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Large Group Accommodation Ireland: 23 Incredible Places to Rent With Friends

Large Group Accommodation Ireland: 23 Incredible Places to Rent With Friends

If you’re in search of gorgeous group accommodation Ireland has plenty.

From huge holiday homes by the sea to luxury lakeside mansions, there’s something that’ll tickle most fancies.

And, while some of the large self catering houses in Ireland cost an arm and a leg, many work out pretty reasonably when the cost is split between a group.

What we think is the best group accommodation Ireland has to offer

large group accommodation ireland

Photos via VRBO

The first section of our guide is packed with what we think is the best large group accommodation in Ireland, with properties dotted right the way around the country.

Note: if you book a stay through one of the links below we may make a tiny commission that helps us keep this site going. You won’t pay extra, but we really do appreciate it.

1. Paradise on The Waterfront (sleeps 6)

waterfront accommodation

Photos via VRBO

For a bit of luxury, The Stone House is a beautiful, restored cottage on the Wild Atlantic Way. Facing the ocean, it has uninterrupted views across to 14th century Rossbrin Castle and out to Roaring Water Bay and Carberry’s 100 isles. You can sit back and enjoy the incredible view right from the front door.

The house features one master en-suite bedroom, one double en-suite bedroom and a twin room. It’s perfectly set up for a family holiday or small group of friends, with plenty of room to comfortably sleep six people.

The house is located near Ballydehob and Schull, which are perfect for stocking up on food, heading in for a coffee or enjoying a meal at the pub. 

2. The Beachfront Home (sleeps 12)

beachfront self catering accommodation

Photos via VRBO

If you want to escape everything with your closest friends or loved ones, then you can’t beat this secluded beachfront property on 20 acres of garden. The large modern house is literally steps away from the water’s edge and overlooks the stunning Bantry Bay.

Located around the other side of the bay from Bantry Town, you can feel a world away with your own private pebble beach out the front door and acres of woodland behind the house. It features six bedrooms and five bathrooms, comfortably sleeping up to 12 people.

Beautifully furnished in a modern style and with a fully equipped kitchen, it’s not hard to understand why it’s one of our favourite large self catering houses in Ireland.

3. Lisheen House (sleeps 11)

Lisheen House

Photos via VRBO

Lisheen House is a stunning waterfront holiday home not far from Kilbrittain in County Cork. The manor style house sits on impeccably kept lawns and gardens across 2.5 acres of land. With seven bedrooms sleeping up to 11 people, it’s the perfect place for a quiet group getaway.

The peaceful property overlooks the water towards Courtmacsherry. It offers plenty of opportunities to kick back and enjoy sunny days, with outdoor dining furniture, plenty of green garden spaces for a picnic and a large gazebo. 

One of the highlights of the house is the outdoor four-person hot tub under a glazed roof, allowing you to enjoy the sun during the day or star gaze all night from the warm water. 

4. Westerly House (sleeps 12)

Westerly Cork

Photos via VRBO

Westerly House on Bantry Bay is arguably some of the best group accommodation Ireland has to offer. The large family residence is right on the shores of the bay in Cork and has six bedrooms all with a king sized bed, which can accommodate up to 12 people. 

The property features a private pontoon with direct access to the water as well as plenty of garden space to run around with the kids. You can jump in for a swim in the bay or use the kayaks available at the house to explore the water at your own pace. 

It’s the ideal place for a family getaway or a quiet friend’s getaway. The property is just 5km from Bantry town in one direction or 5km from Glengarriff Village in the other. 

5. A Seafront Home With a Pool (sleeps 8)

seal cottage

Photos via VRBO

For the ultimate waterfront holiday, this seaside house is located on the Beara Peninsula with stunning ocean views and an outdoor pool. The historic cottage has three bedrooms and four bathrooms on 3.5 acres of woodland. 

You can enjoy views across to Bere Island from the dining area and lounge, and step outside your front door to private access down to the beach. If you don’t make it down to the sand, it’s likely because you’re enjoying the solar heated swimming pool sitting amongst the manicured garden or the traditional sauna amongst the trees.

This house is nicely furnished and the extensive grounds are the perfect place for a ramble.

Check prices + see photos

6. The Wild Island Getaway (sleeps 19)

Inishcoo House

Photos via VRBO

Next up is some of the more unique large self catering houses in Ireland – a secluded island off the Donegal coast and stay at this restored 18th century coastguard house. 

Inishcoo House sits on an uninhabited island just a five-minute boat ride from the mainland. You can explore the surrounding sandy beaches, a shipwreck and lake all on your own private island. There’s also plenty of activities including walking, fishing, boating and swimming.

The eco-house is warm and comfortable all year round. It has six double bedrooms, one single room and a children’s dormitory that can sleep up to six kids. There’s also three bathrooms to share, a large kitchen and living area, library and playroom, outdoor terrace and six acres of garden.

7. The Sligo Bay Barn (sleeps 17)

For a completely unique stay, the Sligo Bay Barn is a bespoke barn conversion offering spectacular views across Sligo Bay, Raghly Peninsula and Queen Maeve’s cairn. The seaside barn has plenty of space for a large group, with nine bedrooms comfortably sleeping up to 17 guests.

It features plenty of luxurious touches, including en-suite bathrooms for each bedroom, private patio areas with reclining deck chairs, a semi-commercial kitchen and sea views from every bed. 

It’s nicely located just 20 minutes from Sligo town, and just 5 minutes from local shops and pubs. There’s plenty of things to do nearby as well, including walks right from the property and drives out to Grange village and Lissadell all within 5km.

Self-catering accommodation for large groups of 15+

large house to rent ireland

Photos via VRBO

The second section of our guide is packed with more large group accommodation in Ireland, with homes that can sleep 15 + people comfortably.

Below, you’ll find everything from mansions and converted cabins to large holiday homes in Ireland that sleep 20 +.

1. The Boathouse (sleeps 16)

the boathouse

Photos via VRBO

For a stunning coastal escape with a large group of your friends, the Boathouse is situated right on the waterfront on the Loop Head Peninsula in County Clare. Perfectly located with plenty of scenery to enjoy, it’s on a quiet road in Querrin with virtually no traffic to disturb your seaside holiday. 

The modern house features seven bedrooms and six bathrooms, able to accommodate up to 16 people. It has plenty of features making it great for families, including an indoor cubby area for children, horses out in the fields and an outdoor garden area.

For large groups, the house features two dining areas, outside patio area and raised deck, two living areas and a seven-person hot tub for relaxing outdoors in any weather. If you’re looking for large group accommodation in Ireland a stone’s throw from endless things to do, get yourself here.

2. Luxury in Kerry (sleeps 30)

the kerry mansion

Photos via VRBO

This beautiful historic Georgian property is the perfect place to spend a long weekend with a large group of friends. Beaufort House was built in 1760 around the ruins of Coolmagort Castle and is set on 40 acres of woodland overlooking River Laune just 10 minutes from Killarney. 

The main house features four luxurious rooms with en-suite bathrooms and the nearby cottages also have bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms as well as a fully equipped kitchen and dining room. 

All up the property can accommodate 30 people, with plenty of space to spread out. The main house has a formal dining room, large kitchen, library and drawing room and outdoor courtyard, so it’s perfect for large groups and special occasions. This is arguably one of the most luxurious large self catering houses in Ireland.

3. Marina Views Kinsale (sleeps 16)

kinsale group getaway

Photos via VRBO

This is an incredibly quiet holiday home overlooking the water just outside of Kinsale. The modern house sits on perfectly manicured lawns, with an outdoor patio area and heated gazebo for enjoying the views no matter the weather.

The large home sleeps up to 16 people, with six bedrooms plus optional sofa beds if you need for extra guests. The spacious kitchen and living area have incredible views across to the water. 

It’s perfect for families, with a ping pong table, pool table and children’s playground to keep the kids entertained.

4. Dunkerron (sleeps 16)

Dunkerron holiday home

Photos via VRBO

Dunkerron is a luxury self-catering manor on a 60 acre estate right on the shores of Kenmare Bay. The beautiful old house features seven bedrooms upstairs, each with an en-suite bathroom, while downstairs you’ll find a well-equipped kitchen, playroom and dining area with a log fire. 

The interior is in an old-world elegant style, so you can enjoy a bit of luxury for a weekend away with friends.

The estate has plenty of things to do, including access to a private bay just a 20-minute walk away, woodland footpaths through the gardens and a deck overlooking the bay for an evening picnic.

5. Ocean View Kinsale (sleeps 21)

ocean view

Photos via VRBO

Another wonderful property in Kinsale, this holiday home sleeps up to 21 people with a stunning waterfront location. Sitting up on a hill looking onto the Old Head of Kinsale, the home is surrounded by a well-kept garden. 

Featuring six bedrooms and a large dining room which seats 20 people, it’s the perfect place to entertain your friends or extended family. The fully equipped kitchen comes with all the extra amenities like a food processer, slow cooker and juicer.

There’s plenty to do for kids, including a playroom with toys, trampoline, football goal posts, bouncy castle and an outdoor playground with a large pirate ship climbing frame. The kids will definitely love a stay here!

6. The Loughderg Villa (sleeps 20+)

lough derg villa

Photos via VRBO

A luxurious villa right on the shores of Lough Derg, this large modern home can sleep over 20 of your mates and family members. The incredibly beautiful property known as Bunglasha Lodge features 200 metres of lake frontage and unobstructed views of Holy Island. 

The country house has seven bedrooms and six bathrooms, with a large living area, reception room, kitchen and terrace to spread out and entertain. The elegant interior features an open wood fire, elm wood bar, paved courtyard and barbeque area.

It’s an incredibly peaceful estate to sit back, wander down to the water’s edge and explore the beautiful lake in County Clare.

7. The Country Escape (sleeps 20)

the country escape

Photos via VRBO

As the name suggests, this is an exceptional country escape in Stradbally in County Laois. Set in a stunningly restored 17th century home amidst rolling hills of Ireland’s Ancient East, the estate sleeps up to 20 people. 

There are seven bedrooms and three bathrooms, with a full kitchen and living area to self-cater your own meals. The standout feature of the property is the outdoor patio area, with large dining table overlooking the garden and an outdoor hot tub for some relaxing in any weather.

If it’s a special occasion, the estate also has a converted shelter which can accommodate a large group for a dinner party or event.

Some wonderfully unique large group accommodation in Ireland

large self catering houses in ireland

Photos via VRBO

The next section of our guide looks at some of the quirkier large group accommodation Ireland has to offer.

Below, you’ll find a clatter of large self catering houses in Ireland that’ll guarantee a memorable weekend away.

1. The Castle in Tipp (sleeps 18)

Bansha Castle

Photos via VRBO

You can head with your friends to this secret castle getaway in County Tipperary for something very unique. As the former home of the Butlers of Ormonde, the 18th century country house is set on magnificent gardens and pristine lawns backed by the beautiful Glen of Ahrlow. 

With seven bedrooms, it can sleep up to 18 people with seven bathrooms to share, a kitchen, living room and outdoor patio. If you prefer not to cook yourself then you can opt for delicious home cooked meals from the owners who occupy a sperate wing on the property.

You can head off on some great activities from the castle grounds, including walking, cycling, fishing, swimming and golfing all within a short distance. If you’re looking for group accommodation in Ireland to mark a special occasion, this place will deliver a memorable weekend.

2. The Manor (sleeps 14)

luxury group accommodation ireland

Photos via VRBO

A luxurious historic manor in Killarney town, Coolclogher House is situated on a 68-acre walled estate adjacent to Killarney National Park. Dating back to 1746, the manor has been restored with all the modern conveniences but kept within the old world charm and décor.

The unique estate has seven en-suite bedrooms with lavish king sized beds and views over the garden. It’s the perfect place for long family vacations or special occasions, with plenty of privacy and landscaped lawns.

The kitchen is fully equipped, with a separate dining room and grand hall perfect for events and gatherings. This is another of the more luxurious large self catering houses in Ireland and, while expensive, the property is spectacular inside and out.

3. The Lakefront Mansion (sleeps 10)

An incredibly luxurious estate, you can pretend that this private mansion is all yours along with your family and friends. Located on the shores of the famous Lakes of Killarney, the historic mansion is an elegant place to head for a holiday.

The house boasts six bedrooms and six bathrooms, and can sleep up to 10 people. There’s plenty of space to spread out with spacious living areas, large dining room, drawing room and library all heated with open fireplaces and wood burning stoves. 

With over 100 acres of space, you can easily enjoy the outdoors with walking trails, fishing, cycling and boating all accessible right from the back door. 

4. A 13th Century Castle (sleeps 12)

Carraigin Castle

Photos via VRBO

For an incredibly picturesque castle stay, a weekend away at the 13th century Carraigin Castle is a wonderfully idyllic group accommodation option. Located on the shores of Lough Corrib and surrounded by the green countryside, you can easily explore Galway and Mayo from the property.

The manor house has seven bedrooms and two bathroom and can sleep up to 12 people. The unique building has been restored but still retains its church-like structure and many of its iconic features like the stone staircase, stone-arched fireplace and oak-beamed Great Hall.

With high ceilings, intricate tapestries and portraits of ancient kings and knights adorning the walls, you and your family and friends will feel like royalty during your stay.

5. The Sligo Retreat (sleeps 9)

sligo retreat

Photos via VRBO

Arguably the most beautiful group accommodation in Ireland in this guide, the Sligo Retreat is a restored stone country house, called Branchfield House. The heritage home is a stunning rural escape outside of Ballymote in County Sligo, with exposed stone walls and an attached glasshouse and sunroom.

It features four double bedrooms, plus an added bed in the sunroom if you have an extra guest. It also has two bathrooms, with a cast iron bath for complete relaxation.

You can pick your own seasonal herbs and vegetables from the garden and cook them up in the fully equipped kitchen. The cosy house is decorated in typical countryside style with plenty of comfy corners to curl up with a book, or if the sun is shining, the outdoor patio is the perfect place to be.

Seaside accommodation for large groups in Ireland

large holiday homes ireland sleeps 20

Photos via VRBO

The final section of our guide looks at group accommodation in Ireland that’s finely plonked either right next to the sea or that boasts stunning sea views.

Below, you’ll find homes tucked away near quiet coves to large self catering houses in Ireland that are a short stroll from the sand.

1. A Home in the Woods With Sea Views (sleeps 9)

the house in the woods

Photos via VRBO

If you’re looking for beautiful waterfront views for your holiday, this home overlooks Cork harbour and the picturesque village of Crosshaven. The four-bedroom house is nestled up on a hill, backed by the Currabinny Woods that you can explore right from the back door. 

The holiday home can sleep up to nine people, with three bathrooms, a large dining room, fully equipped kitchen and outdoor garden. You can enjoy the stunning views from all the bedrooms, the living area and outdoor balcony.

There’s also plenty of things to do nearby, with the calm waters of the estuary perfect for swimming and walking trails leading into the woods. 

2. The View in Donegal (sleeps 9)

House with a view in Donegal

Photos via VRBO

This stunning house is just two minutes’ walk from the beach in Downings and makes for a wonderful seaside group getaway. Located on an elevated spot above the water, you can enjoy the incredible location close to the local pubs and shops, as well as the ocean.

The incredibly modern house features four bedrooms and three bathrooms, equipped kitchen, dining and living areas so you can enjoy all the comforts of a complete home. 

The highlight features include a large outdoor deck overlooking the water and tall glass windows in the living room so you can stay warm indoors and still enjoy the view. If you looking for large self catering houses in Ireland with mighty views, look no further.

3. The Beachfront Retreat (sleeps 18)

waterside group accommodation

Photos via VRBO

For a combination of history and beachfront relaxation, you can stay at this 300 year old Georgian country house just outside of Tralee. The house is literally steps from the water’s edge, making it a stunning stay with your friends and family. 

The eight en-suite bedroom house is a quiet retreat, sitting on a sheltered cove on the edge of Barrow Harbour. You can sit back and relax with a garden terrace and seaside views from all the bedrooms. 

There’s plenty of space to bring up to 18 of your friends, with three antique drawing rooms, a comfortable screening room for movie nights, large lounge, fully equipped kitchen, plus a private chef and housekeeping, if required.

4. Magic in Enniscrone (sleeps 12)

enniscrone holiday home

Photos via VRBO

For a luxurious stay on the popular sandy Enniscrone Beach and Killala Bay, Seacliff House is a superb place to stay. The five-bedroom home has been specifically designed to maximise its location right on the beach, with ocean views from the living areas and some of the bedrooms.

There’s so much to do nearby that you could easily rent the house for weeks. The sandy Enniscrone beach is on your doorstep, with surfing, paddling and walking, or you can also head to the nearby championship golf course. 

Whether you want to utilise the self-catering facilities in the house or head down to the local pubs and cafes, you’ll enjoy some top dining during your holiday.

Warning for those looking for large houses to rent for parties in Ireland

Since this article was published, we’ve had hundreds (literally…) of emails asking for recommendations for large houses to rent for parties in Ireland. Many of these requests came from, as far as we could tell, people just out of school looking for a weekend of madness.

There are very few party houses to rent in Ireland where an owner will welcome in a big group that plan on going wild. This is, unsurprisingly enough, due to the many horror stories that have surfaced over the years about rentals being wrecked by large groups.

If you’re looking for a party house to rent in Ireland, be very open and honest with the owner when you make initial contact, so that they’re fully aware of what you’re planning. This gives them the opportunity to politely decline and ensures that you don’t get stung with a hefty fine later on.

FAQs about large group accommodation in Ireland

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘Whats the best Airbnb in Ireland for groups?’ to ‘What are the most luxurious large self catering houses in Ireland?’.

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 group accommodation in Ireland is the coolest?

Personally, I think Westerly, Lisheen House and  The Stone House (see our guide above) are hard to beat.

What’s the most unique Airbnb in Ireland for groups?

The Beachfront Retreat in Tralee (sleeps 18) is a very unique spot that combines a mighty location with luxury.

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