Rosskerrig House, Ahakista, Durrus, Co. Cork, Irland

1. The Premises

The Rosskerrig House is an original stone farmhouse with old world charm.

The large fireplace, formerly used for heating and cooking purposes, has been conserved in its original state. Unfortunately, it had to be put out of order on behalf of fire safety regulations, and the chimney had to be closed. As a compensation, an iron stove was installed in the kitchen which can be stoked with peat or coal and produces a comfortable warmth.

In the late 80s a new bathroom was attached and a central gas heating as well as a new water supply were installed. At the same time, the windows were renewed and a furnished conservatory was added.

There are three bedrooms on the upper floor, one with a double bed, one with two single beds and a smaller one with one single bed. There are enough duvets in the house.

The furniture is mostly basic, but central heating, hot water supply, washing machine, gas stove, refrigerator, all necessary crockery and satellite TV and Radio with DVD/CD player offer a certain convenience. Power sockets were installed according to Irish German and  standards throughout the house.

The water, which is produced from a deep well belonging to the premises, contains for geological reasons a higher amount of iron and is therefore of slightly brown colour. This means no health risk and is completely normal for this region of Ireland. Since 2010 water is treated by a three-step-filter (particles, organics, iron and manganese) and by a ultraviolet sterilizer (bacteria).

2. The Surroundings

The premises are situated one kilometre from the village of Ahakista. A walkway of about 100 metres leads, through a forest of old and rare stone-pines belonging to the premises, directly to a shingle beach.

Ahakista is situated in the southwest of Ireland by the Dunmanus Bay. Typical of this region is the constant change between sea views, lush vegetation and meagre moor land. Whether the newly planted palm trees are an enrichment lies in the eye of the beholder. The climate is typically mild, the frequent rains belong to Ireland like Irish Stout.

The village of Ahakista lies outside the main tourist streams and is very quiet. But there are two bars worth to be visited: Ahakista Bar and Arundels. Ahakista Bar is a typical Irish family owned bar, normally without bar food but occasionally with music  events. Arundel By The Pier is also familiy owned.  The new generation had installed a fine restaurant in the loft over the bar (it is avisible to book). 
Both bars are at a walking distance.

In Durrus, about 10km away, all things needed for self catering can be bought. The next bigger city of Bantry, about 20km away, offers additional options.
 

If you like diversion you should visit Glengariff or Kenmare where you can fulfil your tourist shopping needs. Neither of these towns can be missed since they lie on the obligatory “Ring of Kerry-Roundtrip”. Assuming the numerous coaches haven’t changed their general trip direction, it is recommended to take the clockwise tour. Especially on the most beautiful sections of road it is impossible to overtake whereas it is seldom a problem to get past the coaches as oncoming traffic.

The closer environment is not very suitable for fly fishing. A good alternative are the deep sea fishing trips offered by Rosskerrig House's direct neighbour, Luc (living at Sailor's Home). He also sells fresh fish and lobster and offers boat trips, e.g. to seal banks.

3. Travelling Information

There are three possibilities (especially for people from the continent)

1.      By airplane

The nearest Airport is Cork. It is commendable to book well in advance on behalf of the rather low flight density.

2.      By Shuttle train or ferry from Calais to England and by ferry to Ireland

The Shuttle trip is very comfortable. But depending on one’s travelling plans it may be followed by a hasty cruise through the UK to catch the ferry to Ireland.

The ferry lays off from Fishguard (545km from Dover) to Rosslare.

3.      By ferry from France to Rosslare or Cork

The most important disadvantage may be the long approach distance to France, depending on the season to Le Havre, Cherbourg or Roscoff.

The road trip to Ahakista takes about five hours from Rosslare (300km) and about two hours (130km) from Cork Harbour, which is a good distance outside Cork City. Since the road goes through predominantly scenic environment, this approach can be a good start into your holidays.