Fintragh (I288), Killybegs, Co. Donegal

Close to the fine beach at Fintragh Bay, this stone-built cottage is an idyllic couple's bolthole. Explore the Wild Atlantic Way then return home to enjoy elevated views of Donegal Bay as you dine on the terrace or snuggle by the open fire. Get off the beaten track with a break at this characterful cottage, which sits on the coastal slopes of Crownarad Mountain. Backed by trees and shrubs and accessed by a steep country lane, it's a restful retreat for two, furnished to provide every essential for a fuss-free stay. Spend quality time together in the sitting room, where there's a choice of comfortable seating, stunning views through cottage-style windows, and an open fire to cast a warm glow as you unwind with the TV as entertainment. At the far end of the room, patio doors open onto a sun terrace - additional seating means you can soak up the view without setting foot outdoors. There's a similar blend of classic and contemporary features in the kitchen, where a wooden dining table and chairs sit before a traditional range cooker; cooking will be a breeze thanks to the electric hob and oven close by. A family bathroom and slumber-inducing double bedroom complete your accommodation. When you want a breath of fresh air, simply open the patio doors onto the sun terrace. The far-reaching view across the bay is breathtaking, and there's picnic bench-style seating so you can enjoy food and drinks alfresco. Less than a mile from your doorstep, Fintragh Beach is pristine - backed by dunes and grassy hills, with a steep approach road which offers fabulous vistas stretching as far as Benbulben mountain in County Sligo. On the opposite side of the peninsula, Killybegs (2.5 miles) is Ireland's largest fishing port and is famous for its local lore, maritime culture, and festival scene. Follow the Heritage Trail for all the town's must-see sites, or take a boat trip to the base of the Sliabh Liag cliffs - you'll see a Napoleonic Tower, sea stacks, sheltered coves, caves, waterfalls and possibly even a pod of dolphins. Around 5 miles in the opposite direction, Muckross Head has two beaches and is one of the 39 Wild Atlantic Way discovery points in Donegal. Need to know 1 double bedroom 1 bathroom with shower over the bath and WC Electric hob and oven, washing machine, microwave Bed linen and towels not included Open fire Storage heaters Oil-fired central heating TV/DVD player, radio/CD player Terrace with garden furniture Private parking Steep access road Beach 1 mile, pub and shops 2.5 miles Extras, payable to the owner: oil, electric, linen and towels Price FROM €334 per week. See www.shamrockcottages.co.uk for current availability and further details. Under cottage no I288.