Discover Irelands Hidden Gem: Killee Cottage

Welcome to Killee Cottage, a charming thatched hideaway tucked in the peaceful Irish countryside. Carefully restored and managed by the Irish Landmark Trust, it’s perfect for romantic getaways or family trips. With the stunning Galtee Mountains nearby, it’s a great spot to explore the beautiful local countryside and culture.

Whether you’re planning a cosy weekend or a longer stay, Killee Cottage gives you a lovely mix of comfort and history. Enjoy hill walks right outside your door, and soak in the natural beauty around you. Plus, we’ve put together a 7-day itinerary packed with fun things to do during your stay.

The History of Killee Cottage

Killee Cottage was built in the mid-19th century and was once home to local families. It’s a great example of the Irish vernacular architecture of the time.

As Ireland evolved and rural life slowed down, many cottages like this were abandoned. Today, Killee Cottage is one of just two thatched cottages still standing on a quiet lane called The Mall. It sits next to a small stream, with a big garden offering lovely views of the surrounding fields.

The area hasn’t changed much since the cottage was built. Many of the old buildings shown on the first Ordnance Survey maps are still around today.

Killee Cottage likely dates back to the mid-19th century and started as a simple, one or two-room home for workers on the Montgomery Estate. As the family grew, they added a bedroom towards the river.

The 7-Day Killee Cottage Stay Itinerary

Killee Cottage provides an ideal stay when exploring County Cork and beyond. From here, you’ll have access to mountains, forests, caves, and more for a perfect week in Ireland.

 

Day 1: Arrival and Local Exploration – Mitchelstown

Mitchelstown is just 30 miles from Cork City, sitting at the foothills of the Galtee Mountains in the scenic Blackwater Valley. The town gets its name from St. Michael, the patron saint of the Condon Family, who lived here in medieval times. It was designed as a planned town by the 1st and 3rd Earls of Kingston in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Surrounded by the Galtee and Knockmealdown Mountains, Mitchelstown offers gorgeous views and plenty of walking options. Whether you’re a seasoned hill walker or just looking for a casual stroll, there’s something for everyone. The Blackwater Valley drive, especially around ‘The Vee,’ is known as one of the most beautiful routes in Ireland.

If you love nature, Doneraile Forest Park and Ballyhoura Mountain Park are nearby. Both offer marked trails, nature walks, and orienteering, all set against a stunning backdrop of lush scenery. If you’re up for a short drive, Cashel – the ‘home of the High Kings of Ireland’ – is only 30 minutes away. Or, if you prefer the coast, sandy beaches like Clonea, Ardmore, Youghal, and Garryvoe are also nearby.

For a relaxed afternoon, visit the beautiful gardens at Anne’s Grove or take a tour of the impressive Mitchelstown Caves, famous for their stunning limestone formations.

Day 2: A Spectacular Natural Wonder

Mitchelstown Cave, located between Cahir and Mitchelstown in County Tipperary, is known as one of the most spectacular caves in Europe. It’s only a 20-minute drive from Killee Cottage, making it a great option for a day trip. The cave is famous for its unique formations, vibrant colours, and rich history, offering a fascinating experience.

Guided tours take you through three massive caverns filled with stunning dripstone formations, including impressive stalactites and stalagmites. You’ll see graceful calcite curtains hanging from the sloped ceilings and crystals sparkling like diamonds in the distance.

One of the highlights is the Tower of Babel, one of Europe’s finest calcite columns, standing tall and adding to the cave’s beauty. Whether you’re a nature lover or an adventure seeker, Mitchelstown Cave is a must-visit for an unforgettable experience.

For more information, visit Discover Ireland.

 

Day 3: Gardens and Wildlife – Doneraile and Bridgetown

In the morning, head to Doneraile Court and Estate, just a 25-minute drive from Killee Cottage. Often called North Cork’s real-life “Downton Abbey,” Doneraile Court is the stunning heart of one of Ireland’s most beautiful estates. Situated on the banks of the Awbeg River, the house was built in the 1720s by Arthur St. Leger, the first Viscount Doneraile and father of the famous Lady Freemason.

The estate also has a delightful tearoom and a children’s tree trail, making it a perfect spot for families to explore. For opening times, visit Doneraile Estate.

Next, take a 30-minute drive to Bridgetown Priory. While a bit off the beaten path, it’s well worth the visit. The ruins date back to the 13th century, with evidence of even earlier settlements, making it one of Ireland’s most extensive remains from this period.

The priory is beautifully located in a valley where the Awbeg and Blackwater rivers meet. Founded by Augustinian monks between 1202 and 1216, it was supported by monasteries from Meath and Dublin, along with a generous Anglo-Norman benefactor, Alexander Fitz Hugh de Roche. The priory was once a thriving community, with lands, fishing rights, and milling privileges along both rivers.

Day 4: Hiking the Galtee Mountains


Take a breather and join a Beyond the Glass Guided Day Hike in the Galtee Mountains, County Tipperary. This moderate hike offers panoramic views of the stunning landscape, making it the perfect way to connect with nature.

An experienced guide from Beyond the Glass Day Hikes will lead you on an unforgettable trek up Galtymore. You’ll be part of a small, like-minded group, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience. If you prefer something more personal, you can also book a private tour tailored for you and your friends.

With a carefully selected route, you’ll be able to fully soak in the beauty of the Irish countryside. The hike culminates in breathtaking views from the summit, and the descent takes a different path to show you even more of the magnificent mountain range.

For more information and to book, visit their website.

Day 5: Exploring Cork City

The best way to explore Cork is by lacing up your walking shoes and wandering around the city on foot. Whether you’re keen to check out galleries or browse a local market, many of the top attractions are just a short walk away from each other.

Some highlights to check out in Cork City:

  • The English Market: Start your adventure here, where you can browse food stalls and grab a coffee from one of the café stands. It’s a local gem and a great spot to experience Cork’s food culture.
  • Crawford Observatory: Visit the only observatory on a university campus in Ireland, with remarkably preserved instruments and an original building. While there, you’ll get to see the award-winning equatorial telescope displayed at the 1878 Paris International Exhibition.
  • TFI Bikes: For an easy way to get around, grab a TFI Bike. With 36 locations across the city, it’s free for the first 30 minutes—perfect for a quick ride around the area.

Dining at Ichigo Ichie: If you’re lucky enough to get a reservation, Ichigo Ichie is one of the hottest dining spots in Cork, offering Michelin-starred Japanese cuisine. If not, head to Miyazaki Japanese Takeaway, where head chef Takashi Miyazaki serves up the same delicious flavours at a more affordable price, with lunch service available too.

Day 6: Killavullen and Blackwater Way

Killavullen (pronounced Killawillin) translates to “the church of the mill” and is located just a 30-minute drive from Killee Cottage. The village sits on the River Blackwater, surrounded by high gorges with castellated houses—some in ruins, others still standing strong.

The area is rich in history and literary significance. The modern Ballymacmoy House, home to the Hennessy Brandy family, sits high on the cliffs above the river. Interestingly, Edmund Burke (1729-1797), one of Ireland’s most famous historical figures, received some of his early education in this area.

For a lovely walk, take the loop that includes a section of the Blackwater Way, a long-distance route. The trail then ascends woodland paths and forest roads towards Corran Mountain, the third-highest peak in the Nagle Mountain range. As you climb, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views over the Blackwater Valley, Ballyhoura Mountains, and Nagle Mountains.

For more information, visit Discover Ireland.

 

Day 7: Fota Arboretum and Gardens

Fota Arboretum and Gardens, located just a 45-minute drive from Killee Cottage, is a must-visit for anyone interested in horticulture. The arboretum spans 11 hectares and boasts one of Europe’s finest collections of rare, tender trees and shrubs grown outdoors. Thanks to its warm soil and sheltered location, Fota’s unique conditions allow exotic plants from the southern hemisphere to thrive. The gardens themselves are full of stunning features, including an ornamental pond, formal pleasure gardens, an orangery, and a sun temple. These were all designed by James Hugh Smith-Barry in the early 19th century. Fota House, the Smith-Barry family’s ancestral home, still stands on the island. The island is also home to a hotel, golf resort, and wildlife park, making it a perfect spot for a full day of exploration.

For more information, visit Fota House.

House Manager Tips

When planning your visit to Killee Cottage, there’s no shortage of things to see, do, and experience in the surrounding area. From local food and drink to festivals and outdoor activities, these tips will help you make the most of your stay.

Local Food & Drink

Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to pick up some local goodies, the area has plenty of places to grab fresh produce and specialty items. Take the time to explore and discover what’s on offer—your taste buds will thank you!

  • Fermoy Natural Cheese Company (Fermoy): Perfect for cheese lovers.
  • Ballyhoura Mountain Mushrooms: Fresh, locally grown mushrooms.
  • O’Callaghan’s Delicatessen, Bakery & Café (Mitchelstown): A great spot for snacks and treats.
  • Blueberries Bakery – A perfect stop for freshly baked goods and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
  • Market Place Restaurant – Enjoy a delightful menu of local cuisine in this lovely restaurant.

Additionally, there are several farmers’ markets where you can pick up fresh, locally sourced ingredients to enjoy back at the cottage:

  • Killavullen, Co. Cork – Every two weeks (25 km)
  • Fermoy, County Cork – Sundays (16 km)
  • Mallow, Co. Cork – Fridays (37 km)

These markets are great for those wanting to taste the freshest produce the area has to offer.

Events

There’s always something going on in County Cork, from local festivals to special events. If you’re visiting during the festival season, be sure to check out what’s happening in the area for a unique experience. Our top pick? 

  • INDIEPENDENCE Festival: Takes place on the August Bank Holiday weekend in Mitchelstown, featuring artists, comedy, spoken word, and a small cinema. For more events, check out Pure Cork for up-to-date listings.

Plan Your Trip

To make the most of your visit to Killee Cottage, here are a few essential tips and recommendations for planning your stay:

    • Best Time to Visit: The ideal months for visiting are from April to September, especially for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy hiking and the stunning natural beauty of the area. However, winter is great, too, for those wishing to get cosy by the wood-burning stove and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
    • Extended Stays: Consider booking a longer stay with Irish Landmark Trust, as the longer you stay, the more affordable your accommodation becomes. With so much to see and do in the area, you’ll want to take your time to explore everything that Killee Cottage and its surroundings have to offer.
  • Stay Up-to-Date: Be sure to check individual websites for the most current details on opening times and bookings before confirming your plans.

 

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Salterbridge Gatelodge

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Booking Conditions

HOW TO BOOK AN IRISH LANDMARK HOLIDAY : 

It is possible to reserve dates online at www.irishlandmark.com but bookings are not confirmed until a confirmation email is received from the bookings desk.     

BOOKING:  

Your booking must be for holiday purposes only.  Irish Landmark reserve the right to refuse hire for purposes other than holiday accommodation. When you make a booking, you accept full responsibility for all persons who will use or visit the property during the period booked.  When you book, you agree to indemnify us against all loss and damage arising directly or indirectly to the property and its contents from any deliberate or negligent act or omission by yourself, or any person accompanying you. 

CONTRACT OF HIRE:  

The hiring contract shall be between the Hirer and Irish Landmark and made subject to these Booking Conditions . The Contract of Hire is not effective until Irish Landmark dispatches to the Hirer written confirmation of a booking. 

PRICE OF YOUR HOLIDAY:   

Irish Landmark reserves the right to increase or decrease the price of unsold holidays at any time. However, such amendments to price will not be applied to holidays already confirmed.   

V.A.T.:  

All prices quoted are based on current prices and rates of V.A.T. at the time of going to press. Irish Landmark is unable to absorb increases in Value Added Tax or any new forms of taxation which may be introduced. Any such increases will be charged as notified and will be payable. 

DEPOSIT AND BALANCE PAYMENTS:   

All bookings can be paid for in full at time of booking. All bookings made within 12 weeks of stay must be paid in full at time of booking. Bookings made more than 12 weeks in advance of stay require a 30% non-refundable deposit with the balance due 12 weeks before arrival.  Irish Landmark shall be entitled to treat any failure to pay by the due date as a cancellation of the booking and will notify the Hirer by email.  The maximum number of payments for a booking will be limited to two – the deposit and balance payment.   A separate payment may be due where an amendment has been made to the original booking.  

PAYMENT TYPES: 

Payments can be made by credit/debit card (Visa or Mastercard ONLY).    

Payments for properties in the Republic of Ireland are taken in Euros, payments for properties in Northern Ireland are taken in Great British Pounds. 

VOUCHERS:  

Please note that only one voucher can be used per booking.  Vouchers have a strict expiry date. 

CONFIRMATION OF BOOKING:    

Upon receipt of payment by our bookings office, you will receive a confirmation of your reservation.  All charges for the booking will be confirmed in this notification.  Once confirmation has been issued, the Hirer is responsible for the total advertised price of the property and any extras notified.   

AMENDMENTS TO BOOKINGS (excluding cancellations):    

Irish Landmark does not offer a transfer of dates option. A complete change of dates is treated as a cancellation 

CANCELLATION POLICY: We hope that you will not have to cancel your stay, or part of your reservation.  If for any reason this is unavoidable, cancellations must be notified by email to bookings@irishlandmark.com. In the event of cancellation (this includes a reduction in number of nights) your deposit is non-refundable and the following cancellation charges will apply:  

Date of Cancellation 

Cancellation Charge 

More than 12 weeks before start date 

The deposit of 30% 

84 – 28 days before start date 

50% of total rental 

Fewer than 28 days 

100% of total rental 

Irish Landmark does not operate a cancellation insurance scheme for any reason, including Covid-19, and strongly recommends that all guests take out full holiday insurance cover.    

PARTY SIZE AND COMPOSITION:  In no circumstances may more than the number of persons listed on the booking form occupy the property overnight.   Irish Landmark reserves the right to refuse admission if this condition is not observed. Bookings can only be made by adults and cannot be accepted from anyone under the age of 21.  Irish Landmark only allows guest stays where the lead guest is aged 21 years or over.   

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE:  

Upon receipt of final payment, you will receive Access Details and Important Information via email about your rental. This includes the contact information of the Local House Manager, directions to the property, arrival and departure time, etc. However, the specific arrival time must be agreed with the relevant local House Manager at least four days prior to holiday start date.  It is the responsibility of the Hirer to arrive at the property at the time agreed with the House Manager. Irish Landmark reserves the right to levy an additional charge if the property is not vacated in accordance with these terms on the day of departure.  

DAY VISITORS:  

The number of day visitors will be limited to the capacity of the property – i.e., a 2-person property may have 2 day visitors, etc.   Prior written consent must be obtained from Irish Landmark Trust for additional numbers of day visitors. 

PERSONAL BELONGINGS: Baggage and personal belongings are always at the Hirers risk. No responsibility can be accepted for loss or damage to any car or its contents. 

POLICY REGARDING DOGS:   

Only certain Irish Landmark Trust properties accept a dog.  ALWAYS check this before you book.  Hirers who have made a reservation and are taking a dog will be required to read and agree to special terms, which details the conditions of bringing a dog to one of these properties.  Failure to comply with these conditions could result in the guest being asked to leave a property.  The rental cost is non-refundable in such cases.   

ELECTRIC VEHICLES: 

Irish Landmark respectfully request that you charge your electric vehicle at the nearest charging point and not at the property.  

HIRER’S RESPONSIBILITY:   

The Hirer is responsible for the property and is expected to take all reasonable care of it. Our House Managers work hard to maintain and clean the buildings and aim to ensure that the property is in a satisfactory condition for your enjoyment.  We ask that you leave the property in a clean and tidy condition upon departure, including all equipment, utensils etc. If the property is left in an unsatisfactory condition and additional cleaning costs are incurred, Irish Landmark reserves the right to recover these costs from the Hirer.   All breakages and damage must be reported to the House Manager immediately so that they can be rectified. All breakages and damage are the legal responsibility of the Hirer and the cost of repair or replacement must be paid to Irish Landmark upon demand.   If there are problems relating to the functioning of the building, please let the House Manager know immediately. Please note that candles are NOT permitted at any Irish Landmark property. Smoking is not allowed inside any Irish Landmark property. 

WEBSITE / LITERATURE:   

While every effort has been made to ensure that the representations stated on our website, or any printed literature, are made in good faith, neither they nor any oral representations made by employees or representatives of Irish Landmark Trust will create liability on the part of Irish Landmark. 

GENERAL:   

There shall be no liability for any claim arising from the act, omission or neglect or default of Irish Landmark Trust, its employees or representatives unless proved to be done with intent to cause damage or recklessly and with knowledge that loss or danger would probably result. Irish Landmark’s agents, servants and employees or other representatives have no authority to waive or modify these Conditions other than in writing. 

RIGHT OF ENTRY:   

On rare occasions Irish Landmark may need access to the property for essential maintenance work, should it be necessary, Irish Landmark will give you as much notice as is possible.   There is no need for you to stay in the property since our House Manager can accompany any such visits. 

COMPLAINTS:  

If you have any complaint during your holiday, please contact the House Manager.  If the matter is not dealt with to your satisfaction, please email bookings@irishlandmark.com outlining details of your complaint.   

IRISH LANDMARK’S RIGHTS:   

Irish Landmark reserves the right to refuse any booking and cancel any booking already made, if in its absolute discretion it considers this to be necessary. Where a booking is cancelled by Irish Landmark, every effort will be made to offer an alternative holiday at no increase in cost.  If the Hirer does not accept the alternative holiday offered, Irish Landmark will return to the Hirer the deposit paid and any other sum paid to Irish Landmark by the Hirer.  Liability for all consequential loss, damage and disappointments is accordingly limited to such return. 

SPECIAL CONDITIONS FOR SPECIFIC DOG – FRIENDLY PROPERTIES 

It is the hirer’s responsibility to ensure they book a specific dog-friendly property if they are bringing a dog.  There are specific terms and conditions that to which the hirer must adhere: 

We allow a dog, but only when they have been booked in and paid for. The “Taking a Dog” option must be selected at time of booking.  A charge will apply.  

Our policy is strictly ONE DOG. If you arrive at the property with more than one dog the House Manger is entitled to deny you access to the property.  If it becomes known during/after your stay that more than one dog is/was with you, you may be asked to vacate the property and a charge of €100/£100 per dog will apply. 

You must bring your own crate/bed in which your dog can sleep.  Please also bring bowls, towels, and waste bags for your dog. 

Your dog must be house-trained and kept under proper control.  Dogs are STRICTLY not permitted on beds, sofas, or any furniture.  There is no exception to this rule.  

Before departure, please thoroughly clean the property, paying particular attention to removing pet hair from rugs and soft furnishings.  A vacuum cleaner is available to you.   

If there is evidence that you have not cleaned up adequately after your stay, you will be charged a flat rate of €100/£100.   

You must double-check that the outside area around the property is free of any foul. Dog fouling inside the property is completely unacceptable.  Guests will be asked to vacate the premises immediately if this is discovered.  

Your dog must not be left unsupervised in the property.  We ask that you take your dog with you when you go out.  Please be mindful of any livestock nearby. 

 

By accepting a confirmation of a reservation from Irish Landmark the lead guest agrees: 

 

I have read and agree to be bound by the Booking Conditions. 

I agree to be held responsible for the balance of hire for the property due and payable in accordance with these terms. 

I understand that most Irish Landmark properties have no television or internet access; that some have no washing machines or dishwashers; and that many have limited mobile phone coverage. 

I understand that as the Lead Person, I am responsible, before their arrival, for informing all guests of Irish Landmark’s booking conditions, and for their observance of same. 

If I am bringing a pet or having day visitors, I have particularly noted the special conditions that apply in these situations 

 

Hirers making a reservation over the telephone are deemed to have read all Booking Conditions and agree to be bound by them.   

 

Availability Calendar

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Important Notes

1-night stays are not permitted.

Bank Holidays & Special Dates have a set minimum number of nights.

Deposits are strictly non-refundable & non-transferable.

Cancellation Fees will apply if you cancel your reservation.

Terms and Conditions apply to all bookings.

Special Offers and Discounts are not valid against existing bookings.

There are restrictions on arrival and departure dates over the Christmas and New Year periods.
Strictly no arrivals or departures on 24th, 25th and 31st of December.