Situated within the heart of the traditional Gaeltacht area of Donegal, Ireland, Teach na nAmhrán is a perfect residential place for groups to come away on creative retreat, and to connect with the beauty of the natural landscape and Irish culture.
Over the past 3 years, we have renovated the house and developed the organic garden, to create a beautiful and peaceful place to come for rest, recuperation, and reconnection. Candy uses it for her singing work, but it is also available for hire to other creative groups, as well as family holidays.
Originally named The Poets’ House, it was a centre of literary activity for over 20 years with regular visitors including Seamus Heaney.
The Song House has a beautiful sunny workshop space accommodating 35 people, with a fine acoustic. It can sleep 12-14, and there is also a B&B next door, accommodating another 6.
Lying on the Wild Atlantic Way, the drama and beauty of the local landscape takes your breath away- spectacular 3 mile sandy dune beaches, wide expanses of blue or stormy skies, the iconic Muckish mountain (the hogs back), Tory island surrounded by a skirt of turquoise sea glinting in the evening light. Historical sites, Glenveagh National Park, archaeology, the area has it all.
The local music scene is fantastic- music sessions go on most nights in local pubs:
Facilities
4 twin bedrooms
5-bed family room
Spare bed
Well-equipped, cosy kitchen/dining room with open fire
Large workshop room approx. 30 sq metres
The garden provides wonderful views of Muckish Mountain and open countryside – as does much of the house. There is parking for 4 – 6 vehicles, with the possibility of further places nearby. The house has been renovated to high ecological standards, with new triple glazing, and an air-sourced heating system. It is gardened organically and is being planted with many herbs, shrubs and fruit bushes, which are available to guests.
Transport
Daily coaches to Falcarragh from Belfast, Dublin and Galway. 30 mins drive from Donegal airport. For more information click here
Location: Falcarragh, Co. Donegal
Teach na nAmhrán: The Song House lies on the world renowned Wild Atlantic Way, one mile from Falcarragh, with local shops and pubs, some serving excellent food. The nearby coast, with expansive wild and empty beaches bordered by sand dunes, stretch for miles and look out onto Tory Island. The seascapes are spectacular in stormy weather, yet gently sloping sandy beaches make these ideal swimming spots in warmer seasons. The area is rich in recreational activities. There are several popular golf courses, a Surf /Water sports school in nearby Dunfanaghy, excellent hill walking, biking and mountain climbing. Cluagh an dTor is an outstanding specialist plant nursery with gardens. The local pubs have regular music sessions where Irish music both past and present is performed by local and visiting musicians. Anyone is welcome to join in. As Falcarragh forms part of the Gaeltacht (the Irish-speaking areas) you will hear the language spoken around you.
History of The Song House
Originally named The Poets’ House by celebrated poets Jimmy and Janice Simmons, it was a centre of literary activity for over 20 years with regular visitors including Seamus Heaney. The house has recently been sold to Candy Verney whose work as a choir leader has inspired countless singers for over 2 decades. Candy’s focus on using singing to promote change and to build communities resonates with the history of the house. Candy is delighted that the artistic orientation of the house will be carried forward into the future. Candy and associates run residential singing workshops and courses.
Hire The Song House for Workshops or as a Holiday Rental
Teach na nAmhrán: The Song House is available for hire throughout the year for workshops or simply for holidays.