29 Unique Places to Stay in Ireland (Quirky Stays)

When it comes to unique stays Ireland has plenty. In fact, with each passing year a flurry of new quirky accommodation is brought to the market.

Every year, we do our very best to pull together a guide to the most unusual and unique places to stay in Ireland for couples, solo travellers and families.

Our 2026 edition contains everything from secluded mountain chalets and caves (yes, caves) to domes, lighthouses and plenty more.

The most unique stays in Ireland

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1. The Forest at Mount Congreve Gardens

Tucked away on an 18th-century estate in County Waterford, The Forest at Mount Congreve Gardens offers a mix of unique stays set beside 70 acres of world-renowned gardens.

Guests can choose from cosy off-grid bell tents with wood-burning stoves, hand-crafted eco-cabins where you can fall asleep under a canopy of stars, or restored gate lodges and an elegant courtyard suite that blend historic charm with modern comfort.

It’s all about slow travel here – complimentary bikes are provided so you can explore the vast gardens and woodland trails, and the cafés and visitor centre are just a short stroll away. Whether you’re after a romantic escape or a family break, this is a very quirky Irish stay.

2. The Dunmanus Bay Barn

Set on the wonderfully wild Sheep’s Head Peninsula in West Cork, this beautifully restored stone farmhouse and barn looks out across Dunmanus Bay towards the Mizen Peninsula.

Inside, original stone walls, exposed timber beams and slate floors preserve the building’s old-world character, while thoughtful touches like a Rayburn stove, a sunroom and a roaring fireplace make it feel warm and inviting throughout the year.

Outside is where this place really stands apart. Surrounded by more than an acre of gardens, fields and quiet country lanes, there’s a spring-fed pond, a solar-heated outdoor pool and direct access onto the Sheep’s Head Way walking trail.

3. River Fane Retreat

Set on the banks of the River Fane in County Monaghan, this stone cottage is one of the most unique Irish stays for couples.

The setting is peaceful, with the river flowing just outside and woodland all around, making it easy to switch off for a night or two. The real highlight is the private wellness area.

Alongside the cottage, you’ll have exclusive use of a Scandinavian sauna, a Canadian hot tub and a natural spring-fed plunge pool, all overlooking the river.

Inside, there’s a cosy super king bed positioned to make the most of the views, while a wood-fired pizza oven adds another nice touch for a relaxing evening in. If you’re looking for a unique romantic escape, this is well worth a look.

4. Dolphin Beach House

Few unique stays in Ireland put you this close to the Atlantic. Dolphin Beach Lodge sits just metres from the water on Connemara’s Sky Road, with huge views across Clifden Bay and a small, secluded beach directly in front of the property.

This isn’t a tiny coastal cottage, either. The lodge sleeps 6 across 3 bedrooms, with a spacious interior, a well-equipped kitchen and sea views throughout much of the house.

On a fine day, you can head down for a swim or spend the day exploring Connemara. When the weather inevitably turns sideways, you can stay put and watch the Atlantic do its thing from the warmth inside.

And despite the secluded setting, you’re only around a 10-minute drive from Clifden, so dinner and a pint don’t require a full expedition back to civilisation.

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5. Old Irish Farmhouse

One of the most unique places to stay in Ireland is the Old Irish Farmhouse along the magical Slea Head Drive.

A world away from the busy Dingle Town, the location of this property is unlike anything you’ll come across on the Peninsula.

A stones-throw (quite literally) from the Atlantic, the Farmhouse offers sea views from every room, stretching out to the Blaskets and the Skellig Islands.

The property is on a working sheep farm and, while you aren’t within walking distance of any amenities, it’s a worthy trade for the scenery and experience on offer here. Magic.

6. Waterfall Caves

Located in Derry on the shores of Duncrun Fishing Lakes and right beside Binevenagh Mountain is one of the more unusual places to stay in Ireland.

At Waterfall Caves, you’ll spend the night in some very modern underground caves, complete with spacious bedrooms, smart TVs and more.

However, it’s what outside that counts here. Guests can tackle one of the forest walks, drive buggies around the farm trails or roast marshmallows over a fire pit. 

There’s also private hot tubs, too! If you’re looking for romantic getaways in Ireland and you fancy something unique, these are well worth considering.

7. Ark Ranch Treehouse

Hidden among mature trees on an organic farm in County Cork, this hand-built treehouse offers a peaceful escape for two.

Built using reclaimed and locally sourced materials, it’s compact but cleverly designed, with a cosy wood-burning stove, large windows and a balcony that looks out into the surrounding woodland.

The sleeping area sits on a mezzanine level beneath the pitched roof, adding to the treehouse feel, while outside you’ll find nothing but birdsong and the occasional visit from the farm’s donkeys, horses and chickens.

It’s also well placed for exploring nearby Lough Allua and the surrounding walking and cycling trails.

8. The Hidden Haven

One of the most unique places to stay in Ireland that I’ve stumbled upon in recent years is The Hidden Haven, located in Derry Duff, around a 20-minute drive from Glengarriff in West Cork.

The Hidden Haven is a boutique farm stay that’s finely perched on a remote site overlooking a serene lake with mind-boggling vistas.

Although it’s the view (and the breakfast hamper packed with home made and home grown foods…) that makes this one of the most unique stays Ireland has to offer, there’s more to Hidden Haven than meets the eye.

Inside, you’ll find a spacious, light-filled interior with a fully-equipped kitchen and a bedroom that boasts a super king bed that faces out onto the deck. It sleeps two and there’s a 3-night minimum stay.

9. The Hide at Neadú

With a grass-covered roof and uninterrupted views towards Glenveagh National Park, The Hide at Neadú is easily one of the quirkiest cabins in Donegal.

The cabin was handcrafted by its owner and sits on a slope near Fintown, around a 15-minute drive from the Wild Atlantic Way. Inside, reclaimed and upcycled pieces feature throughout, with an alcove double bed, compact kitchen and a wood-burning stove right at the centre.

Double doors open onto a private deck where you can sit out and take in the mountain and valley views. There are even a few friendly horses that have been known to wander over and say hello.

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8. Oystercatcher Cottage

Set above the crashing Atlantic in Connemara, the Oystercatcher Cottage delivers uninterrupted views across open ocean and distant headlands.

This restored two-bedroom hideaway keeps its whitewashed stone walls and rustic soul, with a cosy stove-heated sitting room and a compact kitchen leading to a sea-facing deck.

Watch the light change over the water, spot dolphins below, or end the day with a sunset that floods the horizon in gold.

A good-sized garden, nearby beaches, and the Wild Atlantic Way on your doorstep make it a base for salty-aired adventures.

9. The Lost Cottage

If you’re looking for cool places to stay in Ireland that’ll be a world away from anything you’ve experienced to-date, hit play above and get a sense of what The Lost Cottage is all about.

Located in Glenbeigh in Kerry and set on an 85-acre site, the beautifully designed cottage offers majestic views over Caragh Lake and beyond.

It sleeps 4 and boasts an open plan living area, stylish decor, a log fire and a bathroom with a glass roof (it’s located in the Kerry Dark Sky Reserve, so stargazing awaits).

The cottage was home to a heard of goats for 40 years before it was meticulously restored in 2003. I’ve said enough, the footage above will do the rest.

10. The Lookout

Few unique stays Ireland, if any, can boast a view like this one. Perched on a cliff at Atlantic Bay Rest, The Lookout is a timber hut with wraparound windows that take in Smerwick Harbour, the Three Sisters, and the peaks of the Dingle Peninsula.

Inside, it’s pared back to the essentials – a double bed, a small chest of drawers, and a chair perfectly placed for morning coffee with the Atlantic spread out in front of you.

Facilities are shared, with a hot outdoor shower on the way to the private beach, a nearby toilet, and a communal Galley for cooking.

There’s also an optional sauna above the shore. Wild, rustic, and cut off from the everyday, this is a place for sea air, big views, and quiet.

11. The Woodland Suites

Tucked into the grounds of Cork’s Montenotte Hotel, the Woodland Suites blend the feel of a secluded cabin with the comfort of a high-end hotel stay.

Curved, contemporary exteriors open onto sleek interiors finished with travertine floors, rich wood accents, and floor-to-ceiling glass.

Each suite has a king-size bed and a private balcony where you can sit among the trees with a morning coffee or unwind in the evening as the light filters through the leaves.

Guests also have access to The Clubhouse, a private lounge for relaxing between city adventures. If you’re looking for unique places to stay in Ireland but you don’t fancy stepping off the beaten path, this offers a great balance.

12. Balance Treehouse

Although there’s plenty of treehouse accommodation in Ireland, the Balance Treehouse in County Armagh is arguably the one to beat.

Located along the Ring of Gullion, an area of outstanding natural beauty, this treehouse has been hand-crafted and it blends a rustic interior with all the modern conveniences you could want.

The fun begins as you cross the rope bridge. You then have your choice of relaxing on the bed while admiring the views, chilling in the hot tub, taking an outdoor shower or swaying on the hammock.

If you’re looking for unique places to stay in Ireland for couples, a night or two here should be right up your street.

13. Machaire Rabhartaigh Glamping

This is one of the best places to go glamping in Ireland, and you’ll find it a short stroll from Magheroarty Beach. These 10 glamping pods sit in the heart of the Donegal Gaeltacht with views stretching from the Seven Sisters mountains to Inis Bó Finne, Tory Island, and Horn Head.

Pods sleep up to four (2 adults, 2 children) and are open year-round, with family-friendly and couple-focused options. From the site, walk golden sands, watch Atlantic sunsets, or take day trips along the Wild Atlantic Way.

The quiet coastal setting, warm local welcome, and sweeping scenery make it as much about the place outside your door as the comfort inside your pod.

14. Kate’s Cottage

You won’t find many quirky stays in Ireland that feel as authentic as this one. Set on the remote Inishowen Peninsula, Kate’s Cottage is a traditional thatched home that’s been carefully restored while holding onto its original character.

Inside, it’s all about old-world charm with a turf fire, stone floors, bog oak thatch and antique furniture give it a timeless feel, while the open-plan living space keeps things comfortable and practical.

Step outside and you’re surrounded by mountains and coastline. The Urris Hills, nearby beaches and the Wild Atlantic Way are all within easy reach, making it a solid base for exploring this quieter corner of Donegal.

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Folans beach house

Just a few metres from a quiet sandy beach in Connemara, Folan’s Cottage has one of the most impressive settings of any of the unique stays in Ireland in this guide.

The architect-designed property was rebuilt from the ruins of two old stone cottages and looks out across the Atlantic towards the Aran Islands, with the Twelve Bens rising behind.

Your neighbours are mainly sheep, rabbits and Connemara ponies, which gives you a fair idea of how peaceful the setting is.

Inside, it sleeps up to 7 across 3 bedrooms, with a large kitchen, a stove in the living room and French doors that open onto a south-facing terrace overlooking the ocean. The beach is around a 2-minute stroll away and, thanks to having no road access, it’s often remarkably quiet.

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15. Hobbit House near Slieve League

If you’ve ever wondered what it’d be like to spend a night in Hobbiton, this quirky little hideaway in Donegal is about as close as you’ll get.

Built into the hillside just a short walk from the spectacular Slieve League Cliffs, it looks like something lifted straight from the pages of Tolkien.

Inside, you’ll find a surprisingly spacious one-room retreat with a king-size bed, a cosy wood-burning stove and a large picture window looking out into the surrounding woodland.

It’s rustic (the bathroom’s in a separate building a short walk away) but that’s all part of the experience. For anyone looking to swap a hotel room for something completely different, this is one of Ireland’s most memorable places to spend the night.

16. Mary Rose Cottage

This 18th-century thatched stone cottage sits in the peaceful countryside near Castleisland, framed by fuchsia hedges, dry-stone walls, and gardens that slope down to a rushing stream.

Inside, exposed stone, a turf-fired hearth, and an Aga-warmed kitchen keep the old-world charm intact, while 3 bedrooms sleep up to 6.

Outside, a deck with a private hot tub overlooks the water, perfect for stargazing in Kerry’s unpolluted skies.

Local pubs, shops, and a historic church are a short stroll away, with Tralee, Killarney, the Ring of Kerry, and beaches all within easy reach.

17. Rincolisky Castle

Although there are many castle hotels in Ireland that offer a unique experience, few match the views offered by Rincolisky Castle in West Cork (it sleeps 6).

Built by the O’Driscoll clan in 1495, the current version of Rincolisky is a world away from what its original inhabitants would have experienced. 

The castle is located on an elevated site overlooking Roaring Water Bay and it now boasts a new top room with glass windows that open up onto a terrance that offers breath-taking views.

Although Rincolisky has all of the creature comforts you need, the interior has been finely preserved so that there’s a glorious mix of old-meets-new.

18. Goleen Harbour

The next of our unusual places to stay in Ireland is the brilliant Goleen Harbour located in, unsurprisingly, Goleen in West Cork (not far from Mizen Head).

Situated in a wild and remote location on the edge of the Atlantic, Goleen Harbour is a 38-acre eco farm where you can kick-back in a hot tub or grab a seat around a fire pit and gaze at the stars.

There are several different places to stay here – the light-filled EcoCabins that offer panoramic views of the ocean, the GeoDomes (on the left in the photo) and the bell tents.

Quirky accommodation aside, there’s a clatter of experiences on offer at Goleen, from kayaking and moonlit BBQs to foraging and more. This is one of the most unique stays Ireland has to offer for good reason!

19. Letteran Lodges

Tucked away at the foot of Slieve Gallion in Derry is arguably one of the most unique places to stay in Ireland for couples – the outstanding Letteran Lodges.

Few places in Ireland offer a view (there are some, see our guide to the best accommodation with views in Ireland) that rivals the one on offer from the luxury lodges here.

Each of the lodges boast private hot tubs, views of five (yes, five) counties, a fully equipped kitchen and a luxury rainfall shower.

You can enjoy the scenery from the patio outside or you can kick-back by the fire with a coffee and admire it from the comfort of the couch. A little slice of magic.

20. Mayo Glamping

This guide to the most unusual places to stay in Ireland has undergone 5 updates over the years, with places removed and added regularly. However, one of the few that has stood strong is Mayo Glamping.

Located in Castlebar, this glampsite is home to several types of accommodation – Hobbit Huts, Frame Cabins and Fairy Huts.

The Hobbit Huts, pictured above, are the pick of the bunch and each sleeps up to 4 people and boasts wifi and a smart TV.

The glampsite, which is set in the rolling hills of the Mayo countryside, has a hot tub, firepits, a pizza oven, and a kitchen area.

21. The Cliff House

Next up is another of the most unique hotels in Ireland – the Cliff House Hotel in Ardmore in County Waterford.

Arguably one of the finest spa hotels in Ireland, the Cliff House is a 5 star stay that clings to the cliffs above Ardmore Bay.

There’s a mix of rooms on offer here, each of which makes the most out of its location (see the snaps above).

There’s also an award-winning restaurant and a luxury spa that both gaze out over the ocean.

22. Hilltop Hideaway

If you fancy a bit of luxury glamping in Northern Ireland, Newry’s Hilltop Hideaway, which is finely plonked on an elevated site that offers 360 views, is worth considering.

The Hilltop Hideaway is situated on a secluded and private site, which is handy when temptation hits and you finally climb into the hot tub. 

There’s also a bathroom, shower, electric stove and an outdoor patio heater that you can chill on as you watch the sun set over the hills.

23. Drumhierny Woodland Hideaway

Leitrim’s Drumhierny Woodland Hideaway is home to 16 lodges, each of which is nestled within their own private section of the 100-acre estate.

Habitat Lodges (‘A Frame’ style lodges designed to impress), ‘Birds of a Feather’ Lodges (traditional lodge style with luxurious interior) and ‘ReTREEt’ Lodges and ‘Wildflower’ Lodges (both contemporary style).

The Outdoor Wellbeing Sanctuary is what makes Drumihierny one the most unique places to stay in Ireland. It’s home to seaweed baths, outdoor hot tubs, sauna and loungers.

Although each lodge is kitted out to be fully self-catering, there’s also the on-site Woodpecker Cafe and the popular Beirnes of Battlebridge, a 5-minute walk from the entrance.

24. The Merchant Hotel

Next up is one of the most unique hotels in Ireland – the 5 star Merchant Hotel in Belfast City. The hotel is located inside an old bank that dates back to the 1860s and it boasts an impressive interior and exterior.

The building was created in an Italianate-style and its impressive façade is dotted with sculptures. Inside, there’s a stunning central dome (see photo on the left) and an interior that screams elegance and opulence. 

One of the hotels most impressive features is its Great Room Restaurant, which is located in what was once the grand banking hall. There’s also an extensive art collection, luxurious, old-world-style rooms and a spa.

If you’re looking to stay in unique hotels in Ireland and you have a decent budget, the Merchant is well worth considering.

25. Clare Island Lighthouse

Mayo’s Clare Island Lighthouse is one of the more remote unique stays Ireland has to offer, but it’s well worth the 20-minute ferry ride from Roonagh Pier.

The current Clare Island Lighthouse has guarded the entrance to Clew Bay since 1818 and was decommissioned in 1965. In recent years, it opened its doors as a boutique guesthouse.

Perched atop craggy cliffs and offering views that’ll knock-you-sideways, the lighthouse boasts a sleek interior and 5 bedrooms, a kitchen, drawing room and library.

While there’s plenty to do on the island itself, you’ll find it hard to tear yourself away from the views from the rooms. If you’re looking for unique places to stay in Ireland for couples, look no further.

26. Lough Mardal

The next of our quirky accommodation in Ireland takes us to County Donegal’s Lough Mardal, a 20-minute spin from Donegal Town.

There are two different options available here. The first is the Skydome Yurt – fully insulated, spacious and kitted out with a luxury super-king bed, heavy tog duvets and offering views of the surrounding lake and mountains.

The second is the Shepherd’s Hut – a little cabin with luxury furnishings, a king-sized bed and a porch offering lake views.

Then there’s the impressive communal lodge where you’ll find a self-catering kitchen, toilets, showers and a comfy lounge area where you can kick-back and soak up the views.

27. Conroy’s Old Bar

If you’re looking for unique accommodation in Ireland that’ll suit a group getaway, Conroy’s Old Bar in Tipperary is likely to tickle your fancy.

You’ll likely recognise this place from Facebook or Instagram, as it tends to go viral fairly often – it’s the world’s first self-catering pub, after all.

Although it no longer holds an alcohol license, you’d be easily fooled into thinking that this is a fully operational pub, with its polished mahogany bar, complete with pumps, stools and dart board.

With room to sleep 4, you’ll find it hard to tear yourself away from the lounge with its cozy real turf fire.

28. Tubbrid Castle

Tubbrid Castle provides guests with the chance to experience life inside an extensively restored 600-year-old piece of Irish heritage.

I stayed here several years back and it was one of the most memorable nights away I’ve had in a long, long time.

Although this 15th-century tower house has been renovated to include many luxuries (like rainforest showers, modern kitchen etc.) it’s retained much of its original charm and character.

You can dine at a grand oak banqueting table, navigate the narrow stairs that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time and relax by the fire in the large open lounge area.

Cró na Trá

While there’s plenty of unique accommodation in Ireland, few boast a location as prime as Cró na Trá, which is perched above a sheltered Atlantic bay in County Donegal.

This is one of the more beautifully located unique stays in Ireland, with a secluded sandy cove just below the cottage. The granite cottage is over 100 years old and still has its original underthatch beneath the modern roof, although a timber-clad extension brings things firmly into the 21st century.

Inside, there’s an open-plan living area, three window seats and a turf fire for those inevitable Donegal days when the weather decides not to cooperate.

It sleeps four across two bedrooms and, unusually, almost every room has a sea view. There are also seven acres to explore, with direct access to the shoreline and rockpools below.

 

 

 

30. The Beara Bus

You’ll find The Beara Bus on the Beara Peninsula in Cork where it offers breath-taking views of Sheep’s Head and the Mizen Head Peninsula.

The bus has a bedroom (upstairs) with a king-sized bed, a toilet, shower and a fitted out kitchen and dining area.

There’s also a lovely little snug area (the drivers area) that has a gas log burner and cozy seating. There’s even a lounge complete with mood-lighting, a TV, a PS4 and a drinks fridge.

Outside, there’s a dining area for when the weathers good along with a private viewing area that takes in outstanding scenery.

Discover more unusual places to stay in Ireland

If you fancy getting an eyeful of more unique Irish stays, hop into: 

• The quirkiest places for glamping in Ireland
• Unusual places to go glamping in Northern Ireland