26 Best Places To Stay In Ireland (If You Love A Mighty View)

This guide contains the best places to stay in Ireland if you love a room with a fine aul view.

It’s packed with everything from scenic hotels in Ireland perched on the side of cliffs to secluded cabins that boast mighty mountain scenery.

Some, like the Europe, cost an arm-and-a-leg while others, like Benbulben Farmhouse are excellent value for money!

The best places to stay in Ireland with a view

The first section of our guide is packed with what we think are the top places to stay in Ireland, view-wise. These are places that one or more of our team have visited and have loved.

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

1. The Clifden Cottage (Galway)

Located along the Sky Road just outside of the town of Clifden is this finely perched cottage that sleeps 8 comfortably.

The cottage is on an elevated site and it offers views of everything from the Twelve Bens Mountain range to the nearby bay from both inside and out.

There’s a fine big living room complete with a wood-burner for those chilly nights, a fully kitted-out kitchen and many of the rooms boast sea views.

It’s also a short spin from many of Connemara’s top attractions. This is one of the best places to stay in Ireland with a view for good reason!

2. Aghadoe Heights (Kerry)

Just a few minutes drive northwest of Killarney along the popular Ring of Kerry Route, the luxurious Aghadoe Heights has everything you’ll need for a relaxing escape.

Arguably one of the finest 5-star hotels in Ireland, it’s prime location offers views of the Lakes of Killarney along with Kerry’s MacGillycuddy mountain range.

There’s views from the rooms (book a Lake Side King!), the aptly named ‘Lake Room’ restaurant and the very popular thermal suite (see bottom left photo).

If you’re looking to splurge on one of the most beautiful places to stay in Ireland, Aghadoe Heights is well worth considering.

3. Benbulben Farmhouse (Sligo)

Our guide to the best places to stay in Ireland has undergone several iterations, with many places removed and added over the years. One that has stood strong is the brilliant Benbulben Farmhouse.

Located in quiet corner of Sligo, it’s not hard to see where the B&B got its name – there are magnificent views of Sligo’s tabletop mountain from throughout the guesthouse.

Situated at the foot of Benbulben, each of the rooms boasts views of the surrounding Sligo countryside, as does the breakfast room.

One of the best parts of this place is the price – you’ll always get good value-for-money here. A lovely spot.

4. Goleen Harbour (Cork)

One of the more unique places to stay in Ireland is Cork’s Goleen Harbour which is, unsurprisingly enough, located in Goleen!

Tucked away in a secluded corner of West Cork, right on the edge of the wild Atlantic, Goleen Harbour is a 38-acre eco farm with a heap of accommodation options.

There’s EcoCabins, GeoDomes and cozy bell tents. You can kick-back in the hot tub or flake out by a fire pit while enjoying glorious coastal views.

There’s also kayaking, foraging and loads of other activities on offer so there’s plenty to do while you’re there.

5. The Coastal Cottage (Kerry)

Finely located on the Dingle Peninsula, this cottage will make a very scenic base for 4 people looking to explore a chunk of Kerry.

The cottage has been built to a high standard and, although it’s secluded, it’s just 5 minutes from Ballyferriter.

However, the main attraction here is the glorious sweeping views that can be enjoyed from throughout the cottage.

Imagine eating your breakfast, or relaxing with a beer, while admiring Sybil Headland and watching the waves collide against the Dingle coast. Magic.

6. The Sandhouse Hotel (Donegal)

Set along the Wild Atlantic Way, in the town of Rossnowlagh, is where you’ll find the Sandhouse – one of the best places to stay in Ireland when it comes to seaviews!

With a superb beachfront setting, the views out across Rossnowlagh Beach and the Atlantic will knock you sideways.

The captivating sea views are also perfectly framed from the Glasshouse and Seashell restaurants and the Surfers bar.

There’s plenty of hotels by the sea in Ireland, but few can go toe-to-toe with the Sandhouse.

7. The Cliff House Hotel (Waterford)

Regaled as one the finest luxury spa hotels in Ireland, the views alone are worth this hotels reputation.

Set on a promontory in Ardmore, the Cliff House provides residents with stop-you-in-your-track views of the chilly Irish Sea.

With private balconies, a pool that feels like it melts into the sea and a cliff-side restaurant,  you’ll feel like you’re in the great outdoors without ever leaving the property.

Take in the summertime turquoise seas or the turbulent swells of winter as you relax in comfort and style at the Cliff House.

8. The Lake Hotel (Kerry)

On the pristine shores of Lough Leane sits the four-star Lake Hotel in Killarney. Stately and imposing, the hotel is a stones throw from the water.

Surrounded by rising mountains in the distance, this hotel offers views that are like something you’d see on an oil painting.

Each of the rooms is tastefully decorated, with either breath-taking lake or enchanting woodland views.

There’s also views from the jacuzzi and the popular Lakeside Bistro. With many of Kerry’s top attractions on your doorstep, you’ll have ample things to see and do.

Check prices + see photos

9. The Bayview (Cork)

If saltwater runs through your veins, then you’re going to love staying at the Bayview in Ballycotton in Cork.

With a commanding view that sweeps across the Celtic Sea, the Bayview is home to 35 rooms. However, if you’re after a view, grab one of the Seaview Rooms.

This is a family-run 4-star that’s home to a restaurant led by an award-winning chef, the option to dine outside with a view on fine days and a well-kitted out health club, too.

But, it’s the ocean views that make this one of the most scenic hotels in Ireland and, as you can see from the snaps above, there’s plenty of these to be enjoyed!

10. Wineport Lodge (Westmeath)

Arguably one of the best places to stay in Ireland for couples, Westmeath’s Wineport has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years.

Perched on the banks of the beautiful Lough Ree, it’s best-known for its hot tubs that offer lake views.

The rooms at Wineport are stylish and well-appointed and many provide majestic views of the water from the comfort of your pillow.

Each room also boasts a private balcony where you can kick-back with a coffee and admire the calm surroundings. If you fancy a pamper, there’s an on-site spa, too.

11. The Redcastle Hotel (Donegal)

If you’re hankering for peace, quiet and endless ocean views, Donegal’s Redcastle Hotel, located on the stunning Inishowen Peninsula, is hard to bate!

Luxurious rooms, fine dining, and unparalleled views await you at Redcastle. There’s also a spa that feels like it becomes one with the ocean, and you can soak up the view from right within the pool.

Room wise, try and book a Seaview, if you can. Or, if you’re happy to splurge, opt for a Balcony Room where you can relax while watching the waves.

When it comes to food, you can munch away in the Edge Restaurant while gazing out across Lough Foyle.

12. Crookhaven Lighthouse (Cork)

Next up is Cork’s Crookhaven Lighthouse – arguably one of the top places to stay in Ireland if you’re after a very unique experience along with a mighty view.

Extensively renovated, the lighthouse has two double bedrooms, a large open plan living space, a kitchen and every modern convenience you could want.

However, the main attraction is the view – head into the living area, open up the large sliding doors and walk out onto the terrace that takes in every inch of the ocean in front.

13. Marine Hotel (Antrim)

Located along the Causeway Coastal Route, Ballycastle’s Marine Hotel makes a great base to explore from, with countless attractions close by.

Boasting a seafront location, it provides guests with the opportunity to wake up to views of the sea and the stunning Antrim coastline, along with the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland.

There are 51 rooms at the Marine, many of which take in the scenery outside. When you’re feeling peckish, head down to Marconi’s Bar & Bistro for a feed with ocean views.

Many of the most scenic hotels are fairly well known, but the Marine tends to fly under the radar. A night here is well worth considering.

14. Inchydoney Island Lodge (Cork)

It might look and feel like an island, but Inchydoney is connected by land just south of Clonakilty, in Cork.

With two scenic sea loughs on either side of the island, and the spectacular Inchydoney Beach just to the northeast, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to scenery.

There are several different rooms with sea views here, but the Superior View Rooms, are the pick of the bunch, in our opinion (bottom right in photo above).

There’s also a spa (also with sea views) and the excellent Gulfstream Restaurant, where you can dine with, you guessed it, a view.

15. Slieve Donard (Down)

Slieve Donard sits on the edge of the Irish Sea in Newcastle in County Down, a stone’s throw from the Mourne Mountains.

The four-star hotel takes pride of place in this small seaside town, and the views towards either the sea, the Royal County Down Golf Club course and Slieve Donard Mountain are all breath-taking.

The very best in Victorian elegance and refinement is what you’ll find waiting for you here, with luxurious rooms, the finest in dining, and well-appointed leisure facilities (the view from the pool is incredible)!

If you’re looking for top places to stay in Ireland a stone’s throw from endless hikes and walks, this is a great option, as the Mournes are very close by.

16. The Europe Hotel

Also located on the banks of Lough Leane in Killarney, the Europe Hotel and Resort is true to its name with European styling and attention to detail.

The jewel in the crown of the luxury hotels in Killarney, The Europe delivers brilliance on every front, from its elegant rooms to its opulent lounge areas.

Spend your morning in the spa soaking up the views and the evening relaxing in the aptly named Panorama Restaurant that offers views of the Lakes of Killarney and the surrounding mountains.

This is arguably one of the best places to stay in Ireland for couples if you’re after a weekend of luxury.

17. Letteran Lodges (Derry)

One of the newest additions to this guide, you’ll find Letteran Lodges nestled in an elevated site in Derry.

Its location, right at the foot of Slieve Gallion, provides glorious views from both inside and outside the property.

Each of the lodges at Letteran has a private hot tub where you can relax while taking in views of five different counties!

The massive glass windows also make it easy to kick-back by the fire (or in bed) while taking in the scenery.

18. Shearwater Country House (Cork)

If you’re looking for nice places to stay in Ireland for couples, Shearwater in Union Hall in Cork is hard to beat from both a value and a views perspective.

Commanding beautiful views out over the water, Shearwater is exceptionally well priced.

I was here recently (a weekend in July) and booked a double room with a balcony and sea view with a brilliant breakfast and it cost just €210 (prices may differ, of course).

It’s located a short stroll from Dinty’s Pub where you’ll find some of the best Guinness in West Cork. This place is well worth checking out.

19. Dingle Skellig (Kerry)

With breathtaking views of the North Atlantic Ocean, and the majestic Dingle Harbour, it’s no wonder that the Dingle Skellig has an outstanding reputation not just for its hospitality, but also for its scenic setting.

Whether it’s the rolling green fields or moody mountains and wild waves, the Dingle Skellig is sure to enchant all of your senses.

Magical is about the only word you can use to describe the views from this hotel, especially from the in-house spa. It’s also known to be one of the best family hotels in Ireland.

20. Brandon House (Kerry)

You may recognise our next property from our guide to the most unique Airbnbs in Ireland.

With its extraordinarily spacious, pared back living room, Brandon House in Tralee offers spectacular views of 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.

21. Chleire Haven (Cork)

If you’re looking for somewhere to go glamping in Ireland that’s anything but ordinary, then Chleire Haven on Cape Clear Island in Cork is the perfect respite.

It doesn’t come much more special, or scenic, than a yurt or bell tent on a small Irish island in the Atlantic Ocean.

With captivating views that are spellbinding at sunrise and sunset, you’ll find it hard to leave this island paradise.

From the private decking, or your yurt’s doorway, you’ll see rugged cliff faces, rolling mists and breaking waves, and all manner of native birdlife that call this island home.

22. Hidden Haven (Cork)

The last location in our guide to the best places to stay in Ireland is the brilliant Hidden Haven, a 20-minute drive from Glendarriff in Cork.

This is a boutique farm stay that’s sat on a secluded site that provides views out over a quiet lake.

On fine days, there’s a little outdoor seating area that overlooks the surrounding countryside. Or, if you’d prefer to stay indoors, you can admire the view from the super-king bed.

This place sleeps two and there’s a three night minimum stay. 

Something to keep in mind before booking into scenic hotels in Ireland

Hotels and guides on where to stay in Ireland, like ours, will always use photos that show off the property in its best light.

However, it’s worth keeping in mind that not all rooms in the most scenic hotels in Ireland will offer stunning views.

It’s often the case that these rooms come at a premium, so don’t assume that if you just hit ‘book now’ that you’ll be placed in the room you’ve seen advertised.

FAQs about the top places to stay in Ireland

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What are some nice places to stay in Ireland for couples?’ to ‘Where to stay in Ireland with a great view without having to spend a fortune?’.

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.