Killanena House
A short history
At the end of 2002, Julie and her husband Mark bought the derelict shell of a two storey farmhouse, which was known as 'The Park' in Killanena, set in the lovely hills surrounding Lough Graney. There was no water, no windows - it was uninhabitable. Yet after just four months of gutting and replacing, they moved in and continued the work. Mark did the main bulk of the work himself, Julie encouraging, site managing and 'clearfixing up'. They worked solidly for two years, restoring the house, planting a garden, bringing life back to the place - creating a unique and tranquil setting. Two original outbuildings, the dairy and chicken shed, are now one large, light and airy studio, an ideal space for art courses, hence 'Art at The Park'.
The house nestles in the side of a hill with far reaching views, and is surrounded by beautiful pastureland. Walk through Julie's garden to the front door, where you'll be greeted by possibly the whole family - children and the dog! The environment is welcoming and comfortable - as soon as you arrive you'll feel at home.
Local amenities
Killanena is within easy reach of a wide variety of activities, from water-sports on Lough Derg, fishing on Lough Graney, East Clare Golf Club, The Burren (and 'Father Ted's House!), the fantastic Clare coast, or even a day trip to Conemarra. It is also just 5 miles from Feakle, which holds a wonderful Traditional Music Festival every August (a recent musical guest said it was the best festival she'd been to). There are bars and restaurants in Gort and Scariff, and food is available in Peppers Bar in Feakle, which has a traditional music session on Wednesday nights.
Killanena is within easy reach of Shannon Airport, and is close to Galway, Ennis and Limerick.