The cottage was built in the late 18th century. It has been restored to its former glory, retaining almost every detail of its original character. The current owner is Kate's grandson. As a young woman, Kate Gallagher reared 7 children in this cottage while her husband worked abroad in America.
Traditional Design
The cottage has a traditional design - on entering through the half door you come into the living area with its original hearth complete with crook and pots, flag stone floor, oak beam ceiling, dresser with earthenware delph, oil lamps, valve radio, butter churn and a wealth of other original features. There are two bedrooms on either side of the living area which can accommodate up to 5 people.
All materials used in the construction of the cottage are from the locality. The couples (beams), stones and sods used are in as good condition today as they were over 200 years ago. The couples were made from bog oak and these were taken from the bogs in around the Glengesh Valley. The stones used in this home were taken from the nearby quarry. The flag stones used in the floor were quarried from the sea cliffs at Maghera and Loughros Point.
Being on the exposed North West , the cottage was built gabled with a rounded roof, unlike cottages in the South of Ireland which tend to have a pointed roof. The thatch on this roof is flax (from East Donegal) and has a light coating of corn straw which has a more golden colour.
The furniture in the cottage is certainly original if not old. All the chairs, including the rocking chair are authentic handmade blackthorn pieces by the renowned Gabriel Casey (Lisdoonvarna, Co Clare) - all made without any nails. The dining table was also handcrafted locally. In terms of construction there is only two concessions to modernity - a bathroom and a small galley style kitchen.
The cottage also has beautiful landscaped grounds. There is small stone enclosed garden to the front, a larger elevated garden to the rear and a paved patio area to the side - all enjoying views towards the Glengesh Pass. There is even spring water on tap to the back of the cottage!
Ardara - Heritage Town
Less than a 5 minute drive from Granny Kate's is the town of Ardara. This is a bustling town situated in the south west corner of County Donegal. The environs of the town is an area rich in history, culture, bounded by stunning landscapes and has an abundance of activities for the holidaymaker. Ardara is a traditional centre for weaving and knitwear production. Its historical importance has been recognised in the granting of Heritage status to the town. The visitor will find a number of excellent restaurants in the locality as well as friendly pubs – several of which feature traditional music sessions.
Facilities & Amenities :
Facilities :
Amenities :
Rates in Euro per week :
January :
250 EUR
Weekend :
250 EUR
February :
250 EUR
Easter :
450 EUR
March :
250 EUR
Christmas :
-
April :
250 EUR
New Year :
-
May :
300 EUR
Show rates in :
Non Euro pricing based on exchange rates in effect as of 2010-09-08.
