There is a number of self catering cottages available for both short term and long term rental at Lough Cutra Estate. In all there are 11 separate properties which are rented. 7 of the residences are currently occupied and 4 properties are available for lease.

The current available properties are Clauses Cottage, Cormorand Cottage, Henry's House and Forestalls Cottage. Each of these properties is full of character, unique in their style and fully furnished. All cottages are set beautifully on the estate (in a courtyard setting) and are convenient to all other facilities including the equestrian, and fishing centers and are in close proximity to the Castle itself.

THE ESTATE

Lough Cutra is one of Ireland's most beautiful Castles, standing proudly in the middle of its 500 acres wooded demesne at the Gateway to the world renowned Burren and City of Galway. The Castle itself was built in 1811 and is surrounded by 500 acres of parkland and the 1000 acre Lough. As soon as you enter the gate of Lough Cutra you will have the opportunity to experience the best that the countryside has to offer.

The estate is convenient to both Shannon International Airport (31 miles) and the wonderful City of Galway (15 miles). It is convenient to many local facilities - the market town of Gort is only 5 minutes away, the sea and beaches, 2 golf courses, Coole Park, the famous Burren, Aran Islands, Cliffs of Moher, Aillwee Caves and Clarinbridge are all within easy reach.

The Castle boasts a whole range of activities perfect for the outdoor enthusiast including coarse pike fishing on the private 1000 acre lake, equestrian facilities that are second to none (including annual hunter trial events), a historic castle designed by the world renowned architect John Nash, and a number of self catering cottages available for both short term and long term letting.

Lough Cutra Castle is available exclusively by select private groups by appointment only and is also available to film production companies as a location.

HISTORY

Lough Cutra Castle and Estate has a long and varied history. The countryside surrounding Lough Cutra contains much evidence of a history dating back to the Tuatha Da Danaans. Evidence of old churches, cells and monasteries are prolific in the area and a number of the islands on the lake contain the remnants of stone alters. The history of the estate can be traced back as far as 866 A.D.

When the estate was inherited by Colonel Vereker in 1797 he decided to employ the world renowned architect John Nash to design the Gothic Style building known as Lough Cutra Castle. Nash also designed Mitchelstown Castle, Regeants Park Cresent and East Cowes Castle.

The Castle itself was built during the Gothic revival period and is idyllically situated overlooking the Estate's 1000 acre lake. The building of the castle was overseen by the Pain brothers who later designed and built the Gate House at Dromoland. Most of the building work was completed by 1811. The original building included 25 basement rooms and the cost of the building was estimated at £80,000.

Great attention was paid to the planting of trees, location of the deer park, and creation of new avenues. An American garden was created to the South west of the Castle and large extensions added to the building, including a clock tower and servant quarters. The entire building operations were completed in 1858 and 1859.

Home to the Viscounts Gort, the entertainment at the Castle was legendary, and past regular visitors included author WB Yeats and Lady Gregory from nearby Coole Park.

EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

Horse riding is the perfect way to enjoy the beautiful 500 acre parklands which surround Lough Cutra Castle. The estate has a great range of equestrian facilities which include Stables, a sand arenas and a cross country course designed by the internationally renowned Tommy Brennan. The course is 2.5 miles long and includes 34 Jumps with 56 Options - All natural fences. Tommy Brennan also designed the cross country element of the Punchestown 3 day event course.

The Annual Hunter Trial is a major annual event in the area and this year featured over 300 competitors from all over Ireland and the UK.

Regular schooling courses are available with Maxie Scully & Aidan O'Connell tutoring. Both Maxie Scully & Aidan O'Connell are accredited equestrian tutors, and former professional international show jumpers. Exclusive tuition can be arranged for groups of up to 10 - Booking must be arranged in advance.

FISHING

Lough Cutra Estate's private 1000 acre lake is renowned for Coarse Pike fishing. Fishing is available all year round and other coarse fish at the lake include Carp. Fishing gear, tackle and boats are available at the Estate for your convenience.

Sea Trout and Salmon fishing are available nearby at the picturesque village of Kinvara and Galway Bay. The famed fishing areas of Clarinbridge and Lough Corrib are within easy reach as well as the lakes and rivers of Connemara and Mayo.