The 30 Most Unique Airbnbs in Ireland
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Let me be honest with you: 2020 makes me count days until ANY road trip through Ireland, no matter where I’m heading or staying at. Since this year has turned out to be completely different from what we all had in mind, I believe we all deserve something special. 2020 made me realise how special time with family and friends (and especially dogs) is, how precious happy moments are and how lucky we are to be alive and healthy.
So why not spend this precious vacation time at special places? Whether it’s a short weekend trip or a long staycation road trip through Ireland, Ireland has quite a few unusual and very unique airbnbs to stay at.
So here are my 30 favourite + most unique airbnbs in Ireland:
Note: only a few of the following are dog-friendly, so if you’re travelling with your pawsome friend, be sure to check out my blog post about my favourite dog-friendly airbnbs and hotels in Ireland!
30 Liosachan (Hobbit Hut) - Mayo Glamping
Calling all Tolkien lovers! Ever wondered what it would be like to live like a Hobbit? In case you have never been to New Zealand and won’t be in the near future (who knows how the Covid situation will develop in 2021), this is your chance to relax in a spacious and cosy Hobbit hut. The Mayo countryside is perfect for a getaway from your busy life.
29 Pebble Pods - Glambing in Northern Ireland
The Pebble Pods are nestled away on the private, tranquil shores of Strangford Lough and are a great experience! They are a comfortable and cosy glamping accommodation with eco-friendly pods and are the perfect glamping escape.
28 Tiny House - Lakeview Cabin Tipperary
This lovely tiny house was recently awarded ‘Most Unique Listing in Ireland’ by airbnb and it definitely is. The cabin is located in a beautiful woodland setting and the views of Lough Derg are amazing. You’re going to hear the birds sing, watch spectacular sunsets and have one of the best views you ever woke up to.
27 Your 15th century Irish Castle - Kilkenny
Tubbrid Castle, located in Kilkenny, is a unique 15th-century tower house. It has been restored to its former glory and is definitely an once-in-a-lifetime experience. Are you ready for a very unique staycation, princess?
26 Viking House Stayover - County Wexford
Talking history and unique experiences - this is another very unique airbnb in Ireland. Ever wondered how sleeping was like in Ireland 1000 years ago? If your answer is yes, this is a must-do! The Viking House is set in the beautiful Irish National Heritage Park (you will have access to the park during your stay) and you’ll definitely feel like a time traveller while spending a night (or more) there.
25 The Ark Floating Home - House Boat, County Roscommon
Since spending some time on a floating house in Stockholm and one week on a floating house in Amsterdam, I am a huge fan of them! The Ark is a fully floating apartment and the perfect place to enjoy the beautiful nature surrounding you. It’s definitely like a little piece of heaven.
24 Lighthouse Keepers - Home of the Year Finalist 2020, County Cork
Not only was this airbnb voted as one of Ireland’s Top 50 places to stay by the Irish Independent, it was also featured on RTÉ Home of the Year 2020 and became a finalist. This is the only Irish lighthouse keepers house that’s located in a town and it’s absolutely stunning. You won’t be disappointed!
23 Restored 200 Year Old Church, Galway
Located about 20 minutes away from Galway City, this airbnb is a beautiful and unique place to stay while exploring Galway, the Connemara National Park and even the Burren and the Cliffs of Moher. The church has been restored in a very beautiful way, with tasteful modern upgrades and you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the peacefulness of the countryside without being too far away from the city.
22 The Great Blasket Island Cottage
Location goals! If you’ve ever been on the Dingle Peninsula or even on Great Blasket Island itself, you know what I mean. This unique private cottage is located on Great Blasket Island, with unique and breathtakingly beautiful views of the Dingle Peninsula and the Atlantic. Great Blasket Island is rich in history, wildlife and beautiful nature and it’s the perfect place to reconnect with nature and your inner self.
Read more about the Dingle Peninsula in my blog post here.
21 Annes Grove Miniature Castle, County Cork
It’s romantic, it’s medieval, it’s Anne’s and it’s miniature. The perfect getaway for a couple or two people (and a dog!), this castle is a cosy and wonderful place to spend a romantic weekend.
20 Wicklow Lighthouse
Calling all nature lovers! You’d like to spend some time away from people, reconnect with nature and enjoy some amazing views in a unique airbnb? This lighthouse in County Wicklow is perfect for you. Keep in mind there are quite a few steps you need to be prepared for. They are so worth the views though.
19 Pops Dream, County Clare
A beautiful and romantic boathouse, perfect for an amazing experience for a couple. The kitchen is well equipped, so you don’t need to go anywhere. Enjoy the gorgeous paradise around you and the great views on the lake.
18 Tiny House - Cuckoo Wood Hexagon, County Mayo
Cuckoo Wood Hexagon is THE perfect tiny house. Irma, the host, is lovely and her airbnb is the perfect place to enjoy the peace and quiet of the surrounding nature. There are beautiful walks in the surrounding area, so no need to get in the car while staying there.
17 Over 800 year old Feudal Castle, County Tipperary
Not only is this airbnb a unique experience itself, the hosts here are amazing. They will give you the warmest welcome, followed by a tour of the castle and telling you everything you need to know about the castle itself and the surrounding area. The views from the rooms itself are stunning and you will get such an authentic experience from start to finish, you’ll definitely want to come back!
16 The World’s 1st Self Catering Pub, County Tipperary
What an experience! This is an Irish airbnb you shouldn’t miss. Conroy’s Old Bar is cosy and comfortable, the hosts are amazing and who wouldn’t love to stay in a real pub?
15 Lough Hyne Cottage, County Cork
50m from the shore of Lough Hyne, this cottage is amazing. It’s set in the perfect location if you love hiking, swimming and exploring West Cork.
Read more about my favourite things to do in West Cork in my blog post here. Every aspect of the cottage itself is beautiful and it is well equipped and has everything you need.
14 Treehouse, County Donegal
The Birdbox, as this treehouse is called, is a very special and unique experience if you enjoy nature, peace and fun. You can really relax and unwind here and for me, it’s one of the hidden secrets in Ireland.
13 Tuckmill Treehouse, County Wicklow
Anyone ready to disconnect from anything ‘2020’ and reconnect with nature? This is the perfect place for it. There’s no TV, no wifi, no human interaction. The treehouse itself is beautiful and well equipped and I’m pretty sure you’re going to love it here.
12 Cozy 5* cottage with a private beach, County Donegal
This detached stone cottage in County Donegal is great and you’re going to love this place, especially the private beach (accessible only via the hosts’ land) and the peace and quiet. Pets are allowed here (fee).
11 Treehouse - The Hideout Wexford
Maybe you’ve already seen this treehouse on TV, as it was part of RTE’s ‘The Big DIY Challenge’. The views are amazing and it’s the perfect escape. The airbnb itself is stylish, cozy and comfortable and there are so many thoughtful touches. Couldn’t recommend this getaway enough.
10 Secluded Coastal Studio, County Cork
Views! The south coast is beautiful and this airbnb gives you the perfect base to explore it all. It takes full advantage of the amazing coastal views and the interior is stylish and tasteful. Enjoy the stunning views, the scenic walks along the cliffs and the silence.
09 Tiny House in Allihies, West Cork
I might be biased here, but not only is the Beara Peninsula the most beautiful place in Ireland, Allihies is also a lovely and colourful village you’re going to fall in love with. This wooden tiny house is just perfect for a unique and special experience in West Cork. The views are stunning, the sea isn’t far away (and I’ve always loved Ballydonegan beach - let me know if you like it, too!) and it’s the perfect place to explore the Beara Peninsula, West Cork and even the Ring of Kerry. Read more about the Beara Peninsula in my blog post here.
08 Dursey Island Schoolhouse, West Cork
Ever been to Dursey Island? Another gem of the Beara Peninsula, this island is home to Ireland’s only cable car. Dursey Island is separated from the mainland by a narrow stretch of water called the Dursey Sound. It is known for its very strong tidal reef and the reason why it is so unsafe for boats and accessible only by cable car. The almost treeless island itself is very popular with bird watchers and great for hiking - be sure to respect the wildlife and nature you’re walking on though. Dursey Island is one of the few unspoiled places and is home to many birds - and I don’t want it to change. The views from the mainland are great as well and on a clear day you can even spot Skellig Michael in the distance. Enjoy your stay in this lovely and cosy place!
07 Eyeries Glamping
Set in the beautiful village of Eyeries on the Beara Peninsula , this brand new luxury timber frame glamping pod is definitely a must-do when in the area. Julie is such a wonderful warm host and she will give you the warmest welcome possible. The glamping pods are cosy and comfortable and (although I’m biased) you’re going to love the area!
06 Eagles Rock Cottage, County Leitrim
Views! The views down the valley and up the mountain are amazing here. The original 100 year old cottage has been fully renovated and is equipped with everything you need to have a great time here.
05 Clifftop House - Edge of the World, Dingle Peninsula
Remember our amazing video about the Dingle Cliffs and my daily sea view instagram stories in November 2019? That’s where we were staying back then! The house is amazing (goals!) and the view is spectacular. The garden is secure and the house is pet friendly. I can’t recommend it enough.
04 Knochrobin Glamping, County Wicklow
Overlooking the Irish Sea, this bell tent glamping experience is unique. It’s perfect for families and kids and the hospitality is great. Enjoy the Wicklow countryside, the cliff walks, a breakfast at the Happy Pear in Greystones … there’s so much to see and do here.
03 Tiny House in Wild Connemara
Ahhh, who doesn’t love the beautiful Connemara National Park? This tiny house is perfect for everyone who loves the Irish wilderness, peace, quiet and great views. The house itself has everything you need for your stay and it’s the perfect airbnb if you fancy a unique staycation.
02 Skellig Rest Ocean View Cottage, Ring of Kerry
The views on the Skellig Islands are breathtaking from this airbnb! Be aware the house itself is pretty old, so don’t expect a flawless interior here. Enjoy the views and the surrounding nature, it’s a very special place to be!
Read more about the Ring of Kerry on the blog.
01 Boat House Valentia Island
The Boat House is located on the beautiful Valentia Island off the southwest coast of Ireland, not far from the famous Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula. The airbnb is located right on the beach with the sitting room overlooking the beach and lighthouse (goals!). For me, it’s one of the most perfect and unique places to stay. Enjoy the views, watch the sea, seals and wildlife on this beautiful island.