Discover captivating Celtic charm, breathtaking landscapesand the friendliest of locals on the Emerald Isle with a selection of new IrishLandmark Trust properties. In their quest to seek out unusual historicproperties and give them new life, this non-profit organisation has beentransforming places in need of restoration into unique holiday lets since 1992and Host Unusual are proud to be working in partnership with them. Explore 19th Century architect-designed lodges, unique and enchanting towers,lighthouse cottages and more in unrivalled settings on this beautiful island.
Ketch
Ever fancied playing the part of lighthouse keeper? Well now you can in this remote yet stunning lighthouse keeper’s cottage inCounty Down. Ketch sits in the shadow of the distinctive St John’s PointLighthouse, which is easily spotted from afar thanks to its black and yellowcolour and impressive loftiness as Ireland’s tallest onshore lighthouse! The cottage itself sleeps four in two bedrooms and has stunning wood flooringthroughout, in addition to those spectacular sea views. Just over 30minutes north of Ketch, Strangford Lough is an Area of Outstanding NaturalBeauty just waiting to be explored.
Helen’s Tower
Still in County Down yet north of Ketch sits the imposingHelen’s Tower. Built in 1848 by Frederik Lord Dufferin, the tower wasimmortalised in the words of Alfred Lord Tennyson “Helen’s Tower, here Istand, Dominant over sea and land.” Find your own historic andromantic hideaway here and you will not be disappointed. From the rooftoplookout you can spy the shores of Scotland, visible on a clear day. Originalfeatures and character are certainly not lacking, from the ornate, octagonaldining room and wood-carved ceiling to the stone spiral staircase and mahoganytables – an enchanting retreat from the norm.
Drum Gate Lodge
Further North and into County Antrim we head, and abeautiful and timelessly romantic hideaway that comprises an original circulargate lodge and a new modern extension, forming a clever juxtaposition of oldand new. You’ll arrive at Drum Gate Lodge via stepping stones to thefront door, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows greet you on either side. The original lodge has a cosy living room, stone floor and peat-burning stove -the perfect place for those winter’s evenings sheltered from the cold. The lodge also has its own private patio and garden furniture for the summermonths, and is just 15 minutes away from the sensational Giant’s Causeway.
Magherintemple Lodge
Another historic gem of County Antrim dating back to the19th Century, Magherintemple Lodge was built in a Scottish Baronial style. Itwas then updated with Victorian features by Sir John Casement, including aninscription over the door. Today the lodge welcomes guests to enjoy itscharms. Traditionally furnished in keeping with its heritage, it benefitsfrom two bedrooms, making it perfect for families. The patio is the ideal spotto watch the sun set after a busy day exploring the area, which includes theworld-renowned UNESCO site of The Giant’s Causeway and Dark Henges – scenessome of you may recognise from Game of Thrones!
Kiln Wing, Old Corn Mill
Quaint and beautifully preserved, Kiln Wing forms part of anold and postcard-worthy 19th Century corn mill, once left to near dilapidationbut revived in the 1980s by a local engineer and subsequently Irish LandmarkTrust for visitors to enjoy. You’ll admire the original features of thishistoric and listed building, including the cogs and wheels at its core, butalso the unrivalled setting right next to a rushing river – such a relaxingviewpoint from the lounge with your feet up. Being located in Bushmills,you have the world’s oldest distillery right on your doorstep, as well as ascenic coastline and some inviting Antrim beaches to explore.
Triumphal Arch Lodge
Moving south away from the coast is our final destinationand the gorgeous lake region of County Fermanagh. The grand Colebrooke Estateis your setting, which is located within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beautyclose to popular Lough Erne. Arrive under the grand archway to Triumphal ArchLodge, a Grade B listed architect-designed building from the 19th Century andnow a finely decorated lodge sleeping up to four (plus a canine friend). The onsite award-winning spa is welcome extra touch, and the gorgeoussurrounding countryside lends itself to wildlife spotting and some fantasticwalks and explorations.
