Inishowen Artists' Retreat + Studio

Inishowen Artists’ Retreat + Studio is a unique creative holiday experience in a beautiful Irish cottage and studio.

This is your chance to stay in a tastefully restored cottage with the optional extra of art tuition in the attached studio. Improve your creative skills in the wilds of Donegal with local artist Sinéad Smyth, who has more than 20 years’ experience as an art tutor.

the cottage

You’ll stay in a beautifully restored, 19th century Irish cottage in the heart of Inishowen, County Donegal. It consists of two bedrooms, a shower room, a kitchen/living room, small scullery and an artist’s studio.

The cottage sits in almost an acre of garden in the rolling countryside of hills and farmland, bog and coast. It is built from stone and dates back pre 1830. It is perfectly suited to small groups of friends or a family of four. There are two twin bedrooms, a small, modern shower room, a cosy self-catering living area and a studio.

A wood burning stove will add to the evening warmth and cosiness inside the cottage. We start you off with a full basket of logs!

the studio

The studio is a working and teaching studio, where Sinéad paints and hosts Art Days – our art courses. But it’s at your disposal during your stay. Folding tables and chairs transform the studio for up to 6 artists to paint and create. It’s also a perfect space for musicians to play, to practice yoga, to meditate and more.

There is another small wood burning stove here. Skylights and slightly extended windows give ample natural light throughout the day. There’s also a stylish sink, so it’s self-contained in its own right.

the creative experience

Every holiday booked on our website includes one (optional) day of art tuition with Sinéad in the studio. If your holiday is longer than one week, each additional week or part-week gives you the option of another day of tuition with Sinéad.

Sinéad has worked with The Turner Prize, The Thames Festival, The British Council and City of Culture over the years, along with countless children and adults. Her works have been shown nationally and internationally. It is held in public and private collections globally.

Sinéad will spend time in the studio with you, guiding you along the creative path you want to follow, if you take up the offer of art tuition during your holiday.

the garden

Winding paths lead to a wildflower meadow, a mini orchard and organic vegetable garden with poly tunnel. We often pass on some of our homegrown fruit and veg to our guests, freshly picked, at different times of the year.

A sturdy treehouse also serves as a painting platform for ‘en plein air’ and there is space for a yoga mat…perfect for an early morning stretch.

Dry stone walls surround a secluded sitting area with a barbeque and fire bowl available for your use. There is lots of inspiration for drawing, painting, or relaxing, without going very far.

Take your weary soul to this magical hideaway to explore / rejuvenate / discover your creativity + forget the rest of the world for a while.