by Jennifer McShane
31st Jul 2017
31st Jul 2017
Ireland is packed full of hotels to consider staying in when on holidays, but there are other options available to the traveller looking to venture outside their comfort zones. If you’re looking to experience our gorgeous Emerald Isle via a different setting,?Airbnb has come into its own in this regard. Here you can rent almost any accommodation of your choice from the simple to the extraordinary at a wide range of prices. To those that might think it a tad strange to rent out someone else’s?home for a holiday, it’s really no different to renting a regular apartment, and it’s a fantastic way to get acquainted with the local scenery and culture (a big plus if you’re planning a solo trip). Irish staycations don’t get enough credit; we have some of the most beautiful destinations right on our doorstep, and now you can rent an equally impressive place to stay while visiting them. Here’s our pick of six places to consider next time you head away:
A??hexagon hut? in Westport, Co. Mayo
A gorgeous, cosy hut suitable for a couple who love nature and the great outdoors.
From €80 per night
Bookeen Hall, Athenry, Co. Galway
Bookeen Hall is a restored 200-year-old church about 20 minutes from Galway City and within easy reach of the Cliffs of Moher, The Burren and Connemara. It can accommodate large and small groups, and it’s situated on the edge of Dunsandle wood which has some great walking and running routes.
From €105 per night
Conroy’s Old Bar, Aglish, Co. Tipperary
This self-catering?pub (yes, seriously) is an ideal location for those planning a hen or stag do in the area. The bar no longer holds a liquor license, but sleeps up to four people and contains a fully functioning kitchen and the lounge comes kitted out with all manner of pub games, books, maps and tourist information. Guests can BYOB and enjoy the beer garden and tavern to themselves.
From €100 per night
Historic Seaside Property, Castletown-Bearhaven, Cork
Planning a dream summer holiday with your friends and all the kids? This is the ultimate escape. You have your own private beach, a sea view with plenty of room and privacy. With four bedrooms and six bathrooms, this will easily accommodate 10-12 people.
From €530 per night
Headfort House, Kells, Meath
This one is on the pricier side, but it does sleep 16 people and contain teaching facilities for 60 pupils. ?Suitable for a summer school or similar large groups, this stunning location includes extensive sporting facilities, theatre?and a ballroom. Planning a school reunion? This would definitely be the setting for one with a difference.
From €1,200 per night
Victorian Apartment, D4, Dublin
For those who want old-school glamour.?Based in Rathgar, this dates back to the 1840s but has all the modern amenities for a cosy-yet-comfortable stay with loads of original features and a garden. ?It sleeps up to four people.
From €1,333 per night