Vera's cottage is an excellent and comfortable place to explore the area, including two beautiful islands on which nice loop walks can be made (with Inishturk the smallest but maybe most beautiful), at least three beaches and high mountains nearby. Shops, bars and restaurants are plentiful in the bustling town of Westport while nearby smaller Louisburgh also has many conveniences, although some days we found many closed. Auden's record collection (60s and 70s) gives an extra personal feel about the cottage, certainly for an elderly couple like us. Aiden is a very friendly and quick communicator.