Included in ‘The 8 Best Writing Retreat That Won't Break the Bank’ Electric Literature

‘For anyone looking for somewhere soothing to complete (or indeed start) their magnum opus; somewhere that is rustic but cosy, pared-back but comfortable, and full of eclectic touches, witty and warm; this could be the spot.’ Irish Times

‘Whatever the medium, it’s a good place for a solitary retreat.’ Sunday Times Culture

‘Everything about the retreat is inspiring.’ Carla Manfredino, writer

‘It is simply the most wonderful creative experience to immerse oneself in The Moth.’ Ken Farrell, musician

‘At the Moth Retreat I found the absolute peace I needed to immerse myself in my novel-in-progress. It is a thoroughly nourishing environment, created by the friendly but discreet support of the hosts, Becky and Will, the homely accommodation, beautiful lakeside setting and the endlessly entertaining scurry of a flock of hens in the garden. I look forward to a return visit!’ Aisling Maguire, writer

‘The Moth Retreat was exactly what I was looking for. A converted barn all to myself, fresh veg from the garden and a daily delivery of eggs. Beautiful countryside on the doorstep. I managed about a month’s worth of writing condensed into one inspired week. Perfect.’ Susan Allott, writer

‘The atmosphere was very welcoming and the surroundings are beautiful.’ Marie Farrington, artist

You can read about the retreat in the Homes & Property section of the Irish Times 

And you can read about the area in this article in the Guardian: ‘Ireland’s border country: walking the line and in love with the landscape’

The Moth Retreat features a large studio/living area and kitchen/breakfast room downstairs, and a bedroom and bathroom upstairs.

Fresh eggs are provided every morning, and fresh vegetables (when in season), in warm, inviting accommodation that is in keeping with The Moth aesthetic, and where a keen eye has been kept on William Morris’s golden rule: ‘Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.’

There is an easel in the studio downstairs, and a writing desk upstairs, and a bicycle is provided (though the publishers of The Moth, Rebecca O’Connor and Will Govan, will be on hand should you need to purchase provisions for your stay or a lift from or to the bus station in Cavan Town).

The Moth Retreat is situated along a beautiful country lane in Ireland (3 kilometres from the local village of Milltown and 19 kilometres from Cavan Town) and surrounded by some of the county’s famed 365 lakes. Just a few kilometres away is Drumlane Abbey, founded by Saint Colmcille in the sixth century. The county also hosts the source of the River Shannon and has its own Burren, with numerous geological sites recognised by UNESCO.   

Gulliver’s Travels was reputedly penned while Jonathan Swift was on holidays in Cavan. Gulliver is said to be based on a local giant of a man by the name of John Doughty, who was so strong he could carry a pony on his shoulders.

The novelist and poet Dermot Healy grew up in Cavan Town (his wonderful autobiography A Bend for Home is set here).

Samuel Beckett went to school in Enniskillen, just a half an hour northwest of here.

The homeplaces of such literary giants as Seamus Heaney, Patrick Kavanagh and John McGahern are all within an hour’s drive, or you can strike out west towards Yeats Country.

Cavan is a central point between Dublin, Belfast, Donegal, Galway and Sligo. It is located on the N3 and is less than two hours away from Dublin. There is a daily bus service from Dublin Airport to Cavan Town.

How to apply:
Accommodation is €350 a week and is self-catered. A minimum stay of 1 week is required, and a maximum stay of 2 weeks. The accommodation is specifically for artists and writers. There is a supplementary fee of €100 a week if you wish to bring a partner or friend.  

Bursaries for young artists and writers (under 30) are also available from select Arts Offices in Ireland. 

If you are interested in booking accommodation please email editor@themothmagazine.com in the first instance.