The ultimate self-catering cottage in Ireland for art lovers
This Kerry cottage offers a perfect retreat, full of local craft and considered details, with so much to explore nearby.
With a peaceful, secluded location yet accessible to everything you could want for a Kerry escape, Fuchsia Cottage is the perfect blend of design, craft and comfort. Owned by renowned art auctioneer John de Vere White and his wife, it’s no surprise that everything in this cottage has been finished to perfection, or that it is filled with real artwork.
This was a project born from a long relationship with the area. “I’ve been going to Kerry for over 60 years,” John explains, “and every time I go there, I become more and more aware that it’s a magical place and a beautiful place. My wife and I like a project, so we decided we would try and find a derelict cottage in the right location to do up.”
Around two and a half years ago they found the perfect one, sitting above Caragh Lake in Glencar. “The minute we saw it, we knew that’s exactly what we were looking for,” John remembers.
“It was in a stunning location, perfect orientation, and it was completely secluded, but it wasn’t remote. You have the best walking in the country, and the house is under 45 minutes from Kenmare, it’s 45 minutes from Killarney, it’s 25 minutes from Killorglin and Puck Fair, and it’s 25 minutes from the beach at Dooks, and the well-known golf course. Of course, we have the new Kerry Greenway, which is opening between Glenbeigh and Cahersiveen, which will probably be the most spectacular greenway in the country.”
Working with architect Eileen Fitzgerald and local builder John Brendan O’Neill, the front wall of the old cottage was retained, while the rest was painstakingly rebuilt. The walls and floors have all been insulated, a polished concrete floor has underfloor heating throughout, and the walls were finished with lime plaster, in keeping with the character of the original cottage.
When it came to furnishing the cottage, John explains that the aim was for it to feel as welcoming as someone’s home, rather than a generic holiday home, and this is evident from the finishes throughout. The kitchen was crafted by a local cabinet maker, they sourced pine furniture from the period when the original cottage was built, and textiles from Kerry Woolen Mills are found everywhere from throws to window seats.
Another real draw of this home is that it’s filled with original artwork, a detail that was important to John given his expertise in the area. Pieces include work by local artist Pauline Bewick, a sculpture by Irish artist Cathy Carman, and an oil painting of nearby Acoose Lake John found by Alexander Williams, dated September 1894. Books and board games also ensure that guests have plenty to entertain themselves, and they can also enjoy a drink from the honesty bar.
Outside, there is a patio so you can enjoy the surrounding view or enjoy some al fresco dining, and a sauna and outdoor shower offer the perfect way to unwind after a hike or a sea swim.
To find out more and book, go to uniqueirishhomes.ie/fuchsia-cottage
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