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Luxury ocean-front cottage with private beach. ALASTAIR SAWDAY RECOMMENDED

Photo gallery for Luxury ocean-front cottage with private beach. ALASTAIR SAWDAY RECOMMENDED

A cozy living room with a stone fireplace, comfortable seating, and a decorative wreath above the mantel.
A stone pathway leading to a wooden bench and picnic table, surrounded by a rope barrier.
A grassy outdoor area with a view of the sea and distant hills.
A stone house with a sloped roof, a chimney, and a small window.
A spacious living room with a grey sofa set, a flat-screen TV, and a large window offering a view of the outdoors.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Made for relaxation
    Top-rated for comfort — guests feel right at home here.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
2 bedrooms0+ bathroomsSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Barbecue
  • Deck or patio
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View map
Sneem, County Kerry
  • Place, Parknasilla Golf Club
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Place, Sneem Church
    ‪16 min drive‬
  • Place, Blueberry Hill Farm
    ‪18 min drive‬
  • Airport, Killarney (KIR-Kerry)
    ‪78 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Guest

2 Single Beds

Master

1 King Bed

1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Cloakroom

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Luxury ocean-front cottage with private beach. ALASTAIR SAWDAY RECOMMENDED

A 1400 sq ft, stone cottage in a stunning location in County Kerry with one acre of grounds leading to the water’s edge, a terrace and private beach.
Seal Rock Cottage has panoramic views of the ocean, islands and mountains. Situated on Rossmore Island it is connected to the famous Ring of Kerry by an ancient stone bridge.
The interior has been designed by Andrew Burch, the much acclaimed Welsh Interior Desgner aind consists of a sitting room with library and open log fire, a garden room with cast iron stove, a surround sound home entertainment system and stunning views over the water. And a dining area, well equipped luxury kitchen, laundry room and cloakroom.
The grounds are sympathetically landscaped retaining many of the existing natural features including a stream, mini-waterfalls, and ocean-side terrace.
Voted one of Ireland's top 10 cottages by Alastair Sawday.
Sorry but we are not able to accept guests under the age of 18 and no pets


Ireland's Riviera: So called because of it's lush semi-tropical vegetation and micro climate. It's perfect location has attracted celebrity interest with the Riverdance founder, Michael Flatley, wishing to purchase a property on the Island.
Seal Rock Cottage has been inspected and selected for the latest edition of Alastair Sawday's Special Places.
It has also been photographed and selected as the feature property in the magazine Country Homes and Interiors.

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 20
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
No children under 12
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Water supply comes from an underground well so please be cautious with water usage - please don't run several appliances or showers at the same time.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 93116
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Tahilla

Located in Tahilla, this cottage is in a rural area and on the waterfront. The Way the Fairies Went and Kenmare Heritage Centre are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Blueberry Hill Farm and Derreen Gardens. Scuba diving and windsurfing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain biking and cycling nearby.
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Map
Sneem, County Kerry

What's nearby

  • Parknasilla Golf Club - 12 min drive - 8.3 km
  • Sneem Church - 16 min drive - 12.5 km
  • The Way the Fairies Went - 16 min drive - 12.5 km
  • Blueberry Hill Farm - 18 min drive - 13.5 km
  • Ring of Kerry Golf and Country Club - 22 min drive - 19.0 km

Getting around

  • Cahirciveen (CHE-Reeroe) - 91 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Doolittle Bar - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Riney's Bar & Beer Garden - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪The Bridge Cafe & Bistro - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪D O'Shea's Bar - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Kelly's Bakery - ‬13 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Luxury ocean-front cottage with private beach. ALASTAIR SAWDAY RECOMMENDED pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Luxury ocean-front cottage with private beach. ALASTAIR SAWDAY RECOMMENDED?

As of 27 Sept 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Luxury ocean-front cottage with private beach. ALASTAIR SAWDAY RECOMMENDED on 3 Nov 2026 start from AU$1,351, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Luxury ocean-front cottage with private beach. ALASTAIR SAWDAY RECOMMENDED?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Luxury ocean-front cottage with private beach. ALASTAIR SAWDAY RECOMMENDED?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Luxury ocean-front cottage with private beach. ALASTAIR SAWDAY RECOMMENDED?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Luxury ocean-front cottage with private beach. ALASTAIR SAWDAY RECOMMENDED located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is within 9 miles (15 km) of Parknasilla Golf Club, Sneem Church and The Garden of the Senses. The Way the Fairies Went and Charles de Gaulle Memorial are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 67 out of 71 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 71 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 71 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 71 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 71 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a joy to be at Seal Rock Cottage. Our time exceeded our expectations. Everything was in order, clean and inviting. We felt at home immediately. The wood-burning fireplace was perfect for the stormy afternoon/evening we had to stay in. With the wood from the well-stocked wood shed, we kept a cozy fire burning until bedtime. Plenty of space for the four of us. Thank you Jane.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Sept 2026
I'm thrilled to hear that you had a great stay at Seal Rock Cottage. It was a pleasure to have you as guests and I look forward to welcoming you back in the future. Best wishes, Jane
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a beautifully decorated house in a gorgeous location. Unique and peaceful - I recommend taking time from your vacation to plan a stop in that beautful part of the world.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful, remote spot to unwind.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Gorgeous setting and view. Cottage was beautiful and had everything we needed. Wish we could have stayed longer.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Apr 2026
Thanks for this great review, we’re so glad you enjoyed Seal Rock Cottage and hope to welcome you back in the future. Jane
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely cottage on the wild Atlantic way. It’s location was perfect for exploring the Ring of Kerry as well as the other peninsulas nearby. We were so comfortable and really enjoyed the fireplace while the wind and rain howled - very solid and well built. We stayed in for meals and the kitchen had everything necessary to cook some nice meals. The cottage was very clean and had all the information we needed to run the appliances and tons of reference information for exploring the area. Simply a wonderful place and would highly recommend .
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Apr 2026
Thanks so much for your lovely review Judy - I hope we can welcome you back in the future. Best wishes, Jane
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A glorious, peaceful getaway in a spectacular location. The cottage itself was lovely with lots of special touches that made it feel extra warm, cozy and high-end.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Oct 2025
Thanks for your glowing review. So glad you had a great time and enjoyed all the comforts of Seal Rock Cottage.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming location

Great stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great visit!

What a superb place - thank you for a wonderful stay! Martin, Elisabeth & Conni
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
All detailed comments in the book at the cottage it was superb
Stayed 7 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 June 2025
Really pleased to hear that you enjoyed your stay at Seal Rock - fantastic that you managed to spot an otter too! Best wishes, Jane
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Getaways

We had a great time! We really felt like we got away and were able to relax.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2020
Pleased to hear you had a relaxing time at Seal Rock Cottage and we hope to see you again in the future. Jane
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Seaside cottage

Stunning property and very well appointed home. Our family loved it.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a wonderful home! So beautiful and peaceful. We were sad to leave. I would recommend it to anyone wanting a quiet place nearby the Ring of Kerry and nearby to Kenmare.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Simply wonderful

Amazing and beautiful location, clean and comfortable cottage. Even better in person.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a magnificent home! We loved staying here. The home is exactly as described in the listing. The view of Kenmare Bay right on the water was lovely and it was fantastic to be in a quiet setting with the just the sounds of the waves, the breeze, and at times the rain.. The home is in excellent condition. And it is a great location for day trips to some Irelands most enchanting locations. We look forward to returning!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Great view and lodging!!

We really loved our stay at Seal Rock Cottage on Rossmore island. Beautifully decorated cottage with well equipped kitchen. Gorgeous view!! Highly recommend it.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2020
Many thanks for your kind comments Harold and I'm so glad you appreciated Seal Rock Cottage as much as we do. We really enjoyed having you as a guest and hope you come back and visit us again. Kind regards, Jane
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A beautiful property in a stunning location

The cottage is a drive away from any villages or towns - but its isolation is its star point. It's a truly special home in a stunning setting
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved the cottage and location! In all fairness, it might be more remote than some would prefer- about 20 minutes drive from Kenmare, but the private beach and dark skies make up for that. It is very secluded and peaceful. The cottage itself was much more pleasant than even the pictures show. The beds were really comfortable and the place very clean. We enjoyed a full day in during storm Amy. Cannot wait to come back. Highly recommend.
Stayed 9 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Oct 2025
Many thanks for your lovely review Dawn. So glad you enjoyed your stay and we look forward to welcoming you back again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ireland Golf - Hiking

This cottage was the perfect place to return after a day of golf and hiking. The September weather was spectacular and we enjoyed our evening glass of wine next to Kenmore Bay.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Uniquely beautiful location

A luxurious property in a wonderful setting! Off the beaten track - literally, but that’s what makes it so special. All the trappings are 5 star! Marvelous experience!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Idyllic

The setting was beautiful and quiet. It was the ultimate in Irish living which is just what we wanted.
Stayed 29 nights in Dec 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Far and above 5 stars

This place is amazing! The view is perfect, the accommodations creative and amazing!! They thought of everything. This is probably not a place for little ones but adults will enjoy it all! It’s close to several golf options, fine dining, friendly pubs and the most amazing outdoor view! The hosts and caretakers were so incredibly kind and friendly!! I cannot praise this place and area enough!!
Cozy
Unbelievable private view
Exquite
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

quiet getaway

A beautifully presented property that is exactly as per the pictures. A secluded spot for a quiet getaway but in a fantastic area for exploring. Highly recommended.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Jan 2022
Dear Daniel, Thanks for your 5 star review. We're glad that you had a great time and appreciate Seal Rock Cottage as much as we do.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

World Class Property

The siting above Kenmare Bay afforded stunning views / sunsets. The house itself had a very thoughtful design layout and created the feeling of home. We will return.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 4 June 2024
Many thanks for your glowing review of Seal Rock Cottage and we're glad to hear that you enjoyed your stay with us.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exquisite Property by the Sea

The house is lovely in all respects-inside and out. Jane was available and very responsive.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 14 May 2024
Thanks for the lovely review - so glad you had a great time at Seal Rock.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wow!

A large, very comfortable home in an amazing location overlooking Kenmare Bay. For us, our stay captured the essence of seaside Ireland. I wish we could have stayed here for a month. Highly recommended.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

About the host

Hosted by Michael & Jane Madigan

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