Taobh Coille

We shall never forget our wonderful stay at Taobh Coille with Agnes and John and their warmth and kindness. We loved exploring the local area and meeting local people. It was such a privilege to sit in the breakfast room watching the ever changing skies and the stunning landscape which surrounded us. We would love to return one day.

After my husband and I surprised my mother with her dream of a trip to Ireland, I had booked a 2 night stay at Taobh Coille in June 2022. Due to an unfortunate series of events with the airline, we would have had to miss three days of our trip, so we opted to reschedule for March 2023. After sobbing in the Chicago airport on the phone with Agnes, she was the voice of reason that I needed. She assured me that she would work everything out with the booking on B&B Ireland and that when we came to visit her again that she would make a special meal for my mother. We kept in touch over the next 10 months and it soon felt like we would be visiting an old friend instead of a "host". We stayed 3 glorious nights with Agnes and John. Pulling up into their farm and being greeted with a warm embrace from Agnes and John's twinkling, smiling eyes brought all of the emotions to the surface. It felt like we were home! My 9 year old daughter and I took advantage of the sunny weather and walked their trail along the pastures down to the edge of the sea. It was breathtaking! My daughter continued to enjoy playing with the cats and looking for chickens and lambs during our stay. Each night she helped John collect the eggs from the hens for breakfast each morning. We spent our next day touring the Ring of Kerry and the second day touring the Dingle peninsula (which is visible from Agnes and John's home). While those two things were stunning and amazing experiences that exceeded our expectations, each afternoon we found ourselves wanting to be back "home" with John and Agnes. Agnes and John are the most incredible hosts that you could ever imagine - they make you feel instantly comfortable and at ease while also never making you feel like a burden. Agnes always provided a beautiful spread of hot tea and hot cocoa for my daughter. She even let us bake a pizza for dinner that we had grabbed from Aldi because we couldn't bare the thought of being away from Taobh Coille in the time that it would take to eat dinner somewhere for our first night. Our room was supremely comfortable and the views cannot be beat. The sheep would even sleep outside our window at night. On our last night, Agnes made that special promised meal of Irish bacon, mashed potatoes, and cabbage - still our best meal in all of Ireland. Waking up each morning to the smell of good food and Agnes' sweet voice humming away in the kitchen still warms my heart even now that we've returned home. While we were very sad to leave, Agnes assured us that it wasn't goodbye, but rather "See you later" and that we would "keep each other in our back pockets." John and Agnes take such pride in their farm, their home, and in meeting and caring for new friends who have the pleasure of staying with them. The joy and love in their home and between the two of them is just palpable - Agnes' kitchen is truly a magical place. We can't help but feel like we've left pieces of our hearts at Taobh Coille with Agnes and John - my mother and I have two new friends who feel like lifelong friends and my daughter has a new set of grandparents. Until next time, Agnes and John!

We loved our stay with Agnes and John. The view was stunning. Breakfasts were amazing (and we especially loved the porridge). There was a great warmth and familiarity with Agnes and John. We really loved this place.

Where to begin! My girlfriend Abbi and I spent a long weekend here with Agnes at her lovely BnB over Saint Patricks Day. After the busy crowds and noises of Dublin we wanted a nice quite relaxing get away and that’s exactly what we got. We were greeted with love and care and given treatment as if we were family. The home is settled in a beautiful landscape and is extremely cozy. You genuinely feel like you’re at home! Agnes was such a delight having great conversation and making us wonderful meals! Her Daughter also welcomed us in with such delight it was truly an amazing experience. The rooms are super cozy with a private bath and the dinning area offers a full 360 of the surrounding areas. The location is perfect right on the ring of Kerry to start your loop of the beautiful drive and landscape. There’s a few small town just around the corner with great food and music as well. We will absolutely be back on our next trip. Thanks so much for having us! I can’t recommend this stay enough. :-)

Our stay with Agnes and John was like visiting family. They welcome you into their home and want you to make it yours. They truly have the gift of hospitality and deserved their B & B of the year award. You will never go hungry or thirsty or lack for anything in their home. The views of the bay are spectacular and we loved watching the sheep close up. We enjoyed having tea and scones in the evening and the delishous full Irish breakfast in the mornings. When told what a fantastic host they are, Agnes says, "You should always show kindness and have a sense of humor." They have both in spades!