The rhythms of life change, when you move slowly. Knowing the tide schedule, anticipating the sunrises, enjoying the seals - it's all something that we were lucky enough to experience. Settling into life at Pier Cottage, Co Kerry, Ireland for two weeks was pure joy. From the moment we walked into the old Coast Guard cottage, I could feel myself unwinding, to a slower, more natural pace. Observing the times of the tides, and heading down to the beach to see what the sea left, eating locally caught fish, the best croissants I've ever had in my life from a local baker and artist, and more, changed me. It left me with a joy for Ireland, and a deep sense of place, at Pier Cottage.

Although I'll write more of our stay here, for now, I'd love to share some images with you - the abundant wild fuschia, the glorious sunrises (and moonscapes), rain and fresh picked blackberries, and more. Here are a few of our favorite memories...

sunrise over the Beara Peninsula

gathered shells on the front stoop

fresh croissants (best ever) from Jane, at Westcove Farmhouse Bakery

sea diamonds

the view from the living room door

friendly neighborhood fisherman

an early moon

and later, at night

a very still Westcove Harbor

bees on the wild fuschia

a clear day (or part of one)

seals out front

some of what the tide brought in

extremely large dead crab in a tide pool

Pier Cottage as seen from Westcove House

See why we loved it? It was a glorious two weeks, full of great food, family time, excursions to Killarney, Kenmare, Sneem, driving the Ring of Kerry, and plenty of down time to truly experience the rhythm of a place.

All photos courtesy and copyright Jessie Voigts 

Note: Our stay at Pier Cottage was partially sponsored by Homeaway Holiday Rentals.  Thank you, Homeaway and Pier Cottage!