Welcome to Cavan Pottering Retreat!
We provide (free) accommodation for travelers seeking a break without breaking the bank in (semi-)rural Ireland, in a middle of nowhere town. My friend and I live here, and we have a few spare rooms available.
It's a great place to while away your time, or 'potter around'.
Pottering is the act of occupying oneself in a pleasant way but without a definite plan or purpose. 'Pleasant' implies comfort and the lack of a plan implies freedom. (from Pottering: A Cure for Modern Life, Anna McGovern)
To book, call, text or WhatsApp Shaaz on +353833712444.
Who are you?
Viru (left) and Shaaz (right). Viru works at The Olde Post Inn and Shaaz is a software engineer at Shuttle. There's more about Shaaz on his website.
Where is it located?
In Cavan Town, Ireland. A four minute walk from Cavan Crystal Hotel (Google Maps).
What's included?
- Accommodation for upto 7 days, for upto 2 people. Options are:
- A single room or a double room, with a large detached bathroom (free)
- A super-king size ensuite for a daily rate (50 EUR/night)
- Fresh towels, sheets, and other household stuff
- Use of kitchen space, garden and utilities
- A separate living room with books, a desk and a chair, a couch, a fireplace, music
View the gallery for pictures.
How do I book?
To book, call, text or WhatsApp Shaaz on +353833712444.
What's in Cavan?
365 lakes, us, and not much else. But in all seriousness, check out a list of recommended activities, you'd be surprised.
Is it really free?
Yes, except for the ensuite room. We do encourage barter: we accept gifts and donations, but it's not mandatory. Gifts can be anything: from a used book you read or a bottle of whiskey to a piece of furniture or even a fancy gadget. Maybe it's something you think the house needs, so you can donate after your stay as well. Check out our guest wishlist for some ideas. You could also help around the house, such as mow the lawn, work on the campervan, or even do some DIY around the house, if you really want to contribute somehow.
Is this an AirBnB?
This is not an AirBnB, so please do not expect hospitality or services. Think of this as upscale couchsurfing.
Is this in the countryside or in an urban area?
Neither, in truth. You can find cows grazing a few meters away from our garden fence but also walk five mins to a KFC. Or you could take a 10-min drive to lakes and forests but take a 10-min bus trip to the local library and arts venue.
Why are you doing this?
- We love the sense of community it creates
- We wish this retreat existed when we couldn't afford it, and could use it
- We like serendipity, new friends and... gifts?
Is it safe?
The house is in a safe residential area with many families. It's also a minute from the main highway where you can catch an hour-long bus to Dublin city.
We're selective in who we share the retreat with: usually close friends, creative communities and closed groups where we have some acquaintances. Or even better, if you happen to meet us in person and we gave you the link to this page!
Is this a writer's / artist's retreat?
Not explicitly, but you could very much use it as one.