Overview
Termon House sits on a dramatic stretch of coastline in Maghery, just outside the Gaeltacht village of Dungloe in north‑west Donegal. Managed by the Irish Landmark Trust, the property is marketed as a perfect “get away from it all” holiday base. With two open fires, oil‑fired central heating and a fully equipped kitchen, the house blends historic charm with modern comforts. The beachfront location provides immediate access to two sandy beaches, spectacular sea views and the soothing sound of Atlantic waves.
The house sleeps six across three upstairs bedrooms – two double rooms (one accessed through the twin room) and one twin room – making it ideal for families, groups of friends or a small extended family. Dogs are welcome for a €30 per‑pet fee, and the property is deliberately Wi‑Fi‑free, encouraging guests to unplug and enjoy the surrounding nature.
History
Built between 1760 and 1780 for the land agent of the Marquis of Conyngham, Termon House is a detached L‑plan Georgian‑style residence. Its rough‑cast rendered walls sit on a battered plinth designed to shed rainwater, and the original six‑over‑six sash windows remain a defining feature. A field‑stone “Famine Wall” erected around 1847 runs along the laneway, a reminder of the Great Famine’s impact on the local community. The house, together with an adjoining barn, occupies a three‑acre plot that overlooks Maghery Bay (Bá an Mhachaire).
The Irish Landmark Trust rescued the property in the early 1990s, restoring it with period furniture, stone fireplaces and a Stanley range cooker. Today it serves as a self‑catering holiday home, allowing visitors to experience the layered history of Donegal while enjoying contemporary amenities.
What to See & Do
Coastal Adventures
- Sliabh Liag Cliffs – Europe’s highest sea cliffs are a 36 km drive away. Guided walks run twice daily from the visitor centre, and a shuttle service takes you to the viewing platform. For a different perspective, join a 1‑hour‑45‑minute boat trip with Sliabh League Boat Trips from Teelin Pier, sailing beneath the cliffs.
- Maghery Beach & Carrickfinn Blue Flag Beach – Both beaches are within a 10‑20 minute drive. Maghery offers kayaking, rock climbing and stand‑up paddle‑boarding via Maghery Coastal Adventures, while Carrickfinn is perfect for long walks and swimming.
- Ardara Distillery & Croithlí Distillery – A short drive to Ardara lets you tour the Sliabh Liag Distillers, while the newer Croithlí distillery in Crolly offers hourly tours from 11 am‑5 pm.
Inland Exploration
- Glenveagh National Park – Only 35 km from Termon House, the park’s mountains, lakes and the iconic Glenveagh Castle provide excellent hiking and cultural insight.
- Mount Errigal – The iconic peak of Donegal is a 20‑minute drive from Dungloe. The ascent takes roughly two hours and is best attempted in good weather; guided treks are available through Namaste Nomads.
- Archaeological Sites – The nearby Grianán of Aileach ring fort and the megalithic tombs in Ards Forest Park add a prehistoric dimension to your itinerary.
Island Excursions
- Arranmore Island – A 10‑minute drive to Burtonport and a 20‑minute ferry ride bring you to this rugged island, famed for its sea stacks, lighthouse and Napoleonic watchtower.
- Cruit Island – Accessible via a short bridge, Cruit Island offers quiet beaches, sand dunes and the unique Cruit Island Golf Club.
Food & Culture
- Rusty Mackerel – A short walk from Termon House, this award‑winning restaurant serves fresh seafood, pasta and steak in a relaxed setting.
- Leo’s Tavern – About 15 minutes away, this legendary music venue birthed Clannad and Enya.
- Irish Premium Oysters – Book a one‑hour guided oyster farm tour for a tasting of Atlantic oysters straight from the source.
Family‑Friendly Highlights
- Dungloe Riverwalk – A short stroll featuring fairy houses, a giant troll and a pram‑friendly path.
- Finntown Train – A three‑mile scenic ride along Lough Finn, complete with free parking, toilets and a playground.
- Wild Ireland Sanctuary – An hour’s drive to Burnfoot reveals a Celtic rainforest pocket where rescued otters, birds and other wildlife can be observed.
Practical Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Accommodation Type | Self‑catering holiday house |
| Sleeps | 6 (2 double rooms, 1 twin room) |
| Bedrooms | 3 (all upstairs) |
| Bathrooms | 1 full bathroom + separate shower room |
| Pets | Dogs allowed, €30 per pet (supervision required) |
| Parking | Free on‑site parking |
| Heating | Oil‑fired central heating and two open fires |
| Kitchen | Range cooker, microwave, dishwasher, washing machine, fridge/freezer |
| Linens | Towels and bed linens provided; travel cot available on request |
| Wi‑Fi | None – property is a digital‑detox zone |
| Energy Fee | Small contribution added to each booking to offset electricity costs |
| Accessibility | All bedrooms are upstairs; not suitable for guests with mobility impairments |
| Contact | Phone: +353 167 04733 | Email: bookings@irishlandmark.com |
| Website | https://irishlandmark.com/properties/termon-house/ |
| Coordinates | 54.935186, -8.451278 |
Booking & Arrival – Rates start from €516 for a two‑night stay; longer stays receive a discount. The house is available year‑round, but the longer daylight hours of summer make beach walks and island trips especially rewarding. Energy‑fee contributions are calculated per night and added at checkout.
Child Safety – The property sits directly on the beachfront; children must be supervised at all times, especially near the tide line.
Pet Policy – Dogs are welcome but the property lacks a secure enclosure. Owners must keep pets on a leash when outside and adhere to the Irish Landmark Trust’s dog policy.
Local Services – The nearest supermarket, post office and pharmacy are in Dungloe (10‑minute drive). For emergency services, Donegal Airport and the local health centre are within 15 minutes.
Seasonal Highlights – Summer festivals such as the Mary of Dungloe Festival (late July) and the Slí Cholmcille pilgrimage walk (July‑August) add cultural vibrancy to a coastal stay. Shoulder‑season visits reward guests with quieter beaches and dramatic winter seascapes.
Getting There – The house is 15 minutes from Donegal Airport and 35 minutes from Glenveagh National Park. Major road access is via the N56; signage for Termon House is clear from the Dungloe turn‑off.
Final Note – Whether you are seeking rugged cliff walks, island hopping, historic castles or simply a quiet night by the fire, Termon House offers a uniquely Irish base where heritage, nature and hospitality converge.