For the IRELAND VACATION RENTALS page

This sumptuous private estate is on its own 450 acre island near the banks of Upper Lough Erne.  Owned by the Duke of Abercorn, it has to be one of the most spell-binding and exciting properties in which to holiday. The grand Hamilton Wing of this magical castle was restored and decorated by noted designer David Hicks with exquisite taste and good humor.

One enters a long, curving driveway which is guarded by two massive stone lions, one of whom is sleeping (see our main Ireland page).  The house, some of which dates to the 17th Century, is sprawling and elegant, covered with Virginia Creeper.

OPTION A - a portion of the castle wing: Accommodates 8 4 bedrooms 4 bathrooms OPTION B - the entire wing of the castle: Accommodates 14 8 bedrooms 7 bathrooms The rooms, including 2 sitting rooms, all high ceilinged and spacious, are furnished with fine antiques and crafted pine.  Art ranges from rare etchings and an impressive collection of bird paintings to framed children's drawings.  The colors are luscious - deep and rich.

The grand dining hall, painted azalea pink with cream woodwork, seats 28.  It has the finest antiques, beautiful art and the original minstrel gallery. The kitchen, which seats 10 comfortably, is large and fully equipped including a massive Aga stove and a traditional stove.

The bedrooms are green, blue, yellow or amethyst, all lovely and restful tones that complement the fine period furniture and well chosen fabrics.  For Option A, there are 2 twin bedded rooms, two double rooms, one en suite.  There are 4 bathrooms.

For Option B, there is all of the above plus 2 double bedrooms and 2 single bedrooms plus 2 more bathrooms and a shower room. All bathrooms have tubs with showers over tub.

There is an all-weather tennis court in the old walled garden, private fishing and shooting.  With advance notice, in June through September, the owner's wooden cruiser boat  (holding 14 plus its captain) is available so you can explore the lakes and islands.  There is a well-known cookery school on the premises which offers 1 to 3-day courses. The Land Agent lives in a wing of the castle.  He is helpful if you need him; otherwise, you won't know he's there. Cleaning and cooking staff can be arranged with prior notice at additional cost.

ACCESSIBILITY NOTICE:

The Castle is  accessible to people with minimal mobility limitations.

 THE COURTYARD APARTMENTS:
 

The courtyard apartments share the House's views of countryside, gardens and water.  Formerly the farmyard and work rooms, they are picturesque stone-built row cottages.  Some are one story, while a few are two story.  Newly renovated, they are beautifully decorated with pine and wicker furniture and attractive colors.

The style is casual, but expertly done and very comfortable.  Bathrooms are very well designed.  Bedrooms are spacious and light.  The sitting rooms have ample room to stretch out after a day's explorations.

The estate is on an island connected to the mainland by a bridge.  There is a dairy herd of 90 cows on the estate. 

You'll find so much to do in this beautiful area of Ireland.  There are many National Trust properties, Castle Coole, Florence Court and Croom.  There are gorgeous beaches on the many nearby lakes and there's Belleek home of the famous pottery.  There are many walking and bicycle trails on the property.   House cleaning and other staff can be arranged at an additional cost.

Enniskillen is 8 miles.  Belfast is 72 miles.  Dublin is 100 miles.  Shannon is 170 miles.

ACCESSIBILITY NOTICE:

Two of the apartments are accessible to those with more severe limitations.  Please ask us for additional information.