The first thing to be said is that Michael and Sheila, the owners, go absolutely above and beyond to ensure everything is as it should be (or better, really!) - without ever running the risk of being invasive/intrusive. Always there if we needed them, seemingly never there if we didn't - they are good, kind people and really maximised our enjoyment of our week long stay here (even lending us a film or two and providing Christmas cake and mince pies on our arrival!).
The property itself is spotlessly clean, modern, wonderfully decorated with Michael's own gorgeous landscape photography and a real luxury to call home for the week - especially the enormous, comfy bed! The TV is huge and has all the features you could ever want - Netflix, Youtube, Skype... everything. The speaker system is awesome and Michael is always keen to help if anything gets too confusing. All the rooms have perfect furnishings, everything you could possibly need in the kitchen, cosy bedroom and amazing bathroom with a lovely shower.
The nearest town is just a mile away along one road and has two big supermarkets which was extremely useful as well as several pubs, churches and other amenities that we found helpful, and Kilkenny itself is really a very short drive away. The real beauty of the location is that despite its proximity to necessary services, it is sooo quiet and really does feel like you're in the middle of nowhere, which is just what we wanted. The views from the large windows are absolutely incredible and there's a lovely garden to sit and enjoy the landscape in, if you're lucky with the weather, as well as lots of places to go walking - as we did in Mount Juliet's grounds - just down the road.
Really couldn't rate it highly enough, everything was just perfect and when we had one or two minor hitches with blown fuses/water problems, Michael was on the phone in minutes and round to sort the problem as soon as possible - sending a plumber instantly to inspect in the meantime. Just perfect. We will remember this trip for a long time, and will hopefully be back soon!