If you’re anything like me you’ll be mind blown by the extraordinary dreamlike, picturesque and peaceful experience. The cottage is right on the incredibly beautiful Owenwee river, where you can do an exploration of the river walk, crossing a little handmade wooden bridge to an island, if you’re lucky you might be greeted by the heron that appears to live/“hideaway” on the island in the middle of the river. There is a swing and a dipping pond on the island too, surrounded by moss covered trees and rocks, your instagram feed won’t be disappointed! The nearby beaches Silver Strand, Bertra Strand and Carrowmore are breathtaking and well worth a visit. Only an hour drive from achill island, Keem strand is also worth a visit especially on a sunny day. I highly recommend driving from Louisburgh to Leenaun for a jaw dropping scenic experience of the killary fjord. I was also free to use a bicycle and protective gear and the main road has a great cycle track for safety that goes from croagh Patrick all the way to Westport. On my first day I went on a clew bay cruise which was so much fun where I got to see some seals and enjoy live music and meet a . Interesting stories were shared of the islands and bay. I’m now geeking out on Grace O’Malley, an apparently notorious woman who ruled the area.
Words can’t describe how healing my stay was in general, not only a beautiful place but also the comfort of the hosts kindness and the company of the sweet dogs brightening each day, it was simply perfect and just as described... “cosy” . Mary was great ensuring I was toasty warm throughout, showing me how to mind the fire, fresh eggs from the chickens that you can feed yourself with leftovers if you like and all the brilliant local tips that I wouldn’t have known otherwise, though I didn’t manage the eating out tips this time, at least I’ll remember for next time. I also admire the hosts environmentally friendly and self sufficient approach.
Travelling solo, it simply wouldn’t have been the same without Mary’s fantastic energy and genuine loveliness. I couldn’t help but stay an extra week and would have stayed even longer if life wasn’t calling me back to reality. 💯% feel refreshed and recommend a stay.