We returned a week ago from a fantastic stay at Lough Hyne house. We were a party of eight and the house easily fit all of us with room to spare. As the description states, this is an elegant regency era home which is quite comfortable and has the loveliest views of the lake and the hills beyond (and a small herd of inquisitive cows beyond a fence-my nieces loved them!). It is quite wonderful to sit outside on a sunny day..or in the beautiful conservatory..and enjoy the peace, quiet and stillness.
We were there for a family reunion with some elderly family members so we weren't the most active. But we saw several kayakers and even some hardy swimmers. The house is ideal for a reunion with plenty of room for dinners and conversations by the fireplace in the living room.
We didn't eat out often (the kitchen is well supplied with equipment) but did enjoy the Paragon and Church in Skibbereen and The Bunratty Inn in Schull. Fields in Skibbereen (a 5-10 minute drive) had everything you could want for shopping.
Communication with Irene-as well as information in her description- was timely, clear and very helpful. We even had a wonderful welcome note and treats upon our arrival! Check in was easy and assistance from the caretaker, when needed, was quick and responsive.
Two bedrooms on the first floor suits those who have difficulty with stairs.There is a bathroom on the first floor with a walk in shower if getting in a tub is difficult. We noticed a chair lift to the second floor but didn't try it.A few things to be aware of:
-Wifi could be challenging at times if lots of people were on at the same time and/or if anyone in your party (as in ours) has to actually work on vacation =(
-We found cell phone reception to be best at the front door
-There is no freezer or rather, there is one in a laundry room that may be usable but was in need of defrosting to be usable. This was not a problem for us though something to be aware of for shopping purposes.
-This home is decorated beautifully but in a style befitting the house i.e. heavier drapes, antique furniture and, perhaps due to the lough location, occasionally had a slight mustiness which slightly exacerbated one our our family members asthma. Not so much to cause a problem but noticeable. Something to consider for anyone sensitive to these issues.
-We discovered that the road to the house,which abuts the lough, can flood at times and prevent access to the house. As the lough is tidal this happens twice daily. We were able to time our excursions around the flooding and the water recedes after about an hour. And, the level of flooding preventing house access only happened for the first two-three days after the full moon...later in the week we had no problems at all.
I highly recommend this lovely home!