Irish Escapism with Nature, Surf, Heritage and Crafts

We always hope that when we visit a new place, we will find a connection with it, one that will reverse the busy energy of our high-paced lives, allowing us a moment of reflection, and dare we say it…peace.

Breac.House, located in a wild and special corner of Donegal, near the small seaside town of Dunfanaghy has all the ingredients needed to acquire a deep sense of contentment. Firstly, the house is at one with the landscape, made from a low-slung design that merges land with structure, and inside you’ll find elements crafted by hand by local artisans – creating a soothing atmosphere and sense of place where everything is carefully thought through.

In terms of experience, a swim or surf in the bracing Atlantic followed by a sauna, hot seaweed bath and a seasonal cocktail fires the synapses like nothing else – start to feel like a new person in no time. Or hunker down in the cosy library with a smoked salmon scone and a cup of tea while the wild weather lashes the outdoors.

And speaking of the outdoors, this is where a raw connection is likely to take you by surprise. Breac.House has cleverly devised a heritage map, and placed in your own hands, you’re free to explore unique, significant and interesting sites, scattered around this remote retreat at the far edge of Ireland. Like the Ray Cross, the nearby, little-known but oldest and tallest Celtic Cross in the world.

To really dig into the historical significance of the area, visit the impressive and evocative Grianán of Aileach, perched on a hilltop overlooking Lough Swilly. Take a deep inhale and breathe in the atmosphere of this important site – it’s here that our ancestors settled between 3,000 and 4,000 years ago – tap into the depth of history and maybe even feel the presence of ancient humankind. Today you’ll see the current dry-stone cashel dating from the 5th century, a relatively new addition compared to the original neolithic-era ringfort.

To supercharge your experience come here at sunrise or sunset and watch the panoramic landscape spread out in front of you, especially on a clear day when views stretch over mountains, sea and into five counties. Look around and imagine why it was chosen by the original nomadic settlers of Ireland as their home. 

In such an ethereal spot, we challenge anyone not to feel moved. The sublime beauty of nature combined with the hosts of our ancestors is a powerful combination and at Breac.House you’re free to find your own connection.