Our party of five adults has just returned from a fabulous four days at Oakleaf Cottage. The property is stylish and comfortable, with fantastic views of the mountains. There was plenty of everything we needed and Áine and Magda went above and beyond to help in advance with some special touches for our friend's birthday. The welcome "hamper" was also very thoughtful. Oakleaf is really well-equipped with practical items as well as home comforts, such as hot water bottles and fleecy throws. Communication from our hosts was excellent too.
We only had one car for our group but it's very reasonable to get a taxi from town. On one occasion we called Ollie's cabs (as recommended by Áine) and he took three of us from the far side of the river in Westport home to Oakleaf, including a five-minute stop at the supermarket, for just €10.
Other local tips: we enjoyed good music at The Porter House, a tasty evening meal at The Tavern (lovely service), a drink or two in the Sheebeen down by the water, and fine formal dining with great views of the bay and Croagh Patrick from the 4th floor restaurant at the Wesport Coast Hotel.
Historic Westport House is also well worth a visit; it's in sore need of investment (which the new owners have pledged to give it) but the family who lived there for 13 generations until selling last year really gave it all they had to keep it running, and their story, told through the house, is fascinating. Further afield, a cruise on Lough Corrib, boarding on the pier next to Ashford Castle, makes a great day out, and you can drive back to Oakleaf via the Doolough Valley, a place as picturesque as its history is tragic.
After our days out, it was lovely to get back to the cottage for a cosy night in the sitting room. Thank you Áine and Magda!