A 22-acre farm and glamping business near Oughterard, Co. Galway, has been brought to market with an asking price of €670,000. The property, listed by Spencer Auctioneers, includes a detached farmhouse, three glamping units, seven alpacas, six pygmy goats, farm buildings, and access to outdoor recreation areas along the Western Way.
Owners Stuart and Ruth Newton purchased the property in 2017 after leaving nursing jobs in England. Ruth described their motivation by saying, “Our work-life balance was not quite right.” The couple relocated with their son and began developing a new livelihood connected to tourism and outdoor experiences.
Although they viewed the farm “on a really rainy day,” Ruth said the setting was enough to convince them to make the move despite concerns from others. “Everyone thought we were a little bit crazy,” she told Extra.ie.
The Newtons launched alpaca experiences in 2019. “We couldn’t meet demand,” Ruth recalled, noting the herd eventually expanded from four animals to 29 and included activities such as walks, meet-and-greets, and yoga. They later added a small glamping operation after securing planning permission for three short-let units: a hexagon-shaped pod, a hobbit-style timber cabin, and a shepherd’s hut.
According to the Newtons, the business produced an estimated turnover of €60,000 in 2024 from accommodation alone. In previous years, when alpaca tours were still running, turnover reached approximately €90,000.
The enterprise operates primarily from spring through summer and closes for three months in winter. “We reduced the amount of work so we could enjoy the farm and have time to relax,” Ruth said.
The farmhouse, measuring about 85 square metres, contains three bedrooms, one bathroom, a guest W.C., and upgraded features including a new kitchen, bathroom, and double-glazed windows.
The property also offers rural amenities, including views of Lough Corrib, proximity to the Connemara Dark Park, and access to nearby swimming spots such as the Hill of Doon.
For outdoor hospitality operators, the listing underscores growing interest in agricultural properties with diversification potential, particularly those that blend farm-based attractions with small-scale glamping accommodations.
The Newtons’ experience highlights how animal-assisted tourism and unique lodging structures can contribute to seasonal revenue streams while remaining manageable for owner-operators.
With their son now 22 and preparing to move to Edinburgh, the couple has decided to sell the property and pursue new plans. Spencer Auctioneers is currently marketing the holding, which spans two fields accessible by a registered right of way.