For many people, the laid-back vibes, cosy accessibility, and relative affordability of an Airbnb has the makings of a perfect holiday. And, as the quality, quantity and diversity of properties to rent in Ireland continues to improve, perhaps it’s time to give more serious consideration to the beautiful accommodation options on our doorstep as we plan for the summer holidays and beyond.
Mountain retreat (adults only), Waterford/Tipperary border
If you really want to get away from the rest of the world to your very own private sanctuary, this mountain retreat will blow you away. The secluded lodge is only accessible by car and the nearest small town of
Cappoquin is a 15-minute drive away. However, with a large private deck, a six-person hot tub with sound system and a beautiful barbecue area, we have a feeling you won’t want to go anywhere else once you arrive at this blissful destination.
If you’re lucky, the resident fluffy ginger cat, Willow, will also pay a visit.
• €175 per night, airbnb.ie/rooms/835609943792499113
The Lake House, Co Donegal
If you’ve never holidayed in Donegal – one of Ireland’s most beautiful counties, now is the time to remedy that. Escape from it all to this adorable house, blessed with stunning mountain views and minutes from sandy beaches that stretch for miles.
The romantic cottage is perfect for cosying up in front of the wood-burning stove with a glass of wine, soaking in the private hot-tub while star-gazing, or simply breathing in the fresh Donegal air whilst reading a book. The small but airy open plan living space has a mezzanine sleeping area complete with electric blackout blinds for a night of total rest.
• €150 per night, airbnb.ie/rooms/694940562348474042
Beside the Tide, Co Galway
With four bedrooms, this fabulous property with views of Galway Bay, Kinvara Inlet and the Burren Mountains can comfortably host up to eight people.
Set in a quiet and serene location on the Wild Atlantic Way, it’s got something for everyone as you can enjoy water sports, take a short drive to get to the Burren or sample the delights of Galway city. And at the end of your day, you can all gather round the fire pit on the private patio to gaze at the sky.
• €644 per night, five-night minimum stay, airbnb.ie/rooms/573716779386224447
A Royal Getaway, Co Cork
Everybody deserves to live like royalty at least once in their lives, right? Well, now you can because Ireland’s oldest inhabited castle has been renovated and brought up to 21st century modern luxury living standards and is available for you to rent. You can stay in a beautiful suite on the ground floor accessed via a very impressive hallway. Your suite has a kitchenette, a large bedroom and bathroom, all with underfloor heating. It’s located just 10 minutes from Cork airport.
• €225 per night, airbnb.ie/rooms/635628761279049134
Atlantic Way Bus, Co Kerry
How would you like to have a holiday in the West of Ireland that you’ll never forget? Stay in a bus along the Dingle Way that has been converted to the highest standard, and you’re guaranteed just that. With a hotel-quality double bed, instant hot water, shower and cooking facilities and ample room for a family of four, this novel accommodation is sure to appeal to adventurous souls looking for a unique experience.
For a larger group of people, there is space outside for a tent. Just a short stroll from the nearest beach, you are also within walking distance of the local pubs, and supermarkets. With glorious mountain and sea views of West Kerry, it is the ideal spot to explore the Wild Atlantic Way.
• €100 per night, airbnb.ie/rooms/644222187365635085
Sweet Valley Escape, Co Mayo
This cosy Swiss-style chalet has everything you need for the ultimate escape from the bustle of everyday life. Although it’s just a five-
minute drive from Westport town, there is a sense of being miles from anywhere. Steeped in peace and serenity, free from light pollution, idyllic for star gazing, this is a place where you can forget your worries and just be. If you have trouble switching off, the wood-fired hot tub or hammock where you can take in the spectacular panoramic views should certainly help.
• €209 per night, airbnb.ie/rooms/882456208640189301
A trip to the sunny south east is always a good idea in summer. Prepare to forget your worries in this spacious and newly refurbished stone cottage and lavender barn on the grounds of an old farm – just a 10-minute drive from Wexford town. With every mod con you could hope to find, this wonderful accommodation has been described as ‘the perfect oasis for Irish wandering’.
• €160 per night, two nights stay minimum, airbnb.ie/rooms/927331452883244184
The Horse Box, Co Kildare
Before you dismiss a horse box as somewhere you would never stay, it’s worth noting that it is one of the most loved homes on Airbnb with over 200 glowing reviews. Essentially, it’s a vintage horse trailer transformed into a modern day tiny house with ensuite bathroom and kitchenette complete with microwave, kettle, coffee machine and a charcoal barbecue area outside with great views across the countryside. It’s located on a quiet country road, six-minute walk from the local pub serving food. If you have a car, Trim Castle and many more heritage sites are also nearby, waiting to be discovered. There’s a private area nearby with a hot tub for your personal use.
• €129 per night, airbnb.ie/rooms/52649759
Unique Pod Co Sligo
Tranquility meets luxury glamping in this small but stunning IgluCabin, perched high in the hills near Geevagh, 20 minutes from Sligo town. The pod itself is beautifully designed in shiplap wood, the interior offers a cosy bedroom area, an efficiently furnished kitchen, a living and dining area with lots of natural light from a panoramic window and a bathroom with a shower. There is also an outdoor terrace with a barbecue, table and chairs as well as a large outdoor couch to enjoy the silence and sunsets.
• €110 per night, airbnb.ie/rooms/727485833510924700
Luxury Dome, Co Clare
Have you ever slept in a bubble dome? If not, this amazing one with 360-degree panoramic views of the Burren is an inspired place to try it for the first time. Let the heartbeat of nature soothe and comfort your soul as you soak up your surroundings and take in the spectacular Burren sunset and night sky from your luxury garden accommodation. You’ll have access to a private, modern kitchenette and a bathroom annex throughout your stay and wake to birdsong, the fresh Burren air and a wholesome breakfast.
• €122 per night, airbnb.ie/rooms/800468973915766675