Hi Everyone. I hope I find you all well this week. Some of you may be planning your trip to Ireland and wondering where to stay. I certainly get a lot of requests from my readers asking for accommodation recommendations. AirbnB has opened the doors to many beautiful places to stay in Ireland so this week I’m giving you my top 10 AirBnB homes. I’ve selected something to suit all tastes, from a traditional thatched cottage to a tree-house! I stress that this list is by no means definitive! My choices are based on personal experience or recommendations from friends. So buckle up and let’s get on the road!
1. Cottage Retreat – Co. Galway
First stop Galway. This traditional pre-famine thatched cottage is situated just 15 minutes from bustling Galway city. Enjoy the vibrancy of the city and all it has to offer combined with the peace and tranquillity of the cottage location. There is a 9 hole golf course as well as horse riding stables just across the road. The owners proudly do not offer WiFi or TV which adds to the feeling of truly getting away from it all in a rural retreat.
2. Treehouse – Kilkenny

So next we’re off to Kilkenny for something truly quirky and unique. Braille House is right in the heart of Kilkenny, just a 10 minute walk from the town centre. Yet the tree- house itself could be in the middle of the countryside, surrounded by trees and the sound of birdsong. Well insulated and super cosy. But remember- you have to climb a ladder to get in and out!

3. Liss Ard Estate Lake House -Skibbereen

So next on the list of my top AirBnB homes is this stunning lake house in West Cork. The house is located in the 163 acre Liss Ard estate and overlooks a private lake. This is the perfect place for a large group, boasting 10 rooms with private bathrooms. There’s also a great big kitchen, dining rooms, comfortable sitting rooms and a sun room. A stunning setting with beautiful walks in every direction.
4. Period Home – Dublin
Time to head to the capital now for some old school period luxury. This stunning 5 bedroom home dates back to the 1840s and is situated in the affluent suburb of Rathgar, just 3 km from Dublin city. The AGA cooker in the kitchen provides warmth throughout the house and is one of many period features. The Jacuzzi in the main bathroom is the perfect place to unwind after seeing the many sights Dublin has to offer.
5. Dingle Bay – Kerry
So next we’re off to the gorgeous Kingdom of Kerry. This 5-bed house sleeps 10 people with ease making it perfect for large groups or families. Make sure to take in all the surroundings here including the Blasket islands and Dingle itself. If the weather is favourable you can make use of the large patio area to soak up the sun. The beach is nearby and the views are simply stunning
6. Romantic Escape Woodsmoke Cottage – Clare

Wood Smoke cottage is a true hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Burren. Just 3 km from the beautiful village of Ballyvaughan. The perfect base to explore this truly magical part of the country. The house is super cozy and homely with a wood fired stove. There’s also an outdoor hot tub and sauna! There’s also a private deck carved into Burren rock complete with fire-pit!
7. Mews House – Cork City
Time for some true luxury in the heart of Cork city. One review says it all – “This is the Ritz Carlton, four seasons of AirBnB” Suitable for up to 4 people, boasting two large bedrooms and the view of the city from your own private balcony. There are all the amenities you would ever need here to unwind in the evening with fibre optic broadband, cable television and Netflix. The views over the city are stunning.
8. Kylemore Hideaway – Connemara

We’re heading back west now to the drama and majesty of the Connemara region. The Kylemore Hideaway nestles on a mountainside with stunning views on all sides. In fact, it overlooks a fishing lodge once frequented by Oscar Wilde! Lakeside strolls, the sound of the nearby waterfall and the warm welcome of a real turf fire in the stove all await you in this unforgettable location.
9. Off Grid Eco Cottage-Donegal

Time to visit one of my favorite places in the world. This off-grid eco friendly cottage is situated in Port in Donegal and you truly feel you’re on the edge of the world in this truly special place. Be warned though- this amazing cottage is only for those who truly want to take a break from the modern world. There is no mains electricity and the house and water are heated by wood fire stoves. The water comes from a hillside river and solar panels provide the power for lighting. Food is chilled in the outside larder and drinks in the nearby stream. Still interested? Believe me you won’t regret it. I was lucky enough to stay here and have never felt so blessed!
10. Lakehouse – Monaghan
Our final destination takes us to County Monaghan, the birthplace of the iconic Irish poet, Patrick Kavanagh. This splendid lake house is situated in Emyvale. There are 5 bedrooms with room for 10 guests and stunning views of the lake. Located just 10 minutes from the iconic Castle Leslie, a popular wedding destination. Many people stay here who prefer the comforts of a home when attending nuptials in Castle Leslie than a hotel room. If you are feeling brave you can even go for a quick (very quick!) swim in the lake. There are also numerous golf clubs in the area.
So there’s my top 10. Please share any personal recommendations in the comments below. Who knows, we could even do a top 10 as recommended by our blog readers!
Why not shop our full collection of Aran Sweaters, Irish Jewelry and Irish Homewares and don’t forget to use BLOG10 at the checkout to get a 10% discount!
See you next week.
Slán go fóill!
Lulu.
2 comments
Hello,
A friend has recommended Burren Lodge, an Airbnb near Galway, but we can’t find it on Airbnb. The one we are looking for is owned by Aine Foran. Might this be the same one you recommend listed above as Burren Lodge – Clare? If so, do you have any contact information?
Thank you,
Sally & Duncan McCollum
Hi Sally & Duncan,
It looks like this this property is no longer on Airbnb. We published this post over 2 years ago so it’s definitely time for an update!I’m sure you’ll find somewhere equally lovely for your stay in Ireland. There’s so much on offer in that area.
Good luck and have a wonderful trip!
Regards,
Lulu.