Just outside Oughterard village, a narrow country road brings you to Carmel Geoghegan’s haven of warmth and relaxed charm, named after the railway which once ran from Galway to Clifden.
Although not old (it was only built in the mid ‘90s, on the family farm where her father still breeds Connemara ponies) or especially large, once inside it has the feel of a traditional country house and has been furnished with lots of TLC to combine the best of old and new.
Old pine furniture, open fires, a cosy sitting room and warm-toned natural materials make for a soothing old-world atmosphere, while today’s demanding travellers find modern conveniences are very welcome too - among them orthopaedic beds (made up with Irish linen), generous en-suite bathrooms with good showers, and free WiFi.
Views from the house are lovely, especially the back rooms which overlook the Cloosh Mountains - a typical Connemara scene.
There is plenty of space to relax both inside and out, with a conservatory for guest use as well as the comfortable sitting room (TV available but not much in demand - the range and quality of interesting reading material holds more interest for guests) and, weather permitting, seating out in the gardens too.
Carmel is a welcoming and relaxed host who loves spending time in her nice old fashioned kitchen, and will happily make dinner for guests (by reservation) as well as rustling up home-baked bread, fresh orange juice and traditional Irish breakfasts in the morning.
Just a five minute walk from Oughterard village and only a short drive from Galway city, this is a delightful, place to stay and well located for exploring Connemara and enjoying the many activities of the area, including fishing, walking, climbing, horse riding and garden visits (Connemara Garden Trail).
Self catering also available in Railway Cottage.
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