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From a sea barn to a lighthouse keeper’s home, these are some of Ireland’s most unique experiences.
Winter nights are made to be spent cosying up inside, and Ireland boasts some truly unique accommodations to give your next getaway some serious flair.
From eco-glamping experiences in Waterford to a sea barn in Sligo to a lighthouse in Donegal, a stay at one of these rentals is the perfect accompaniment to your winter break, and those long nights feel particularly atmospheric when you’re wrapped up warm inside.
So, ready to stay at one of Ireland’s most unique spots? Here are our top recommendations to make your next winter break even more memorable.
Sligo Sea Barn, Co. Sligo
Spend winter nights on your next break listening to the sound of the sea-breeze from the comfort of your very own barn on the coast. This luxury, self-catering barn can sleep up to 17 people and it offers picturesque views of both the ocean and Sligo’s dramatic mountainous landscape. During your time here, embrace the cool winter weather with a bracing country walk and a plunge in the ocean at the nearby Lissadell Beach. Afterwards, return to your accommodation and warm up with a hot meal and watch the early winter sun set over the water as the night draws in.
Clissman Horse Caravans, Co. Wicklow
Surrounded by trees in the peaceful Wicklow countryside is Clissman Horse Caravans, a family-run horse and donkey farm that has been in operation since 1969. On your next winter break, choose from one of Clissman’s three accommodation offerings here – Glamping Caravans, Shepherd’s Hut or Bell Tent. Amenities in the caravans include gas cookers, grills, double beds, linens and hot water bottles. The communal area, meanwhile, has heated showers, toilets, free WiFi, charge points for electronics and coffee and tea facilities. Days here can be spent hiking some of Wicklow’s most famous trails – Glendalough is just 15 minutes away – while those long winter nights call for toasting marshmallows by the campfire beneath a sky full of stars.
Fanad Lighthouse, Co. Donegal
For a winter break unlike any other, book a stay at the Fanad Lighthouse in Co. Donegal. Guests here have the opportunity to stay in one of the restored former lighthouse keeper’s homes. Cosy up inside, enjoy spectacular ocean views and fall asleep to the sound of waves crashing against the rugged cliffs below. During your stay in Fanad, tour the neighbouring lighthouse then journey out to the beautiful beach at Ballymastocker Bay and breathe in the crisp sea air. Then, swing by Stores Bar for a hearty bite to eat and a pint in cosy surrounds.
Merrion Mews, Dublin
Make your next city break to Dublin extra cosy by staying at Merrion Mews, a renovated coachmen’s cottage that is a stone’s throw away from the elegant Merrion Square in Dublin’s city centre. This picturesque and charming cottage is decked out with great amenities, including a wood-burning stove, guaranteed to keep you cosy on winter nights. What’s more, Merrion Mews’ central location means you’re walking distance from the city’s top attractions, including Trinity College, Temple Bar and Dublin’s buzzy shopping streets, which are particularly magical this time of year.
Eco Glamping at Goleen Harbour, Co. Cork
An unforgettable trip to West Cork this winter awaits those who book a spot at this picturesque site at Goleen Harbour. Take in incredible views of the sea from the comfort of your eco-cabin or geo-dome, toast marshmallows by the amphitheatre fire pit and enjoy a warming soak in the on-site hot tub. Trust us, in the fresh, cooler weather, a hot-tub session feels even more rejuvenating. On your next winter break here, feel the cool breeze as you cycle through the West Cork countryside or brave a refreshing dip at the beautiful Barley Cove Beach. In the evenings, stroll to Goleen Village and tuck into a warming meal from The Heron’s Cove.
Yellow Submarine Glamping, Co. Monaghan
In their famous song, The Beatles may have made staying in a Yellow Submarine sound like a fantasy, but the folks from Yellow Submarine Glamping have now made this dream a reality with this quirky accommodation offering. At the Yellow Submarine Glamping, guests can enjoy a stylish and minimalistic stay that sleeps six people on the banks of the Dromore River in County Monaghan. Spend your days canoeing on the river with Dromore River Tours or simply relax on the banks in a deck chair. When night falls, cosy up inside and enjoy the sounds of the river as you sip on a warm cup of tea. This is what short winter breaks in Ireland are made for.
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