Ireland's history and folklore draw in many a wandering soul, but its physical features will charm you just as much. There's that famous rugged coastline interspersed with pretty stretches of beach and the interiors are green, lush, and wild. Plenty of stamina is needed if you want to enjoy this country fully. And if you plan a trip that involves a drive, walk or cycle out into the more remote regions you'll be rewarded. It is deep within the countryside that you will find some of the best places to stay in Ireland, perfect for true escapism, from cosy little B&Bs to restaurants with rooms and top notch luxury hotels.
Ireland's colourful history is woven into every street corner and every Catholic church you pass. The lyrical language lends warmth to every welcome and an extra ring to the folk music you'll hear almost everywhere you go.
If you're here for traditional Ireland head out to the dramatic scenery of County Donegal, the wild, wind-whipped peninsulas of the south-east, home of the wonder-inducing Cliffs of Moher, or the mysterious Connemara region. Here you'll find the thatched roofs, fishing villages and amiable pubs - though of course, you will find those everywhere!
If you're after solid history rather than traditions you'll be wanting Dublin's St. Patrick's Cathedral, Trinity College or Kilmainham Gaol, Cobh's Titanic Museum, Cashel's Rock of Cashel, or Newgrange and the other prehistoric monuments on Bru na Boinne. Ireland is rich with castles and forts, ruins and monuments, museums, galleries and important reminders of the past - both distant and more recent.
If you want to see the Ireland in the incredible photographs used to entice us there, drive or cycle the Ring of Kerry, step on the Giant's Causeway, walk amongst the majestic mountains of Mourne, or look out across the epic Atlantic coast. Counties Cork and Kerry are known for their beauty, and Sligo is pretty spectacular as well.
Dublin is regularly called friendly, arty, welcoming, beautiful and atmospheric. People do find that, despite being Ireland’s capital, Dublin does feel more compact and village-like than many European cities. It has some beautiful architecture - from medieval castle and cathedrals to the Georgian splendour of some of its houses - but it also has some corkers, and it's the miss-matched effect which really gives Dublin its great character.
Then there’s Cork, whose rivalry with Dublin is legendary. Locals call this the ‘real capital of Ireland', or, from the more mischievous ‘The People’s Republic of Cork’. There are plenty of folk in Cork with a mischievous air and a song in their hearts - or on their lips even. Cork's youthful energy comes partly from its rebellious traditions and partly from its university. This makes for vibrant nightlife and a great live music scene. Even Dubliners might agree that Cork is Ireland's foodie capital. Visitors should visit the markets as well as sampling some of what's on offer in the slew of cafes and restaurants.
Galway is known for its tides and its summers, which are packed with over fifty festivals a year. Killarney is the starting point for many trips along the Ring of Kerry. Kilkenny is a medieval beauty with an imposing Norman castle. Sligo has the mountains, the beaches and W.B. Yates.
Ireland's not short of pretty spots with good access to the country's scenic heartlands, but if you like a friendly, riverside city featuring plenty of medieval and Georgian architecture and with views over a majestically dilapidated Norman castle, then Limerick is for you.
With so many different areas and things to see and do there is no shortage of beds in the best places to stay in Ireland. The problem is where to start.
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Dublin (Ballsbridge)
Converted Victorian townhouse on the Lansdowne Road just steps from the Aviva stadium. Rooms are traditional in style - book a suite for a four poster experience. Incredible value for this excellent Dublin location, close to all major sights and nightlife. Perfect for a budget break or rugby fans.
Dublin (Dublin Castle)
This quirky boutique hotel is located in the heart of Dublin's city centre. Individually styled rooms boast hand-selected design pieces and comfy beds; the best retain the building's Victorian-era charm with exposed wooden beams. Take the novel hotel bridge over to No Name Bar. A lively city stay.
Cork
Originally an Edwardian tobacco factory, now a boutique hotel, set in the heart of Cork. A collection of rooms and apartments mix contemporary and traditional styles resulting in a clean and simple aesthetic. The multi-award-winning restaurant Greene's is the real draw and worthy of a visit alone.
County Cork (Castlemartyr)
A family-run hotel boasting a spectacular location on the coast in County Cork. Reception rooms are grand and traditional complete with antiques and roaring fires. The innovative restaurant turns-out impeccable dishes; while rooms are contemporary and indulgent. Superb.
County Kerry (Cahersiveen)
Super stylish restaurant with rooms on the Ring of Kerry. Four spacious bedrooms with king sized beds, wooden floors, roll top baths & Bose docking stations. Restaurant specialises in fresh fish caught from their own boat. Chic spot that won't break the bank on Ireland's West Coast.
County Kerry (Ballydavid)
A charming stonebuilt 200 year old farmhouse turned B&B in the Dingle Peninsula. Four individually decorated bedrooms with plenty of pine & patchwork. Huge breakfasts with home-made breads and preserves. Four course dinners on request. A great spot for walking enthusiasts & nature lovers.
County Galway
A luxurious contemporary hotel boasting a spectacular setting overlooking the dramatic Connemara coastline. Chic interiors are fresh and modern with large expanses of glass to fully take in the views. There's also an indulgent spa and two restaurants. A spoiling option for a rural getaway.
Galway (Galway)
Extraordinary contemporary five star hotel just outside Galway. Interiors designed by Philip Treacy feature brightly coloured (some might say garish) public spaces, whilst rooms and suites are more restful. Stunning views out to sea, great food & ESPA. All a stone's throw from Galway's attractions.
County Mayo (Co. Mayo)
An imposing pink Georgian house situated in the glorious countryside of County Mayo. True to its architecture the property is filled with elegant antiques, decorated with softly patterned wallpapers and lit with chandeliers. Elegant yet friendly this is a superior country stay.
County Mayo (Slievemore)
A convivial family-run B&B on the beautiful island of Achill, County Mayo. Each room has a homely feel and affords great views either out to sea or of mountains. The perfect launchpad for exploring the stunning coastline line and fascinating heritage of Ireland's largest island.
Wexford
A contemporary luxury hotel set in the heart of the coastal town of Wexford. Spacious rooms are light and airy with plush headboards, floor-to-ceiling windows, and soft grey hues. With extensive amenities including an indoor pool, gym, fine dining restaurant and bar, this is a very comfortable base.
Wexford
A 4* luxury hotel set on the edge of the coastal town of Wexford. While rooms are simply styled and contemporary, reception rooms have a grand old-world feel. With two restaurants, an indoor pool, and a spa — this is a relaxing choice for couples or families.
Killarney
This smart, family-run hotel is tucked away in Killarney, Ireland. The individually dressed guestrooms are comfortable and stylish with contemporary interior design; opt for a luxury suite for an indulgent hot tub bath. Dine at the hotel's award-winning restaurant after a day sightseeing in Kerry.
Killarney (Killarney)
A luxurious hotel set in the town of Killarney which borders Killarney National park. Traditionally dressed rooms feature a choice selection of antiques set with chintz fabrics. A spoiling spa will soothe any aching muscles from an activity-filled day and the fine-dining restaurant is a real treat.
