We were looking for a large house to accommodate a family ,grandparents, parents and four small kids . Tara’s house seemed perfect .
Reviews had been mostly good on Air B n B but then we saw some very negative reviews on Google so we were a tad worried.
My son lives in Wexford and hoped to join us for a day and possibly stay over but Tara insisted we needed to declare all the names and then pay extra in advance if he was staying plus €150 deposit if we brought our small dog. I was then told if the numbers were not to full capacity some of the bedrooms would be closed off .There were a lot of texts and emails before we left and it was becoming a bit stressful as we had booked based on the number of bedrooms . However, on arrival , although very basic from the outside , and in need of upgrading the house was lovely internally and has all the elements of a family holiday house, with bright interior and lots of outdoor space. A typical “ bungalow bliss “ home of times gone by smartened up with some modifications , quite remote but with wonderful views .
It was spotlessly clean but the bunk room was closed off ( much to two boys upset ) BUT Taras communication was very good and it was reopened .
The house is painted white throughout so bright and although a little over furnished in some rooms, Tara has tried to create a Hamptons style interior with IKEA furniture and furnishings .
The beds were just ok apart from the master and the pillows pretty basic but overall it was tastefully presented with duvet covers and cushions.
The outdoor furniture is in need of upgrading and unfortunately the eating area is at the other end of the house to the kitchen .
The weather was great so we were outdoors most of the time .
We had Lots of family outdoor games in the gardens and fun on the beach at Carne .The area is great , Lady’s island lagoon is opposite the house , but unsuitable for swimming as is the stunning beach at Rostonstown a short walk from the house . Such a pity as it is beautiful but very dangerous .
There’s Great food in Kilinick at Karoo Farm shop and cafe , excellent service and food at Mary Barry’s in Kilmore and lots to do in the area . Johnstown Castle is a great day out and the museum is fantastic .
REMINDER- Yes, flies will come into a house in the countryside if lights are left on after dark and doors / windows are left open .
I suspect Tara may have had some tenants who did not look after the house , left windows open and flies came in , soiled the white couches with fake tan and possibly left a mess and they may be the ones to leave bad reviews after …. .
We brought blankets to cover the white sofas . I suggest anyone with small kids does likewise . Everyone’s happy .