The stunning Swiss Cottage looks like it’s been plucked from a fairy tale and opens to the public from 12 March 2026 in a charming Irish village near historic Cahir Castle
The wallpaper is partly original and partly the fruit of a 1980s restoration project(Image: Heritage Ireland)
Nestled just beyond a quaint historic Irish village sits a stunning cottage that appears to have been lifted straight from the pages of a storybook – and visitors are welcome to step inside.
The Swiss Cottage is what’s known as a cottage orné, meaning it’s an exquisitely crafted small retreat that served the neighbouring estate.
Constructed in the early 1800s by Richard Butler, 1st Earl of Glengall, it functioned as a charming rural picnic destination, a meeting point for the local hunt, or simply a tranquil escape from everyday life.
According to Heritage Ireland, it’s thought to have been the work of renowned Regency architect John Nash.
The Swiss Cottage most likely earned its name due to its striking resemblance to an Alpine dwelling, reports the Irish Mirror.
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But the magic doesn’t stop at the façade. Inside, a winding spiral staircase leads visitors through elegantly appointed rooms.
The walls feature wallpaper that offers a glimpse into the past. This design was painstakingly recreated during the cottage’s 1980 restoration.
The stunning interior was the vision of celebrated fashion designer Sybil Connolly, who oversaw the entire décor.
One delighted Trip Advisor user said they “still can’t stop thinking about this place.”
They added: “When we reached Swiss Cottage after a walk through the green park, I felt like I was caught in a fairy tale.
“Everything around us froze, and a house from another era opened up to us — romantic, mysterious, magical. I’ve never seen that before.
“This wave-shaped straw ceiling, carved wooden parts, windows of all shapes, as if specially made for dreams… and inside is a real masterpiece!”.
“Rare Parisian wallpaper, spiral staircase, fine details. Everything says beauty for beauty’s sake. It’s not just architecture — it’s mood.
“A place where you want to sit with a cup of tea on the veranda and just watch the leaves rustle. I think I left a piece of my soul there. A true miracle that cannot be forgotten.”
The cottage opens its doors to visitors from 12 March 2026. For those wanting to extend their visit, nearby Cahir Castle makes an excellent addition to the itinerary.
This 13th-century fortress stands as one of Ireland’s finest preserved medieval castles. Perched dramatically on rocky outcrops beside the River Suir, it has featured as a filming location for numerous historical productions.
The castle provided the setting for acclaimed period dramas including Excalibur and The Tudors, which starred Henry Cavill.
Previously the home of the powerful Butler dynasty, Heritage Ireland notes that this prominent Anglo-Norman family occupied the castle for almost 600 years following James Butler, the 3rd Earl of Ormond, receiving it in 1375.
The fortress was considered impregnable, offering the Butlers protection against all dangers.
Yet this belief was shattered in 1599 when the Earl of Essex mounted a devastating military assault on the stronghold.