Lusty Beg Island – Ireland’s Best Kept Secret

We visited Ireland in 2023, and I wanted to find a place of peace and quiet after a turbulent year in my life. I asked around, and the Island of Lusty Beg in Fermanagh was recommended. After doing some research, I decided to book a three-night stay with my daughter. Lusty Beg is a small island in Kesh, County Fermanagh Northern Island. Lusty Beg is Irish for “little lodge.”

Getting There

There is a ferry service to the Island, and when you arrive at the pier, you can call the ferry to get you. There was no need in our case as it was already on its way. Parking is available at their pier; you can take the ferry on foot. However, the start of this unique experience is driving the car onto the rickety ferry for a short ride to the resort. We parked our car in the designed parking spots and did not need it again for 3 days as the small island all walking once you arrive there.

We arrived at reception with a warm, friendly welcome and checked in. Our room was basic, clean, and overlooking the beautiful lake. The accommodation ranges from the courtyard-type room we stayed at to cabins for up to 6 people. 

Dining

There is a restaurant which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the food is excellent.  We had booked bed and breakfast, and the buffet style breakfast was incredible, it sets you up for the day. We only needed snacks for lunch before heading back for a great dinner. We sat at the lake after dinner reading and watching the swans dip and swim by.

Activities

There is “fairy wood” which is a beautiful walk and a lot of fun as you explore the different fairy landmarks along the way. It is a short walk, about 30 minutes. One of my friends remarked when I posted on Facebook that it was quintessentially Irish to have a fairy wood on an Irish Island called Lusty Beg and they were indeed right. There are other activities such as archery, tennis, clay pigeon shooting on land, and water activities such as kayaking, bib boats, and bay bikes. The prices are very reasonable too. We did not partake as I was focused on resting, reading, and relaxing.

SPA

There is also a spa and a hairdresser. We could only get facials as the massages were all booked. Be warned if you would like a massage book in advance. If the massage is as good as the facial, I am sure it is well worth it. Due to the dollar’s strength, the prices were very reasonable, especially for US visitors. They also had a seaweed bath which was terrific in a softly lit room, and we felt great after it. After the treatment, there is a recovery room which is quiet and peaceful. I did a short meditation and then fell into a relaxed and peaceful sleep.

Abundance of natural beauty

This led to a few very peaceful days. The highlight of this unique and beautiful place was the views and scenery. The images below will give you an idea of just how special this place is.

Weddings

A place this beautiful is an ideal setting for weddings. The only drawback was the happy wedding guests partying late. It was not excessive, and as I always travel with earplugs, it did not affect my enjoyment of Lusty Beg.

If you ever go to Ireland, put this lovely place on your bucket list. I know I cannot wait to go back. The people were terrific and kind and could not do enough for you. This is partly due to the Irish people’s friendliness and ingrained hospitality. The Island is in Northern Ireland, so you can drive your rental car across the border if you start in Southern Ireland. Most car rental companies allow this, but it’s best to check to avoid complications.

You will get the best rates and customer support if you book on the Island’s website.

I will be back!!