Lost Cottage
Glenbeigh, County Kerry, Republic of Ireland
The remote lakeside townland of Treangarriv in County Kerry was once only home to a herd of mountain goats, who used an abandoned mountainside retreat to shelter from the bleak Irish winters. Hundreds of years on, a local family transformed the ruins of the cottage into a luxury self-catering hideaway that couples and families can claim all for themselves. Set between emerald green farmland and cloud-shrouded mountains, beneath its red iron roof, Lost Cottage is paradise found.
Introduction
Kerry is world-renowned for its raw, majestic beauty, but it’s the secret spots that hold the real magic. Set within 85 acres, this pared-back self-catering bolthole is a world away from the bright lights of the city. Watch the morning sun awaken the valley from the master bed, or choose the armchair by the log fire when the heavens open - it's the best seat in the house for witnessing sideways rain and dramatic cloudscapes whip over Caragh lake. Minimalist interiors offer a stylish refuge from the elements. Days in the great outdoors and nights that crackle and roar; staying at Lost Cottage connects you what's real and silences what's not.
Inside
The tender renovation of Lost Cottage saw new roof timbers foraged from the forest, the mud floor lime rendered and furnishings crafted from local Douglas Fir. The open-plan living area is filled with natural light. Behind one door hides the twin bedroom, behind another is the bathroom which leads to the master in a modern poured concrete extension, designed to mirror the landscape using wood grain oxidised concrete to colour-match the mountains. The bathroom has a glass roof, rain shower and sunken tub. Set in Ireland's first International Dark Sky Reserve, bathers are guaranteed a dazzling show.
Outside
Home to some of Ireland’s most iconic scenery, friendliest folk and spirited trad music, County Kerry encompasses all that is great about this fair green isle. Step onto the Kerry Way from the doorstep and see how far your legs will take you along the 200km route which loops around the Iveragh Peninsula. On balmy days head to Dooks beach, where you'll be unlikely to find anyone other than the owner's extended family, or take the drive to Coumeenoole (made famous by the film Ryan's Daughter) where gold sand, sea-pounded rocks and turquoise waters create an awe-inspiring location.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 4 guests
From £1,795 per week, £1,295 per short break - Alternative group optionUp to 2 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsOne master bedroom with king-size bed and en suite rainfall shower, family bathroom with WC, sink and sunken bath, plus one twin bedroom. Please note, access to the main bedroom is via the family bathroom, due to the atypical nature of the cottage.
View bedrooms - PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyYes, children are very welcome. One cot and one highchair are available.
- PracticalitiesThe approach to the property is via an unmade track, with parking outside the cottage. The simple kitchen has all the essentials including a dishwasher, oven and fridge while the washing machine and dryer are situated in the outhouse. The property has underfloor heating.
- Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper with local produce, 18" tablet for Netflix, Fugoo XL portable Bluetooth speaker, iPad, WiFi internet, gas barbecue, linen, towels, logs for the fire...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questionsView floor plan
Prices & Availability
Glenbeigh
The quaint old village of Glenbeigh is a quixotic destination for those wanting to get lost in the heart of Ireland’s greenest wilderness. Nestled in the heart of County Kerry, sweeping coastlines, soaring mountain ridges and glass-like lakes provide a tonic for the soul.
Getting there
- On the Map Lost Cottage sits in the 85 private acres of Treangarriv in Glenbeigh, County Kerry.
- By Air Fly directly from Gatwick or Heathrow to Cork (an hour and 40 minutes from the cottage), or from Luton and Stanstead to Kerry airport which is only half an hour's drive from the cottage.
- By Car Car hire is easily available for those who arrive by plane.
From the owner
“Hidden within Kerry are secret magical places that few people ever get to see, Lost Cottage is one of these, it´s like its own little world.”
Even when people born and raised in the vicinity first visit Lost Cottage, they are taken aback by its beauty and find it hard to believe that it's so close yet so hidden. I was no different.
The cottage was built in the early 1800s and then abandoned in 1960 when Jack 'The Badger' O'Shea moved his family to Killarney. For the next 40 years it became a winter refuge to a herd of goats (they're still on the mountain!) then in 2003 we started to restore the cottage by first carefully peeling off its rotting roof and removing the last few remnants of render, bringing the cottage back to its bare stone walls. Having cut the larch roof timbers in the forest behind the cottage, we slowly brought the cottage back to life, helped by conservation experts, many kilos of lime render and a lot of love. All the original windows and doors were handcrafted to the exact design of what was there before.
The views from the house are exceptional, an ever-changing kaleidoscope of colours, shadows and shades. Wild winter cloudscapes, soft spring days, serine sunrises and horizontal rain; no matter what the weather, it is stunning in its beauty. Even at night, Treangarriv sparkles. On a cloudless night, we've seen stunning views of the Milkyway.
The Spain Family
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Glenbeigh with an insider’s perspective.
To See
The Skellig Experience
You can experience many aspects of the Skellig islands while remaining on the dry land, in a custom built, grass roofed building located right on the waterfront beside the Valentia Island bridge at Valentia Island.
To Eat
Driftwood Cafe
Located in St Finian´s Bay on the Wild Atlantic Way and Skellig Ring, overlooking the UNESCO World Heritage site Skellig Michael, Driftwood is a unique dining experience offering fresh, local, and seasonal plates with a view.
To Do
Surfing - Inch Beach
Individual or group surf lessons can be arranged to fit your schedule at Inch Beach. They also rent out surf equipment: surfboards, boogie boards, wetsuits and stand up paddleboards if you want to surf on your own!
To Do
The Kerry Way
Treangarriv is actually on the Kerry Way. You can walk directly from the cottage, or alternatively choose from the numerous other world-quality walks all around the cottage. It´s really a heaven for both avid hikers and leisurely amblers.
Guest Testimonials
Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google
What a wonderful week we have had. A real escape from the world. We have loved every minute of our visit to this wonderful place. The cottage and surrounds are so beautiful we will miss this peaceful place with its magical surroundings. Thank you for your hospitality. We will definitely be back for a return visit.
We were made to feel most welcome in “our” cottage as soon as we arrived. From learning about glaciers that shaped the land, to hearing stories about Badger O’Shea; our conversation with the owner helped us feel immediately connected to the property. The views are phenomenal, the bed linens luxurious, and the welcome basket divine. Our visit was restorative, refreshing, and I’ll admit I cried a little when it was time to leave. We certainly hope to return one day!
We had a wonderful time at Lost Cottage. The owner is an excellent host and it was a very nice surprise to find a basket with lovely products from the local area. Even the weather was quite kind to us! I have already told a number of friends about this ideal getaway!
We arrived at Lost Cottage and were welcomed with a hamper of local produce; it was wonderful and contained some particularly delicious bread and cheeses. The property was exactly what we needed; remote, peaceful and with excellent views. Lost Cottage was spotlessly clean and had every convenience necessary to make our stay comfortable. At the end of a busy day exploring, we would light up the outdoor fire bowl and sit and relax as the sun set. We ate home-cooked meals in the cottage every evening and found that the kitchen had every facility we could possibly need. Thank you for such a tremendous holiday.
Thank you so much for a perfect week for us both. What an amazing and relaxing home you have. Waking up and looking out over the lake was quite something. We both don´t want to leave and get back to reality. Our stay couldn´t have been better, so much so we are already talking of when we can return. Thank you again.
The property is simply stunning. The location and the scenic views would be hard to beat. The tranquil setting, sheep, trickling stream and having peace and quiet and the amazing walks all in one place has been a real treat! The owner was a true gentleman and made us feel very welcome and took the time to show us around the property. The new year we spent there will be one we will never forget with luxury at every stage!
This property is extraordinary. The tranquillity, privacy, and views are marvellous. The uniquely designed structure contrasts the traditional croft with the superbly modern master bedroom and bath. The home and its contents are clean and attractive. The host is wonderful and provided impeccable recommendations, detailed excursions, delicious local specialities, and a generous welcome. He clearly has put his heart and soul into the property and into making each guest’s stay, however short, wonderful. We look forward to booking again next year.
Fabulous hosts, owner and the housekeeper, friendly and helpful. Drop dead gorgeous location. They should keep the wandering sheep and goats. Lost Cottage has been one of our favourites. Thank you.
My favourite things were the sunken bath, the centuries old roof timbers, closing the little window shutters and lighting the wood burner for cosy evenings wrapped in a Donegal Tweed blanket. Oh and feasting on soda bread and local sheeps milk cheese - perfect!
The sheep on the mountain with their lambs peering in the cottage door and panoramic window was so sweet! Having the Wild Atlantic Way on the doorstep, empty beaches and the dramatic Ring of Kerry with its Celtic roots and amazing vistas makes it just the most incredible place to visit. The locals are wonderfully welcoming and you must go for a Guinness in the pub! The cottage is beautiful with its corrugated roof, red painted windows and the contrast of the glass fronted extension creates a truly magical home.
Waking up in the Master bedroom with breathtaking views of the lake and mountains through the picture window is something I will never forget. Watching the landscape change by the second was a total joy with huge waves of clouds then dappled sunshine, a summer rain storm and then total blue skies. This home offers total peace.
I was so excited as I drove up the sweeping drive, as I stepped out of my car I was mesmerised by the stunning views,it was like a portrait - mountain and lake views absolutely breath-taking! The open plan living area was fantastic with one gable end completely glass, with amazing views, it was lovely to sit and have breakfast while enjoying such views. It was a joy to wake up in the morning and just gaze at the private views through the massive glass window and watch the wildlife meandering, thank you so much for an amazing stay I will be back!
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Lost Cottage and Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
Staycation in splendid isolation
Country Living
May 2023The Lost Cottage
Country Living Modern Rustic
March 2023Taking Off
The Times
November 2020Rocky Road
House & Garden
September 2020The Vogue Edit
Vogue
May 2018Ways to improve your life—from our experts
The Times
October 2024The UK´s most relaxing riverside stays
The Times
October 2024At one with nature
25 Beautiful Homes
September 2024
All Properties > Republic of Ireland > County Kerry > Glenbeigh > Lost Cottage
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Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.