ALL AT SEA
After a winter confined to our own locality, our thoughts have drifted to seaside summer stays. From coastal cottages to boutique hotels, we’ve rounded up the best boltholes for you.
Make a break to go and stay by the beach
If there is one thing we are spoiled with on this island, it is miles and miles of breathtaking coastline – from the blustery wild Atlantic to the calmer Irish sea – offering endless options for those seeking to make a break from city life and escape to the sand and waves. This last year has seen us all miss a bone-warming blast of foreign sun more than ever, and while we’re still not daring to dream too far afield, a trip on Irish shores still sounds heavenly at the moment. Whether you want a self-catering retreat or something with a touch of luxury, we’ve found stays worth the daydreams.
HERITAGE STAYS
If you’re looking for something a bit different for your next trip, and the words “remote” and “romantic” tick your box, why not stay in one of the many wonderful heritage buildings dotted around the country? Clare Island Lighthouse (above) is about as close as you can get to the sea without getting wet, and is guaranteed to be a unique experience. Plus, having to get on a boat to reach your destination really does make you feel like you’re getting away from it all, although the crossing takes just 10 minutes.
Clare Island Lighthouse, a member of Ireland’s Blue Book, has six rooms to choose from. Tower House has the trademark circular rooms one imagines in a lighthouse, while Achill View, part of the original lighthouse keeper’s residence, enjoys spectacular sea views. If you want to totally unwind, there is even a suite with its own private sauna. Each stay includes collection from Clare Island harbour, breakfast, and a four-course evening meal. Rooms start from €275 per person, based on two people sharing. clareislandlighthouse.com
BOUTIQUE B&Bs
The best B&Bs strike a balance between leaving their guests feeling cared for, without the formality that often comes with expensive hotels. At The Castle in Castletownshend, added to the mix is the charm of a historic building, making it feel different than your average stay. It’s an ideal place from which to explore West Cork and its endless small beaches. However, you don’t have to leave to enjoy gorgeous water views, as the castle overlooks Castlehaven harbour.
The building itself is worth an explore, too, as it’s full of old paintings and curious artefacts, and outside you can enjoy the gardens. Each unique room also has plenty of character, while the café provides fresh options for breakfast and lunch, or you can simply sip a glass of wine beside the harbour. Rooms start from €100 per night for two people. castle-townshend.com
SELF-CATERING
Options for those seeking self-catering accommodation have never been greater, but it can still be tricky to seek out something a bit special. This Connemara stone cottage has been restored by architect Peter Legge, with respect to the building’s history, sticking to the footprint of the two old cottages. Those who enjoy their home comforts are also catered for, with modern touches including a spectacular glass link, underfloor heating and bifold doors that open the dining area up to the outdoor patio. With the quiet Dolan beach just metres away, you could happily while away the days between the sea and the sand, while evenings can be spent over dinner, before retreating to the fireside. The cottage sleeps up to seven, and starts at €2,950 for a week. fivestar.ie
HERITAGE STAYS
1 Magherintemple Lodge is a former gatelodge on the north coast, close to Rathlin Island, the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
From £290 for two nights. irishlandmark.com
2 Termon House sits on the beachfront in Maghery, Co Donegal. There is great surfing in the area, and the house sleeps up to six, with dogs allowed. From €474 for two nights. irishlandmark.com 3 Wicklow Head Lighthouse would make a memorable trip for up to four, with the building to yourself and sea views.
From €624 for two nights. irishlandmark.com
B&BS
1 The Strand Inn in Dunmore East sits right on the water, giving wonderful sea views, while its restaurant is known for great seafood and local ingredients. Rooms from €120. thestrandinn.com
2 Inch Beach House and Cottages offers both B&B and self-catering options looking out onto the Blue-Flag Inch strand in Kerry.
B&B from €80 a night. inchbeach.com
3 One Shore Street is a stylish boutique guest house in Donaghadee, Co Down in a Georgian building that overlooks the harbour.
Rooms from £140. oneshorestreet.co.uk
SELF-CATERING
1 Overlooking Tranarossan Beach in Donegal, the sleek interiors of An Corrach, a four-bed modern cottage, contrast beautifully with the rugged landscape. €180 per night. airbnb.ie
2 This Lahinch Bungalow is a sleek, modern option for a seaside stay in Co Clare with two bedrooms and a bright, open plan living space.
Available for €174 per night. airbnb.ie
3 Sienna in Kenmare is ideal for those who want a luxurious retreat in stunning surroundings, and sleeps four. From €1,095 for a short break. uniquehomestays.com