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 lead 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 dialog 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, there is one double Futon bed on the first and two single beds on the second mezzanine. 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 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 are facilities for Yoga in the little shed next to the sea, two stone stairs are leading down to a “beach” where swimming and kayaking is possible during high tide. Nature walks in the surrounding and on Heir Island are possible even in rain.
