Ballyportry Castle

Ballyportry Castle is a genuine late medieval 15th century Gaelic tower house, that is sympathetically restored. Ballyportry Castle works well for multi generational family holidays, and for those who wish to experience an authentic and spacious tower house. Dinner can be prepared for your arrival, and the fridge filled with local foods by the guide who can make suggestions for your exploration of the rich archaeology and amazing landscape of the surrounding Burren, and the nearby Atlantic coast. Enclosed by a bawn wall, Ballyportry is placed on a rocky outcrop, which gives it extra height and grandeur and long distance views from the roof walk seven levels above ground. Moon rises behind the gentle hills of Clare, and sunsets can be appreciated in quiet contemplation from on high, as cattle slowly graze the rugged pastures around small lakes and a stream murmurs quietly as it curves around reed beds. There is a large downstairs kitchen/sitting chamber at entrance level. A stone spiral staircase ascends the castle to the principal room. A spacious Great Hall roofed with exposed oak trusses, and has an open fireplace and stone floor. It is at the highest level of the castle. Heating is ducted under floor, and a cosy log burning stove in both the downstairs kitchen and the largest bedroom. The tower house is cleaned completely before and after guests have stayed, and in accordance with the sensitivities of the conservation programme. The ceilings contain remains of the original hazel branches, which were used to hold the plaster in position. The limestone walls are neither rendered nor plastered. The bathroom counter tops are of Liscannor stone, and the kitchen worktop is of Kilkenny marble. The stone floors are also of Liscannor, a rare and beautiful hardwearing stone from the locality. The castle has lots of books to read or dip into including poetry, biography, thriller, and cookery books. WiFi is available in the National Park and Wildlife Centre in the village of Corofin, less than five minutes away. Ballyportry is 30 minutes drive from the Atlantic Ocean. The town of Ennis is 20 minutes away. Ballyportry Castle sleeps eight guests. It has six bedrooms, three bathrooms, two with showers, two kitchens. The castle stands on five acres of rugged land. Three night minimum stay. Ballyportry Castle is not suitable for very small children or for those with walking difficulties. No more than four extra table guests permitted. Ballyportry is a protected monument of national importance

Clare