Donegal Thatched Cottages, Cruit Island, Donegal

In recent years ‘bungalowitis' has hit Donegal, and the sound of cement-mixers threatens to drown the tranquillity that has inspired writers and artists for centuries. How refreshing, then, to find Conor and Mary Ward's self-catering cottages on the island of Cruit, which is linked by a causeway to the north-west coast of Ireland.
Built in 1981, the cottages have been thatched and whitewashed in traditional style. Ours had a large dining/sitting room with tiled floor and turf fire, and could sleep seven. Paintings and crafts from the area are thoughtfully displayed, while hurricane lamps have been electrified for use as wall lights.  
To explore Cruit, you can hire a bike or discover a different walk every day. This is a Conservation Area but you can collect dulse, carrageen moss, cockles and periwinkles for supper. Depending on the season you may see up to 200 species of wild flower, hear chough and corncrake, and marvel at peregrine falcons. It was a delight to return to our cottage each evening and watch the sun set over the neighbouring island of Arranmore. A great base for a summer holiday, this would also be the perfect winter retreat - listening to the waves lashing against the rocks while nursing a Bushmills in a rocking chair by the fire.

Donegal Thatched Cottages, Cruit Island, Donegal, Republic of Ireland; 00 353 71 9177197; www.donegalthatchcottages.com. Cottages available all year round, €425-€995/week; weekends, €225-€495.