We are thrilled to welcome The Sardinian Guesthouse, a business steeped in history and innovation, to the Little Island Business Association (LIBA). Founded by Mark Ryan and his brother Andrew, The Sardinian Guesthouse began its journey in 2015 as an ambitious idea and has since grown into a thriving business that combines heartfelt family memories, meticulous renovation, and a commitment to quality.
Mark shared the origin story:
“My grandmother had passed away, leaving the family home to her children. It had been in the family for over 60 years, and I spent countless days there growing up. When the family decided to sell, I suggested to my brother that we buy the house and turn it into a self-catering townhouse. After more than a year of renovations, we transformed it into a 6-bedroom, 7-bathroom property, perfect for families and groups visiting Cobh and the surrounding areas.”
The Guesthouse opened its doors in April 2017, and over the years, it has become a sought-after destination, earning Super Host status on Airbnb and glowing 5-star reviews. Guests rave about the balance of modern comforts and preserved historical charm, such as original bedroom doors, window shutters, and coving that were lovingly restored.
During renovations, Mark discovered the house’s fascinating past. Built in the 1840s, it was originally home to Sir William Dean Seymour, Sardinian Consul. Later, it became a music school run by the Ryan sisters, and now, it is proudly owned by the Ryan brothers.
In addition to the Guesthouse, Mark and his team have expanded into property management, offering full-service solutions for property owners who want to enter the self-catering industry without the hands-on work. Their services include booking management, housekeeping, and corporate property acquisition, catering to businesses looking for accommodation for employees on short-term projects.
“We now have seven properties alongside The Sardinian Guesthouse, thanks to our property management services,” Mark explained. “Our goal is to make finding accommodation stress-free for both property owners and companies.”
Looking ahead, The Sardinian Guesthouse aims to continue expanding its property management portfolio and corporate services in the Cobh and Little Island area. Joining LIBA is an exciting step for them to connect with other local businesses, build relationships, and showcase their offerings.
“We hope to promote our self-catering options to local businesses while also introducing our property management services. We’re looking forward to networking and building connections with the right people,” Mark said.
The Sardinian Guesthouse is not just about accommodation; it’s about creating memorable experiences, preserving history, and building relationships. Their passion for what they do shines through in every detail, from ensuring exceptional guest experiences to hands-on involvement with their team.
Welcome, The Sardinian Guesthouse! We’re excited to have you as part of the LIBA community and look forward to seeing your continued success.
