Doon Hill (I252), Maam Cross, Co. Galway

A peaceful wooded and lakeside setting awaits at this charming holiday home for four, located on a pretty peninsula at the northern end of Lough Corrib. The former school and schoolhouse presents a unique living experience where you can absorb over 150 years of local history. And when you fancy wandering down to the water's edge, a 150-metre walk leads down to a pier and foreshore. While the spot is beautifully rural and secluded, just 3.5 miles away in Cornamona, you'll find amenities such as a shop and pub. The dwelling contains some original features, like elegant ceiling beams in the spacious kitchen/diner and has been renovated to a high standard for modern living. Wooden flooring and fixtures create a cosy, welcoming appearance, as do the decorative touches on the walls and splashes of colour. In the traditional lounge, put your feet up and enjoy the warmth of the open fire for a delightful evening in, perhaps with a glass of wine or two. The double bedroom has an en-suite shower room whilst the twin can make use of the bathroom. External stairs lead to a spectacular roof terrace (or 'tower') that offers breathtaking views, garden furniture and a BBQ for fair-weather sizzle-ups amidst nature. The surrounding area is truly wonderful for nature lovers, whether you fancy scenic hikes through nearby woodland or picnicking on the sandy shores of Lough Nafooey (9 miles). In Maam (4.5 miles), you'll find essentials like petrol, while the old-world village of Leenane (13 miles) is a beauty spot and springboard for boat trips on Ireland's only fjord. You'll love discovering the area's rugged beauty and majestic natural sites like the Aasleagh Falls (15 miles), where the more adventurous among you can enjoy canyoning and kayaking. Need to know 2 bedrooms - 1 double bed, 1 twin 2 bathrooms - 1 en-suite with shower and WC, 1 with bath, shower and WC Electric hob and oven, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, microwave, washing machine/dryer Open fireplace Oil-fired central heating and immersion heater. Oil at extra charge TV, DVD player, CD player Enclosed fenced garden, external stairs to roof terrace with seating and BBQ Private parking for 2 cars Shop and pub 3.5 miles, beach 9 miles Can only get to the property via a 1.5-mile winding track Please note - The water is unpotable. Bottled water is provided Owners of electric cars will be charged €8 per day for charging their car battery Rowing boat available by arrangement with the owner Price FROM €468 per week. See www.shamrockcottages.co.uk for current availability and further details. Under cottage no 252.