Romantic Castle at Roaring Water Bay in West Cork - Weekend special available

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9.4Outstanding
(78 Ratings)
"A once in lifetime opportunity to stay in a restored tower! The views were incredible and it was an experience we will never forget. Must be good at navigating steep and numerous stairs. We were c..."
Douglas J.
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9.4 / 10
Outstanding(78 Ratings)

Castle / Palace in County Cork

6 guests · 3 bedrooms

Reasons to book

Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Top-tier experienceA high end property in this area
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About this castle / palace rental

https://www.rincoliskycastle.com/

Up on the cliffs at Roaring Water Bay, Rinn Chùil Uisce Castle, called Rincolisky, a historic monument built by the O'Driscoll clan in 1495, is facing Kilcoe Castle which dates to around 1450 and was built by Diarmaid McCarthy. Before its restoration, commencing in 2002, Rincolisky Castle was an ancient ruin consisting of the square walls with a basement entrance, a vaulted stone ceiling above and a carved door on the first floor which could only be accessed through climbing up the external wall. A walled-in stone staircase led to the severely damaged grass overgrown “roof”.
In 2008, the renovation of the castle was completed and a newly constructed top room with sliding glass windows are opening up to a flagstone terrace surrounded by stone walls facing West. All reviews of people who have rented the castle were amazed and emphasized the most magnificent view one has over all the islands.

When restoring the castle, I put my attention on a dialogue between the historic with the contemporary, with the luxurious and the rustic. The 8 meter long wooden beams in the basement originate from a French Castle and are some 500 years old. The fireplace, floor tiles, long kitchen table, the old church benches, they all have a historic European background. Traditionally the old castles only have small windows, thus working with artificial light is important. The long Occhio light above the dinner table which hangs on the ceiling on an 8-meter-long steel cable has been custom-made for this space, shedding a warm light on the big country kitchen. The fire should be lit during those evenings when barbecuing on the outdoor terrace down at the sea has become too chilly.
Please pay attention to the fact that due to the steep staircases, the castle is not suitable for people over 70 and children under 12 years of age.
Sleeping facilities are rustic, the old "garderobe" now functions as a toilet for guests who sleep on these floors. The top room accommodates a very comfortable Queen Size bed, a large couch with coffee table, an art deco desk with chair and a small open fireplace for chilly nights. A shower room is attached on the top floor.
The castle is geothermal heated which ensures even warmth throughout and is assisted by the Aga stove in the kitchen.
The two outer terraces should be used according to wind and weather.
The uniqueness of this castle is its rural location overlooking the sea and the islands, the tranquillity that untouched nature provides, a place to leave behind the daily routines and completely relax. There is a sauna next to the sea, two stone stairs are leading down to a “beach” where swimming is possible during high tide. Nature walks in the surrounding and on Heir Island are possible even in rain. A ferry can be booked from Cunamore Pier, which is in walking distance but also provides parking facilities to visit the two Michelin Star Restaurant as well as Baltimore Castle.

"Things to Know Before Booking"

Château Rincolisky is an authentic historic property full of character, but it is not suitable for young children or babies (under 12 years old).
The property features high and steep stone staircases, as well as a mezzanine accessible by a spiral staircase, which may pose a risk for younger guests.
The château does not have a dedicated children’s bedroom, and the sofa located in the top-floor room is not intended for children to sleep on.
We therefore recommend the stay for adults and teenagers aged 12 and up, to ensure everyone’s comfort and safety.

Amenities

Non-smoking
No pets allowed
Family friendly

Map of County Cork


Ratings and reviews

9.4 / 10
Outstanding(78 Ratings)
8 / 10Excellent·May 2026
Living even for a short time in a castle is a unique experience. It is just rustic enough to get a feel for castle life and just modern enough to make it comfortable. The grounds are lush and the area is quiet. Otters were on the rocks down by the water at the bottom of the stairs at waters edge. The top floor has an amazing view with lots of glass and a sheltered patio. We had some concerns, but Stephanie was quick to respond. My only criticism would be the bed on middle floor was uncomfortable, it is a futon and I’m sure furnishing a castle must be a challenge. The wifi was perfect.
10 / 10Outstanding·May 2026
A once in lifetime opportunity to stay in a restored tower! The views were incredible and it was an experience we will never forget. Must be good at navigating steep and numerous stairs. We were comfortable and warm considering it's a stone castle, as the floor heating was nice.
10 / 10Outstanding·May 2026
Host was easy to communicate with and property was very unique. Surrounding area was beautiful and the ocean views were spectacular. Only note was that the hot tub mentioned in the listing is no longer available.
6 / 10Average·Jul 2023
Cons first - Many stairs. Top floor is 25 steep steps up a low rock hall, which sounds cool but was a bit much. It was also VERY windy up there for the whole trip. This rattled the windows/ whistled. I ended up joining my kids in their “room”. My 7 year old son was barely old enough to safely stay here. I would NOT recommend this place to anyone with kids younger than age 7, or with any kid of physical limitations. There are stairs up from the main floor and also from the mezzanine up a spiral staircase. The mezzanine and “kids” room is open to the rest of the castle so is open to noise in the castle and wind. Very humid in the “kids room” as well, which is due to the dampness of the castle walls which are whitewashed (and flake on the counters and floors). The place isn’t especially clean but I do imagine it’s hard to maintain due to the elements and white walls flaking. The bathroom on the top floor has drainage issues - I have been in many showers which are open to the room and they drain properly & this isn’t “normal”. The water pools on the floor and must be squeegeed down then wiped with towels. Pros- private, neat fireplace and ability to cook (but bring your own dish soap/basic food items/dishwasher tabs). Had to ask for clean duvet cover and more kitchen towels but the owner was responsive & provided the requested items. The instructions were clear. The internet was pretty good. Liked having a bbq. Overall- very unique experience/like camping in a castle.

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FAQs

Is parking included with this castle / palace?

Parking is not specified as an available amenity at Romantic Castle at Roaring Water Bay in West Cork - Weekend special available. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.

Is there a pool at this castle / palace?

We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this castle / palace. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.

Is Romantic Castle at Roaring Water Bay in West Cork - Weekend special available pet friendly?

Unfortunately, this castle / palace is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"

What amenities are available at Romantic Castle at Roaring Water Bay in West Cork - Weekend special available?

We found 3 amenities for this rental. This includes non-smoking, no pets allowed, and family friendly.


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