About 3 miles from the lovely sea-side town of Lahinch, Bar Tra Cottage sits on the main coast road to Milltown Malbay. The cottage is set back a short drive off the main road, with amazing views across Liscannor Bay.
The cottage has 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 lounge areas and a well appointed kitchen. The decor is amazing, with many pictures and art pieces that celebrate the rich Irish heritage of the area. There is a terrific garden area, with loads of seating and many, many statues of animals, and heads, like the statues on Easter Island. Sadly the weather during our stay did not lend itself to making good use of the outside area, but it was handy for taking some terrific photos of the bay and some wonderful rainbows.
The cottage was really comfortable, and surprisingly warm, with central heating. The owner, Sheila, did visit and give us instruction on how to light the wood burners, but we didn't need them, as a combination of the unseasonably mild weather and the central heating kept the cottage comfortably warm.
Sheila left us some turf to burn, along with some fresh eggs (which were delicious) and some bottled water when the local pipes burst, which was unexpected, but very welcome.
We used the cottage as a base to visit relatives in nearby Ennis and Newmarket on Fergus, as well as a whole host of 'touristy' visits. We spent time in Ennis, visited Bunratty Castle, went to the Dolmen Portal Tomb at Poulnabrone on the Burren, and went to the amazing Cliffs of Moher. We also spent a lot of time in Lahinch, visiting the local shops, and eating in some of the restaurants. Of special note were 'Raviolo Verde' which had the most amazing pizzas, 'Spoonies' for take away fish and chips, and 'Danny Macs' where we had dinner one evening.
We used Supervalu in Ennistymon for our grocery shopping, which is a short drive away, and there is also a ALDI there if you prefer.
We also visited "The Rock Shop' in Liscannor, which does great cake and coffee, and sells the most amazing range of souvenirs, jewellery, rocks and fossils.
We had the most amazing time at Bar Tra Cottage, and would most definitely recommend it, and would love to visit again. Sheila, the owner, has a great little property, and really looks after you to ensure you have a good time