My girlfriend and I have just returned home after a memorable vacation in the Sunny South West of Ireland and The Rosegarden guesthouse! We flew into Shannon and travelled direct to The Rosegarden guesthouse, checked-in, dropped our bags and ran out to the garden to catch the rays. We were told thesun doesn't shine very much in Ireland - I'm not so sure - the first directions I requested was to the local pharmacy to buy aftersun and factor 20!

The guesthouse was spotless, the breakfast room spacious, the service was outstanding, but most of all the staff were amazing. They could not do enough for us. The new owner Padraig is a young local publican with the typical personality you would associate with an Irish pub. He had a keen interest outdoor activities. We disposed of our guide books when we met him - a fountain of local information from the best tours to the local mechanic (thats another story!) to the parish priest (thats another story too!). He also got special discounts for us on most things.

In 1 week we were swimming, touring, walking, sailing, kayaking, golfing, we heard some amazing Irish music - we didnt have time for sunbathing after our first effort. The food and drink in Kenmare was great with something for everyone.

Everyone at the Rosegarden from the cleaning lady to the receptionists made us feel very special.

I proposed to my girlfriend under the setting sun at Reenagross Park (a hidden treasure Padraig told us about - not in any guidebook). 1 week in Kenmare wasn't long enough - next year when we return as Mr and Mrs Forbie we will stay for longer.

The glowing reviews of the Rosegarden Guesthouse on tripadvisor.com all mention the charming house itself as well as the charming owners. The owners mentioned have now retired and sold the property. The house and rooms are still very tidy and the gardens are still beautiful, but the new owner is still working out a few kinks. No real problems, just not quite what I expected.

This was the nicest place we stayed in Ireland. The hosts are terrific. They went out of their way to help you, whenever you needed anything. The rooms were immaculate. The food was great, although we only ate breakfast and dessert there. We'd stay there again in a second.

The Rose Garden Guest House met all our requirements when visiting Kenmare: home-like atmosphere, friendly service, and within easy walking distance of the village. But, to top this off, the dinners exceeded our expectations by offering a combination of continental cuisine and typical Irish fare. We shall return!