We knew nothing about Clifden or the Connemara area in general and were a bit apprehensive picking a place off the web. In the end, we were thrilled -- this was our favorite Air BnB ever! The house is just beautiful, spacious, and functional -- two bedrooms on the entry floor (each with its own bath), main living space on the second floor, plenty of room for 6 people, good kitchen space, and amazing views/loads of windows/loads of light. Master is on the top floor, a big room with a beautiful window letting in lots more light, plus a huge master bath with great soaker tub. We loved being able to walk into Clifden (did it multiple times a day, 20-30 minutes max and very enjoyable walking; just listen for cars on the first narrow stretch of the road). More restaurants and pubs then we had time to try. We loved Gus', Mannions, Lowry's, Malarkeys. Walsh's Bakery was a reward for all that walking. We did a glass making class at Connemara Glass and enjoyed it thoroughly. The location was also a great home base for climbing Croagh Patrick (not for the faint of heart, only two of us did it), Diamond Hill (much more accessible -- my 75 year old mother did the yellow and blue loops, 77 year old father also managed about half of the red loop and probably could have reached the summit), and just exploring Connemara.
Stephen answered all our questions very quickly, the house was clean when we arrived, and we were heartbroken to leave! Even just sitting at the kitchen table playing cards and looking out the window at the breathtaking views was enough to make us happy.
To reiterate -- we really loved this place! If I had any advice for Stephen:
1) A few more instructions -- coming from the US, we struggled a bit to sort out the washing machine (once we found the drying rack that helped a lot); we had a little trouble figuring out the trick to the front door (lift the handle up HARD first); understanding the hot water boost. Also, not clear how we were supposed to walk to the water (climb under the electric fence near the pasture?!). We figured things out as we went, or texted Stephen who responded quickly, but I always like a detailed manual explaining everything I might want to know (this is my advice to ALL Air BnB owners)
2) For 6 people, it would be good to have a few more towels and a few more dishes/glasses/silverware, so we didn't have to wash them between every meal.
But we'd go back in a heartbeat! I hope we have the chance to return.