The Puffins nest is the perfect retreat for a family of up to 5. This was our first big family road trip holiday - it didn't disappoint. Travelling from the North coast of Ireland it immediately felt like home & makes you appreciate life in its simplest form. We stayed with our two daughters, 16 & 14 and one son 12. The newly renovated cottage is the ideal blend of contemporary & rustic mix, both inside & out. Well equipped, cleverly designed spaces with more extras than excepted, allow for a cosy but relaxed hideaway. Like its owners Spencer & Kate, it is very quirky & full of character. Kate responds to any email queries immediately & Spencer is on hand to both welcome & provide very informative info on anything from restaurants to travel routes. Protected from the elements on one side of the hill & celebrating the amazing view on the other. It is extremely well insulated & you might just wonder are your neighbours still alive, as you hear nothing only the odd bird over head. We used the cottage as a base over 4 days to explore the surrounding areas going as far as Mizen Head - brilliant scenery, this was true unspoilt Ireland. Unfortunately, we just didn't have enough time to do everything and you'll find something for all ages during the day. The evenings consisted of long walks on the beach, returning to enjoy R&R on the veranda with card & board games. The kids didn't ask for wifi or TV & as parents it was nice to enjoy mealtimes with conversations. The only argument was actually who would get to climb the ladder to the fun mezzanines in the eaves, with its deep mattresses & cosy amazing smelling bedlinen. Whether you want to read a book or write one you'll find the inspiration here to do so - my husband particularly liked reading his, wrapped in a blanket with a glass of red in the rocking chair, to watch the sun go down and the light show begin opposite from Galley Head lighthouse. We spent a lot of time watching the experienced surfers enjoy the large swells at Long Strand beach. However, we opted for the blue flag Inchydoney beach for swimming which doesn't have the same rip current, on the other side of the bay about 15 mins drive. You can hire surf boards at the beach front for all ages and have the added reassurance that the kids are being watched by the life guards.
If you don't want to go far this is the place to recharge. At the bottom of the hill sits the Puffins cafe which offers great coffee, ice-cream & of course friendly banter. I can honestly say I don't have anything negative to say about this hidden gem. We just hope that others go to experience & love it as much as we did. Next time we'll light the stove & snuggle up & just enjoy.