My recent stay at Fia Lodge reminded me of what it means to indulge in a blissful escape in nature, feeling utterly tranquil and delighted by surrounding beauty. A stone’s throw from Killarney, in glorious Glencar, this wonderful retreat home is footsteps from The Kerry Way, nestled in the Reeks District, with vistas of Carrauntoohil, the highest mountain in Ireland. I arrived and felt as if I had found my own little piece of heaven, right in the heart of Ireland.

I retreated from the hustle and bustle for a few days, went “far from the madding crowd”, and felt rejuvenated by the clear air in my lungs and the magic of natural surroundings, in and out of the Lodge! The time at Fia Lodge flew by, though the days themselves were timeless and unhurried. I returned renewed and refreshed, and I’m now dreaming of my next return to this amazing place. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family or group of friends, with plans for sport or relaxation, you’ll appreciate the ease and comfort of this modern-equipped lodge with timeless details. The large living room boasts vaulted ceilings with a wall of floor-to-ceiling glass, for breathtaking views. At sunset, it’s especially nice to sit with a tea as the birds chirp, the sky turns purple and rose, and the “mountainscape” is an illuminated gold, orange, glowing in the distance, beyond the lush green.  

The house itself is bright and airy all around, with authentic wood accents, and a traditional cast iron woodstove as one of the centerpieces of the living room. From the skylights in the bedroom, fine linens and silk bathrobes, to the relaxing rain shower, there’s ample pampering to make this a luxury experience!

Outdoors, you have all the flora and fauna, hiking, biking, and local adventures you could want! Each day, I took a different hiking route, and was continually enthralled by the wildlife I saw. The surrounding area is a nature preserve—deer sightings are a daily occurrence here! The standout for all (like myself) with a massive case of “ornithophily”—that is, bird loving—will be the feathered friends. Here, there are doves and warblers, hawks and ravens. Many birds I couldn’t identify, with calls that are simply a marvel. Of course, it’s quiet at night—the daytime cheer that the birds bring was literal music to my ears. 

 Yes, you’ll feel transported in mere hours! For those wanting a relaxing, low-key stay, you’re perfectly suited to spend the days with a hot cup of tea by the fireside, enjoying the company of a good book. You also might enjoy yoga in the upstairs studio space, or cooking in the fully-equipped kitchen, fully stocked with appliances (plus nespresso machine and foamer, for all of my fellow cappuccino lovers!). There’s a laundry machine, a dishwasher, full stove and microwave, as well as a grill outside. It has everything you need for a delightful vacation that’s fully fun and hassle-free.

You’ll be in good hands at Fia Lodge, too, with owner Catherine Morris overseeing all details, from answering questions in advance to ensuring that your stay is enjoyable and easy. While I had complete privacy and space during my time there, any question I had received a timely, helpful response. It was ideal!

I’ll be returning to Fia Lodge, most definitely. The question, now, is how soon I can get back there? In the meantime, the stay there has worked its way into my writing, and it continues to inspire me from afar!

- Caitlin Krause, San Francisco, California