I can't say I was surprised by the quality of our stay because so many others had already said such amazing things in their reviews of the cottage and its hosts. We got exactly what we expected - a BEAUTIFUL cottage right in the middle of Ireland, close enough to visit everywhere from the center of the country, but far enough removed from everything to enjoy the country!
The property was beautiful. I walked the marked forest trails around the property and the scenery was amazing. I woke each morning to have the horses whinnying at the fence beside me as I drank my coffee outside on the patio area.
The hosts were amazing. Linda and John even offered to wash a load of clothes for us when the washer/dryer acted up. To be fair, it didn't act up at all. It was just us four Americans trying to wash a huge load in a machine not meant for it. John hurried right down, gave us some tips on how to use it best, and then he and Linda washed and folded all the wet laundry we had and returned it to us. They went way out of their way to be great hosts! They had great advice for landmarks to visit, and even helped me organize a horseback ride through the countryside for my wife and I on our honeymoon. They pointed us to Leap Castle and even told us to ask for the owner by name. They pointed out a great local pub and we got to meet Liam, the one-eyed bartender at the end of the road. Amazing fellow!
The house is totally out in the country, but close to Birr for great food, close to Roscrea and Nenagh for great shopping, and the views around that property are simply unforgettable. We will always cherish our trip and how special it was thanks to these great hosts!