Like a continental oasis in the Northwest of Ireland.
The house, complete with period orangery, brimming with ripe strawberries, is so well thought out with relaxation in mind.
Having two grandchildren (twelve and two years) in tow, we wondered how we would survive with no TV. We needn't have worried, as the twelve year old found a comfortable corner and ensconced herself with books and (of course) her phone (there is decent wifi). The two year old discovered the hand cart provided, padded with plenty of cushions, and enjoyed long periods of being pulled round the beautiful garden, observing the chickens and ducks along the way. Not so much fun for the person pulling him.
Kitchen and bathroom fittings and equipment, beds and bedding are of the highest quality, and abundant quantities of towels are supplied.
The only thing which we felt was missing, was a microwave. I know this divides opinions with many, but it does come in handy particularly when it comes to heating up kid's meals or doing a baked potato in double quick time!
If the weather turns chilly, there is a wood burning stove in the living room with plenty of fuel provided. And also a cupboard full of blankets to snuggle into.
The area is very quiet. The garden surrounds you with a diverse range of trees and plants, including two walnut trees. The house is about 15 minutes from Sligo Town, which may or may not suit everyone. We found ourselves relaxing into it as days went by.
The owners, Robert and Carmen are wonderfully friendly people. They manage to balance being available to help or answer queries with being completely unobtrusive. They are interesting and interested, and always have time to chat, while successfully running other enterprises (ask Robert about the World Smallest Kite), they seem to have boundless energy. They are as much part of the overall experience as the beautiful house, which Robert and Carmen built with their own hands.
As you have probably gathered, we really enjoyed our time in Branchfield House, and we say to Robert and Carmen,
"May the wind never change you, but carry your kite as high as your dreams "
Eamonn and Niamh