If you’re in search of Inis Meain accommodation, you’ve landed in the right place.
Part of the stunning Aran islands off the coast of the west of Ireland, Inis Meain is a popular tourist destination thanks to its unique culture, landscape and range of historic attractions.
Though many choose to visit on a day-trip basis, the island is more than worth a night or two as there’s plenty of things to do on Inis Meain to keep you occupied.
Inis Meain accommodation: Why you should consider staying on the island
Photos via Shutterstock
Like a fine Irish whiskey, a visit to Inis Meáin is best enjoyed slowly.
Taking your time to uncover the hidden nuances, while letting the amber nectar of patience wash over you, is really the only way to fully experience all that the island has to offer.
Sadly, many visitors rush through Inis Meáin, typically hopping in and out in half a day or so. While it’s perhaps great that the island remains a hidden gem, those travelers looking for an authentic experience are seriously missing out by not giving it the time it deserves.
Inis Meáin may be small and sparsely populated, with fewer attractions and pubs than the other Aran Islands, but what you can find here is becoming increasingly rare.
So, stay a while, take your time walking the island’s many paths, discovering the nooks and crannies, and sink a pint or two in a truly traditional Irish pub.
Unique Inis Meain Accommodation
Photo by niall dunne/shutterstock.com
In the guide below, you’ll discover a handful of Inis Meain accommodation that has, at the time of writing, great reviews.
Note: if you book a hotel through one of the links below we’ll make a tiny commission that helps us keep this site going. You won’t pay extra, but we really do appreciate it.
1. The Traditional Cottage
Photos by Micéal Agus Cáit on Airbnb
This 200-year-old cottage is so traditional that it feels like staying in a museum! It’s packed full of character inside and out, with white-washed walls, cosy lighting, and old-fashioned furniture. Don’t worry though, it also features all the mod-cons you need for a comfortable stay, with a brilliant shower and fully equipped kitchen.
The 3 bedrooms provide ample space for up to 4 guests, though it’s worth bearing in mind that 2 of these are only accessible by climbing a chunky wooden ladder into the loft. The fireplace is a top feature, as is the location — pub, beach, shop and pier are all within a 10-minute walk.
Check prices + see more photos here
2. The Studio
Photos by Inis on Airbnb
This stunning stone-walled cottage is said to be more than 300-years old! It’s magical to look at from outside, the walls made from hefty two foot thick limestone blocks, the roof covered in wildflowers and moss, a natural insulator.
When you step inside, the cosy wood-burning stove takes off the chill, while underfloor heating makes it feel utterly homely.
Ideal for solo travelers or couples, the studio is a small, cosy cottage with one double bed in the mezzanine bedroom, a fully stocked kitchen, and a warm living and dining area.
Located in a cluster of similar cottages that once made up an ancient community, it offers a real escape from the modern world.
Check prices + see more photos here
3. The Keeper’s Cottage
Photos by Padraic And Meg on Airbnb
The Keeper’s Cottage is an absolute gem. With 3 bedrooms, it’s ideal for families or groups, and can accommodate up to 4 people.
Vibrant and colourful, full of character and charm, and packed with heirlooms and knick-knacks that make it feel like you’re visiting your favourite aunt’s home!
The 2-storey cottage comes with a fully equipped kitchen, cosy living and dining room, complete with fireplace of course, two bathrooms (one ensuite), and a beautiful sun trap out the back for those fine evenings.
Oh, and the best part? It’s right next door to the pub, with the shop down the road and all the sights within walking distance.
Check prices + see more photos here
4. The Suites (the most unique Inis Meain accommodation on offer)
And now for something a little… different. The Inis Meáin Suites certainly capture the spirit of the island and its culture, and wrap it all up in a luxurious bundle.
It’s a fantastic way to spoil yourself rotten while being at one with such a remote and rustic part of the world.
There are 5 private suites in total, each with a ludicrously comfy double bed, private bathroom, outdoor sitting area, and awesome living area. All are decorated with elements of the island, such as slate, limestone, wool, and wood.
The 4 Burren suites are around 50sqm, while the ultra luxurious Connemara Suite covers 130sqm, and incorporates a large living area and mini library, with a 10 m wraparound window offering unrivaled views.
Check prices + see more photos here
5. Cois Cuain
Photos by Martin on Airbnb
Cois Cuain is a wonderful little B&B with 5 rooms including doubles, a double en-suite, and a family triple room.
A stunning, hearty breakfast is included in the price, featuring a full Irish fry, cereal, fruit, yogurt, toast and jam, tea, coffee, and juice — all you need to get your motor running in the morning!
The B&B is owned by Martin, a local fisherman whose knowledge of the island is unrivalled. It enjoys a great location near quiet, sandy beaches, and is just a short stroll from the pub and shop.
Check prices + see more photos here
Places to stay on Inis Meain: Where have we missed?
I’m sure that we’ve unintentionally missed out on some brilliant Inis Meain accommodation in the guide above.
If you know of any other places to stay on Inis Meain that you’d like to recommend, let us know in the comments below!
Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.