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Unique AirBnBs in Ireland: 32 Cool, Luxurious & Romantic Airbnbs For 2024

Unique AirBnBs in Ireland: 32 Cool, Luxurious & Romantic Airbnbs For 2024

If you’re in search of the best Airbnbs in Ireland, you’ve landed in the right spot.

There’s some very quirky, funky and wonderfully unique Airbnbs in Ireland, from hobbit pods and treehouses to cosy seaside cabins and glorious mountain lodges.

And, while some will set you back an arm and a leg, others are pretty reasonable, especially if you visit with a few people. Discover the best of them below!

What we think are the best Airbnbs in Ireland

Ballycotton Airbnb

Photos via VRBO

Disclaimer: Many of the places below aren’t actually Airbnbs… this post used to contain only the best Airbnbs in Ireland, and then Airbnb stopped paying commissions for the thousands (literally) of bookings that we were sending them.

So, in order to keep this site afloat, we’re working with VRBO now (they offer the same service as Airbnb), who pay us a small commission for each booking. If you do make a booking, thank you – you’re helping us to keep this site running.

1. Brandon House

Brandon House

Photos via VRBO

With its extraordinarily spacious, pared back living room, Brandon House in Tralee, County Kerry offers spectacular views of the peninsula and the surrounding hills and quiet countryside. There are three bedrooms and three bathrooms, so the property sleeps seven.

As the owners say, each window view offers a landscape painting and its seclusion and peacefulness make it a great place for those looking for an escape from the rat race.

Pets are welcome and nearby, you’ll find the Bin Ban Gallery and the Georgian House Visitor Centre to visit.

2. Bantry Bay House

bantry bay house

Photos via VRBO

This six-bedroom villa is the ideal place for a large group to retreat to, as each bedroom bar one comes complete with a bathroom. Located in West Cork, there’s a private floating pontoon on the bay you can access where you’ll find the ideal spot to enjoy a drink on a warm evening.

In the garden, there’s a charcoal barbecue to continue the outdoor living theme and there is also a large jacuzzi to relax in at the end of the day. This is arguably one of the best Airbnbs in Ireland for a group getaway.

3. Fernwood

Fernwood Treehouse Dome

Photos via Booking.com

Escape, unwind and recharge at Fernwood Organic Farm in Clifden, Galway. The treehouse dome offers you seclusion (although the lively town of Clifden is only a four-minute drive away).

Five metres off the woodland floor, the unit is self-contained and features a five-star luxury hotel bed. There’s decking where you can sit out in the evenings, listening to wildlife and chilling out.

If you’re looking for romantic Airbnbs in Ireland for couples, this is a great option.

4. A Cracker in Cork

group airbnbs Ireland

Photos via VRBO

Traharta House and Cottage sits in the base of a green cliff and faces south east over the tranquil Traharta Cove to Flea and Horse Islands and the entrance to Castletownshend Harbour.

On a clear day, you’ll be able to see the Gallows Head Lighthouse 20 miles away. The cottage was rebuilt in 1999 and the house refurbished in 2019 and makes the perfect base for touring County Cork.

You can book them separately or together—the properties accommodate ten people in total. Nearby, you’ll find the picturesque towns of Castletownshend and Skibbereen.

5. Thistle Thatch Cottage

Thistle Thatch Cottage

Photos via Booking.com

Thistle Thatch Cottage in the Mourne Mountains in Newcastle, County Down, is popular for its terrific views and sought after for the sense of tranquillity it offers in abundant amounts.

It has enough room for two adults and keen outdoor sports enthusiasts can take advantage of local amenities such as hiking, canoeing, the golf course and horse riding.

The garden has a charming wild meadow feel to it, and you can relax in the evening in a hot tub built into the stones. This is easily one of the best Airbnbs in Ireland for a couples retreat.

6. The Valentia Boathouse

Valentia Boathouse

Photos via Booking.com

As you might expect from the name, the Boathouse sits right on the beach on Valentia Island in County Kerry. In the sitting room, you can perch on the sofa and admire the views of the beach, the Lighthouse, Beginish Island and beyond.

While sunny, fine weather is always a bonus watching the storms here is a treat—those big waves crashing onto the shores. The Boathouse is 250 years old and its interior mainly natural timber and white walls, with the floor downstairs covered in slabs of Valentia slate.

7. Magic at Mizen

Mizen Cottage

Photos via VRBO

This property at Mizen Head was once an 18th century farm house built from local stone. It overlooks Barleycove Beach, Crookhaven Harbour and the islands beyond that. Inside, you’ll find a mix of the modern, perfectly harmonised with the building’s authentic past.

The wooden floor and the open beamed ceiling take in a large open plan living room, dining room and kitchen, and there are two bedrooms (it sleeps three). The nearby villages of Goleen, Crookhaven, Schull and Ballydehob offer plenty of places to eat and drink.

If you’re looking for romantic Airbnbs in Ireland, you won’t go wrong here.

Romantic Airbnbs in Ireland with stunning views

rossbeigh cabin

Photos via VRBO

The second section of our guide looks at some of the best Airbnbs in Ireland for couples in search of a romantic escape.

Below, you’ll find everything from lighthouses and cabins to some very quirky Airbnbs in Ireland.

1. Crookhaven lighthouse

Crookhaven Lighthouse

Photos via VRBO

Given the location of lighthouses is always at the entrance to harbours, staying in one is always going to offer fantastic views from the bedroom, the living and the kitchen.

The cottage at the lighthouse in Rock Island and just around the corner from the Mizen Peninsula has been fully refurbished by the new owners and has two double bedrooms, as well as a double pull-out bed so six people can stay.

Wander to the top of the lighthouse for the most extraordinary views. This is, in my opinion, the best Airbnb Ireland has to offer when it comes to sheer uniqueness. 

2. Views Galore

views galore

Photos via VRBO

This first floor apartment in a peaceful village near Newcastle, County Down offers visitors uninterrupted views over the Dundrum bay and the Mountains of Mourne.

Thanks to its south-facing orientation, the apartment is bright and sunny all day long. The open plan kitchen, living and dining area has floor to ceiling windows, allowing you great views as you cook, eat and settle down on the sofa in the evenings.

Six guests can be accommodated, and the master bedroom has views of the bay, allowing you to enjoy sunrise.

3. Dingle Beach View

Dingle beach cottage

Photos via VRBO

More like a home than a rental, Dingle Beach View overlooks the Blue Flag awarded Inch Beach and it offers views that’ll blow you away (just look at those photos!).

A great base for exploring Killarney and the Dingle Peninsula. You can book surfing lessons during the summer season and the beach also has a shop, café, restaurant and bar.

It’s also a short spin away from plenty of walks, hikes, cycle routes and historic sites. This is one of the best Airbnbs in Ireland when it comes to stunning sea views.

4. The Edge of the World

world's edge cottage

Photos via VRBO

Springwell Cottage overlooks Kenmare Bay on the Beara Peninsula in County Kerry. It sleeps four people and makes a great base for those wanting to see more of the south west of Ireland.

Near the property are the sub-tropical gardens at Derreen House and Gleninchaquin Waterfall. You can also drive to Killarney, the Iveragh Peninsula and the Ring of Kerry.

Want to spend you evening in a traditional Irish pub? The famous Teddy O’ Sullivan’s pier side pub is only a mile and a half away.

5. Bay Views

Kenmare bay cottage

Photos via VRBO

For views over Kenmare Bay in County Kerry and mountain peaks in the distance, this architect designed, detached house provides spacious accommodation over two levels and can accommodate six people.

Kenmare is six and a half miles away where you will find Seafari trips, fishing, horse riding and golf. Restaurants a plenty too. This is, in my opinion, the best Airbnb Ireland has to offer when it comes to panoramic views.

6. A Cracker in Kenmare

a very unique airbnb in Kerry

Photos via VRBO

This restored 18th century coastguard property is on the shores of the Kenmare Estuary in County Kerry. You are only 30 metres from the sea and, at times, you’ll see seals chilling on the rocks nearby.

The property can be rented as two separate self-contained units or as one interconnecting cottage. Why not visit the nearby Derrynane House, home of Daniel O’Connell, known as the ‘Liberator’ and Staigue Fort, which is Ireland’s best preserved pre Cristian stone fortress?

7. Rossbeigh Cottage

rossbeigh cabin

Photos via VRBO

Escape from it all at Rossbeigh Cottage in County Kerry—no wi-fi, no TV. This modern detached stone cottage sits on the slopes of Beenmore mountain.

Look out over the four-mile long sandy beach (and definitely stroll there). Bring your dog too, as one pet is allowed. You’ll find the cottage well furnished and equipped, a terrific place for peace and quiet.

This is, in my opinion, the best Airbnb Ireland has to offer when it comes to solitude and sheer beauty.

Cool Airbnbs in Ireland for a group getaway

woodland hot tub airbnb

Photos via VRBO

The next section of our guide looks at some cool Airbnbs in Ireland that make the perfect base for a group weekend away.

Below, you’ll find everything from pool houses and lakeside cabins to some very unusual Airbnbs in Ireland.

1. Seafront Home With a Pool

seal cottage

Photos via VRBO

Seal Cottage is located in an exclusive part of the Beara peninsula, Waterfall, Castletownbere, West Cork. The property overlooks a private beach and has jaw-dropping sea views.

Nearby is Waterfall House, once the official residence of the Royal Naval commodore and now owned by the film director, Neil Jordan.

The solar heated swimming pool in the garden is available for use from April to the end of September, depending on the weather, and the property sleeps up to eight people.

2. Wonderful Westerly

Westerly Cork

Photos via VRBO

Luxury Airbnbs in Ireland don’t come much better than our next property. Westerly House is a large and welcoming family house located on the shores of Bantry Bay at Ballylickey, County Cork.

There are six bedrooms in total, meaning the property can accommodate 12 people. Its location on the water comes with a private pontoon, providing direct access to the bay.

The property is stylishly decorated but is also welcoming. Take advantage of the large dining table that overlooks the garden for dinners with a difference. The kitchen island provides additional seating.

3. The Wild Irish Island

Inishcoo House

Photos via VRBO

Another island getaway, Inishcoo House, is a restored 18th century coastguard house located on an uninhabited island a mere five minutes’ boat ride from the mainland. Come here to walk, explore, enjoy the private sandy beaches and paddle.

The house is warm and comfortable all year round, with six double bedrooms, one single room and a dormitory that will sleep six children so the ideal place for large groups.

County Donegal offers wild and beautiful scenery—mountain ranges, deep lakes and huge cliffs. 

4. A Slice of Magic

Bansha Castle

Photos via VRBO

Bansha Castle was the former home of the Butlers of Ormonde. This lovely old country house in Tipperary dates to the 18th century and is set in private grounds with mature gardens, backed by the Glen of Aherlow and the Galtee mountains.

The property can sleep up to 18 people. Should you not feel like cooking every night the owners occupy a separate wing to the main house and can provide award-winning catering at an additional price.

This is arguably the best Airbnb in Ireland for a family getaway, as you’ve extensive grounds, generous space and endless things to do nearby.

5. The Woodland Retreat

woodland hot tub airbnb

Photos via VRBO

Nestled in woodlands and overlooking Dunmanus Bay in County Cork, the Woodland Retreat is an eco-friendly home that blends into its surroundings and is entered via an electric gate guaranteeing you privacy.

There’s an indoor sauna and outdoor jacuzzi and an ample dining room for magical evenings spent with family and friends. It sleeps 11 and there are bars and restaurants nearby.

6. Bliss in Ballycotton

Ballycotton Airbnb

Photos via VRBO

Want to stay on a beach? This property is set on a secluded one near Ballycotton, County Cork. Take in the cliff walk to make the most of the area’s spectacular scenery.

There are four bedrooms, and the property sleeps six. Central heating keeps you cosy on chillier days and nights and the TV has satellite connection, there’s a DVD player and unlimited wi-fi to keep you entertained while you’re there.

There’s plenty of parking and a table and chairs outside for alfresco evenings.

7. A Delight in Dingle

the Dingle group accommodation

Photos via VRBO

This stunning architect-designed spacious home offers views of Dingle and harbour in County Kerry and has been finished to exceptionally high standards. Look out for the solid beech flooring and the mahogany staircase.

The property sleeps 12 and all the rooms are luxuriously finished and decorated. Take part in a Dingle sea safari, take a private tour of the peninsula or visit the Dingle Distillery.

Unusual and unique Airbnbs in Ireland

overview of the cottage

Photos via VRBO

The final section of our guide looks at some more unique Airbnbs in Ireland (yes, there’s more!).

Below, you’ll find everything from hobbut huts and island glampsites to some very quirky Airbnbs in Ireland.

1. Mayo Glamping

mayo glamping

Photos via Mayo Glamping

When you want to camp but not sacrifice the luxury of nice accommodation, give glamping in Ireland a crack. Located just outside Castlebar town in County Mayo, you can choose from hobbit huts, Nordic cabins and even a railway carriage.

Fresh bed linen is provided, and you have your own outdoor firepit, perfect for those fine summer evenings when the sunsets so late. A Continental breakfast is provided but if you want something hot, there are cooking facilities in the communal kitchen.

2. Aran Islands Glamping

aran islands glamping

Photos via Booking.com

Now, for a true getaway, Aran Islands is the place to go. Aran Islands Camping and Glamping is to be found on Inis Mór, the largest of the three Aran Islands, Galway Bay, on the Wild Atlantic Way.

Here, you’ll find stunning scenery and a slower pace of life that encourages you to take deep fortifying breaths the second you set foot on the land.

There are two types of glamping accommodation–the larger Tigín, which sleeps up to six people, and the original Clochán where four can stay.

3. Rock Farm Slane

rock farm

Photos via Booking.com

Yurts, shepherd huts and cabins are on offer at Rock Farm, Slane, County Meath. The yurts can sleep up to six people and there are hot showers, self-catering kitchen facilities complete with the all important bottle opener and a chill out space with a large wood burning stove.

Jump in the hot tub to relive aching muscles or cook up a storm on the BBQ. Rock Farm is also a handy spin away from many of Meath’s top attractions.

4. Clonakilty Bay View

Clonakilty Bay View

Photos via VRBO

Want to stay close to the sea? Clonakilty Bay View is merely metres from it and offers awesome views of the bay and West Cork. Take advantage of the large decking area at the front on fine, summer days.

The property can accommodate five people and has three bedrooms all with private bathrooms. There’s a fully equipped kitchen with a nice, bright dining and living area.

There is a solar energy and ventilation system, making it ideal for allergy sufferers, and environmentally friendly products are used for cleaning and washing where possible. This is arguably the best Airbnb Ireland has to offer for a mid-summer getaway (if you get the weather, that is…).

5. Four Acres Farm Self-Catering

Four Acres Farm

Photos via Booking.com

Fancing trying out a bit of glamping in Northern Ireland? Four Acres Farm Self-Catering is within 3.4 km to Donaghadee Harbour, County Down. The two shepherd’s huts on the edge of the lake are secluded and unusual.

You’ll want to take plenty of pictures while there. There’s no internet either, meaning you truly will be able to leave the outside world behind.

6. Mary Rose Cottage

overview of the cottage

Photos via VRBO

You may recognise our next property from our guide to Airbnbs with hot tubs in Ireland. Cottage Mary Rose in County Kerry is a fabulous 18th century, white-washed, thatched roof cottage nestled in the valley of Mount Eagle with a stream running through the cottage, all-natural garden surrounded by its original dry stone walls and fuchsia plants.

Step inside the door and feel as if you’re returning to simpler times. Guests are welcomed with treats, such as home-made bread and the property’s caretakers are on hand should you need anything.

The local pub, Hughe’s, is a just a short walk away. If you’re looking for unique Airbnbs in Ireland, they don’t come much quirkier than this place.

7. Killary Fjord Hillside Cottage

Killary Fjord Hillside Cottage

Photos via VRBO

Want the Wild Atlantic Way on your doorstep? Choose Stoneacre, a property built on an elevated site with 180 degree views of Killary Fjord, County Galway.

All the rooms offer amazing views and nearby, you will find the village of Leenane where there are two pubs and a gourmet restaurant offering the best of Irish cuisine. The large, terraced garden is supplied with garden furniture for summer nights.

8. Tubbrid Castle

Tubbrid Castle

Photos via Tubbrid Castle

Seeking something more unusual for your Ireland holiday? Why not stay in a restored 15th century castle near to Kilkenney?

This Medieval Irish tower house stands at the borders of the ancient kingdoms of Laighean and Mumhan and it was built as a defensive structure to protect the Butlers of Ormond territory. It is a National Monument and a Protected Structure.

There’s a grand oak banqueting table so you can feel like a Medieval knight as you dine and why not take in the views while sitting at the large original window seats? This is arguably the best Airbnb Ireland has to offer for a very unique group getaway.

FAQs about cool and unusual Airbnbs in Ireland

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What are the best Airbnbs in Ireland for couples?’ to ‘What luxury Airbnbs in Ireland are good for groups?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best Airbnbs in Ireland?

In my opinion, the best Airbnb Ireland has to offer is Traharta House, Bantry Bay House and Brandon House.

What are the most unique Airbnbs in Ireland?

The Woodland Retreat, Bliss in Ballycotton and Mary Rose Cottage are 3 of the coolest Airbnbs in Ireland.

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Jayne

Tuesday 16th of February 2021

This guide was fabulous for ideas, thank you. We’ve stayed a few times at one place in Kinsale called Driftwood. It’s just amazing, so calm and well thought out and just the best location on the water with a cute hut for drinks. The owners are great and super helpful, they even put cold beers in the fridge for you! We went 3 times last year and desperate to get there again, here’s hoping restrictions allow soon! They’ve another place too which they showed around us but it’s been fully booked each time we’ve tried, I don’t know the name but it’s nearby and on Airbnb. Incredible spot, surrounded by water, just for a couple it would be so heavenly!

Deirdre Dunne

Sunday 3rd of May 2020

Check out 'glamping in the galtees art truck" or yurt

Conor

Tuesday 11th of June 2019

Loved it here https://www.airbnb.ie/rooms/7225846?source_impression_id=p3_1560270955_o2IThieDRIXc4PiW

Keith

Wednesday 12th of June 2019

Good God that place looks absolutely incredible!!

Alyssa

Friday 7th of June 2019

Ballintotis Castle, Castlemartyr, Cork

https://abnb.me/r6YzR8exjX

Marianne MacDonald

Friday 5th of April 2019

Chez Shea in Lauragh, Co. Kerry. I stayed there a few summers ago in a lovely little caravan. Located off the Healy Pass in a lovely valley, far off the beaten track but only about 20 minutes to the great local pub, Teddy O'Sullivan's in Kilmackaloge. They have two caravans to stay in. One is a camper caravan and the other is a roundtop.

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