Description
In a lovely restored farmhouse with a mature garden, this is a perfect spot for rejuvenation. Operated by a German couple who are avid naturalists, they have created a fine and cozy home base for travelers to explore the Ring of Kerry, the Beara Peninsula, and all beauty of Kerry kingdom.
How to get there
Located 10km west of Kenmare in the village of Templenoe on the N70 west toward Sneem.
By car:
From Kenmare, take N70 west to the town of Templenoe. Pass through town and follow the hostel signs.
By bus:
See www.buseireann.ie website for all current travel details and restrictions.
Rates
Double room en suite 20 euro per person
Double room with shared bathroom 17 euro per person
Address
Torsten and Sabine van de Sand
Greenwood Hostel
Coomnakilla Rd., Co. Kerry
Tel: 064 89247
Mobile: 086 3484558
Email: greenwoodhostel@eircom.net
My experience
I felt as if we’d arrived at what I’d like to be home. We slept in splendor in The Lighthouse Keeper’s Room, one of the themed double rooms on the second floor of the farmhouse. Surrounded by wood walls and floor, I lay in the comfy bed watching the clouds float by in the huge ceiling picture window. Spacious shared bathroom with a shower with good pressure and heat.
As far as living, this is the place. The kitchen was fully stocked with teapots, utensils, and a pot or pan to create anything. Also a BBQ area if you desire. Separate dining room handsomely redone in wood paneling. Bins for recycling organic waste, paper, glass, and plastics.
The living room has a fire with fuel supplied. Piano, guitar, and drum await you and your voice, or there’s a collection of modern and Irish traditional music if you want to be entertained by the greats. A good library of books, maps, and brochures about Ireland. The owners have displayed photographs of all of their local travels and are themselves experienced guides to the area.
Outdoor garden with walkway and eating area. Nice place for an evening glass of wine overlooking the river. We will come back to stay here again. Highly recommended for budget-conscious travelers.
Written by Liz O' Malley - Summer of Travel 2007