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STUNNING 4 bed, 2 bath big, bright farmhouse. Spectacular Sea/Mountain views.

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February 2025

Photo gallery for STUNNING 4 bed, 2 bath big, bright farmhouse. Spectacular Sea/Mountain views.

Interior
4 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, travel cot
Beach nearby, beach towels
Interior
Interior

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
Ballinfull, Sligo
  • Lissadell House
    7 min drive
  • County Sligo Golf Club
    19 min drive
  • Streedagh Strand
    31 min drive
  • Sligo (SXL)
    28 min drive

Room options

About this property

STUNNING 4 bed, 2 bath big, bright farmhouse. Spectacular Sea/Mountain views.

Come to Sligo and set your spirit free.
Experience the holiday (vacation) of a lifetime in our stunning holiday farmhouse perfectly located in Ireland's magical northwest. Have a great farm and/or marine based activity holiday or just relax and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you.
Our holiday home has a unique 40 foot lounge/reception area with superior views of Sligo Bay, Raghly Harbour, and Queen Maeve's cairn.

Large, spacious fitted kitchen. Two bathrooms and four double bedrooms- three rooms with bay windows facing the sea.

Free fibre broadband. Central heating throughout. Heating costs are included. Large front and side garden and lawns. Outdoor furniture and barbeque.

Guests can participate in farming activities (tractor rides, feeding calves, etc.). If you would like fresh lobster, just let us know and we will make arrangements with local fishermen. They can be brought to your door (free cooking demo included if desired).

We will bring you on the recently completed Raghly Loop trail, encompassing the stunning blow holes (where the sea comes in under the land) and views of the Donegal mountains and Mayo's Crough Patrick on a clear day. Our friendliness and hospitality will make this your home away from home.

Our beautifully renovated 4 bedroom vacation holiday farmhouse is on an elevated site facing Sligo Bay. This enchanting area near Lissadell (5km) is steeped in history and mythology and well described by W.B.Yeats for its beauty and creativity. The dramatic limestone mountains of Benbulben and Knocknarea will fascinate you. Experience the holiday/vacation of a lifetime where we can help you and your family/friends plan your holiday or just relax and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you. Enjoy the spirit of Sligo.

Local Attractions: The following sites provide useful information about places to see and visit in Sligo:
1. http://sligotourism.ie
2. http://www.irishtourist.com/directory/places_to_visit/west/sligo/
3. http://www.sligoheritage.com/links.htm
4. http://www.discoversligo.com/?pagid=arts
5. http://www.discoversligo.com/?pagid=heritage

Things to Do in Ireland's Magical Northwest:

Glencar Lake and Waterfall. After Glencar, you might want to continue on to Parke’s Castle (a restored plantation castle) on the shores of Lough Gill

When in Sligo town, visit Sligo Abbey (http://www.heritageireland.ie/en/North-West/SligoAbbey). Go for a walk in Hazelwood or Dooney Rock Nature Trail http://www.irishtrails.ie.

Creevykeel Court Cairn (http://www.sligoheritage.com) thought to be 4,500 years old. Then continue on to Mullaghmore Peninsula where you can take a walk on the pier and walk along the sheltered beach.

Go towards Strandhill. The first stop is the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery. About 10-15minutes down the road is the car park for your climb Knocknarea (1.2km walk to the summit) to see Queen Maeve’s Cairn and the spectacular views of Sligo (http://www.sligotown.net/knocknarea). Go to the Shells Café, top-rated restaurant in Sligo, for a bite to eat. Then go to the award winning Voya seaweed baths (http://voyaseaweedbaths.com) for a massage or seaweed bath (pre-booking needed) OR for the more adventurous person, go surfing (http://www.strandhillsurfschool.com).

Visit Yeat’s Grave and Drumcliffe Church

Go to the Spanish Armada Interpretive Center in Grange to learn about the Spanish Armada and Captain Francisco de Cuellar. Then go to Streedagh beach, where the Armada washed up.

Eagle’s Flying – Irish Raptor Centre in Ballymote, Co. Sligo. Go to: https://www.eaglesflying.com/

Atlantic Sheep Dogs – One Man and His Dog! Go to: https://atlanticsheepdogs.ie/

Atlantic Way Alpaca Farm – Go to: https://www.facebook.com/wildatlanticwayalpacafarm/

Nearby Beaches within 10 minutes): Yellow Strand (Tra Bui); Streedagh Beach; Lissadell Beach.

Walking/Hill Walking
Exploring North Sligo on foot can be a beautiful way to see the county. Various magical walks include: Lissadell House and Woods; Glencar Lake and Waterfall; Streedagh Point and Beach; Knocknarea and Queen Maeve's Cairn, Glennif Horseshoe at the foot of Ben Bulben to name a few. Go to https://sligowalks.ie; http://www.sligotourism.ie and/or http://www.irishtrails.ie/Trail/Benbulben-loop or http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie for more information on mountain walks, nature trails, coastal walks and more.

Golfing
Ireland is renowned for its golf courses and Rosses’ Point is no exception. The County Sligo Golf Club at Rosses’ Point (http://countysligogolfclub.ie) is ranked in the top 10 links courses in Ireland. The club boasts renowned visitors and champions, Rory McElroy and Tom Watson. Or you can go to Berties Pitch and Putt (http://www.bertiespnp.co.nr) or the Sandfield Pitch and Putt course in Bundoran.

Fishing
There are plenty of excellent fishing points on the Raghley peninsula, where you can catch mackerel, pollock, bollin or if you are lucky sea trout. Raghley Harbour is located ¼ mile away. Spoil yourself with some fresh lobster and crab caught by local fishermen (available on request). Or try your hand at getting some razor fish or rock fishing. Crab fishing off the pier provides fun for everyone. In Rosses’ Point (http://www.sligoboatcharters.com) (Darryl Ewing can pick you up at Raghley Pier, depends on tide) or Mullahmore (http://www.offshore.ie or http://www.inishmurrayislandtrips.com) charter boats are available for the serious fishermen. We can help with any bookings.

Shopping/ Restaurants / Pubs:
Sligo offers shopping with a difference. There is a good mix of shops with hand-crafted pieces, shops passed down through the generations and the more typical shops.
Wooden sculpture by Michael Quirke and hand-crafted jewelry at The Cat and the Moon offer some special items while Mullaney’s has been in the center of town for generations. The shopping centers provide a good mix of newer shops.
Café’s, restaurants, and bistros are plentiful in Sligo town.

Closer to 'home' there are several tasty meals at Eithne's By the Sea, Lang's Bar and Restaurant, Yeat’s Tavern (or Davis’); and Henry’s Restaurant (within 10-15 minutes of our house).
Local Pub: Ellen's and Jordan's - have a pint and meet the locals!
During your stay at this farm stay, you'll be close to Lissadell House. A water park and concierge services are available.
  • Free WiFi
  • Splash around at the water park
  • Services include a concierge
  • On-site recreation includes a playground
  • 7 minutes by car from Lissadell House and 8 minutes from Cooldrumman
STUNNING 4 bed, 2 bath big, bright farmhouse. Spectacular Sea/Mountain views. offers its guests a water park. The family-friendly STUNNING 4 bed, 2 bath big, bright farmhouse. Spectacular Sea/Mountain views. also features barbecue grills, a garden, and concierge services.

This Ballinful farm stay is smoke free.

Property manager

Mary and Desmond Carway

Languages

English, French, German

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Internet access

Guest services

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Change of towels on request
  • Concierge services
  • Housekeeping (on request)

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Beach towels
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

More

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • At least 80% of food locally-sourced
  • Comprehensive recycling policy
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Local culture and ecosystem education
  • Locally-owned and organised tours and activities
  • Smoke-free property
  • Vegan dining options
  • Vegetarian dining options

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Food and drink

  • Chef service
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dining table
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Kitchen
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Meal delivery service
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

More

  • Cleaning products are eco-friendly
  • Composting
  • Desk
  • Dryer
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Fireplace
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Living room
  • Recycling
  • Water-efficient showers

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:30 PM
Minimum check-in age - 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
This property uses a grey water recycling system and eco-friendly cleaning products
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions. You will also receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, which will enable you to manage your booking.

STUNNING 4 bed, 2 bath big, bright farmhouse. Spectacular Sea/Mountain views. Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 70 out of 73 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 73 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 73 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 73 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 73 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

John F.

Liked: Cleanliness
An experience not be missed
Our weeks stay at the Herdsman’s House a few kms from downtown Sligo was magical. The accommodations were as advertised, impeccably clean, spacious and cozy at the same time. Spectacular views of Sligo Bay and the surrounding farmland. Sheep and cows in pasture surround the Herdsman’s House. Des and Mary made us feel like family, with great tips on places to visit, and what Ireland’s northwest has to offer. They also gave us a bit of the history of the community they cherish. We enjoyed this “off season” visit and highly recommend this special place, where farmland meets the sea. We are already planning a return visit. John & Lydia
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brittany R C.

Liked: Cleanliness
A wonderful, magical place!
We stayed here for two weeks with our three little kids (all three and under). Mary and Des went out of their way to give us a warm welcome. They provided excellent local recommendations, lots of amenities, and tractor rides for the kids. The space itself was beautifully situated on a quiet road overlooking the beach, calves gamboling in a field, and the hills beyond. It was a very relaxing environment. The house was spacious, extremely clean and well cared for. We hope to stay here again!
Stayed 11 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Leslie D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Just Magical! 🌟
I cannot recommend Ballinful House enough! Desi and Mary made us feel so welcome. The house is cozy, the views are out of a postcard! There's hiking just outside the door. The location is amazing! It was so nice to have a kitchen that was well stocked. There were plenty of towels and the showers were great. We went to Ireland and stayed in Galway, Sligo, and Dublin. We unanimously agreed that Sligo/Ballinful House was our favorite!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Debbie H.

Liked: Cleanliness
A Month In Ireland
This property turned out to be the perfect location for us. Close to all things and people we love. We spent a month here and by the time we left we felt like part of the community. It was definitely rural but only 10km to N17 and the views were beautiful. I definitely miss watching the calves playing in the field across from the house. My personal opinion - you need a car to see the best of Ireland. The house was stocked with everything you need and spotless. Mary & Des were great hosts and went out of their way to make us feel comfortable. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 28 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

D R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great house in the country but close to activities.
Des and Mary were amazing hosts. The house was clean and equipped with everything you need for your visit. Amazing scenery and gracious hosts.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

michael O.

Liked: Cleanliness
An amazing holiday in a great location
A comfortable well equipped and spacious bungalow with outstanding views of Silgo Bay. The property was very clean, during our 3 weeks stay the the property was cleaned and bedlinen changed to cater for our family who stayed with us during the holiday. However, the one of the most important element of the holiday was the welcome and great times shown by the hosts Desmond and Mary. They kept the grandchildren entertained with tractor driving and feeding the bullocks. We would definitely stop at the property if we visited this part of the Wild Atlantic Way. Mike anbd Tina
Stayed 21 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness
Very clean, very comfortable, beautiful location and warm hospitality. Our best VRBO experience.
Four family members and I stayed for a week and enjoyed the house and all its amenities very much. The quality of the house and its beautiful seaside location was only surpassed by the kindness and consideration of our hosts, Mary and Des. They went out of their way to make sure we were satisfied with all aspects of our stay. I recommed this VRBO highly. And, if one needs a larger space for, say, a family reunion or business retreat, they have beautiful modern accomodations called the Sligo Sea Barn overlooking the bay as well.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

James M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Nailed it it!
Fantastic place, wonderful hosts, the accommodations are TEN star! Des and Mary made us very welcome and know all the best place to visit in the Sligo area. You cannot buy the kind attention they gave us and the 4 kids (ages 10, 8, 5 and 3)…e.g., sitting with the cows, driving the tractor, access to the beach , touring the Sea Barn…we just had a wonderful time. The house has 4 great bedroom, 2 bathrooms, great kitchen, mud room with washer and dryer, lovely dining area and sitting sun room. Highly recommend this house or their Sligo Sea Barn for a family or large group holiday. The Murphy’s and Collette’s
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Didn't want to leave
My worries that Herdsman's house was too far from "things to do" was pointless. It was a perfect location - about 20 minutes drive from everything we wanted to do. Quiet evenings back at the house with a view to the ocean were well-spent. Des and Mary made us feel so welcome and had great suggestions for things to do. The house has to be one of the cleanest places I've ever been too as well. I can't recommend the place highly enough.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Family trip to explore our Irish roots
We had the very BEST time in Sligo at the Herdsman and the Sea Barn! Our hosts, Des, Mary and Elena were the MOST generous and gracious people imaginable. They anticipated and attended to our every need and facilitated many adventures throughout our stay. Fantastic hiking, biking, yoga and beach walks. Highly recommend!!
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful Stay!
We stayed with our two teens for 6 days and I cannot begin to describe how much my family enjoyed our time at this beautiful property. Mary and Des are exceptional hosts and will welcome you warmly, and go above and beyond to meet your needs and ensure that your vacation is exactly what you want it to be. The home is immaculate, the views from nearly every room are lovely and there is just something magical about the area. Whether you want to just rest and read a book, walk the beach or cliffs, venture into the lovely town of Sligo, or drive to Slieve League for the day, The Herder's House is the perfect home base. Sligo is an easy drive and grocery is about 15 min. This is a place to restore, explore, and connect. I have been back for two weeks and still miss it. They also own The Sea Barn across the street which is absolutely gorgeous for a large group stay and is fully accessible. Thank you Mary and Des for giving our family an unforgettable holiday. We will be back!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

kevin z.

Liked: Cleanliness
Ocean view and cows too!!
Perhaps the best place we have stayed in a VRBO rental and we use VRBO a lot! Hosts were over the top helpful, friendly and informative. Wonderful stories and tractor driving too. Next trip to Ireland we will be back here!! Thanks Mary and Desi!!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carol D., Harrison

Liked: Cleanliness
Highlight of our Ireland Excursion
If you want to travel into the past and see Ireland the way it used to be, then this is the place to stay. The sun slowly rises over the local mountains; the owner will tell you the name of any mountain you point to and the ancient tale that accompanies it. The light is ever-changing: mist and scuttling clouds cast shadows against the mountains, the bay and the fields. There is something magical about this spot. We have stayed in many rentals, but this above the rest. We enjoyed long walks on quiet country roads where lush green fields, misty mountains, and choppy bay waves were always in sight. Des and Mary, the owners, let us explore the fairy fort on the property and showed us the walking trails along ocean cliffs. The meticulous modern house is spacious, well-lit, with spectacular views from most windows. The large kitchen is furnished with quality dishes, glasses and cookware. We were able to prepare wonderful meals. The bathrooms are clean and generous in size. The bedrooms are large and comfortable. The hosts are more than hospitable and knowledgeable. They tell you where to find traditional Irish music at a local pub, the best restaurants, and where to pick up basic items. Situated overlooking Sligo Bay, the house is minutes from Yeats’ tomb, Ben Bulben, close to ancient passage burial tombs older than the pyramids (5-6 thousand years old), and local waterfalls. The town of Sligo is just 30 minutes away. Amazing place!
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gerald P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Greatest
Des and Mary were amazing hosts we were allowed to look through the the sea barn conversion it is unbelievable if you have special needs family or friends it has everything you could possibly require we will be back we in the herdsmen house perfect for a grope of
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

David G., Richmond, Virginia, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Getaway
We stayed in this house for one week in August 2022 . There were eight of us, so a big group! The house was perfect with four bedrooms and two bathrooms. It was spotlessly clean, beds comfy, good working kitchen and laundry facility (washer/dryer, clothes line) The house was very comfortable with absolutely beautiful views, especially from the sunroom. We had wonderful walks each day both on the beach and around Raghly headland on a pedestrian walk encountering magnificent views at every turn. Although a little out of the way we became quickly familiar with the winding roads and were only short drives to the various and wonderful attractions of Sligo. Our hosts Mary and Dessie lived next door, were around to answer all our queries. I would definitely recommend this home and I hope to one day return.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sean C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Getaway Vacation
Amazing hosts Beautiful property If you’re looking for a relaxing holiday with unreal scenery this is the spot. Tons of activities to do in the surrounding areas (surfing, hiking, etc.). Would recommend to anyone!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Rodney M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect destination
Just home from a fantastic stay at Des & Mary's property, what a place, hosts were very friendly & helpful, property spotless, best property we have stayed in, views from the bedrooms and sunroom are wonderful. It really was a home from home, the walks and surrounding area picturesque, the harbour walk a nice way to finish the day. Truly recommend this property and will definitely be visiting again!! Thank you for a wonderful stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

James T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Ireland vacation
Absolutely loved this location. The house is situated on farm lands overlooking the water. Des and Mary are the perfect hosts. This was our first time to Ireland and we chose County Sligo due to family ties there. I don’t know if I could even stay anywhere else when we go back! Perfect mix of location, things to do and good company. Things to due: golf, hike, beach, surfing, horseback riding, drive a tractor and meet great people! Des and Mary, thank you so much, we will be back!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Heavenly Stay in Sligo
I just cannot overstate how good the hosts are here, or how much we enjoyed our stay with our family of 5. You feel like you're really connected to the community here, and Desi and Mary seem to know literally every person we came across. It was such a convenient location both for local loop hikes and beach visits, as well as treks up North for Slieve League. Fantastic accomodations all around, highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Odis H.

Liked: Cleanliness
RELAXING FAMILY VACATION
Wonderful hosts who responded quickly to every request and did everything to make our stay pleasant and enjoyable. The country setting allowed us a peaceful, restful stay with great views and easy walking to the beach and around the peninsula. We had last minute changes and the host was very helpful. It was only a 20 minute drive to Sligo for restaurants and shopping. Ellen’s Pub was 5 minutes away and provided local color. It was one of the best stays we ever had and highly recommend this place and this host!!
Stayed 16 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mike C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing and fun break
Our views consisted of, Ben Bulben, Queen Maeves Grave, Rosses point (and by night it's lighthouses) and miles of ocean. We also were treated to (an afternoon of) the Coastguard helicopter tossing objects into the ocean and dumping the crew out to fetch them back. While training exercises in general may be boring to watch, this isn't something most people ever get to even see. Aside from the amazing views, the house was impeccable and Mary and Dessie were the fun'nest neighbours we've ever had on a holiday. This trip was an absolute delight and goes directly to our 'will do again' list.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lottie H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful Christmas break
Dezzie and Mary could not have been more welcoming and accommodating especially as we arrived later than anticipated. The house is really excellent for large families ( we are six with four almost adult children) as well as socialising with extended family. The view from the house is wonderful over the bay towards Ben Bulbin and there are amazing walks to beaches and headlands within range of the house. Everyone was so welcoming we even enjoyed a community St Stephens day Swim in the sea. We highly recommend this house for a taste of true west of Ireland warmth and spectacular views over the wild Atlantic Coastline.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Carl C.

Liked: Cleanliness
A Heavenly Slice of Coastal Farmland
Mary & Desmond are great hosts, helpful & hospitable. Our 3 year old grandson enjoyed the tractors while we enjoyed the coastal walks. The 4 BR home is very spacious and comfortable; and the kitchen had all that we needed for a 5 night stay. The water & mountain views and countryside quiet enhanced the comfort of our stay. David’s Restaurant & Yeats Tavern had 5-star cod fish & chips! Lots of good hikes nearby. Donegal an hour away. Even with lite rainy weather, a most active an enjoyable stay was had by all.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2021

8/10 Good

Patricia F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Unique stay with friendly family host
Hosts were family living next door to house and were very approachable about where to visit and places to eat. They made sure we knew about lots of hidden gems on their doorstep and went above and beyond to make sure we had a memorable week. The house itself is quite dated but well stocked. Remote location. 10 min drive to supermarket. 20-30 min drive to Rosses point, Mullaghmore, Bundoran, Sligo town. Had access to stony beach across the road for part of the week. Lovely to walk with Benbulbin in the distance.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Martina O.

Liked: Cleanliness
A lovely stay in Sligo
We had a very enjoyable stay at this property, it was super clean & had everything we needed & beds were really comfy. The kids loved all the space both inside & outside. The owners are so friendly and accommodating. Beautiful sea views and a lovely walkway down to the beach in front of the house. Would definitely recommend.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2021