Deirdre's cottage is exactly as described in the advert. The photos don't quite do it justice, particularly the kitchen / dining / living space, which is well appointed, brighter and more spacious than it appears. We loved the autumn sunshine streaming in through the skylight. And the central heating (powered by an eco-friendly air source heat pump) was there when we needed it, easy to control and responsive. The shower was consistent, delivering continuous hot water at a good pressure, and the kitchen was well equipped. Parking outside the cottage was always straightforward, and Deirdre was a super-helpful host, great at responding to messages and accommodating about check-in arrangements.
From the cottage, it's an easy 8-10 minute walk on the flat into Tralee's bustling little town centre. Before you even get to the centre, there are two special places we must mention. Firstly, The Little Cheese Shop, besides being a deli, also has tables and benches upstairs for eating in and offers delicious, fresh vegan and vegetarian lunches: really good, just take your pick from the deli counter, or try the hot dish of the day, and tuck in! And secondly there's Betty's Bar, as friendly and unpretentious little local pub as you could wish for, with music of various sorts now starting up again most nights. I think we found our spiritual home in Tralee right there.
Additionally, we enjoyed a beautiful evening meal at Cassidy's Restaurant in the town centre, which was one of Deirdre's recommendations in her guide book.
Tralee not only makes an excellent base for exploring the Dingle Peninsula and the Ring of Kerry, but is also a fine little town in its own right to spend time in. We hope to be back!