Inside Cork, AirBnB has been voted Ireland’s most ‘unusual’, where you’ll find Fifty Shades of Gray and the Bible on the bedside table

If you’re looking for a West Cork getaway off the beaten path look no further, Bridge House in Skibbereen has it all, with copies of Fifty Shades of Gray and the Bible on the bedside tables as well as handcuffs there is literally something for everyone.

Mona Best, 70, has run her wacky and quirky place that showcases Victorian furniture amidst mannequins and funky art, which has also been her home, for over 20 years.

Although her BnB was voted Ireland’s “most unusual” BnB by listeners to Ray D’arcy, for her home is a trivial matter.

“I guess it’s unusual for other people with the models and the different set-ups, but it’s very normal for me, I treat my house like my stage – it’s my way of expressing myself”, a she said, “I guess I’m pretty liberal too, nothing shocks me,” she added with a laugh.

A self-proclaimed “country girl” from Bantry, Mona has walked to the beat of her own drum for years.

“Weird and interesting people seem to have a way of finding their way to me, my four kids and I have laughed a lot with guests over the years,” she says.

Living in Skibb is perfect for Mona, she says she can be herself in town.

“I dress as expressively as I do in my house, maybe someday I’ll go out and wear something you would see on a 20 year old, take it off and people will just say, ‘oh that’ is Mona, “” she said.

“The point is, I am who I am, that’s all I can be,” she added.

Stars have slept in the satin sheets in Mona’s bedrooms over the years, Daniel O Donnell has feasted and Mick Flannery is a regular, she always leaves him rose petals on the bed.

Based on the reviews, guests love their stay and Mona and many have praised her as “a kind and generous soul” in their reviews.

“This is an amazing place, I loved Lady Mona. She won my heart. I literally came as a guest, spent my time feeling at home and left as a guest. ‘Friend. The house is a 19th century museum full of taste and wonder, “said one person.

Another said they felt they had stepped into a “fantasy world of Oscar Wilde” and noted that their highlight was listening to “Christmas carols being played on the stereo during what needed to be. one of the hottest days for over forty years “.

With such a loyal flock of loyal customers, it’s clear visitors may be drawn to the BnB’s unusual decor, but it’s Mona’s quirks and cuteness that keep them coming back. You can book to stay at Bridge House here.