Taobh Coille - 40 years in business

It is hard to believe that I am 40 years in the B&B business this coming June. I started out renting one room to guests as a way of earning some extra money while the children were small. Who’d have thought that it would become such a passion of mine and over the years, I have taken delight in making sure all my guests have a unique B&B experience and enjoy a little piece of heaven in Kerry, along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

Taobh Coille bed and breakfast wasn't always as impressive as it is today. My husband John and I, bought the property when it was a small cottage, but I remember when I went to see it, I knew straight away that is would make a lovely home and B&B. The views took my breath away and I fell in love there and then.

Stunning Location

Over the last forty years, myself and John have raised our four children in Taobh Coille and worked the 50 acres of farmland. I don’t look on my B&B as a business, it is my home and I always strive to make sure my guests feel the same way. It is such an amazing location to holiday in, as we’re situated on the famous Ring of Kerry and our home overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. We are close to fabulous beaches, the Kerry Way walking route and we like to arrange trips for our guests to the historic Skellig Islands, which feature in the Star Wars films. Our location is ideal for outdoor adventure or just enjoying a peaceful, yet stunning environment.

B&B Ireland

I joined B&B Ireland in 2008 and this has enabled me to welcome guests from all around the world. I love what I do and I don’t think that I will ever retire! Everyone who visits Taobh Coille is a special guest. John will take you on a tour of the farm and I’ll give you tips on what to do and see in Kells. Our home will be your home when you stay and I might even show you how to make my famous ‘soda bread’. Bring your walking shoes so that you can walk off the effects of my delicious home-cooking!

I would like to share with you a review from a guest who stayed with me recently:

Lauren and Angela - If we could capture 1 time of our trip in a snow globe to gaze at it every day, it would be the time we spent with Agnes and John. We came early and stayed until the last-minute learning so many life lessons on this stay. Not only were the accommodations, breakfast and property exquisite, it was the time we spent talking to Agnes and then the time with John on his farm. My daughter and I were on a trip of a lifetime and this was our midway stop. We did not want to leave. Agnes told us all these amazing stories of her life and gave us one piece of advice...the way to a long marriage is a shut mouth. Amidst all of the natural beauty, John spent time with us tending his flock. We learned so much about Irish farming and his barn was immaculate. This little piece of heaven simply cannot be missed on any trip to Ireland. If you want to really experience Irish life and what the true essence of a B and B is, this must be on your agenda. Our trip may be over but these memories of John and Agnes are always on our mind and we speak often about our quick return here. My daughter and I cried for several miles up the road as we drove away because this experience was exactly what we came to experience. Thank you to the Sullivan’s. We lite our candle like you said too.

Posted: 29 Jan 2019 by Claire Regan | with 2 comments

Tags: B&B of the Month