18 Century Renovated, Former Church in Kenmare

Set on the Ring of Kerry, with stunning views over Kenmare Bay & backdrop of mountains. This renovated Church makes the perfect base for exploring all that the South West offers. Big open plan spaces, high-end furniture, double wood-burning stove & 70 foot living room awaits you! You can check out over 100 reviews of The Vestry at its old account on AirBnB if you search for 'The Vestry - 18 Century Renovated Church'. Avg Rating of 4.56 ... Pet Friendly. FYI: Heating & Wifi Costs NOT included. The space The Vestry was originally the Church of Ireland house of worship, for the nearby Castle land owners, and the workers/tenants who lived within its grounds. Deconsecrated in the 1980's the Church held many guises during the following years, before falling into disrepair. Bought over a decade ago by its owner, it was fully renovated and modernised to a very high standard, while retaining many of its original features such as Stained Glass Windows, Wall Plaques, Harmonium, Vaulted Ceilings, 4 story Bell Tower (complete with bell) and much much more! The warm, friendly and bright space, complete with an open plan living, dining and kitchen area (70+ Foot Long) ensure that guest can entertain in style. You enter the property via the traditional church double doors, complete with original locks, keys and collection box. The original harmonium is located in this rounded tower entrance hallway, where you then proceed through the double stained glass doors into the main body of the property. The main body of the church is 70+ foot long with 5 panels of intricate stained glass set into the gable wall at the Altar area. The floors are exposed timber, with a deep pile rug on front of the double door wood-burning stove. The Large original windows ensure that the living area is flooded with light in the day time. The furniture was all purchased specifically for this house, including the 8 foot long x 4 foot wide gigantic sofa, the 8 seater glass top habitat table and comfy chairs with the upmost comfort of guests in mind. The large fully-integrated red high-gloss Kitchen is a chefs dream. The counter tops are white composite stone, including the sink and draining board. Twin Ovens (because two is always better than one), microwave, integrated ceramic hob which is located in the oversized island unit. Soft close drawers and doors, pop-up sockets and a double american-style fridge freezer c/w water filter and ice maker complete this cooks dream kitchen. Off the main body of the church two bedrooms are housed; one double bedroom, complete with walk-in wardrobe and en-suite bathroom (and access to the garden), and one single bedroom*, a utility area complete with washing machine, dryer and storage area. (* I would note that this room is where the heating system and water pump are located, there may be some noise associated with these when they are operating, the pump can be unplugged) The main bathroom is tiled in Italian glass mosaic tiles, with a large double rain-water shower, WC, and luxury modern bath. Double storage units are also provided. Upstairs on the mezzanine area is another double bedroom, with a king-sized bed. This area leads into the 4 story bell-tower complete with your very own church bell (go on, give it a ring and let everyone know you are up in the morning). Outside there is a garden, a decked area with table and seating benches. Ample parking on the grounds of the property. There are a dozen neighbours in an old graveyard but we promise you they are very quiet :) Sitting directly on the 'Ring of Kerry' and the world renowned 'Wild Atlantic Way', the Beach is literally only steps away from your big red church door where you can enjoy swimming, walking, sailing or even just skimming stones. Also next door are the Castle grounds which are lovely for a walk. People sometimes worry that the space might be dark or creepy - as you will see from the photos, this property is the exact opposite of that. Its open, bright and modern and guests always comment how positive and warm a space it is! While there are subtle nods to its past (which I feel are important) I can 100% confirm there are NO ghosts. There is a small and very old graveyard behind the property, with very few graves in it. These 'neighbours' are quiet and do not disturb the guests - I've have agreed that with them! :) This is large property, so in the winter time you will need to turn the heat on and light a fire to get things cosy. Guest access As a guest you will have full unlimited access to all areas of the property, it will be your home for the duration of your stay. The only exception where guest will not have access is to a storeroom which is separate to the main property and accessed by key only. Other things to note PLEASE NOTE Heating costs are extra and are paid upon check-out, €1.80 per hr For Example, 3hrs x 7days = €37.50 euro. Heating is seldom required in summer time, as there is the Stove for comfort & immersion also heats hot water. * Follow us @TheVestry2013 to see more pictures or tag us! * FYI Heating Costs NOT included in the price * There is no Satellite TV connection. * There is however a vast selection of DVDs to choose from * With Wifi - Netflix and other services are available * WiFi is pay as you go €5 per day or €15 per week*