Newsletter December 2009
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A Busy Year At Croan Cottages Kilkenny
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It’s been said that
when we’re children, Christmas seems to come once every three years but as we age, it seems to come three times a year. It certainly doesn’t seem as though a full year has passed since we last compiled an annual review, but what a busy year it’s been. |
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Developments in the Cottages
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This year, we’ve installed satellite TV and Wireless broadband in every cottage and the feedback
from guests has been very positive, particularly from our teenage visitors. Our
online booking facility, unveiled last year, is proving a welcome addition to our website at www.CroanCottages.com. Of course, we’re still available to answer your booking queries ourselves by email or over the phone. |
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Walled Garden Work
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Our ever maturing walled garden has really done us proud this year and we’ve been delighted to be able to
share our produce with guests. From potatoes to rhubarb, blackcurrants and gooseberries to more unusual vegetables like multicoloured Swiss chard, our gardens are a year round source of pleasure and our ‘help yourself’ boxes of fresh veg have proved to be a big hit.  Freshly picked lettuces and tomatoes were welcome
additions to Summer salad bowls and autumn roots are still providing warming soups. Our current favourite is beetroot soup – the vibrant colour and earthy flavour are just perfect for these chilly evenings. You can find the recipe on our website here. |
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Hedge and Tree Planting
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Smallholding
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The four
orphan lambs which we fostered in the Spring, grew up happily this year with the four which were born at Croan. We became particularly fond of ‘Obama lamb’, the little black one who initially didn’t seem to stand a chance. It really is very rewarding to see them thrive. Bo’s new calf, born in July, continues to do well and he’ll be staying
here for the foreseeable future. Pierre and Penelope, our peacock and hen, are
still ruling the roost and the chickens are continuing to lay well, despite the shorter days, providing free range eggs for our guests’ enjoyment. Bella and
Poppy are in good health and spirits and are particularly enjoying log fires on these cold nights. |
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Looking Forward To 2010
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Next Year, we will be adding a Blog to our website. Check it out for recipe ideas and updates on progress with the animals and garden.
As the economic
downturn has been taking its toll, we’ve been conscious of offering great value breaks to our guests. With this in mind rates for 2010 have been further reduced and the extras which we introduced in 2009 are still on offer, such as free extra nights when available. You can check Rates and Availability at any stage over the phone or on our website at http://www.croancottages.com/book.htm
Please contact
us for further details. We wish you all a very
Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year, Niamh and
Francis
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