A very enjoyable holiday cottage.
Review Submitted: August 21, 2009
Date of Stay: August 2009
As UK/Irish expats we find ourselves renting many houses in UK and Ireland when visiting. We have no doubt that this house was the most enjoyable so far.
Enjoyable because the quality of the house, the thought that went into it, the peaceful location, and because on this trip we had grandparents with us. Being able to rent the adjacent studio meant that they could have their own space and peace when they wanted it, but still be only a few paces away.
The area is fabulous if you like the sea and sea views and don't mind the inevitable rain.
If you want big sandy beaches nearby, then you will be disappointed, and will need to drive an hour or so to Barley cove, which fills that need very well. However probably this is one of the reasons that this part is less touristy than some of the other area's of West Cork - for us another plus.
We concluded that to enjoy this location to the optimum you either need to spend time walking nearby on Sheep's head, and given the scenery this is recommended, or be prepared to drive on the bumpy Irish roads, which for the older people may get a little tiresome, or be quite happy to just be around the house.
The kids loved the garden which is safe enough for 4+ but some with toddlers would need to be careful of the small stream and pond.
Older children may run out of entertainment unless they are keen readers.
There are plenty of pubs a short drive away, in particular we enjoyed the "tin roof" pub, but we really didn't have enough time to explore as many Pubs and eating places as we would have liked - a good reason to return sometime.
Back to the house - too many good things to say to mention them, and only one significant negative - we would suggest that having a little less "stuff" in some places would be better. and give guests more space to put their own things.
We would definitely hope to come back if circumstances allow, and we would definitely recommend it to friends - something that we would not say about most other houses we rent!
Owner's Response: Just to respond to a couple of points regarding the pool area and suitability of the property for children in case of any concerns:
The pool is 20' x 20' and between 3'-5' deep with steps and is partially heated by solar panels. It is located near the garden pond and stream and is not fully enclosed due to the hillside location/layout. We recommend that young children are carefully supervised in this area of the garden at all times for safety reasons. We provide pool toys, including arm bands and goggles.
Regarding entertainment for older children, apart from the pool there is also access to a computer, TV with Sky channels, CD players and DVD (including selection of films), as well as board games, books and 2 bikes (adult sized). There are many things to do in the local area for children of all ages, including bike rental, boat trips, whale watching, fishing, quad biking, sea kayaking, a playground in the local village as well as pebble beaches (one within 10 minutes' walk). There is also a cinema in Bantry for rainy day entertainment.
Both Cottage and Studio are fully furnished and equipped as our second home rather than just a holiday let. If you have any further concerns, please get in touch and we will provide more detailed information.
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