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Reviews of Beautiful 4* cottage 5 minutes from Kenmare, Co. Kerry, Ireland


Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 71 out of 75 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 75 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 75 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 75 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 75 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jean B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful location
We had a wonderful time
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kenneth B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely Property
The property is wonderful. The house is gorgeous. We used it as a home base for our day excursions. Sometimes two hours back after a long day. My advice would be to make sure you know what your adventure goals are when booking. The town of Kenmare is wonderful. We went every evening for dinner and strolling.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Sept 2023
We're delighted that you enjoyed your stay at Cleady River Cottage! Just so others are aware, the cottage is a 5 minute drive into Kenmare and not two hours! Your advice to others about planning their day out is good though as the roads in South West Ireland are beautiful for leisurely driving and not built for speed!

10/10 Excellent

mary-Anne s.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cready Cottage
The house is spacious and so comfortable. The kitchen was really well equipped. There is lots to do in the area, so plan at least a four day stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sarah T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Irish Gem
What a beautiful place to be , the cottage was well equipped, lovely spacious grounds . Couldn’t fault it . Good location for days out at landmarks and atttractions
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Greg K., Livingston, Tx & Tucson Az USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful home minutes from Kenmare
It would be hard to add more to what has already been said. This is a true home away from home, not just a holiday rental.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful home. Private and peaceful. Great kitchen with all amenities for cooking. Great place for relaxing
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nigel W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect location
The accommodation is perfect , a lovely quiet stunning location . The property had everything you would need. I have given 5 star but would give more if i could. In all 100%
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gary K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Short 3 Day Stay
Everything was clean, comfortable and cozy. Location was very quiet. Even though we used google maps, and instructions from the owner, we were lost in trying to locate the cottage but a kind neighbor assisted us. (Addresses are not posted on houses or roads in Ireland which is different from America) There was plenty of room for the 4 of us staying, and each had space to move about. It was nice to have a working fireplace to sit next to as well. The rooms are spacious but the beds are firm. It was wonderful to have a washer and dryer since we had been traveling around previously. We would stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

William F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Large comfortable house in beautiful surroundings
John was very accommodating. The house is well appointed and while only minutes from Kensale, is down a small road that makes it quite private and quiet. We loved hearing the birds and the stream and nothing else.. Bedrooms are large , beds comfortable. We cooked almost every night and found the kitchen to have all the dishes/pots and pans needed
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

David W., Eagle, ID

Liked: Cleanliness
Ring of Kerry
Beautiful, comfortable, well equipped home. Great, quiet location a few miles out of Kenmare. Only stayed 3 nights and wish we'd had more time. Close to the Ring of Kerry. Would stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jill C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful Stay in Beautiful Cleady River Cottage
My husband, Mark and l, along with friends, Larry and Betty Ann, enjoyed a spectacular week long stay in the cottage. The furnishings were warm and welcoming and the house well-equipped with all kitchen, bedroom and bathroom essentials. My favorite room was the sitting room - so inviting for evening cocktails and conversation. The outdoor setting was beautiful, with its manicured lawn and blooming flowers, such as vibrant blue hydrangeas. The backyard was bordered by the ever-flowing Cleady River, providing a serene atmosphere. We enjoyed lovely morning walks long the country road. The location was well situated close to Kenmare, which is a lovely village near the Rings of Kerry and Beara, with a little longer drive to Dingle. The cottage was the perfect base for our day trips. We highly recommend this property, and will look forward to staying there again on a future visit to Ireland.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Christina M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful country side cottage
I love that this cottage was pretty secluded yet close to town! Perfect way to end our time in Ireland
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Karen C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing Cottage in Kenmare
The whole family including kids, grandparents and Alba our dog loved the cottage. We all want to come back. It was lovely to come back each day to the cottage after exploring different parts of the beautiful Ring of Kerry. We loved the decor (stealing a few ideas), enjoyed sitting outside with a glass of wine, and it was great to have different lounges for everyone to do their thing.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Aug 2022
Thanks for staying Karen! Delighted you enjoyed our cottage as much as we do! You’re welcome to bring Alba and the rest of your family back anytime!

10/10 Excellent

Louise H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Escape
The cottage was perfect. Very well equipped clean and beautifully decorated. We had lots of room to relax and especially enjoyed cooking in the kitchen. Location was good, very close to Kenmare. Would highly recommend.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Stefanie J.

Liked: Cleanliness
lovely cottage in an enchanted area
Lovely cottage, family friendly, clean. Rural - but not too rural. exactly what we were looking for
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

William S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cottage by the brook
The cottage was very peaceful and relaxing and a great place to unwind after a long day. We found it a good location to use as a hub to explore the southwestern part of Ireland. It accommodated the six of us adults very well.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Cori C., Centennial, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
The perfect place to stay
This cottage was perfect for my family. There was a main floor bedroom for my father-in-law, who does not need to do stairs, and twin beds for my kids. The third room was perfect for me and my husband. The cottage is spacious and to me was magical. We cooked in the kitchen, played cards at the kitchen table, did yoga in the large sitting room as well as relaxed there with a glass of wine after dinner. We were close to town, but far enough away with a big yard for the kids to run and play in after a day of adventure or touring. We hope to return someday, maybe for a longer stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

James S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Irish hospitality
The owner delivers everything promised. Clean, quiet, well equipped and great location. We hope to return.
Stayed 14 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Barbara B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Short Break
Beautiful house, beautiful area, the grounds around the house were beautiful I couldn’t fault anything i would highly recommend it we have a fab time
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Michael C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful
Simply put, just stay here. A wonderfully comfortable home that you will not want to leave, Well appointed, plenty of indoor and outdoor space, a lovely place to enjoy Kenmare and the surrounding area. Whether a family, group of adults or just the two of you and your dog, you will not find a nicer home a surrounding. If you bring your dog, Lilly next door is a fan favorite. Enjoy your stay!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

ian m.

Liked: Cleanliness
Superb
Truly one of the best houses we have ever stayed in. Furnished to a very high standard, and a fantastic base to explore the area. Magnificent.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Sept 2021
Thanks Ian, We’re delighted that you enjoyed your stay!

10/10 Excellent

Fiona K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Superb cottage outside Kenmare
A truly great little find for us to enjoy the peace and tranquility of Kenmare and surrounding areas. The cottage is very well equipped and the photos don’t do it justice! Spacious and yet cosy with the sound of the river at the end of the garden. Gardens are beautiful and well cared for. Would highly recommend!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Christophe P., Dublin, Ireland

Liked: Cleanliness
Great week in Kenmare
The property has fantastic grounds and great space inside for a family of 5 or 6. We enjoyed our week a lot, it is outside of Kenmare but very close by car so easy to go for dinner or shopping. The house is well equipped and has everything we needed. Wifi is ok, not great. It was sufficient for us though. The communication with John was very easy and he answered every question we had very quickly. I have no reservation in recommending this house.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

David M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fabulous property in fantastic location
Cleady River Cottage was a relaxing haven, perfectly situated for exploring the beauties of Kerry and West Cork. The house is top notch - stylish, comfortable and well-equipped. Shops and restaurants are within a short drive, and the large well-maintained garden with nearby stream is an added bonus. We very much enjoyed our time here, and would love to visit again.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Aug 2021
We’re delighted you enjoyed your stay and are most welcome back

10/10 Excellent

Claire K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stay July 2021
Fabulous house, garden and really secure and private location.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jean J.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic holiday home with everything you could ask for.
This is a beautiful property with extensive gardens located just outside Kenmare town. It is quiet and peaceful yet near enough to avail of the many bars and restaurants in the vibrant town of Kenmare. The house retains traditional charms yet is fully equipped with all the mod cons. It is ideal for a family with children and dogs are welcome. A brilliant base to see all that Kerry has to offer.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

6/10 Okay

Kim J., Suwanee, GA

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful property
The property and house were beautiful. It would have been extremely helpful to have an accessible property manager. We arrived at sunset and the house was very cold. It took quite a bit of effort to get the heat going in the house. The internet did not work and we did contact the owner. There were issues with plumbing, etc that should be addressed. I don't think there is a hands on property manager. No soap in showers, bathrooms which we found odd. The property and house are beautiful but some things were greatly lacking
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2020
Thanks for your review! The cottage is our own personal holiday home in Kenmare and is not part of a holiday rental scheme but we do have a local caretaker whose details are given to every guest prior to arrival in the event of them having any issues. We were out of the country when you called about the wi-fi and I called you back immediately. Because of the rural location of the cottage we are unable to get fixed line broadband and so have to make do with a mobile device. This device occasionally needs to be reset by turning off and then back on again which is what the problem was when you arrived. I'm sorry that there wasn't soap in the bathrooms - it's not usually the case as we always ensure there are supplies for guests arriving but we will take it up wth the caretaker. The weather in Ireland in September can change from being very warm to quite chilly quite quickly but the boiler is very efficient and heats the house up quickly when needed. We are just about to upgrade the kitchen and we will be checking all electricity/plumbing to ensure everything is okay for the next year. Thanks again for staying.

10/10 Excellent

Gary C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Best location in Kenmare!
Wow, what a cottage. nestled in the woods and so close to Kenmare. Running stream in the back yard and plenty of privacy for our family. This was our best place to stay in Ireland.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Sandra W., Princeton, MA

Private luxury in Kenmare
This was a wonderful retreat from busy days and nights in the town of Kenmare or sightseeing nearby. The house is spacious, beautifully furnished, and it was exceptionally clean upon arrival. The surrounding grounds were in superb condition and set the house apart from main roads and local traffic. The owners were very accommodating and responsive; though we did not need to call them, we knew we could if necessary. We loved our stay and highly recommend it to anyone wanting the comforts of home while traveling.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2019

8/10 Good

sharon t.

Lovely property
We definitely felt that we were on holiday in this luxury home. The grounds were lovely to enjoy with good weather. The house was immaculate. Unfortunately a negative was lack of response from the owner when we had problems with internet connection. Even the manager had made a phone call on our behalf. This created an issue for us as we had an unintended business issue arise which we could not address.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2020
Hi Sharon, I'm so sorry you had issues with the WIFi while you were in the cottage. Unfortunately I was away and out of mobile coverage and the gardener who you spoke to didn't have the proper code. We have now made sure that all guests get the WiFi code before their visit. Hopefully we'll have a chance to welcome you back again in the future.

10/10 Excellent

James S.

All the comforts of home
Cleady River Cottage was just as John Wallace said it would be. Well appointed, comfortable, great location and his personal touch if we needed help with anything. We have visited Ireland many times and this was one of our best experiences. We look forward to another stay at Cleady River. Jim & Nina
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2018

10/10 Excellent

Alan R., BT30

Enjoyable stay.Perfect location.Delightful spacios cottage.
This wonderful cottage is perfectly situated for enjoying the delights of the south wast corner of Ireland. Comfortable and spacious with private large garden area. Its a short drive to kenmare.Aldi is situated on way in and taxi service is punctual and reliable. It was our 2nd visit and will be back again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2018

8/10 Good

Alice M.

Beautiful location
The property is beautiful has a couple of little issues. There is a problem with the hot water it gets scolding hot and you can’t adjust. Was coming out hot in cold water taps everywhere except kitchen. Made showering an experience. The kitchen was fully equipped but the cabinets where very unorganized and the oven definitely needed cleaning. The bedding was very comfortable except the top covering was heavy and hot and there wasn’t any top sheets. Towels plentiful but needs the cupboard sorted out. Difficult to locate with google would advise a sign at top of driveway naming cottage. The fireplaces where great and layout works very well. Beautiful piece of property with lots of privacy to enjoy the yard in nice weather.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2020
Thanks for your comments and suggestions! Sorry to hear the oven wasn’t clean, we will take this up with the caretaker immediately. The hot water (immersion) should only be used to heat the water up as required but if left on too long it can get extremely hot and that’s why we recommend only using it as required. The directions on Google maps are correct but because the cottage is down a small grassy lane it is very private and secure and we’ve now updated the directions for future guests!

10/10 Excellent

Jim C.

Perfect family house in a great location
We stayed for a week in May, four adults and two children 8 and 10. The house is in an ideal location for us, a 5-minute drive to Kenmare shops, galleries, stores and pubs. It is also centrally located for our several day trips to Blarney Castle, Killarney National Park, Molly Gallivan's Cottage and Kissane Sheep Farm (for sheep dog herding demonstration). The accommodations suited us perfectly... plenty of space to be together - or to be apart for private moments. The house was well equipped with appliances and utensils, and even some cooking aids (spices, etc.). There is also ample yard for the young ones to run around. We are likely to return. We have only two helpful suggestions...an outdoor cooking grille would have been nice, and a stronger WiFi signal. But no complaints. We were very pleased with our stay.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2018

10/10 Excellent

Steve S.

A Fantastic Irish Holiday
Our party of 6 decided on Kenmare as our central location while visiting western Ireland. This beautiful house had everything you want or need in a vacation rental.there were 4 full bathrooms.and 3 bedrooms ( one downstairs and the others up stairs). Kitchen was nicely equipped with everything we needed. It would have been nice to have had a grill the night we cooked a rack of lamb but the oven did fine. The caretaker was great to answer any questions we had. The two times we had to call him. Double check with the owner about directions to the house because we had to contact & follow the caretaker to the house the first time there. No problem after that first time. 3 good groceries in Kenmare but the Super Value is by far the best. You will love this cottage.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2018

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

a wonderful cottage
Unfortunately we only had 3 days to enjoy the cottage. It is very private, comfortable and nicely appointed in a beautiful setting. Every thing is very modern. Would not hesitate to stay again. Gary USA
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2017

10/10 Excellent

Tom B.

Wonderful relaxing time.
Four of us spent six days and nights in this beautiful home during the last week of September. The home is outstanding, spacious and relaxing. The kitchen is well suited for cooking and the bedrooms and bathrooms exceeded our expectations. The town of Kenmare was one of the most enjoyable quaint little towns we visited and driving around the Berra Peninsula was picturesque with its bay views, cottages and rock walls dividing the green pastures. I would go back again.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2017

10/10 Excellent

Mike F.

Beautiful Home in Serene Location
We loved our stay at the Cleady River Cottage. The pictures really don't do the house justice. It is actually much more spacious than it appears. It is very well furnished and appointed. We loved the sound of the river, which you could hear from every room! As noted in the description, it is a 5 minute drive to Kenmare, which is a wonderful village with great restaurants and shopping. We did not consider the village in walking distance, especially at night, because the roads are so narrow but others may find it walkable. The description suggests the internet is not particularly fast but we had no problem with it, even streaming. There is a professional manager locally but we never needed to call as we had everything we needed. The owner was very helpful when asked for recommendations but didn't "over communicate." Overall, it was a fabulous stay and we would definitely stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2017

10/10 Excellent

David S.

Perfect holiday cottage
So well located with easy access to the Bearra Peninsula, Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula and Killarney National Park. Very comfortable, well equipped cottage. Located on a beautiful country lot. Our expectations were high to begin with, but were exceeded in every way. John the caretaker is a wonderful, cheerful and very helpful man. Our 4 nights here flew by far too quickly.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2017

10/10 Excellent

Marcy R.

Absolutely gorgeous setting and house! Beautiful decorations, spacious, super clean and comfortable!
Perfect size for 6 people and we loved the private yard, yard games available & the owner and caretaker were so kind and responsive! We'd stay here again in a heart beat! Kenmare is a great great town which we loved too!

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Fantastic cottage in beautiful location - can't wait to return!
We spent 2 glorious weeks in this beautiful part of Ireland. The cottage was so well equipped and comfortable. After a day of walking it was great to look forward to relaxing in the huge lounge with fantastic floor to roof windows overlooking the garden. The furnishings and general interior design are extremely tasteful and it felt like a home from home. Don't hesitate to book Cleady River Cottage as you won't be disappointed. The only downside to our holiday was that Ireland isn't particularly dog friendly. We had really looked forward to walking the Kerry Way etc but for most of it and other major walks, dogs are strictly forbidden even on a lead. John Palmer, the lovely caretaker, helped us with some good fairly local walks however so we managed something most days. Dogs cannot be taken into pubs, even into the bar area. On a good day this was no problem since Kenmare has plenty of seating outside the plentiful pubs and cafes. But on a very wet day when a wee pub lunch would be welcome this health and hygiene rule is problematic. Coming from Scotland where we regularly take the dog to the pub for bar meals this was a big disappointment. It would be helpful if the guide books/tourist information on walking in Ireland (with regards to taking dogs on holiday) made these rules clear as I'm sure it would help tourists make more informed decisions. Loved Ireland however and the wonderful Irish!
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2020
We're delighted that you enjoyed your stay in our cottage and liked our taste in furnishings!! I can't agree more about Ireland not being dog friendly, we have the same problems with our own dog in a lot of places we go with him and it's an awful shame that Bord Failte and Tourism Ireland don't address the issue and seek to have it changed - after all if the Scottish and French (along with many other EU countries) can allow dogs into pubs, we should be able to as well! Look forward to seeing you and your doggy back in Kenmare again soon!

10/10 Excellent

Roland S., CH-Degersheim

6th stay in 4 years
It's everytime a coming home...

10/10 Excellent

Eric T.

Charming and spacious cottage in great location.
We loved our stay at the cottage. The pictures really didn't do it justice. It is even larger than it appears, and in fantastic condition. The beds are all very comfortable and the kitchen is well-stocked with cooking and serving equipment. The location is very private and peaceful. We hope to come back again soon.

10/10 Excellent

William S., Oldenburg, Indiana

Loved it.
We stayed here 3 nights and thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a bit hard to find in spite of the precise directions, but we really enjoyed the privacy and great views of the countryside are only a 10 minute walk away. The house is quite upscale and lacks nothing. My only slight complaint is that the cleaning fee seems quite high considering that we cleaned the place before we left.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2020
We are delighted that you enjoyed your stay after you found the cottage! It is quite well hidden and private! In relation to the cleaning fee, Most guests don't clean the cottage themselves before they leave and we have to have all the towels and bedlinens changed and laundered prior to the next guests arrival and it also includes electricity, wifi and refuse disposal. Hopefully we'll see you back again on your next visit to Kenmare!

10/10 Excellent

Al A.

Lovely home. Great location.
We were 2 couplea visiting Ireland for a week. This cottage had all we could ask for our stay. Nice amenities. Great location. Hope to make it back someday.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2017

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Idyllic setting
Loved it to bits. And it's surroundings. Beautiful and relaxing with everything we needed. Loved the walk into town too. Can you wait to go back
Stayed 3 nights in May 2017

8/10 Good

Alan R., BT30

Comfortable cottage set in a quiet location
Party of 6 adults in Kenmare for a week. Cottage was an ideal base to explore the beautiful surrounding countryside. Kenmare has everything you may need Shops Bar/food, restaurants to suit every budget. Good reliable taxi service into town at 2 Euro a head from Dennis Griffin 0876147222.He knows the location. The cottage itself is comfortable, spacious, tidy gardens and would suit many types of traveller. Overall taking cottage and location into account it would have to be rated as a must stay (not to be overlooked) A perfect stay for all of us.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2016

10/10 Excellent

Jerry H.

Absolutely perfect
We had 2 couples and this property was perfect. Decorated very nicely, well-equipped kitchen, washer/dryer, nice sized bathrooms, comfortable living area. It was a great base for exploring Beara Peninsula, Ring of Kerry, and the Dingle Peninsula.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2016

10/10 Excellent

Andreas W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfekter Aufenthalt in der Umgebung von Kenmare
Sehr schönes, stilvoll eingerichtes, geräumiges Haus mit sehr guter Ausstattung. Ruhige Lage. Kenmare gut zu erreichen.
Stayed 10 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dr. Martin G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wunderschönes Haus
Das Haus ist geschmackvoll eingerichtet. Die Ausstattung ist super. Kleines Manko ist die Dusche im linkeren oberen Schlafzimmer.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022