Our trip began with a wonderful warm welcome from our hosts Rosie and Mike, despite our not arriving until dark. We were soon left to settle in, and got stuck into a loaf of Rosie's bread which was delicious to say the least! We loved the cottage it was warm and cosy with both the heating and stove and got great nights sleep throughout our week long stay in a very comfy bed. The setting of the cottage is wonderful. It is nice and peaceful with the beautiful St James' well directly across. The cottage itself is beautiful to behold with its stonework and all the lovely wild flowers surrounding it. One thing we really loved was all the native wildlife and plants especially the beautiful orange and yellow native flowers blooming in this area. The cottage is located a short distance from Castlefreke woods which is great for a ramble and walk in nature. It is also close to Clonakilty for any supplies. Clonakilty also boasts great night life, regular traditional Irish music sessions and story telling. One of our favourite spots in the local area was Inchydoney beach. We had our first surf lesson here with Inchydoney surf school which was amazing and it is also a great spot for a walk and a bit of star gazing in the night time. There are an abundance of beautiful beaches around and some lovely cliff walks. It is so easy to settle into this slower pace of life in the setting of this beautiful part of Ireland. All in all we were sad to be leaving and wish we'd arranged a second week. We will definitely be back and look forward to seeing our gracious hosts again soon! :)
Gerard and Siofra.