How does sleeping under the stars, cuddled up next to a wood burning stove sound?
As we enter into our second summer of staycations, our hunt for unique, off the beaten track accommodation continues. We found this gem of spot that you need to book!
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Release your inner nature queen with a weekend at this absolutely stunning lakeside lodge. For accommodation you have a choice of a Skydome Yurt with; you guessed it, it's a dome shaped skylight which allows you to look up at the stars, or the Shepherds Hut with incredible lake, mountain and forest views.
As well as these unique and instagrammable sleeping set ups you have the beautiful communal lodge where you’ll find a fully equipped self-catering kitchen, dining area, toilets and hot showers. The showstopper is the Reciprocal Room, with spiralling beams and even more incredible views, it’s the perfect place to wind down with a cuppa or glass of wine.
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It’s also a gadget-free zone for those craving a bit of time away from their screens. Swap your nightly TikTok scroll for a game of Jenga or snap, your brain will thank you for it (of course, once you’re finished being one with nature there’s a designated area in the lobby where you can use your phone, complete with charging points).
The Lodge is also built sustainably with strawbales and locally sourced roundwood timber, topped with a green roof covered in grasses and wildflowers from the area. If you’re looking to do some exploring, there are a number of beautiful beaches, forest walks and national parks nearby, as well as the impressive Sliabh League cliffs, with views of Donegal Bay from 600 metres above the ocean.
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Check out Lough Mardal on Instagram, get booking and prepare for a hundred replies on your Insta story asking “Omg, where is this??”
Header image: Airbnb/Lough Mardal
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