Great food, a comfortable bed and a leisure centre can be found in many hotels around the country, but it’s unusual to find them all together in a guesthouse. But then, Harbour House on the Maharees peninsula is no ordinary guesthouse.
Located four miles along the coast outside Castlegregory, the drive is out by the sea and through the sand dunes, along small boreens, and the house is practically at the end of the road that leads to Scraggane Pier. Sometimes the grey slate roof blends perfectly with the angry grey Atlantic across the road.
Inside, however, it’s a haven of peace and tranquillity. You may be welcomed by name and given a tour of the facilities – the lounge and a terrific bright and airy upstairs attic sitting room that runs the length of the house, with a nautical blue-and-white theme. Comfortable sofas with huge cushions ensure you can relax or just gaze out at the views of the Maharees islands.
The bedrooms aren’t huge but have a great view out to sea and comfortable beds. There are no televisions in the rooms - there's one in small lounge - to encourage guests to mix.
There’s a play area for children, who are made very welcome, and the leisure centre has an indoor heated swimming pool. This is an unusual amenity for a guesthouse, but the Waterworld dive centre is located here - they run diving courses at Scraggane Pier and their leisure centre provides complementary indoor facilities - where other guests can also enjoy a morning swim, or lazing away the time.
Packed lunches can be made for guests and are especially popular wih walkers doing the Dingle Way.
* North of Castlegregory, The Maharees Peninsula is famous for its long sandy beaches and clean water, making it popular for family holidays and activity breaks, and there is a group of islands off the peninsula, known simply as “The Maharees”. Activities offered in the area (bookable through Castlegregory Visitor Centre, 066 713 9422) include walking, golf, horseriding, cycling, fishing, windsurfing and, especially, diving (see below).
