Simple, splendid, traditional, contemporary, quirky or quintessentially Irish, there’s a perfect self-catering home from home waiting for you on the island of Ireland.
Self-catering is a great way to holiday, offering maximum freedom and flexibility. And on the island of Ireland, you can make your break truly memorable with a stay in a castle, cottage, beach house, historic tower or other unique accommodation.
1 Ballyportry Castle, County Clare
Experience life as a Gaelic lord with a vacation in a fifteenth-century Gaelic tower house. This protected monument sleeps eight and has a stone spiral staircase leading up to its imposing Great Hall. You’ll find the fridge filled with local foods and there is lots to explore in the famous Burren landscape that surrounds it.
2 Wicklow Head Lighthouse, County Wicklow
Feel on top of the world with an overnight in a lighthouse standing watch over the Irish Sea. The striking octagon-shaped lighthouse dates from 1781 and sleeps four. Watch the sun come up, wander the nearby cliffs or feel the power of an approaching storm from the amazing vantage point on the top floor.
3 Keenaghan Cottage, County Fermanagh
Step into a quintessentially Irish experience and delight in the charm of a nineteenth-century thatched cottage sitting on the shores of a shimmering lough. Offering five-star comfort, the two-bedroom cottage is a great place to relax after a day spent exploring Fermanagh’s beautiful lakelands.
4 Martello Tower Sutton, County Dublin
Give your Dublin city break a twist with a stay in a Napoleonic defence tower perched on the coast. The historic circular building, built in 1804, has been beautifully restored and offers top-class accommodation that includes two bedrooms, a dining room and a living room with a domed brick ceiling. A perfect base from which to explore gorgeous Dublin Bay.
5 Quarry Hill Church, County Down
Enjoy an oasis of calm in a stunning heritage building in the tranquil village of Strangford. This converted nineteenth-century church sits on a hill and offers luxurious accommodation for up to 10 people. The sanctuary is the centrepiece of the church featuring double height ceilings, ornate cornicing, wooden panelling and full height Georgian windows.
6 Inchiquin House, County Clare
Relax in the elegant surroundings of this period home on the Wild Atlantic Way, dating from 1840. Perfect for a vacation at any time of year, the house has spacious indoor and outdoor areas and is furnished with authentic period pieces. In winter, cosy up in front of the open fire in the living room, while in summer enjoy long evenings on the patio area.
7 Annes Grove Miniature Castle, County Cork
Be the star of your own fairytale in this miniature medieval castle in the beautiful grounds of Annes Grove Estate and Gardens. The perfect romantic getaway, the cosy castle sleeps two and offers a unique, authentic experience. Complete your stay with a visit to the stunning collection of exotic plants in Annes Grove gardens.
8 Great Blasket Island Accommodation, County Kerry
Get away from it all to the dramatic Blasket Islands and stay in a cottage overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. With no electricity, TV or Wi-Fi you can experience a complete tech detox and immerse yourself in the beauty of this rugged landscape. By day, explore the unspoilt island, looking out for grey seals, and at night enjoy the magical ambiance of candlelight.
9 Black Rock Beach House, County Antrim
Bring friends and family and enjoy this luxurious contemporary accommodation overlooking the beach on Northern Ireland’s spectacular Causeway Coast. Sleeping up to 14, it boasts a roof terrace with expansive ocean views, cinema room and outdoor hot tub. Royal Portrush Golf Club is just a mile away.
10 The Cottages, County Meath
Indulge yourself with a holiday in a luxury 300-year-old thatched cottage on the beach front in Ireland’s Ancient East. Set in large organic flower gardens, the accommodation is picture perfect. Enjoy beach walks or head off to explore the amazing history and heritage of the Boyne Valley, including the famous Newgrange Neolithic passage tomb.
C/O www.ireland.com
