From the moment he opened the door we knew that this was going to be a good experience. Chris is a friendly, unassuming guy who will welcome you into his home in just the right way - not too effusive, not too laid-back. He was helpful in making suggestions for sight-seeing in the area, and he was interested in our stories at the end of each day.

The church and its grounds are spectacular. Chris and Orla have great style and there's a reason their home has been featured in interior design magazines and websites. Our room was neat, tidy and clean. The bed is very comfortable and we slept well each night. The breakfasts were delicious - fresh fruits, granola, eggs, toast and jam, and high-quality teas or coffee.

When you stay at Bookeen Hall it begins to feel like home. The church is within a couple of miles of the cross-country M6 carriageway, but you never hear it. Instead, you hear the distant bleatings of sheep and songs of small birds in the pastures. It's very comforting. There's a forest nearby if you feel like a walk.

Lastly, if you love dogs then you're in for a treat. Their dogs Munky and Mouse are two of the best dogs we've ever met. Having them there made it feel even more home-like, and helped us not to miss our own dog back home in the U.S. The only problem is that now we miss these two Irish dogs!

I would recommend any couple who are traveling through Galway to stay at Bookeen Hall. Probably the best fit would be younger or fit, older folks who are looking for something out of the ordinary. You won't be disappointed.