This place was everything and more! The location was spectacular. The views, the walk down to the beach, and its location in the Ring of Kerry is perfect. Everything I needed was there (wood for the fireplace, breakfast scones and jam, and many other nice touches). Deirdre, the caretaker, and Susan, the host, were incredibly helpful. While the house would have been big enough for my whole family, this was a solo writing retreat trip for me. I so enjoyed the amazing views out the window and taking walks up and down the hills around the house and down to beach.
I was able to walk from the house just a few miles to see the two stone forts (incredible!) and Balycarberry Castle. The nearby town of Cahersiveen was a wonderful place to walk around in and see a historic church and other historic buildings. Mike Murts was a great local and lively pub, which was fun to hang out in and Eva's restaurant was wonderful as well.
The house is just a short drive to the Kerry Cliffs, which the locals say are more spectacular than the Cliffs of Moher. Only having a limited time, I chose to listen to them, and I wasn't disappointed! Stunning! You can also catch a ferry from Portmagee (near the Kerry Cliffs) to see Skellig Michael or hike up to Bray Head lookout across from the Kerry Cliffs. Or drive a few hours up to the Cliffs of Moher.
Thanks so much for letting me stay in your beautiful home. I got a lot of writing done and will definitely be back--hope to bring my whole family next time! :)