Our Fairytale Castle

[Sam writing] 

Finding housing was one of our biggest challenges when planning our trip, because most rental housing is set up for a weeklong stay or a yearlong lease, and we are in between. Plus we needed a furnished place.  We were blessed with an amazing connection that Chris made through Facebook which led to us staying in a cottage on the grounds of Kilmanahan Castle on the Suir ("sure") River in the countryside of Clonmel. Clonmel's Irish name "Cluain Meala" means honey meadow, and this little town is the largest settlement in County Tipperary. 

Our home away from home, aka "our castle" is even better than we expected!! Since we found out about it through word of mouth rather than an official booking site with pictures and reviews, we had just a minimal amount of details, so not much to go on for expectations or planning. I was really hoping it wasn't a scam! After a long travel day(s), we finally arrived at the gate...oops not that gate...on to the next gate. The estate appears to be completely enclosed with stone walls, locked entry gates, fencing/hedges between neighboring farms, and the river. (More exploring TBD!)  Anticipation was high, and the beautiful drive through the estate to our cottage, positioned just meters from the castle, was breathtaking! It is very green and picturesque here -- many varieties of trees, fields of crops, wildflowers, pastures of cows, hills, and mountains in the distance. 

 

The inside is a cozy cottage built with stone and updated with brick, wood, drywall, and tile. The decor is an eclectic mix of antique items, family heirlooms, travel souvenirs, fresh flowers, and lots of artwork. 

Enjoy a look around....

Welcoming Entryway

Lily's Room

Family Room

Dining Room

Kitchen

Let's go upstairs...

Kate's Room 

Girls' Bathroom

Kitchenette with a tea kettle of course 

En Suite (Master)

All of our bedrooms have a castle view!
(and beautiful, room-darkening curtains)