An Idyllic Irish Getaway At Elm Tree Cottage
Elm Tree Cottage is located about three miles from Fivemiletown (15 miles from Enniskillen) in Northern Ireland. It’s about 70 miles from Belfast International Airport.
We turned left into the graveled lane flanked by waist-high hedges. I exhaled loudly. By this time in our journey, I couldn’t wait to get out of the car. We’ve always commented that it takes at least three days to become accustomed to driving on Irish roads. Driving on the left first and foremost; then two lane roads that are obviously only meant for one vehicle. When the drive turns from hair-raising to comfortable, it’s time to return home. Maybe that’s a sign that our Irish holiday is simply not long enough.
Three hours into our drive from Dublin to Fivemiletown, Northern Ireland, we were home. For the week, we were home. I can’t remember how I found Elm Tree Cottage, but after a Google search for “authentic, Irish thatched roof cottage for rent,” she popped up. Authentic. Close to Enniskillen. Privacy. After many back-n-forth with properties, we decided Elm Tree was it. We booked directly with Heather, and we knew it was the perfect home base for our visit with family who resided in Enniskillen.
Pulling into our own private parking space, lights illuminated the walkway around the cottage, through the gate, and into a welcoming garden. Even in October, it was lovely. If the inside was a magical as its exterior, it was going to be a exactly as advertised. The living room/kitchen was decorated beautifully with blankets, flowers, and a tiny wood-burning stove for cool nights. Later we found out that the stately azure kitchen cabinetry was the product of the owners during a once-upon-a-time career as cabinet makers. Breathtaking. On the counter, fresh wheaten bread, and in the frig, fresh eggs, jams and milk. Its one bedroom off the kitchen featured lily-white linens and a wardrobe for Len (who hangs up everything). On the opposite side, a small bathroom with a fabulous shower and lots of towels. We learned that this was once an old stone farm outbuilding converted to a home as the owners built their larger home steps from the cottage door. Now, it’s a welcome respite for travelers who want to experience an authentic Northern Ireland escape.
Enjoy central heating (always fire-up the wood stove, even in warmer weather), Nespresso coffee maker plus an optional French press, TV, fully equipped kitchen with the finest of utensils, private parking, secure covered motorcycle parking and even secure storage for bicycles and equipment. Did I mention that Heather’s husband teaches mountain climbing? In the other side of the building, a storage area that included a washing machine and a substantial and impressive drying rack suspended from the ceiling.
The cabinetry is blue now which makes the space even more cozy. Photo by Elm Tree Cottage.
As beautiful as it was in the cold of October, I could not imagine its sparkle in spring. And in winter’s snow.
Each morning, I enjoyed coffee on the sofa, and out the living room window, finches feasted on a multitude of bird feeders including a repurposed candelabra. It reminded me of being at home, where just outside my studio window, I watched birds dance and flitter. It has become my new favorite thing. Heather told us about the red squirrels but we didn’t see one the entire time. Maybe next time.
The cottage living room. Photo by Elm Tree Cottage.
The Irish countryside is as lush and green as ever. Not bad for a backyard view.
Every Airbnb or private home rental we’ve experienced in Ireland has taken us far beyond simply a place to lay our heads. It’s the Irish hospitality that continues to fuel our love for renting a home property. Heather’s hospitality made us feel right at home. And when I asked for the bread recipe, she agreed. Now, when I’m missing the Irish countryside, it’s charm is as close as my kitchen.
When we return to Northern Ireland, we’ll stay with Heather again. Special rates for a week-long stays (and longer) are available; contact Heather via the website and she’ll be in touch as fast as lightning.
When you visit Northern Ireland, this is your place. And after your visit, we’d love to hear about your experience at the Elm Tree Cottage.
Irish Wheaten Bread
“This is the original hand-written recipe from my aunt.”
2 cups of rolled porridge oats
2 cups of Whole meal medium flour
1 cup of plain flour
2 level teaspoons or slightly under of salt
2 level dessert spoons of brown sugar
1 heaped teaspoon of baking soda
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Mix all of these dried ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Add one pint of fresh buttermilk (Heather says THIS is the difference). Fold gently together and pour into two one-pound loaf tins. Bake for about 40 minutes.
”Good luck. It can be tricky to master first on first attempt.”
