Thatched Cottage For Sale in Co. Donegal

Key Features
– Elevated coastal setting with uninterrupted views over Fintra Beach and Donegal Bay
– Beautifully restored thatched cottage
– Open-plan living
– Offers potential to extend (subject to P.P)
– Peaceful rural location

Bumblebee Cottage is a charming thatched cottage, dating from about 1860, set on an elevated site overlooking Fintra Beach near Killybegs. From its elevated position on the side of the hill, the cottage enjoys uninterrupted panoramic views across Donegal Bay, extending to the Sligo coastline with Ben Bulben visible in the distance.

Approached via a quiet country lane, the property sits within a gravel forecourt and driveway. Bumblebee Cottage represents a rare surviving example of Donegal’s vernacular heritage, combining architectural authenticity with modern usability in a truly scenic setting.

The property retains much of its original character and form. A scallop-thatched rye straw roof complete with new ropes has been recently installed, in keeping with south-west Donegal’s roofing tradition, giving the cottage a new golden glow.

Internally, the home has been tastefully renovated to balance heritage and comfort. Reclaimed timber flooring and a handcrafted sandstone fireplace anchor the open-plan living and kitchen area, which features bespoke cabinetry, a Belfast sink, and vaulted ceilings with exposed beams. There is an extension to the side of the cottage with a utility/goods storage room.

Accommodation includes two bedrooms, one currently set up as an office, and one bathroom, all thoughtfully arranged to maximise space and natural light. There is also scope to extend the cottage to the rear and to the side (subject to the necessary planning permission) with indicative plans available on request from the selling agents.

The total internal area extends to approximately 576 sq ft (53.5 sq m), as shown in the accompanying floorplans.

Gardens and Grounds
The property sits on private grounds, offering a sheltered setting with mature planting and space for outdoor living. A gravel driveway provides access and parking, while the land to the rear frames the cottage beautifully, creating a tranquil retreat with panoramic views. In addition, the area below the cottage presents an opportunity for further landscaping or other uses (subject to the necessary planning permission).

In all the grounds extend to about 0.5 acre / 0.21 hectare.

Fixtures and Fittings
All fixtures and fittings are excluded from the sale including garden statuary, light fittings, and other removable fittings, although some items may be available by separate negotiation.

Services
– oil fired central heating (tank installed in 2023)
– mains water
– mains electricity
– septic tank
– internet connectivity currently via Starlink.

Few properties capture the romance of the Irish coastline quite like Bumblebee Cottage. Overlooking the golden sands of Fintra Beach and the sweeping waters of Donegal Bay, this exquisitely restored thatched cottage is a remarkable blend of heritage, charm and modern comfort. Positioned along the iconic Wild Atlantic Way, this exceptional Donegal property enjoys spectacular sea views and a truly unrivalled coastal setting.
Maria Lawler – Property agent

Local Information
County Donegal, located on the northwestern tip of Ireland, is celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, rich heritage, and unspoilt natural beauty. The region is defined by towering sea cliffs, rolling green hills, and pristine beaches along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Bumblebee Cottage is situated on the southwest coast of Donegal, just west of Killybegs, Ireland’s largest fishing port, at Eircode F94 HY43. The cottage enjoys an elevated position above Fintra Beach (1.5 km), a Blue Flag sandy beach nestled in a sheltered bay, popular with swimmers, walkers, and families.

The surrounding area offers a wide range of outdoor activities including sea angling, kayaking, diving, and coastal hiking. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate Narin & Portnoo Links (30 km), a scenic seaside course, and Donegal Golf Club (46 km), one of Europe’s longest championship courses at 7,452 yards.

Killybegs provides essential amenities, while Donegal Town, 30 km distant, and Letterkenny (76 km) offer broader amenities and services including retail dining, and education.

Nearby attractions include the Slieve League Cliffs, among the highest sea cliffs in Europe, and numerous walking trails and viewpoints showcasing the rugged beauty of southwest Donegal. The Wild Atlantic Way passes directly through the area, offering one of Ireland’s most scenic driving routes.

For travel and connectivity, the N56 road links Killybegs to Donegal Town and beyond. Donegal Airport, located about 62 kilometres away, offers regional flights within Ireland and to Scotland. City of Derry Airport, approximately 121 kilometres from the property, provides regular connections to the UK and further afield.

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