Reviews for Kinsale Vacation Rental - VRBO 58846ha - 2 BR County Cork Condo in Ireland, Fabulous Luxury Waterfront Duplex Penthouse on Kinsale's Marina

Kinsale condominium

Guest User
Date of stay 09/25/12
Review Submitted 10/23/12

Our stay in Kinsale was one of the highlights of our three week stay in Ireland. Mary was extremely helpful when we were planning our stay and offered suggestions for us to consider within Kinsale and with future travels. Her condo is very centrally located across from a picturesque marina and within a short walking distance to the town and restaurants. I would easily recommend this condominium to anyone thinking of staying in Kinsale.

Owner response: Thank you so much for lovely review. I am so glad that Shearwater and Kinsale was the highlight of your trip. I was only too delighted to advise with local knowledge. Hope you come back soon. Mary.

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Brilliant Location

Guest Deidre C.
Date of stay 07/21/12
Review Submitted 09/02/12

An exceptionally well appointed executive property very conveniently situated in the centre of the beautiful town of Kinsale. Everything about the duplex was as good as promised and Mary was very helpful with both the booking and passing on local information to help us enjoy our stay. We wouldn't hesitate in returning to the apartment or Kinsale again.

Owner response: Thank you so much for your lovely review. I am so glad you enjoyed our duplex Shearwater and all its attributes. It was a pleasure to meet you and we would love to welcome you back again.

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Excellent location!

Guest Pat Donnelly F.
Date of stay 07/07/12
Review Submitted 09/03/12

The Shearwater apartment is in a perfect location for enjoying the best of Kinsale. As mentioned in previous reviews it is tastefully and comfortably furnished with a state of the art kitchen. Mary is extremely helpful in providing information especially great restaurant recommendations. We thoroughly enjoyed our week and were sorry to leave!

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So Charming

Guest Mary H.
Date of stay 09/17/11
Review Submitted 10/09/11

Mary's condo in Kinsale was the perfect spot for my husband and myself. We took day trips from there and used it as a home base during our visit to Ireland. It was great to have our own covered parking space in addition to perfect location in Kinsale for walking all around the town and the surrounding areas. We walked from the condo to Charles Fort one day and to James Fort another, eating blackberries all along the way. Kinsale is chock full of lovely restaurants and friendly pubs, for which Mary provided insider information and recommendations. Our faves were The Lemon Leaf Cafe for breakfast/brunch, The Lord Kingsale for pubbing and Fishy Fishy for dinner deliciousness. We could not have asked for a better place to stay or for a more perfect location to enjoy ourselves. Thanks Mary, for a lovely visit! Mary Hagood - Charlotte, NC, USA

Owner response: Thank you so much, I am so glad that the condo and Kinsale lived up to your expectations. You were also charming guests. Mary

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Absolutely beautiful duplex!!!

Guest Cecile W.
Date of stay 06/19/11
Review Submitted 01/23/12

We chose this location in Kinsale so that we could tour the local countryside and still have a bit of the "settled" feeling of a base location. What a perfect choice it was! The duplex was so well appointed and comfortable. Everything you needed was provided....a complete kitchen, dishwasher, a washing machine, very comfortable beds , TV, internet....convenient parking.....it was like being home. Kinsale is a delightful town...colorful and a delight for foodies.....wonderful restaurents....shopping....a place filled with Irish history. There was so much to see and do. We took day trips to the surrounding areas...Cork city, the Jameson factory, along the southern coast to Clonakilty and Timelogue. We even ventured to Killarney and Dingle. Our special thanks to Mary who was so very gracious and helpful to us as we sought out places to visit. She has left us with wonderful memories of the beautiful country of Ireland. Thank you so much for sharing your incredible home with us.

Owner response: Thank you so much for your kind words. I am delighted you loved the Shearwater duplex and Kinsale and that you enjoyed your trip and went home with such good memories. Come back again soon.

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Excellent place to stay in Kinsale

Guest Bob, Patty, John and Diane
Date of stay 05/12/11
Review Submitted 06/09/11

We stayed for a week mid May and had a wonderful time. The penthouse was wonderful, the coffee shop (Vista) was wonderful, we would send one person down for breakfast, they had take away for us. Fiona was our favorite waitress there. The food in Kinsale was awesome, best seafood any of us ever had. Don't miss Bulman for lobster, thanks Mary it was great advise to go there. We had a great meal at the White House, the staff there were alot of fun. The penthouse is so close to everything, we enjoyed not having to drive on our down days. Can't wait to go back, the penthouse and Kinsale were wonderful!

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Owner response: Hi Bob, So glad you had such a wonderful time in my penthouse - it is wonderful and a stunning location as you say so convenient for everything. Glad too you liked my dining advise. Yes, you will have to come back - come for the Gourmet Festival in October - that is fantastic - and if you think you saw seafood wait til you see the Sunday seafood lunch........ Best Regards to you all, Mary

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A Week in Kinsale

Guest GMCK
Date of stay 05/04/11
Review Submitted 06/06/11

This unit exceeded my expectations. It was well equipped with all of the cooking utensils, linens, towels and miscellaneous items that you need for a stress free stay. The furniture and decorations are a high standard. The internet connection is a definite plus. In summary I highly recommend this unit.

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Owner response: Thank you Gary - it was a pleasure having you in Shearwater - Come back anytime. Mary

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Enjoyable Stay in Kinsale

Guest Enjoyable Stay in Kinsale
Date of stay 03/21/11
Review Submitted 04/23/11

We traveled to Ireland in mid March 2011. We were in Kinsale from the 21st through the 26th. The weather was beautiful! We had sun almost every day and rain only twice, though this is a bit unusual we were told. Some attractions are seasonal but most reopen in mid March. The only thing we missed out on was the petting farm at Muckross Estate. We loved the town of Kinsale and our home away from home! The duplex was just as described. It was clean, well maintained and had everything we needed. The private parking and free broadband were very convenient. Whatever you need is within walking distance (restaurants, coffee, supermarket, walking paths). Watching the tide come in and out of the harbor is really something! The water rises and falls some 12 to 15 feet!!! We aren't used to this in North Carolina or any of the other many places we have visited. Mary is a great owner and took the time to communicate with us before we travelled to Ireland and during our stay there. She gave us plenty of suggestions for what to visit, where to eat and other accomodations for our trip. We spent a couple of days just walking around the town of Kinsale itself which was very pleasant and relaxing. The walk to Charles Fort and along the water beyond was especially enjoyable. Definitely make time to eat at Fishy Fishy. We also really enjoyed Cucina. The rest of the time was spent taking day trips (Ring of Kerry, Ballymaloe House, Old Head of Kinsale, Mizen Head, The Rock of Cashel). We highly recommend visiting Kilkenny. We spent our first night here at the Pembroke Hotel (great place :)). While there, take in the tour of Smythwicks brewery and the nearby ruins of Kells Priory. A highlight for us was driving in the country-side. The beautiful landscape is dotted with ruins and, being Spring time, lots of baby animals. Some of the back roads are very tight and windy! Think Cameron Diaz in The Holiday! And it dose takes awhile to get from place to place unless you're on the highway. The highways are easy to use and the swiftest way to get from point A to point B. This was out first trip to Ireland and we definitely plan to return for another visit!!! We recommend this home, the town of Kinsale and all of Ireland to anyone interested in travelling there. The country is beautiful and the people were extremely friendly.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Owner response: Thank you Petros and Anastasia - so glad you loved Shearwater, Kinsale, and your entire visit. Mary

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Shearwater Penthouse

Guest Paul
Date of stay 08/09/10
Review Submitted 08/05/10

The Penthouse has a magnificant view of the harbor. From Kinsale, you can take day trips to East Cork, West Cork, the Ring of Kerry, etc. Kinsale is a convenient location. The town offers some of the best cooking that Ireland has to offer. The Penthouse is clean and come with all the modern conveniences that you need. The kitchen is fully equiped with pots, pans, plates, silverware, etc. It has a combo washer/dryer that is easy to use. The Penthouse comes with two bedrooms and two baths if you have more that a couple in your party. The bedrooms are on the lower level of the Penthouse but still affords a nice view. Mary is very helpful and when you talk with her, she takes great pride in sharing her Penthouse with others. The experience and the Shearwater Penthouse can not be beat by any hotel unless you are looking for all the services that hotels have to offer. I highly recommend staying at this Penthouse, it is an experience you will not soon forget.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Beautiful tranquil holiday in Kinsale

Guest okinn
Date of stay 08/08/09
Review Submitted 09/04/09

I highly recommend this property. It is suitable for families or a group of friends. There are a fair few steps to be climbed so very small children may find it difficult, it would be difficult for buggies but suited us perfectly, our children are 7 and over. Location was very well described, we found it instantly and it included secure parking. The property was spotless and in perfect condition. The Kitchen has everything you need should you decide to eat in. The view from the living room is beautiful, from period buildings to the many boats docked in the harbor. Loads of information provided about local tours and restaurants and shops. I highly recommend the property and the location, Kinsale is a beautiful town, friendly people, great places to eat, the Fishy Fishy restaurant must be tried. Wow. There are lots of local attractions, Fishing, Harbor tours, road trains, Ghost tours or just traveling around the beautiful coastline and countryside, Enjoy.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Exactly what we were looking for!

Guest Sonny & Elvis
Date of stay 07/25/09
Review Submitted 08/25/09

This Shearwater Duplex was exactly what we hoped it would be. We are a family of four, with two small boys. The complex is right in the heart of Kinsale, a short walk to everything. We usually stay in a local B&B, but with the kids we felt we needed more room this time, and this unit was perfect. Mary is great. Communication of building systems etc., were clear and concise. Everything in the unit worked flawlessly, internet, TV, DVD player, etc. I highly recommend this property!

Recommended for: Families with teenagers

Owner response: Thank you so much "Sonny & Elvis" you were of course the perfect guests. As you are regular Kinsale "Old Head" golfers, I hope to see you in Shearwater again. Mary and Brendan

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Lovely Kinsale Holiday

Guest Queensland girl
Date of stay 06/23/09
Review Submitted 08/25/09

Our week in Kinsale at the end of June 09 was perfect. The apartment is very clean with extremely comfortable beds and furniture. The kitchen has all the equipment needed for cooking at home. We did not need to use the car much as the location is right in the middle of everything. Marys letter is very informative on restaurants and places to see around Cork - especially loved the drive to Glandore and would highly recommend having lunch there at Hayes Bar - thanks Mary. Our daughter also had a great time as it was Kinsale Cup Yacht week and she had a party to go to every night at the club next door. Can't wait to visit again. Ann - Australia.

Recommended for: Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car.

Owner response: Glad you all enjoyed Shearwater and the drive to Glandore - local knowledge is a great thing! Hope to see you back again. Mary

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Our first trip to Ireland

Guest Javera
Date of stay 06/15/09
Review Submitted 08/25/09

Mary's place was simply fab... We really enjoyed our stay there as it truly felt like a home away from home for us. We choose it because of its location which is right on the harbor within easy walking distance to all the restaurants and shops in Kinsale. After a trip during the day, her place was nice to come back home to as we found ourselves strolling around town during the afternoon/evenings often stopping for a beer, ice cream, whatever… Mary herself (spoke to her on the phone-- lovely woman) was extremely helpful in providing information on things to do and see in the area. She wrote detailed notes of all the best places to eat, areas of interest that tourist often miss etc. Her condo was in immaculate condition just like in the photos. It was spacious, bright, and airy with two bathrooms and two very comfortable bedrooms on the lower level with a huge loft style living room/dining room combo and eat in kitchen on the upper level. I myself especially enjoyed relaxing by the huge bay window watching the boats idly go by during the evenings after our many day trips. We truly “loved” Mary’s place as it provided everything one would one would need for a home away from home. Gladly, we’ll stay there again when we return to Ireland for another visit. Btw, our favorite place to eat was the Fishy Fishy Restaurant.

Recommended for: Families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Owner response: I am so glad you enjoyed your stay in Shearwater and that maybe now you will make a second visit to Kinsale. Thank you for being such delightful guests - I enjoyed our chats. Mary

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Excellent Spot for Southern Ireland Visit

Guest Tim and Janet
Date of stay 07/13/08
Review Submitted 07/14/08

We stayed at here in June 08 for a week and had a wonderful time. The apartment is very well maintained, has everything you can want, and more than lives up to the photos here. Kinsale is a very cute village, large enough to have excellent dining choices and good shopping and sightseeing. Mary was very helpful in every way - providing dining suggestions, ideas on day trips and all kinds of advice. We took several great day trips to surrounding areas including the Dingle Penninsula, Cobh and Waterville. My husband enjoyed golfing at Old Head which is very close by. We have recommended this property to friends.

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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As advertised - Fabulous!

Guest Irishrose
Date of stay 06/21/08
Review Submitted 07/07/08

We had a wonderful experience at this well appointed duplex. Arriving late one evening, we were so pleased to find everything in such good order. The duplex is tastefully decorated throughout, has good beds, and is light and bright! The kitchen was exceptional - we cooked several breakfasts and dinners and felt right at home. Lovely location - within walking distance to all the shops, pubs, restaurants, farmer's market, and steps to the harbor. Highly recommended. The owner was instrumental in making our stay memorable - she recommended many outstanding places to eat and steered us away from the tourist traps. I would not hesitate to recommend this property to family and friends - enjoy!

Recommended for: Age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Absolutely Perfect in Every Way!!

Guest Nancy and Bill S
Date of stay 04/16/08
Review Submitted 06/11/08

We arrived in Kinsale with our friends for a nine day stay. It was our good fortune to see the ad for this fully modern and comfortably appointed penthouse unit across from the Kinsale Yacht Club. The unit was perfectly clean, very comfortably appointed with newer furnishings, all of which were in excellent condition. The bedrooms were nicely decorated and exceptionally comfortable. The open living area with its cathedral ceilings was spacious and also warmly and tastefully decorated. The sitting nook off the main living area provided beautiful views of the harbor and surrounding residences which together captured the quaint beauty of this old Irish port. The unit wanted for nothing, and it was conveniently located in the same complex as a delightful Tapis restaurant Vista, where we bought our morning coffee and croissants. Walking to the village of Kinsale with its shops and multitude of restaurants was an easy five minute walk. Finally, Kinsale's location made travel to other points of interest easy because of convenient highway and bus connections. Cork airport was only twenty minutes, and Cork City was an easy half hour ride. We liked everything about our accommodations and would recommend them to anyone. Nancy and Bill, Kathy and Arnie

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Comments from Owner Guestbook

Guest HRGuestBook58846
Date of stay 12/01/07
Review Submitted 12/05/07

'Christmas 2006 in Kinsale - Just wanted to thank you for everything. It was amazing. MARTY + LORI, Maine. USA. 'Thank you. We had a lovely time in great luxury...' Dr. HELEN A. Worcs UK. August 2006 The apartment was perfect...pretty, convenient, comfortable, all conveniences laid on! The beds were positively snooze worthy. We clearly not only stayed in the most attractive spot but in the most attractive and comfortable place. We thank you for that.' SALLY MURRAY. USA MAY 2007. 'We would certainly recommend Shearwater to anyone we know ..its a great place..we hope to come back soon. TIM QUINN, USA JUNE 2007. We had a great time.. and really appreciated the apartment. Your advice on where to visit and eat was extremely helpful. NICK WARREN. JULY 2007. How fortunate we were to have found your duplex on the net....lovely and comfortable...perfect location. Thanks to you no bad restaurant experiences ...a trip always fondly remembered. PHIL POSEN, USA JULY 2007

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Beyond Our Wildest Dreams!

Guest Marianne B.
Date of stay 09/01/07
Review Submitted 01/02/08

Elegance.... Comfort.... Style.... Accessibility.... Space.... Art.... Fabulous furniture and bedding.... Class! Thoughtful amenities right down to the nutmeg grater in the immaculate well-appointed kitchen.. The pictures barely do the place justice! Kinsale itself is magic; Sheawater amplifies that feeling. We had been traveling in Ireland for a month and ended our vacation at Shearwater in Kinsale. Not only did the owner, Mary, provide the most stellar sense of a peaceful home-away-from-home, she also lovingly (and honestly) guided us several times via email in the months beforehand as our group of independent travelers made plans. Words can barely begin to describe how much truly-beautiful Mary and her stunning yet homelike-accommodations made our visit a jewel of a travel expeience. She and her Shearwater represent Ireland at its glorious best! And...Yes!!! We anxiously await our return to this most welcoming extraordinary nest....

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 10/10

Vacation Rentals by Owner

Fabulous Luxury Waterfront Duplex Penthouse on Kinsale's Marina [#58846ha] | View Property

Traveler Reviews (18)

Kinsale condominium

Kinsale condominium

Brilliant Location

Brilliant Location

Excellent location!

Excellent location!

So Charming

So Charming

Absolutely beautiful duplex!!!

Absolutely beautiful duplex!!!

Excellent place to stay in Kinsale

Excellent place to stay in Kinsale

A Week in Kinsale

A Week in Kinsale

Enjoyable Stay in Kinsale

Enjoyable Stay in Kinsale

Shearwater Penthouse

Shearwater Penthouse

Beautiful tranquil holiday in Kinsale

Beautiful tranquil holiday in Kinsale

Exactly what we were looking for!

Exactly what we were looking for!

Lovely Kinsale Holiday

Lovely Kinsale Holiday

Our first trip to Ireland

Our first trip to Ireland

Excellent Spot for Southern Ireland Visit

Excellent Spot for Southern Ireland Visit

As advertised - Fabulous!

As advertised - Fabulous!

Absolutely Perfect in Every Way!!

Absolutely Perfect in Every Way!!

Comments from Owner Guestbook

Comments from Owner Guestbook

Beyond Our Wildest Dreams!

Beyond Our Wildest Dreams!