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The Ferry House

(Ref. 1074125)

Ramelton, County Donegal Show on map

4.6

Sykes rating

  • 8 Guests

  • 4 Bedrooms

  • 2 Bathrooms

  • Pets Yes

Features

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

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • house (16)
  • location (11)
  • bed (11)
  • our (10)
  • no (10)
  • comfortable (9)

21 Customer Reviews

  • "We loved our stay at Ferry House, very relaxing, beautiful sunrises and moon over the lough."

    We saw loads of wildfowl, including and huge stork which had a little forage on the shore close to the house. We had one day of stormy weather on the first night, the swell caused the water level to rise on the lough. Marty from the boat house appeared in the darkness with his head torch and banked our door with sandbags just in case. They were not needed in the end, but we felt well looked after, Marty is lovely. We visited many beautiful spots during our stay including Giant's Causeway, the lighthouse, Glenveigh National Park and Ards Forest. We had a lovely day in Derry and some of our party visited the Science Museum in Belfast. Letterkenny is great for bigger shopping and eating out - take a look at the Hiring Fair Monument in Letterkenny Square. The house was very cosy and comfortable, lovely Rayburn in the kitchen, great for drying wet wellies and raincoats. The only thing we needed and didn't take with us was tableware - cups, plates and bowls for very young children. Otherwise, we managed to cook full family meals on the days we ate in. The house is in a very peaceful, secluded spot, we quickly found ourselves becoming absorbed into the landscape and ebb and flow of the tides, it was lovely.

    Reviewed by Jenny4.1Oct 2024

  • "What can you say about the Ferry House that hasn't already been said."

    It is in a stunning location next to the Lough. The views in the morning were wonderful. Watching the Harvest moon shining on the water, the sunrise, all very beautiful. The Ferry House was clean and very well appointed, although a hair dryer and a cork screw would have been nice! The location is excellent for exploring North West Donegal, with the pretty little town of Ramelton nearby, yes we fell in love with the Blue Goat Deli. Letterkenny has all that you need. For dog owners the enclosed large rear garden is excellent. The bathrooms are a little tired and an update to the shower would be a bonus. But you need to understand that it is a very old property with a few foibles that go with the territory. Would I recommend The Ferry House? Absolutely 100%.

    Reviewed by Timothy4.4Oct 2024

  • "The property and location were absolutely amazing."

    Beds and living room were really cosy and comfortable. Marty was so nice and turned on the Rayburn during our stay which made the kitchen super warm. The only downsides I'd say is that the main bathroom could really do with upgrading as could the oven. Also when we got there the house was full of spiders and spiderwebs. Maybe the cleaner doesn't hoover the cobwebs because she doesn't want to kill the spiders but it gave a really bad impression of hygiene and the spiders did freak some of the group out.

    Reviewed by Kirsty3.4Sep 2024

  • "We really enjoyed our time at Ferry house but I appreciate the location and even the age of th house wouldn't appeal to everyone I know."

    It was perfect for us though. There was 6 of us and a dog and at no point did we feel on top of each other

    Reviewed by Emma4.4Aug 2024

  • "We enjoyed a tranquil stay in this beautiful old house on the edge of Lough Swilly - so much to do in the locality and I don't know when I last slept so well in the very comfy bed!"

    We were delighted to be able to have our dog with us and we had a truly enjoyable stay, it was so peaceful. It's a pity the weather was so cold outside for July but c'est la vie!

    Delighted you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Orla3.8Jun 2024

  • "A fabulous, characterful house."

    Amazing views, tranquil setting but only a short drive to shops and restaurants.

    Thank you. Delighted you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Andrea5.0Mar 2024

  • "Such a fabulous stay, The location is stunning and with the beautiful views of the Lough from nearly every window it meant we could enjoy the view regardless of the weather!"

    We’ll definitely be coming back for another stay.

    Thank you. Delighted you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Caroline5.0Mar 2024

  • "The Ferry House is the perfect place to get away from it all."

    Sitting at the kitchen table looking out at the water of Lough Swilly is how I would like to spend every morning. Ramelton is just a short drive away with access to most things you’ll need to enjoy your stay and there are a number of beautiful beaches to choose from in the surrounding area. The house also benefits from extremely comfortable and cozy beds. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay, as did our dogs.

    Thank you for your very kind comments on the Ferry House, and the surrounding area. I am so glad that you all enjoyed your stay. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Victoria4.7Oct 2023

  • "This is a charming old property, which is very comfortable and well furnished/equipped for a group of friends or family."

    The bed linens were good quality, and kitchen had everything needed, to cater for a group.

    Thank you for your kind and appreciative words about the house and furnishings. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Morag5.0Aug 2023

  • "Fabulous house."

    Wonderful views over the lough. Great location to explore the area. Everything was super within the house. Could do with a better shower in one of the bathrooms. Would definitely return.

    Thank you very much for all your positive feed back and so glad you enjoyed your stay. I hope you will come back again. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Kevin4.7Apr 2023

  • "Absolutely fabulous location, a breathtakingly beautiful spot."

    We all enjoyed our holiday immensely, lots to see and do. We did have a storm to contend with but that didn’t stop us getting out and about. We had both fires on every night it was so cozy and warm. The beds were comfortable with feather pillows and duvets. It’s a very old property with lots of charm, some things aren’t perfect but that adds to the ambiance. All in all a fantastic holiday in a beautiful country ☘️❤️

    Thank you so much for all your very kind and positive comments about the Ferry House and I am so glad you enjoyed yourselves so much. I hope you will come back again. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Judith5.0Apr 2023

  • "This amazing cottage is in a dream location."

    The views over the water at night are simply breathtaking - I stayed there for almost three weeks and I got to witness the Northern Lights, a stunning rainbow, and just fantastic views of the moon on the water every evening. The house is perfect - spotless, cosy and full of character. The only problem I had (being there for 3 weeks) was the lack of drying facilities - just one very small clothes horse. Otherwise, simply perfect.

    Thank you very much for your appreciative comments. I am so glad that you got to see the Northern Lights whilst you were there. There is a drying line in the garden, but I take your point about the drying facilities. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Karen4.7Feb 2023

  • "We LOVED our break at Ferry House."

    It was everything we wanted and more. We always take our dogs away every Jan/Feb to somewhere remote for some down time and this trip has been a huge hit with us. Walks on the beach, glorious sunsets, local food and drink, day trips on the Wild Atlantic Way - it was perfect from start to finish. I think you are very lucky we didn't claim squatters rights and decide to stay :)

    Thank you for your enthusiastic response to the Ferry House and all the very positive comments. I hope that you will come again another time. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Chrissie5.0Feb 2023

  • "The owners were very attentive, propped in to see how we were getting on."

    The beds were comfy and the lounge perfect for after dinner games/relaxing. The views across the lough were lovely! A few improvements: The property has an incorrectly fitted and poorly functioning stove in the dining area (the 5' flue is too small for the appliance, needs a 6" flue) . The upstairs bathroom would benefit from the addition of curtain or blind.

    Thank you for your very kind comments and useful observations and glad you enjoyed your stay. We will follow up about the wood burning stove, thanks for your advice and help . Property Owner

    Reviewed by Thomas4.7Dec 2022

  • "Wonderful, idyllic house in the dreamiest of locations, right by the water."

    Really comfy beds and sofas and very homely. Characterful house with everything we could wish for.

    Thank you for your positive and encouraging comments. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Celine5.0Aug 2022

  • "Loved the Ferry House!"

    It was a gorgeous property 3/4 minutes drive outside of Ramelton. It’s a great base for exploring that part of Donegal with Glenveagh National Park and great beaches in Port Salon and Rathmullan not too far by car. The beds were super comfortable and it was brilliant being able to take our 2 dogs, who loved the enclosed rear garden and beach /Lough walk in front of the house. The House has good facilities but the bathrooms were a bit outdated and if you have older guests the step down to the upstairs bathrooms can be a bit tricky. Some additional bits in the kitchen, like egg cups and providing some milk and bread for arrival would be a great touch to add. Have already recommended to friends and family.

    Thank you for you positive feed back and useful suggestions. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Marie4.7Apr 2022

  • "The Ferry House is an idyllic escape."

    We spent a week here in March and we’re lucky enough to get wonderful weather. There is so much to do within a short drive and you have the Lough right outside your door. The house is well equipped and the bedrooms were large and very comfortable. We will definitely be back.

    So happy that your enjoyed your stay and found the Ferry House a great place to stay. Thank you for your comments. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Victoria5.0Mar 2022

  • "A stunning location right on the water."

    The Ferry House is comfortable and warm. The house is old and full of atmosphere with open fires and wooden shutters. The owners were kind and helpful whilst giving guests privacy. The local area is full of interest and beauty with lots to see and do. The bathrooms have seen better days and could do with upgrading but are clean and serviceable. The neighbours were welcoming and helpful and really added to our stay. We loved it and would recommend it to anyone.

    Thank you for your kind comments and so glad you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Christopher4.4Nov 2021

  • "Fantastic unspoiled and fascinating location."

    Truly another world. Huge house, a bit remote but great neighbours. No distance really from great golf, a National Park and sensational coastline. Heavenly! Jules and Carole

    Thank you for your very positive response to the Ferry House and surrounding area. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Julian5.0Sep 2021

  • "Brilliant holiday."

    Only issue is that soil pipe from bathroom was blocked when we got there with human waste on patio at back. We were fine to use other toilets but this would be a major issue for some. Living room only had 6 chairs despite the accommodation being for 8. Absolutely brilliant place though. Wonderful location with lovely people.

    Thank you for your kind feedback. So pleased you enjoyed your stay. We are sorry for the blockage, had we been made aware we would have attended to this immediately. This has now been resolved. Kind regards Property Owner

    Reviewed by Matthew4.4Aug 2021

  • "We really enjoyed out stay despite inclement weather."

    The house is very well renovated. Loved the sash windows, Rayburn stove, Beautiful lounge, Spacious bedrooms and comfortable beds. Also the garden was very well enclosed and a great size for our dogs.Loved the beachfront location.When we needed to contact the owners they were friendly and very helpful and Marty was very helpful also We felt well taken care of. Only took 1 star away from accuracy of listing because advertised as set on a private cul de sac, the small road outside past the cottage was used regularly by people walking especially dog walkers and occasionally drivers. It meant that we couldn’t let our anxious dog off the lead on the beach directly opposite the house which was a pity ,(in case anyone appeared.) A large PRIVATE notice at the entrance to the cul de sac would help. We found the sink in the utility room rather than the kitchen a little getting used to ,and the hand held shower head in the en-suite ,but in general loved the feel and history of the house. We loved Donegal , and despite the few points above, would highly recommend and would love to stay in Ferry House again.

    Thank you for your kind comments and we hope to improve the shower in the future. A few dog walkers and others do walk along the shore in front of the house I am sorry if this upset your anxious dog. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Colin4.4Jul 2021

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Summary

  • Four bedrooms: 1 x king-size with en-suite bath ,with shower head attachment , basin, bidet and WC; there is one step down into the bathroom, 1 x double, 2 x twin
  • Second bathroom with shower over bath, basin and WC
  • Downstairs cloakroom with basin and WC
  • Kitchen
  • Hall dining room with woodburning stove
  • Large sitting room with open fire
  • Games room
  • Central heating
  • Rayburn cooker, electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, TV, WiFi, games room table tennis
  • Fuel and power inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Parking for three cars is under trees less than 50m from the house with short term parking available for loading and unloading right by your door
  • Partly enclosed garden with lawn, stone paved area and table and chairs in the summer
  • Two (well-behaved) dogs welcome, €35 charge per pet per week
  • Sorry, no smoking on the premises
  • Shop and pub 2.9 miles
  • Note: No hen/stag or similar
  • Note: this property has a good house keeping bond of €450
  • There is a seawall between the house and the shore which is hazardous to climb over, you can safely walk on to the shore just past the house by the old ferry
  • Note: There is one step down into the en-suite bathroom leading from the king-size bedroom. Note: This property has a maximum occupancy of 8 people which also includes infants.

The property

This characterful, historic, stone built house sits on the water’s edge of Lough Swilly close to the heritage town of Ramelton, (2.9 miles away) in Co Donegal.

It is a most spacious property of 2690 sq ft.

With sea views from all the front windows, The Ferry House is well located for exploring the county, and provides a comfortable base to return to each evening, whether it be with family or friends.

It has a bright and airy sitting room, complete with two comfortable sofas arranged in front of an open fireplace.

The farmhouse style kitchen is appointed with plenty of worktop space, electric oven, hob and a Rayburn cooker which makes it cosy in the colder months.

A scullery, off the kitchen, has the dishwasher, clothes washer, the sink and an extra fridge.

The central hall works as the dining room with seating for 8 and has a wood burning stove.

A games room, at the southern end of the house, has a table tennis table with bats and balls provided.

There is also a rear entrance, where you can dry off your coats or dogs and a Belfast sink to wash muddy attire.

Upstairs there are four well-presented bedrooms; a spacious king-size with en-suite bathroom, a second double room and 2 twin rooms.

There is a second bathroom to serve these three bedrooms.

To the exterior of The Ferry House there is an area of paving stones by the back door and a lawn.

We provide an outdoor table and chairs in the summer.

At the front of the house is a small area of lawn overlooking the lough and the private road to the Boathouse and cottage which are to the south of the Ferry House.

Infrequently, a few cars will pass the house to access these neighbouring houses.

There is a seawall between the house and the shore which it is hazardous to climb over.

You can safely walk on to the shore just past the house by the old ferry.

A few local people walk along the shore with their dogs.

Ramelton, is less than a ten minute drive, and where you will find a couple of restaurants and pubs.

There is a butcher, delicatessen, café, and post office, and on specific days each week, there is a vegetable stall, fish stand and indoor country market.

There is an art gallery selling fine art and pottery. Slightly further afield is the town of Letterkenny, with it's neo-gothic-cathedral designed by William Hague, a protege of Pugin, there is a museum and art gallery, as well as ample shops, bars and eateries.

Just outside Letterkenny the attractive Castle Grove Hotel provides good food.

Take a drive into the small seaside village of Rathmullan to explore the sandy beach and pier before a drink or meal in the renowned Rathmullan House Hotel.

There are plenty of walks of a good variety of lengths including the 2 dominant hills, Mount Errigal and Muckish.Glenveagh National Park also offers great walking and cycling in a mountain setting with a castle and world class garden.

Beautiful beaches abound in Donegal and watersports on offer include surfing and kayaking.

There are also some of the finest links golf to be found anywhere, including Rosapenna and Ballyliffin.

For bird lovers, Lough Swilly is an important wintering ground for waders and geese, and you can see these and other migratory birds near The Ferry House.

Donegal offers above all wilderness, beaches, wildlife, and golf, and all are easily reached from the Ferry House – your spectacular base on the shores of Lough Swilly.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of €450.

About the location

RAMELTON, COUNTY DONEGAL

Letterkenny 8 miles.

The sleepy heritage town of Ramelton, County Donegal, sits at the start of the Fanad Peninsula, where the River Lennon joins Lough Swilly. Cut into a wooded valley, Ramelton dates back to the 17th century and the distinctive architecture of the warehouse buildings on the quays dominate the village. Ramelton has a colourful history as one of Donegal’s most important ports, with ships arriving from the Carribbean in the 1800s to export linen made in the village. Though quieter nowadays, an abundance of welcoming local shops and pubs still welcome visitors, and there are ample opportunities for fishermen and golfers in the region. The picturesque Fanad Head is just a short distance away, as are beaches at Rathmullan and Dunfanaghy.

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Christmas