottage was beautiful inside and out: spotlessly clean and inviting. Fiona provides everything you could need; from a darning kit to a cafetière, hot water bottles to torches. She also provides a good amount of information about the local area with things to see and do. We were completely charmed by Carndonagh. It’s a cliche, but all the pubs were incredibly friendly and throughout our holiday on the North Coast we were offered lifts, invited in for cuppas, and generally given a welcome that you wouldn’t believe. Can’t recommend highly enough. If it’s good enough for Luke Skywalker...

    Reviewed by B4.6Jan 2018

  • "The Thatch is very suitable for couples seeking a romantic break."

    Very comfortable and well finished.

    Reviewed by John4.8Nov 2017

  • "The cottage is in a brilliant location and decorated to the highest standard."

    I would have no hesitation in recommending this cottage to friends and family.

    Reviewed by John4.8Nov 2017

  • "We had a wonderful stay at The Thatch."

    The location was ideal for us, quiet and remote but within easy reach of the beach and many local attractions. The cottage was well equipped and comfortable. The hot water and heating system was a little quirky but well explained and easy to use. When we had a problem with the toilet flush, Fiona was very easy to get hold of, helpful and quickly made arrangements for it to be fixed. We would definitely recommend the cottage to friends and family and come back here ourselves.

    Reviewed by Anwen4.8Jun 2017

  • "It was a lovely well thought out and cosy cottage in a good location."

    Perhaps not too good for the infirm as the bar stools by the kitchen counter were rather high and there was no other chair anywhere apart from the two sofas so eating was difficult. But that was us rather than the cottage anyone younger would be fine. The decoration was tastefully done and Fiona and William were very supportive with our minor problems of working the Sky TV and the ultra modern electric cooker. We cook with gas at home and don't have Sky so these were complicated and the instructions had been lost. On the whole a lovely base to visit this area which has plenty of interest for photographers. If we weren't so old we would be back!

    Reviewed by Irene4.4May 2017

  • "A beautiful cottage in quiet countryside."

    Gorgeous interiors, lots of attention to detail including a lovely bouquet of fresh flowers to welcome you. The roll top bath was amazing! Super comfortable bed. Very spacious for a thatched cottage, and the wifi was great which was important to me as I'd to do a little bit of work while I stayed. The stove fire was huge, and gave a lovely heat and cosiness to the cottage. This is the perfect accomodation for a romantic getaway for couples. The host was very easy to get in touch with, and helpful in answering emails quickly. Its also quite easy to find. Highly recommend

    Reviewed by Julie4.6Apr 2017

  • "This property is perfect, easily located to everything and beautiful!"

    The cottage is fully equipped with everything you could need and the bath tub is awesome!! The bed is super comfy and the fire really does give a lovely cosy feel!

    Reviewed by Brook4.8Mar 2017

  • "Beautiful cottage, so comfy and cosy!"

    Stylish and very well finished. The surrounding area is breathtaking and the owner could not not be more Helpful and accommodating. So well thought out to every detail. Do not hesitate in booking. We can't wait to come back!

    Reviewed by Sarah5.0Dec 2016

  • "This cottage is wonderful, I just think maybe the heating should be included in the rental."

    Reviewed by Lorraine5.0Aug 2016

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Summary

  • All ground floor
  • One super king-size double bedroom
  • Bathroom with roll-top bath, separate shower, basin and WC
  • Kitchen with breakfast bar
  • Sitting room with multi-fuel stove. This property can be booked with Ref 936116, together they sleep 8
  • Oil central heating with multi-fuel stove and back burner for hot water
  • Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, washing machine. Smart TV Netflix account, Freeview TV with full use of Apps., Bluetooth speaker, High quality WiFi throughout property
  • Electricity and starter pack for stove inc. in rent
  • Further bags of turf can be purchased at the property on an honesty box basis
  • Oil is on coin meter requiring 1 Euro coins which is optional if not using stove
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Off road parking for 1 car
  • Front patio with furniture
  • Sorry, no pets and no smoking
  • Shop and pub 1 mile
  • Note: Due to fire safety BBQs are not allowed at this property

The property

This is an excellent traditional semi-detached thatched cottage one mile from the town of Carndonagh on the striking Inishowen peninsula of Donegal.

This wonderfully presented cottage is the perfect romantic base for couples looking for a tranquil haven for their Irish break.

Spacious and lovingly renovated to provide guests with traditional touches as well as contemporary features, this cottage has been furnished to a high standard and will not fail to impress.

Unwind after a busy day exploring this charming area in front of the warming multi-fuel stove in the beautiful lounge, or why not relax in the roll-top bath and imagine all the adventures still to come on your well-deserved getaway?

At Whispering Willows, you have real country living, peace and tranquillity at all times of the year.

In spring and summer, you are surrounded by beautiful rose bushes, colourful flowerpots, butterflies and birds singing in the meadows around you.

Winter guests don’t miss out either with views of Slieve Snaght towering over the countryside with its white tip showing most of the winter. Carndonagh or ‘Carn’ as it’s called locally is the main Market Town in Inishowen.

There is a fantastic selection of shops, supermarkets, pubs, restaurants and cafes.

In this convenient location you can take a leisurely walk into town or use one of the many reliable taxi companies available.

Pick up supplies or enjoy a relaxing drink with the locals and experience some foot stamping traditional Irish music sessions in the many late-night live music venues. Take a visit to one of the many stunning beaches a short drive away.

The Blue flag beaches Culdaff and Stroove offer a truly comfortable experience.

Five Finger Strand, Malin is absolutely beautiful, and even in cold weather you can wrap up warm and take in the world class views over Dough Island, Trawbreaga Bay & Rashenny Rock on the wind swept Wild Atlantic Way.

From the cottage, you can head for Moville taking a detour to see Kinnego Bay where the Spanish Armada ship the ‘Trinidad Valencera’ sank in 1588.

Around the peninsula an abundance of marine wildlife can be seen close to the shore including dolphins and basking sharks. Hop in the car and take the scenic drive to Malin Head, Ireland’s most northerly point.

You could pull on a pair of walking boots and have your camera primed as the northern peninsula is well known for its far reaching breath-taking views and extensive natural habitat, a perfect spot for nature lovers and for bird watching; a twitch’s paradise. Malin town is famous for its Tidy Town awards and the second longest stone bridge in Ireland.

Passing over the beautiful ten arches on your way back to Carndonagh, you can then take the road to the Isle of Doagh and the famous Doagh Famine Village where you will see the original cottages that were occupied by the same family from the 1840’s right up until 1980’s.

Lunch awaits in nearby Ballyliffin in one of the many hotels or at Nancy’s barn, recent winner of the world Seafood Chowder competition.

This property is excellent for golfing enthusiasts with Ballyliffin, Greencastle and Lisfannan courses all close by and a short drive from Portsalon, Portrush and Portstewart. For those looking for some adrenaline from their holiday, try your hand at some of the water-sports available, go horse riding on the beach, take a boat trip out to sea or go fishing For a more leisurely pursuit, revel at one of the festivals held in the area in the summer months with the Clonmany Festival being one of the biggest country music festivals in Ireland.

There are also cycling events, treasure hunts, raft races and talent competitions offering entertainment for all ages. Go on an adventure taking a day trip to the historic walled city of Derry, a European city of culture, visit the museum, take a bus tour or immerse just yourself in the "craic" with locals in traditional Irish music pubs.

The towns of Buncrana and Letterkenny are close by and boast many immenities and don’t forget the chance for an unforgettable day trip to the County Antrim coastline via the Lough Foyle Ferry. This is a really lovely property in an excellent location, the Wild Atlantic Way where foamy waves lap sandy shores is just waiting to be explored.

This property can be booked with 936116 (Whispering Willows - The Bungalow) together they sleep 8.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £150.

About the location

CARNDONAGH, COUNTY DONEGAL

Malin Head 12 miles; Buncrana 12 miles; Derry 22 miles.

Situated on the Inishowen Peninsula in North Donegal lies the small, pretty town of Carndonagh. Only a stone’s throw from the shores of Trawbeaga Bay, Carndonagh is home to the site of the Donagh Cross, which was once part of an early Christian monastery founded by the patron Saint Patrick. Boasting a lovely selection of cafes, pubs and shops, the town also has a strong reputation for traditional music and culture with many musicians, artists and writers making it their home. Within a short distance from Carndonagh are some superb beaches and ideal family spots at Culdaff, Kinnagoe Bay and Five Fingers strand to name a few, Ballyliffin golf course and Malin Head, Ireland’s most northern point.

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Winter
  • Off-season
  • Last minute
  • Christmas