Rosevale Farm Cottagesare set amidst the rolling drumlin countryside so typical of County Down and provide ideal self-catering accommodation in a country setting close to the coast of North Down.
Only hobby farming is now carried on at Rosevale. Rare Irish breeds of farm animals graze the fields while an Irish wolfhound is liable to greet you to the farm. Hens scratch about in their yard, their real country eggs tastier than any you will find in the supermarket.
There are four cottages to choose from. Annie's and Davy's, now fully refurbished, have their origins in the eighteenth century when Rosevale Farm was the home of workers from the Sharman Crawford Estate of which it was then a part. Primrose and Hugh'scottages are newly-built but in the vernacular style and are set apart from the other cottages.
Accommodation - Annie's, Davy's & Primrose
Based around the traditional Irish cottage kitchen (living room) where, in days gone by, all the family activities went on with the turf-burning hearth as the focal point. Tables, chairs and dressers are all either original or based on authentic pieces.
In Annie's and Davy's cottages (both NITB 4-star), the double bedroom, again traditionally furnished, features an iron bed with a country-style quilt and luxury mattress to cosset a body tired after a day's holiday-making activities.
Sleeping facilities in the twin bedroom are styled on the recessed box beds commonly found in the cottages of Ireland. This room can be adapted to accommodate additional children.
Primrose cottage (NITB 5-star) provides accommodation for two, with double or twin beds in the sleeping gallery overlooking the kitchen's fireside area. Access is by a quaint winding staircase.
Accommodation - Hugh's Cottage (NITB 3-star... virtual tour to come)
Recently-built but in period style with eclectic mix of country cottage ground floor and quirky modernity upstairs. The kitchen is downstairs, is very well appointed and is comprehensively equipped. The adjacent dining area leads out to a landscaped garden and patio with table and chairs. The lounge is upstairs with panoramic views over the surrounding countryside. The Double bedroom with traditional furnishings is downstairs. Two twin bedrooms are located upstairs. A shower room with toilet is located on the ground floor and an additional toilet with wash basin on the upper floor.
Facilities
All four cottages are supplied with oil fired central heating throughout. Each has its own telephone. TV, DVD player and stereo are provided but discretely placed to avoid disturbing the authentic Irish cottage atmosphere. In the nearby barn is located the laundry with washing machine and tumble drier. Primrose and Hugh's cottages have their own utility rooms with laundry facilities.
A traditional Ulster fry welcome pack is provided as is all bed linen and towels. Weekly servicing is carried out.
A mile away is the picture-postcard village of Crawfordsburn, home to one of the oldest inns in Ireland, dating from 1614, and beyond it the 200 acre Crawfordsburn Country Park with its deep wooded glen, waterfall, flowery meadows and lovely beaches.