Restful Stays at Cnoc Suainβ¦
Stay
βStaying in one of these cozy cottages is one of the most authentic experiences you could have in Ireland."
- National Geographic
Nestled into a secluded quarter of Cnoc Suain, lies βAn Baile Γochtarβ (The Lower Village), a cluster of enchanting slate-roofed and thatched stone cottages.
In harmony with the surrounding fragile ecosystem, these cottages have been lovingly restored and reimagined with reclaimed timber, salvaged slates, local field stone and a renewable heating system.
Situated in the Conamara Gaeltacht (Irish / Gaelic speaking region) on the Mountain Road between the villages of An SpidΓ©al and Maigh Cuilinn, An Baile Γochtar is immersed in the tranquil surrounds of Cnoc Suainβs privately owned 200 acre nature sanctuary, conveniently located just 5km from the coast, on the Wild Atlantic Way, and 15 km from Galway City, Irelandβs cultural capital.
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An Sceach Gheal
Enchanting centuries-old two-bedroom thatched roof cottage
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An Nead
Artistβs quirky and cosy one-bedroom Bangor-slate roof cottage
The Grounds
Described by one of Connemaraβs leading archaeologists, Michael Gibbons, as a βmini national parkβ, Cnoc Suainβs landscape is laced with natural & built heritage, from quaking Atlantic bog pools to a c3,000 year old standing stone. Guests can enjoy being fully immersed in this privately-owned owned 200 acre Special Area of Conservation during their stay.
Cnoc Suain is home to many native wildlife including hares, stoats, badgers, fox, bats and a wide variety of birds, both native and migratory, making it an excellent place for birdwatching, particularly during the nesting months beginning in March and through to September.
On clear nights, count the stars from your cottage door, or grab the torch and walk to the top of the hill where the standing stone is to get a full 360 degree view. Watch beautiful sunrises from this same spot and breath-taking sunsets over the vast, open bogland.
We have a small herd of Kerry Bog Ponies who graze our bogland in summer and the green fields in winter. (Please note - Unfortunately we cannot guarantee that you will see/meet the ponies during your stay as they graze and help us manage many acres that are not all accessible to guests.) The Kerry Bog Pony is Ireland's rarest native equine breed. Once used as a pack animal to transport, peat, seaweed and other heavy loads, their numbers declined over the years. However, although now recognised as an endangered breed, there has been growing interest in this hardy pony in recent decades. Able to withstand the harshest Irish winter, these ponies adapted, and were bred, to live and work on the bog, with their sturdiness, sure-footedness, and distinctive high-knee action. As browsers and selective grazers, they live in harmony with the land, grazing the various delights of our blanket bogland here at Cnoc Suain, while allowing flora and fauna to flourish.
Donβt let wet weather stop you from exploring the grounds - grab a pair of of our guest wellington boots available for use during your stay.
We would like to let guests know that there are wind turbines in the locality, however they do not impact your stay at Cnoc Suain.
View our PHOTO GALLERY for images of Cnoc Suain.
What our guests sayβ¦