Three magical days, staying at Robb and Kelly's Seaview Suite in the heart of the Burren, Co. Clare. Overlooking a famous oyster bay, the cosy apartment is equi-distant from two of the Burren's crown-jewel villages, Kinvara and Ballyvaughan. Just minutes away by car is the ancient Cistercian Abbey at Corcomroe, the famous Hazel Mountain Chocolate factory, Linannes acclaimed seafood bar, the Russell Gallery, cafe and wine bar, and the Flaggy Shore - the subject of one of Seamus Heaney's most famous poems, Postscript.
The tastefully furnished room/bedroom has a Nespresso machine, a selection of teas, crockery, cutlery and a mini-fridge - perfect for the traveller on a budget. A fruit bowl and breakfast goodies of granola and yogurt were a lovely touch.
Robb and Kelly are both super-warm hosts and fascinating people. If you feel like talking food, Robb - an acclaimed food writer and blogger - will mesmerise you with his knowledge of Tex Mex, oysters of the world and texas-style barbeque, while Kelly, amongst other things, is an accomplished visual artist currently studying for a PHD.
I loved the cosy winter evenings I spent here, with just the sound of the sea wind outside, but I look forward to returning in the spring/summer, when the Burren wildflowers are in bloom, the famous cuckoo's call is echoing across the bay, the days are longer, and perhaps Robb's barbeque is fired up and seasoning the evening air!
I could not recommend this place enough.