Sruthan Pier House

Perched above one of the most active boating piers on the Southern Connemara shores of Galway Bay, and only recently completed, this formidable home employs local materials and the most compelling masonry skills this side of Peru, to exploit its location to the utmost. Contemporary, cosy, and spacious – yet within forty minutes of Ireland’s most bohemian city, this is a very special place for rest, rejuvenation and making memories. The house rises from the floor of a disused stone quarry, with the main entrance charmingly accessed via a contemporary drawbridge-style walkway. From the lobby, a short hallway to the left leads into a spacious sitting room, with a lofty limestone chimney breast that bisects the dazzling view of the Bay. For winter comforts, there is a woodburning stove and a substantial flat-screen television. Velvet upholstery and drapes, together with oak floors are typical throughout this home. Heavy sliding barn doors open through to a cool sea-green kitchen, with bold walls of white and black quartz. A cook’s dream, this kitchen is fully equipped with everything from a coffee machine and Nutri bullet, to an air fryer. Panoramic full-height glazing maximises the omnipresent ocean views, with a broad, glazed sliding door onto a balcony. From here, external stairs connect to the paved patio below. A black quartz breakfast bar with stools divides this inclusive dining space. This living area is at an angled junction in the floor plan, with a main corridor back to the entrance, and an archway through to a generous and chic panelled dining room. A more formal affair with a table that can seat the entire complement of visitors on convivial suede buttoned benches, and with a cocktail bar, wine cooler and ice machine in the corner, surrounded by sable stained panelling and stunning views. Beyond and behind a sliding glass wall, a monumental flat-screen TV monopolises the adjoining television lounge. A modern electric fire and a well-cushioned sofa group complete the home-movie harmony. A Nintendo Wii is a welcome addition for Children (and adults!). Off the main corridor back to the entrance hall, a family bathroom boasts a super double-ended, extra deep, Corian slipper bath. Beside it, is the only bedroom on this level, with a double bed and generous wardrobe space. Oak return stairs at the corner of the house lead to bedroom accommodation on the lower ground floor, with hallways running in two directions. The elegant master bedroom lies at the end of one. With windows in two walls, it has a generous walk-in wardrobe and an ensuite shower room. Beside it is a colourful twin bedroom, also with dual aspect views and an ensuite bathroom – kids will love it. Complete with Lego, Fuzzball table and family board games. A picture window along the opposing corridor exposes the workout room with its multiple fitness machines. Here too you will find the traditional steam sauna – a super addition to any holiday escape. There are two more distinctive double bedrooms along this hallway, both with ensuite shower rooms and walk-in wardrobes. The Annex Apartment: A separate adjacent building has a folksy single-bedroom apartment that sleeps three in zip-and-link beds that can be arranged in any combination, or used individually. It is on the first floor with a large shower room, galley kitchen, and living dining area. Office: If you have to work on your vacation, the ground floor of the annexe is home to a fully functional office with two workstations, high-speed WiFi access, and assorted premium equipment. There is also a dedicated kitchenette and WC here. Outside: The gardens have been beautifully landscaped with wonderful traditional masonry work in local stone to accommodate its unique site and location above Sruthán Pier – just a stone’s throw from the sea. A brick path surrounds the house, and under the escarpment in the shady back stretch, there is a large dual temperature Spa swim pool, with a separate hot tub and an outdoor shower. There are two entrance gates to the property, a stunning curved driveway, and ample parking. FREE WIFI Strictly No Pets Check-in time is from 5 pm onwards (If you require a later check-in time please let us know) Check-out time is at 10 am on the day of departure. 5 days’ notice is required for the use of the Swim Spa and Hot Tub. Should you wish to add this facility to your booking please advise your host before your arrival. Sruthàn Pier House unfortunately is not suitable for children under the age of 4.