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Cnoc Suain is a collection of 17th-century stone cottages nestled in the hills of Connemara, Ireland. This is a place to reconnect with nature, culture and yourself, as you enjoy the simple pleasures of rural life. You’ll be welcomed by the friendly owners, Dearbhaill and Charlie, who have lovingly restored the cottages and created a haven of tranquility and authenticity. Cnoc Suain is located in a 200-acre estate in the Spiddal area of Connemara, a region renowned for its natural beauty, cultural diversity and rich history. The cottages are surrounded by rolling hills, boglands, lakes and forests, offering spectacular views and plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking and wildlife watching. You’ll also be close to the Atlantic coast, where you can enjoy sandy beaches, fishing villages and island hopping. The cottages are restored with respect for their original features and character, using natural materials and local craftsmanship. Each one has its own personality and charm, but they all share a cosy and rustic atmosphere, with wood-burning stoves, antique furniture and colourful textiles. The cottages are self-catering, but you’ll find everything you need to prepare your own meals, including a fully equipped kitchen, a welcome basket of local produce and fresh herbs from the garden. You’ll also have access to a communal lounge and library, where you can mingle with other guests or relax with a book or a board game.
Cnoc Suain is more than just a place to stay; it’s a place to learn, discover and immerse yourself in the Irish culture and way of life. The owners are passionate about sharing their knowledge and love for their land and heritage, and they offer a range of activities and workshops to enrich your stay. You can join them for guided walks, storytelling sessions, music nights, cooking classes, Gaelic language lessons and more. You’ll also have the chance to meet some of the local artisans, farmers and musicians who contribute to the vibrant community spirit. Cnoc Suain is a place where you can feel at home and make lasting memories.
Sustainability
Cnoc Suain is committed to sustainability and conservation, both in its restoration and operation. The cottages are powered by renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and biomass boilers, which reduce the carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions. The water is sourced from a natural spring on the estate and filtered through a reed bed system, which purifies the water and prevents pollution. The owners use organic methods to grow their own vegetables and herbs, and they source most of their food from local producers, which supports the local economy and reduces food miles. They also support local initiatives to preserve the environment and culture of Connemara, such as the Burrenbeo Trust and the Connemara Bog Week. The Burrenbeo Trust is a charity that works to protect and promote the unique landscape and heritage of the Burren region, through education, conservation and community engagement. The Connemara Bog Week is an annual festival that celebrates the importance and beauty of the boglands, through music, art, walks and talks.
Rooms
There are six cottages to choose from at Cnoc Suain, each with its own name and story. They vary in size and layout, but they all have one or two bedrooms, a bathroom, a living room and a kitchen. They can accommodate between two and six people, making them ideal for couples, families or groups of friends. The cottages are decorated with care and attention to detail, using antique furniture, vintage fabrics and original artworks. They have all the modern comforts you need, such as WiFi, TV/DVD players, iPod docks and hairdryers. Some of them also have extra features, such as skylights, balconies or private gardens.
Food and drink
Cnoc Suain is a self-catering property, but you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to food and drink. You’ll find a welcome basket of local goodies in your cottage, such as bread, cheese, eggs, jam and butter. You’ll also have access to fresh herbs from the garden, and you can order organic meat and fish from the owners. If you want to eat out, there are plenty of options nearby, from cosy pubs to fine dining restaurants. You can also join one of the cooking classes at Cnoc Suain, where you’ll learn how to make traditional Irish dishes, such as soda bread, seafood chowder or apple tart. And don’t miss the chance to sample some of the local drinks, such as whiskey, cider or craft beer.
Things to do
Cnoc Suain offers a range of activities and workshops to enrich your stay and help you connect with the Irish culture and nature. You can join the owners for guided walks around the estate, where you’ll learn about the flora, fauna and history of the area. You can participate in storytelling sessions, where you’ll hear tales of myths, legends and folklore. You can enjoy music nights, where you’ll listen to live performances of traditional Irish tunes and songs. You can take part in cooking classes, where you’ll learn how to make delicious Irish dishes using local ingredients. You can also sign up for Gaelic language lessons, where you’ll learn some basic phrases and words in the native tongue.
Wider region
Connemara is one of the most scenic and diverse regions in Ireland, offering something for everyone. You can explore the stunning landscapes of Connemara National Park, where you can hike, bike or horseback ride through mountains, valleys and lakes. You can visit some of the historic and cultural attractions, such as Kylemore Abbey, Clifden Castle or the Aran Islands. You can enjoy the lively atmosphere and music of Galway City, which is only a 30-minute drive away. You can also experience some of the local festivals and events, such as the Galway Arts Festival, the Connemara Pony Show or the Oyster Festival.
Kids
Cnoc Suain is a great place for kids to have fun and learn new things. They’ll love exploring the estate and meeting the animals, such as sheep, donkeys and chickens. They’ll enjoy playing games and doing crafts in the communal lounge and library. They’ll also benefit from the educational activities and workshops offered by the owners, such as nature walks, storytelling sessions and music nights. The cottages are spacious and comfortable for families, and they have all the amenities you need, such as cots, high chairs and toys.
Getting there
Cnoc Suain is located in Spiddal, about 30 minutes drive from Galway City. The nearest airport is Shannon Airport, which is about 2 hours drive away. You can also fly to Dublin Airport, which is about 3 hours drive away. You can rent a car at either airport or take a bus or train to Galway City and then a taxi to Cnoc Suain. The owners can also arrange transfers for you if you prefer.
- Actively reduces consumption
- Ecosystem preservation
- Sustainable build
- Solar powered or renewable energy
- Local or organic food
- Preservation of cultural heritage
- Community conservation
- Nature
- Culture
- Rural
- Up to 2
- Up to 4
- Up to 8
- Over 8
- Family
- Cabin
- Villa
- Hiking
