Rockhill (I206), Bruree, Co. Limerick

This impressive, historic house with a lovely garden and extensive countryside views is ideal for friends and families seeking a tranquil base for their Irish getaway. Built as a hunting lodge in the 1800s in the heart of the Golden Vale, guests can enjoy the far-reaching views of the surrounding countryside from this fantastic base. The historic towns of Bruree (3 miles), Charleville (5 miles), and Kilmallock (7 miles) all offer shops, pubs, and restaurants to peruse. The area has historic landmarks to discover, including the Knockfierna Famine House (9 miles) and Lough Gur Wedge Tomb (14 miles). Golfers can try their luck at the 18-hole course at Charleville (7.5 miles), while fishing is on hand in the River Maigue and Lough Gur (14 miles). Outdoor enthusiasts should head to Ballinaboola Forest for hiking, and Ballyhoura for mountain bike trails, both less than 14 miles away. Tastefully restored with elegant furnishings and stylings, guests are greeted by a wonderful entrance hall, boasting art on the walls and period furniture, setting the scene for the rest of the house. Head on through to the country-style kitchen, equipped with all you need to rustle up memorable meals for the group, who can gather at the breakfast table in the kitchen, or in the traditional dining room to enjoy the chef's work. After dinner, move through to the spacious sitting room with an open fire, or the lounge, where you'll find plenty of comfortable seating so you can enjoy chatting, watching TV, or planning the next day's activities. When day turns to night, head upstairs to find the five elegantly-furnished bedrooms that await; three double rooms, one with an en-suite bathroom and one with an en-suite shower room, another double bedroom that boasts an additional single bed, and a twin room with an en-suite shower room. Serving the non-en-suite bedrooms and completing the inside is a well-appointed family bathroom. Head outside to explore the extensive gardens and admire the countryside views. There is plenty of space for children to play and for adults to relax on the garden furniture, while on warm evenings, the group can gather at the BBQ for an al fresco evening meal. Need to know 5 bedrooms - 4 doubles (1 with additional single), 1 twin 4 bathrooms - 2 en-suite shower rooms, 1 en-suite bathroom, 1 bathroom Electric hob/oven, dishwasher, fridge/freezer, washing machine, tumble dryer, microwave Cot and highchair available 2 open fires - first basket of wood supplied Oil-fired central heating. Oil and electric at an extra charge Solar energy TV, DVD player, CD, radio Wi-Fi at an extra charge Large garden, BBQ, and garden furniture 1 well-behaved pet welcome Private parking Pub and shop 3 miles €200 breakables deposit payable to owner on arrival Wi-Fi extra charge Sleeps 6 maximum Price FROM €775 per week. See www.shamrockcottages.co.uk for current availability and further details. Under cottage no I206.