I have gone to stay in many cottages around Ireland on writing retreats. I am so happy to have found the Gate Lodge, which is on my doorstep. It is close enough to Portlaoise but secluded enough for a peaceful retreat. Emo itself is one of the lovely gems of Laois and the pub and restaurant are so great. The lodge itself is always left immaculately and is a lovely space in itself. I'd recommend it highly