Prior to arrival. Mary gave me excellent directions and I conformed with her the exact location of her home via Google Street View. This was a massive help, but I did manage to miss the 'Black Gate' on the first attempt! Once we arrived the peace and tranquility immediately stunned us as did Mary's delightful home.

Everything that you could ever need including Sky HD with BBC, ITV and Channel 4. We even recorded a few programmes to watch later! There is a wifi dongle that plugs into laptop via the USB and it works best via this configuration, although did work (not quite as well) just plugged into the mains. With the remoteness of the property, expect this connection to be more than adequate.

Nothing prepares you for the view from both the lounge and the master bedroom! Stunning! You look out over the water that is Bantry Bay. We were blessed with a week of 'wall to wall' sunshine and the sunsets from the property are truly stunning!

The area is set up for walkers, just make sure you have good strong walking boots as some of the terrain can be rough. Poets Way is on your door step. One must do, is to visit the Sheeps Head cafe at the western end of the peninsualr. I mentioned as you drive to Mary's property, you turn right at the Black Gates, instead a left turn takes to to this cafe (superb sandwiches). From there you can walk to the lighthouse with some stunning views on the way! I would have walked more, but I am recovering from a major illness.

It would be best to shop for provisions before you arrive here. There is a bustling town centre in Bantry with a supermarket. We did our weekly shop here en-route and topped up essentials from the store in the local village (Kilcrohane) during the week.

We ate out twice additionally to the lighthouse cafe. The Old Creamery in Kilcrohane is excellent for lunch, but does get very busy around 1pm. The restaurant in the neighbouring village called Arundals is brilliant! The steak was fantastic! Food only served on certain days, so best phone and check, then you can pre-book a table.

Back to 'The Meadows' and this blissful retreat. Everything is provided as Mary uses this as her home, and it was a privilege to stay there. The home was spotless on our arrival and we did try to keep it that way. Comprehensive laundry meant we were able to wash some our clothes and the kitchen really is a credit to Mary. Upstairs, three excellent bedrooms all with en-suite. The daisy covered lawn was a real sanctuary in the warm sunshine.

Access to the property form the main road is along a narrow and well kept road. The chances of meeting anyone coming in the opposite direction is remote as it is possible to count the houses you can see from her home on one hand.