We stayed at Mary’s for five nights. I couldn’t believe it when I arrived and saw the views were as amazing as the pictures. It’s so breath taking to be right on the lake. You’ll find yourself just sitting and relaxing in front of the beautiful scenery while the kids entertain themselves in Mary’s beautiful garden complete with basketball court, games and tyre swings! Plus there are the donkeys, all well fed and renamed by the kids. The private beach, gardens and lakes give you a wonderful sense of privilege and I don’t think I’ve ever relaxed more while holidays in Ireland. The house itself is well situated for all Mayo has to offer and we did Croagh Patrick, the greenway to Achill Island and the Céide fields followed by a dip at the beautiful Ross Strand over the few days. We also went to the cinema in Ballina one of the duller days and it’s a great town with lots to do.
The accommodation is attached to Mary’s house but somehow you still feel totally separate and the house complete with TV in the kids rooms has everything you could need.
While the house was perfect for our family with four kids( 8-14) I could also see it as an ideal retreat for a couple who could enjoy the views and hospitality of Pontoon. Big thank you to Mary’s mam who had a beautiful welcome basket ready for us . It was very much appreciated.