7 Of The Best Places To Stay Around Ireland

From bustling cityscapes to the serene countryside, Ireland is brimming with luxurious retreats that offer the perfect blend of comfort, style, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're chasing urban chic or countryside charm, these stays promise to enchant.

7 Of The Best Places To Stay Around Ireland

From bustling cityscapes to the serene countryside, Ireland is brimming with luxurious retreats that offer the perfect blend of comfort, style, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're chasing urban chic or countryside charm, these stays promise to enchant.
Finn Lough

Ireland is a land of captivating beauty, where lush landscapes meet a rich tapestry of history and culture. Imagine exploring dramatic coastlines, quaint villages, and vibrant cities, each offering its own unique charm. Whether you’re drawn to the lively streets of Dublin, the tranquil beauty of the countryside, or the rugged allure of the coast, Ireland provides a variety of luxurious accommodations that promise to make your journey truly special. 

Picture yourself sipping cocktails on a rooftop overlooking Dublin’s skyline, relaxing in centuries-old castles surrounded by lush woodland, or stargazing in a secluded bubble dome deep in the Irish wilderness. No matter your travel dreams, Ireland’s finest accommodations are ready to turn them into reality.

Tried and tested, here are some of the best places to stay around the Emerald Isle:

The Anantara Marker Hotel

The Anantara Marker Hotel is a great place to stay in Dublin.
Credit: The Anantara Marker Hotel

Nestled in the heart of Dublin’s vibrant Docklands, The Anantara Marker Hotel is a haven of contemporary luxury and urban sophistication. Inspired by the elements, this five-star, architectural marvel stands as a striking symbol of modern Dublin, reflecting the energy and creativity of the city. Here, guests can enjoy the hotel’s iconic rooftop bar and terrace, which draws crowds from across the city with its breathtaking 360 degree views of the mountains and sea, making it the perfect spot to unwind with a signature cocktail. 

The award-winning spa provides a tranquil retreat, offering an indoor pool and indulgent treatments that use locally-inspired techniques and ingredients. While dining at the hotel is a celebration of Ireland’s culinary heritage, with gourmet dishes crafted from the finest local produce. If you’re looking for a base to explore Dublin’s cultural landmarks and vibrant nightlife, The Anantara Marker Hotel is a fantastic choice.

Killeavy Castle Estate

For those seeking a fairy-tale retreat, Killeavy Castle Estate in County Armagh offers an enchanting experience steeped in history and natural beauty.
Credit: Killeavy Castle Estate

For those seeking a fairy-tale retreat, Killeavy Castle Estate in County Armagh offers an enchanting experience steeped in history and natural beauty. Set on 365 acres of lush woodland and farmland, and home to a lovingly-restored 19th century castle, the estate provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. 

Located just 10 minutes outside Newry and only one hour from Belfast and Dublin airports, Killeavy Castle Estate provides a range of accommodation, from a magnificent 19th-century castle fit with stone walls, historic paintings, and rich fabrics to a boutique-style hotel with 45 guestrooms, and a collection of one- to six-bedroom, self-catered residences. Each option provides a varied experience, while staying true to the Killeavy design.

Guests can indulge in farm-to-table dining, with menus featuring ingredients sourced directly from the estate’s grounds. The luxurious spa offers a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate both body and mind, all while surrounded by the beauty of the Irish countryside. Exploring the castle’s enchanting grounds reveals walking trails, ancient woodlands, and breathtaking views, creating an experience that feels like stepping into a storybook.

Slieve Donard Hotel

Situated at the foot of the majestic Mourne Mountains in County Down, the Slieve Donard Hotel offers a fusion of natural beauty and refined elegance.
Credit: Slieve Donard Hotel

Situated at the foot of the majestic Mourne Mountains in County Down, the Slieve Donard Hotel offers a fusion of natural beauty and refined elegance. Built by the Belfast and County Down Railway in 1898 as a luxury holiday destination, the Slieve Donard was the epitome of Victorian grandeur. Today, that legacy lives on with the hotel’s gorgeous Marine & Lawn restoration.

Overlooking a pristine stretch of golden beach, this iconic hotel is renowned for its impeccable service and opulent amenities. Here, the freshly updated guest rooms evoke the hotel’s rich history with local legends gracing the walls and colours of the wilderness blending beautifully with custom designs.

The world-class spa, with its thermal suites and infinity pool, provides a haven of relaxation against the backdrop of the mountains and sea. And when it comes to whiling away the hours, guests can explore the nearby Royal County Down, one of the world’s most prestigious golf clubs, or take a leisurely stroll along the scenic coastline. 

The hotel’s dining options feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a culinary experience that matches the grandeur of its surroundings. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquillity, the Slieve Donard Hotel delivers an unforgettable escape.

Finn Lough

For a one-of-a-kind luxury experience, Finn Lough in County Fermanagh invites guests to reconnect with nature without sacrificing comfort.
Credit: Finn Lough

For a one-of-a-kind luxury experience, Finn Lough in County Fermanagh invites guests to reconnect with nature without sacrificing comfort. Famous for its Bubble Domes — which look like glass, but are in fact air pressurised PVC — Finn Lough offers a truly unique way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Irish wilderness. 

Tucked away among the private forest, each dome features 180-degree transparent walls, giving you uninterrupted views and allowing guests to gaze at the stars or wake up to the gentle rustling of trees. Inside, the domes are furnished with plush beds, cosy seating, and modern amenities, creating the ultimate blend of rustic charm and contemporary luxury. 

Guests can also explore the estate’s private forest trails, enjoy a paddle on the lake, or rejuvenate at the lakeside spa, which offers treatments inspired by the natural surroundings. Dining at Finn Lough is also a treat, with dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a meal that’s as memorable as the setting.

Ice House

Perched along the banks of the River Moy in Ballina, the Ice House Hotel seamlessly blends contemporary design with historical character.
Credit: Ice House Hotel

Perched along the banks of the River Moy in Ballina, the Ice House Hotel seamlessly blends contemporary design with historical character. Originally a 19th-century ice storage building, this boutique hotel has been transformed into a chic riverside retreat. 

Floor-to-ceiling windows in the stylish rooms and suites provide guests with uninterrupted views of the river and surrounding landscape. While the award-winning Chill Spa offers a range of treatments and outdoor thermal baths including Himalayan Salt Baths and Detox Seaweed Baths, allowing guests to unwind while soaking in the tranquil riverside atmosphere. 

The hotel’s restaurant delivers innovative dishes that showcase the finest local ingredients, offering a dining experience that reflects the region’s culinary excellence. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or exploration, The Ice House is a luxurious gateway to the wonder of County Mayo.

Ballinahinch Castle

Nestled in the heart of Connemara along the Wild Atlantic Way, Ballinahinch Castle is an awe-inspiring escape that embodies the timeless allure of Irish heritage.
Credit: Ballinahinch Castle

Nestled in the heart of Connemara along the Wild Atlantic Way, Ballinahinch Castle is an awe-inspiring escape that embodies the timeless allure of Irish heritage. Surrounded by 700 acres of pristine woodland, rivers, and mountains, this 18th-century castle offers a tranquil retreat where nature and history collide. This authentic castle hotel stands proudly overlooking its famous salmon fishery, with a backdrop of the spectacular Twelve Bens mountain range. 

Guests can partake in activities such as fly fishing on the castle’s private salmon river, hiking through scenic trails, or cycling amidst the rugged beauty of Connemara. The castle’s elegantly appointed rooms and suites combine traditional charm with modern comforts, to ensure a restful stay dipped in luxury. 

Another Ballinahinch highlight is the dining, with menus showcasing fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a focus on seasonal flavours. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty breakfast overlooking the river or a candlelit dinner in the grand dining room, every meal is an experience to savour.

Lahinch Coast Hotel

For those captivated by Ireland’s rugged coastline, the Lahinch Coast Hotel in County Clare provides a luxurious base to explore the Wild Atlantic Way.
Credit: Lahinch Coast Hotel

For those captivated by Ireland’s rugged coastline, the Lahinch Coast Hotel in County Clare provides a luxurious base to explore the Wild Atlantic Way. Located near the iconic Cliffs of Moher and the world-famous Lahinch Golf Club, this contemporary hotel is perfectly positioned for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike. 

The spacious, modern rooms are designed with comfort and style in mind, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Guests can also enjoy gourmet dining at the hotel’s restaurant, which features dishes inspired by the flavours of the west coast. After a day of exploration, unwind in the leisure centre, complete with a swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.

From cosmopolitan Dublin to the tranquil countryside and dramatic coastlines, Ireland is home to a range of luxury accommodations offering something for every traveller. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, an adventurous retreat, or a rejuvenating getaway, these exceptional properties promise to make your journey through Ireland truly unforgettable.

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