Sunnybank House

SUNNYBANK HOUSE A smart country estate house originally built in circa 1820, sympathetically renovated and designed to provide a luxurious, comfortable and homely holiday experience for family gatherings, friends reuniting, small weddings, celebrations and larger groups. Within the grounds are mature gardens, a private car park, outdoor heated pool/sauna and barbecue terrace, outdoor seating areas and a tennis court providing a private self contained holiday experience, yet situated only 2 mins walk to the town square which allows the freedom for some or all of the group to eat, drink, shop and socialise with ease. All 11 en suite bedrooms are uniquely decorated but offer the same quality standard throughout. Comfortable beds are made up with crisp white linen and toiletries are provided from the exclusive Irish Handmade Soap Company. The extensive ground floor living area gives enough room for everyone to relax without being on top of each other, whether it is in the main drawing room with large turf fire, the library, the television room also with an open fire, the dining room or kitchen. There is very good wireless internet available throughout the house. An ideal base for exploring Connemara, with walks on the numerous stunning local beaches or in the most scenic countryside you are likely to encounter, or wandering to the local pub for a quiet pint or traditional Irish music. For further information, photos, maps, reviews and special offers please do not hesitate to contact us. **** CLIFDEN TOWN**** Clifden town is the capital of Connemara one of the most scenic regions in Ireland. Established in the early 1800’s at Clifden Bay, it follows the classic 19th century layout: oval in plan, with 3 principal streets – Market Street, Main Street and Bridge Street, a Market Square, a fine bridewell or gaol, courthouse and harbour. Clifden today is a vibrant and cultural town which has retained its historic roots while offering a wide range of services and facilities. You will find colourful streets with a great selection of small local food shops – (fishmongers, butchers, fruit and vegetable store, delicatessens and a bakery), numerous craft and gift shops, art galleries and exhibitions and other interesting shops including antique shops, designer clothes shops, jewellery and vintage shops. There are 9 restaurants and 10 pubs with music sessions each evening and good bar food. On the practical side there are four supermarkets, including Aldi and Lidl, which are open until 9pm (mon-sat), two banks, three chemists, two petrol stations, two churches and a post office. Set on the edge of the Atlantic, the surrounding scenery is spectacular, and waiting to be discovered. *****CONNEMARA****** A vast coastal region world renowned for its wild and stunning scenery, and magical light. It is dotted with small villages and historical sites. To the north is stretches to the border of Mayo and the town of Westport is 45 mins. drive from Clifden. To the east it reaches to Galway city, which is one hours drive from Clifden and well worth a visit. To the south is the Connemara Gaelteacht area- an Irish speaking area which is famous for its coral strands. THINGS TO DO........... **WALKING AND CYCLING ** The area is a walker’s paradise whether following a planned route or just ambling along country roads and beaches, of which there are many. You will find a folder of 20 different Connemara walks in your house or follow the road signs around the countryside which indicate good routes for walking or cycling. Bicycles can be hired throughout the year. ************HORSE RIDING************* A number of riding schools in the area offer pony trekking or lessons for all ages. ********SAILING ******** Whether you are sailing to Clifden or wish to go sailing, contact Clifden boat club which is located at the end of the Beach road. They offer Sailing courses throughout the summer. *******ADVENTURE AND WATER SPORTS***** Two of the country’s best adventure centres are located within 30 minutes drive from Clifden. They offer daily and weekly courses for both adults and children in sailing, windsurfing, orienteering, kayaking, rock climbing, bungee jumping, waterskiing, archery, clay pigeon shooting, amongst others. For private guided activities in or around Clifden including hill walking, rock climbing, kayaking on Clifden bay and surfing – for individuals or groups – All equipment provided, so no excuses ! You can also go scuba diving in a most beautiful area, north of Clifden. The Scuba Dive West Centre is one of the most established dive centres in the country and offers courses for all levels. *******CRUISES AND BOAT TRIPS***** The Killary Fjord Cruise is a 1.5 hour cruise along Ireland’s only Fjord with an interesting talk on the history of the area. There are several sailings daily between April and October. The Brazen Hussy – is a solid, ocean-going boat for day charters around the Connemara coast and islands, sea fishing or whale and dolphin watching. ********FISHING******************* Connemara is world-renowned for its fresh water and sea fishing. ****** WORTH A VISIT******** CONNEMARA NATIONAL PARK Some of the most spectacular vistas can be seen from any of the National park walks, which range from a half-hour gentle ascent to a full climb to the peak of the Diamond Mountain, approximately 4 hours to the summit and back. Home to Connemara ponies, wild goats and Irish deer there is also a history museum, café, children’s playground and picnic area. Please do not hesitate to contact us for information on the above activities.