We just loved staying at Rachel's place. First of all, we decided to take public transport, and inquired about traveling from Dublin to Newport. Rachel quickly replied, and even picked us up in Westport (just 10 miles from Newport) and drove us to our lodgings. She gave us a tour on the way, pointing out points of interest we asked about and made many suggestions. The airbnb is right behind her house, very private, with the most beautiful garden we have ever seen at an airbnb. When you open the back door, the smell of flowers is amazing.
We booked partially because of the king bed, which is right on the first floor when you enter. This is nice because you don't have to lug your suitcase up. The room is plenty big and the bathroom nice as well (not as tiny as many bathrooms in Ireland). The bed was very comfortable and there were plenty of towels. Upstairs is a lovely kitchen/dining room with plenty of space for 2 people. The kitchen had everything we needed. Rachel even reached out to us a few days prior to our arrival asking what kind of bread we liked and milk. She got us brown bread (which we had requested) and Irish butter and raspberry jam, just delicious. She also got us bagels, which we ate and there was plenty of coffee. Outside the kitchen door is the garden with 3 sitting areas. It is simply stunning, the bees were hard at work pollinating all of Rachel's beautiful flowers.
The best thing about Rachel's place was Rachel herself. She answered all of our questions (I ask a lot), and was so eager to assist.
Local spots:
The Greenway Bike Hire is terrific. Muriel and Noel are very helpful. We rented "regular" bikes, but traded them in after the first day for E-bikes. You know how time is in Ireland. If they say it's an hour, it's more. The Greenway is great, but it is not flat. If you are an avid biker, you'll be fine. But if you want a great ride and not have to trudge up hills, get the electric bike. It's worth the money. Two days I rode into Westport for yoga (the yoga root on the quay), excellent classes.
We rode the Greenway up to Achill, just breathtaking!
We ate at the Grainne Uaile, delicious and good guiness. We also had a guinness at a small pub in town and one at the hotel. All good.
People in town are very friendly. Hated to leave!!!