Swiss Cottage

Swiss Cottage, a delightful ornamental cottage, was built in the early 1800s by Richard Butler, first Earl of Glengall. It remains an enduring local attraction in South Tipperary and an iconic image of the Ireland of yore. Based on a design by the famous English Regency architect John Nash and inspired by nature, the cottage's unusual and rustic features include a distinctive thatched roof while its external woodwork resembles branched trees. The nature theme continues throughout the former guest cottage's internal furnishings and wallpaper. Situated on an elevated site with access by stone steps, the Swiss Cottage interior contains a graceful spiral staircase and some elegantly decorated rooms. The wallpaper in the salon, manufactured by the Dufour factory, is one of the first commercially produced Parisian wallpapers. A guided tour of the Swiss Cottage—located in easy reach of the heritage town of Cahir—is a must for anyone on holiday in beautiful South Tipperary.