After reading the other reviews we decided that Castle Ellen was a must-see for us during our weeklong trip to Ireland, and it did not disappoint! From the moment we arrived Michael made us feel very welcome by seating us next to the fireplace and bringing us a bottle of wine to enjoy. Walking around the expansive grounds, peeking into every nook and cranny, we were captivated by the beautiful chaos of a 200-year-old residence undergoing a transformation at the hands of a worldly and artistic eccentric. Those who enjoy perusing flea markets for vintage treasures and adventurers craving a truly unique experience will fall in love with Castle Ellen as we did. Michael was a wonderful host - he asked if we were hungry and served us a dinner that his daughter had cooked, and in the morning offered cereal and milk. In the morning he showed us the ruins of a castle on his property that dates back to the 1600's and indulged us in many photo ops. Still a charmer at 81, he picked Lisa some wildflowers which she is now pressing and will frame as a souvenir of our trip.
Accommodations were rustic yet cozy, the fireplace kept a slow burn throughout the night and the quiet crackle of the burning embers added a bit of enchantment. Michael had also turned on a heating blanket which was so nice to slip into at the end of the day. The room was equipped with a tray of water, tea, coffee and condiments.
Castle Ellen was one of our favorite parts of our trip to Ireland. If you are into a one-of-a-kind old world Irish experience and are up for anything then this is the place for you. Thank you to our gracious host Michael for sharing your home with us!