Location, location, location! First of all, I loved the hens and the fact that there were all the fresh eggs you might want (and camp cookware in the kitchen to scramble them up!) , and tea for the taking. A hot water bottle was also appreciated-- warmed the bed and kept me toasty all night.
As for the accommodation, I was thrilled to get a last-minute booking and Andrew and his helper Cathy were super conscientious to get the room ready for me on zero notice. You can't do better than this simple back-packer style lodge at the base of the most picturesque trail leading directly over the ridge to Glendalough. I took a leisurely trek to the Lake and back, stopping for the views, in under three hours (total about 9 miles) and it was gloriously beautiful. Andrew is a wealth of knowledge and advice, very accommodating, with a wonderous vision for the future of the Lodge. As it poured gales of rain on one of my days, I was happy to stay in by the fireplace in the main house. As they undertake a fresh renovation project in the coming year, keep a laid-back attitude and reasonable expectations (remember, you're there for the nature!) and count your blessings that such a good value for budget hikers still exists. Highly recommended.