No. 1 Riverside has all mod-cons and comforts, and is literally steps from the village and the water.
Uniquely situated close to the harbour and paces to the village and the pier. Riverside is aptly named as the river does indeed run parallel to the property. At night you can open the window and be lulled to sleep by the sound of the babbling brook.
The house itself is part of three properties that surround a courtyard and is accessed from Pier Road. The living space is on the first floor, overlooking the courtyard and harbour to the back. On Sunday mornings you can see the Farmers' Market from the kitchen window and if inclined, pop around the corner to sample its delightful fare and lively atmosphere.
The residence consists of two bedrooms, one ensuite. The main bedroom has a large double bed and overlooks pier road to the front and the courtyard to the back. The second bedroom has a double bed and a child's travel cot can be provided if needed. The second bathroom is off the hall. Both bathrooms have combination showers which heat the water instantly.
The kitchen, dining and living area are open plan and very nicely appointed and comfortable. The kitchen has a washer/dryer and the living room has a sofa that converts into a bed, if required. There are windows to the back of the living room and in winter you can see the sea beyond. In the summer the tree foliage is very dense so the view is obstructed. There is a smart television in the living room. Vodafone is the wifi provider for the house and passwords will be provided when the booking is confirmed.
Anne is the house host. She takes great care that the house is ready and will go in prior to your arrival and turn on heating if the temperature is on the chilly side and air the property in summer. Freshly laundered sheets and towels will be provided and the beds made up.
There is a small alcove to the front of the main entrance which provides a sheltered spot where you can place the small table and two chairs and catch the late afternoon sun while sipping a cool drink or having a glass of wine. It is also a lovely spot to have breakfast or just sit and read a book and listen to the sound of the water and seagulls circling the fishing boats overhead, as they return from their expeditions on the water.
Schull is the perfect place from which to explore west cork -.It is also a perfect place to just settle down and enjoy the slower pace of life. The magic of Riverside is that once there, you can just park the car and wonder around as everything is in walking distance from the house.
There is plenty to do both for the active or passive traveler. The region provides many outdoor activities as well as cultural experiences. There are dozens of festivals throughout the year either in the town or in the surrounding areas. Artists, writers, filmmakers and actors have always favoured this part of the country and is home to many home grown and international celebrities who contribute to the cultural landscape of the area, creating a diverse and interesting menu of events to enjoy without having to venture too far away.
For those who like to spend time on the water there are daily trips to the islands on the coast or if you prefer to skipper yourself, Schull is known for its sailing club and facilities. The regatta is widely attended and the "Fastnet" race known around the globe. Not far by car you will come across beautiful Barleycove beach which is frequented by surfers and windsurfers alike as well as beach goers, walkers and lovers of wildlife.
One of my favourite things to do in the winter months is to go for a walk on Barleycove strand and feel the force of the wind's wild rawness coming in off the Atlantic while listening to the roar of the sea as it crashes onto the beach... Following such an experience I like to head to Crookhaven, stopping off at O'Sullivan's for a steaming cup of chowder. In the summer months Barleycove is frequented by families and children who love the beach as it has natural sand dunes and sheltered spots, perfect for picnics. The surfers tend to look for more exposed parts of the beach and it's an enjoyable sight watching them ride the waves.
For those who like to stay on land, Schull lies at the foot of Mount Gabriel which is an ideal hiking location for all levels of hikers or climbers. here are lots of local trails, where you can take in the genuinely breathtaking landscape. Other areas and activities to explore are Mizen Head, Bantry, Goleen, Skibbereen and Ballydehob; to name but a few. Mizen Head is a must see if possible. It is the most southerly west tip of Ireland and sports a good view of "Fastnet Rock" - the lighthouse which was the very last thing that the Irish emigrant would see on their journey across the Atlantic to America. It was called at the time the "Teardrop of Ireland" as people would stand on deck and weep as it disappeared from view knowing that they may never see their homeland again. I could continue writing about the delights of West Cork and Schull but it would be a book! So, I will stop now and hope that you come and visit soon.
