A Traditional Farmhouse, Lovingly Reimagined

In the heart of the wild and scenic Dingle Peninsula, An Riasc Farmhouse stands not only as a luxurious self-catering accommodation but also as a living testament to a century of Irish rural life. Lovingly restored by the Begley family, this 4-bedroom farmhouse blends rustic authenticity with modern comfort. Guests find a peaceful retreat steeped in history, tradition, and the rhythms of West Kerry.

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Where It All Began: 1920s Ireland and a New Chapter for Rural Life

The story of An Riasc Farmhouse begins in 1922, a pivotal moment in Irish history. That year marked the foundation of the Irish Land Commission, an institution that would reshape the rural fabric of Ireland over the following several decades.

For generations, land in Ireland had been concentrated in the hands of a few landlords. Therefore, the Commission sought to correct this imbalance by redistributing land to tenant farmers. As a result, families could own the land they worked. It wasn’t just economic reform, it was a quiet revolution that brought dignity, autonomy, and stability to thousands of rural homes.

In Baile na nGall (Ballydavid), families (including the ancestors of the Begleys) received plots of 30 to 40 acres. They moved away from the old castle cluster to settle new land in Moorestown, where they built a modest bungalow. This marked the beginning of a new life rooted in ownership, self-sufficiency and deep ties to the land.

The farmhouse we see today, with its three-window upper floor and simple yet solid layout, was likely built between 1925 and 1932. By 1938, the roof was raised in a major renovation. Oral memory and the skilled eye of a local carpenter have helped confirm its evolution over time.

But this home wasn’t just a product of rural reform. Above all, it became a beacon of community life. Indeed, the farmhouse hosted joyful Bohántí gatherings. In turn, neighbours played cards, sang, and shared news by the fire, traditions deeply tied to the Irish spirit of hospitality and connection.

📘 Did you know?
The Land Commission continued operating until 1999, making it one of the longest-running state agencies in Ireland. In total, it redistributed over 13 million acres of land, impacting the lives of hundreds of thousands of Irish families. The archives of its work (now held by the National Archives of Ireland) are a goldmine for genealogical and local history research.

Generations of life and laughter

Four generations of the family lived in this home, beginning with Tom Corney, followed by his son Cornelius, then Tommy Chuinn and finally Eileen. Their legacy is more than genealogical, it’s one of warmth, music, livestock, and storytelling. The family raised pigs and chickens, sometimes even bringing newborn animals indoors on cold nights. Black polish marked the piglets after their teeth were removed, and red lamps glowed to keep chicks warm in the back kitchen.

The farmhouse wasn’t just a home, it was a vibrant hub of rural life, welcoming neighbours and relatives, especially during festive seasons. These memories are part of what gives the restored home its unique soul today.

Come and experience An Riasc Farmhouse, close to Wild Atlantic Way.

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Restoration with Heart

The current owners, Diarmuid (Tommy Chuinn’s son and Eileen’s brother) and his wife Denise, have lovingly preserved the essence of the original farmhouse while making it a luxurious base for today’s travelers. Key elements of the past, like the exposed stone walls in the dining area and antique stained-glass doors in the bathrooms, have been kept intact

Modern amenities now blend seamlessly with the structure’s historical charm, offering guests comfort, light, and a sense of peace. Surrounded by fields and views of Mount Brandon, it’s a perfect spot for families, friends, and walkers on the Dingle Way.

A reflection of Ireland’s evolution

The farmhouse is more than a place to stay, it mirrors the broader story of Ireland’s evolution from agrarian society to modern tourism. The shift from communal farming to individual plots, the migration to and from the United States, and the return to rebuild, all are part of this home’s DNA.

In restoring the farmhouse and sharing it with visitors, the Begleys honour a century of Irish heritage. Guests don’t just rent a house, they step into a living story of resilience, hospitality, and transformation.

Self-catering | Up to 7 guests | CLOSE TO THE Wild Atlantic Way

Rates from €300/night, An Riasc Farmhouse is a beautifully restored self-catering accommodation in Dingle that sleeps up to 7 guests. Nestled in peaceful countryside near stunning Beaches and walks, the Slea Head Drive, and Dingle Town, it offers the perfect base to explore the wild beauty of West Kerry.