The wonderful dichotomy of these old stone buildings set in the lush Irish countryside with the fabulous, modern amenities and comforts of this meticulously recreated house, makes this a very special rental. With an abundance of windows you are continually aware of the rural setting, and spoiled with generous amounts of daylight. Not to mention that some of the most spectacular scenery in Ireland is in Co. Galway.

The Stone Cottage, located about 5 miles outside of Portumna, was built using old stone from original buildings on the site. It has geothermal, radiant heat, so bare feet won’t feel anything but warm when walking barefoot on the wood, stone or tile floors (there are Persian carpets in all the bedrooms).

There are 3 large, double bedrooms, each with its own beautifully appointed, modern bathroom. The master suite includes a cast iron, freestanding bath (big enough for two!) and separate walk-in shower and double sinks. With trundle beds the house sleeps 8.

There garden stretches back an acre behind the house, followed by a two acre field where you can often find horses or cows grazing.

-WATER SPORTS Power boating, paragliding, water skiing all available on the River Shannon 15 minutes away.

-BOATING self-drive motor cruisers can be rented in Portumna for use on the Shannon.

-WALKING Close by in Portumna Forest Park, on the shores of Lough Derg, taking in Portumna Castle and Monastery.

-TRADITIONAL IRISH MUSIC At the Derg Inn in Terryglass – 20 minutes away. Also at various other local pubs and festivals in the surrounding area.

-FURTHER AFIELD . . .

-GALWAY CITY Under an hour away. This city is thriving with arts and culture.

-CONNEMARA Breathtaking scenery and beaches, completely untouched for hundreds of years. Village of Cong where ³Quiet Man² was shot. About 1 1/2 hours from the house.

-BURREN Home of the Cliffs of Moher and the beautiful rugged stone landscape, unique to this part of the country. Great beaches can also be found here.

-SLIEVE BLOOM MOUNTAINS Hill walking among miles of forest and natural bogland. One hour from the house.

-BIRR GARDENS Reported to be the best gardens in Ireland, the grounds of Birr Castle are truly impressive.

-HORSE RIDING, Pony trekking ¼ miles. Walking 1 mile. Traditional Music, Shooting, -GYM, hot-tub, sauna, steam room, Children's Playground, Fishing, Golf, Forest walks 5 miles.

See links to rates & availability at top.