THIS beautiful thatched cottage in rural Co. Galway has been named the best in Ireland by the UK's largest independent operator of British and Irish holiday rentals.
‘The Humble Daisy’, located on the picturesque shores of Lough Derg, won ‘Best in Ireland’ in Sykes Cottages’ national travel awards programme this week.
The property was once the home of current owner Mary Rose Donnelly’s grandparents before she grasped the opportunity to buy back the 18th century cottage eight years ago.
(Picture: The Humble Daisy)Open all year round, The Humble Daisy contains two doubles and one twin bedroom, with a week’s stay costing between €450 and €750 depending on the season.
“Winning this award was a wonderful surprise as I know we were up against some strong competition in Ireland,” a delighted Mary Rose told the Connacht Tribune.
“It proves that going the extra mile for your guests doesn’t go unnoticed. We also often get the children to help out when we are preparing for a new stay, so it shows them that their hard work pays off too!
(Picture: The Humble Daisy)“I hope the award means a wider audience of people get to hear about The Humble Daisy in the future and I can welcome even more guests through its doors.”
Boasting a combination of modern and original features, The Humble Daisy retains an original hall and parlour dating from the 1700s.
Located a stone’s throw from the lough about 10 miles south of Portumna, the cottage is also within short distance of both Co. Clare and Co. Tipperary.
(Picture: The Humble Daisy)Mary Rose worked with a number of local tradesman to restore the property back to its former glory before putting it on the rental market in 2009.
Since she decided to use the cottage to make some extra income outside of farming, Mary Rose’s idyllic little home has become a popular sanctuary for holidaymakers looking to explore the quaint Galway countryside.
Aside from Lough Derg, other spectacular local sites include the 17th century Portunma Castle and the Portunma forest park.
For more information or to learn how to stay at The Humble Daisy, Woodford, Co. Galway click here.
