As interest continues to grow in meaningful, design-led stays with a strong sense of place, these distinctive Irish retreats stand out for their setting and style …
Caragh Lake House, Co Kerry
Ettiene and Annemarie van Vrede, owners of Caragh Lake House, Co Kerry say “a big part of what we focus on is creating an environment where people can spend meaningful time together. That’s what feels most luxurious now.” Since purchasing the lake house in 2024 they have used their background in hospitality to create a swish, sociable property which sleeps twelve. A stay here is all about slow mornings, long walks, late dinners and the views. Special touches include food deliveries from Kerry Food Market, and the option to hire a private chef, such as Joe O’Dwyer from The Hunter & the Chef. There’s also a sauna and outdoor bath. Kayaks are available, while private fishing trips can also be arranged with local fisherman, Paddy Foley. @caraghlakehouse.ie
Old Court Hideaway, Co Down
Originally built in 1852 as a boat repair workshop, the tastefully restored Old Court Hideaway, Co Down on the shores of Strangford Lough, is part of the Old Court Estate, owned by the Maxwell family. It’s nautical and romantic with wooden clad interiors and a private decking offering uninterrupted views across the lough, and perhaps a siting of some seals. Guests can wander the grounds which feature a private chapel built in 1629 (the estate is an in-the-know wedding venue). It’s close to Strangford village where The Artisan Cookhouse and The Cuan are popular for dinner, serving local seafood from Marty Johnson at East Coast Seafoods. @oldcourthideaway.
Drift Farmhouse, Co Monaghan
Drift Farmhouse, Co Monaghan is a dreamy, light-filled rental which can accommodate ten guests in five bedrooms, and is dog friendly. There’s an indoor pool with an underwater treadmill, as well as a sauna, outdoor hot tub and yoga studio, overlooking the Monaghan hillside – perfect for wellness weekends. Guests are welcomed with a luxury hamper and private catering can be arranged. @uniquehomestays
Bóthar Buí, Co Cork
“Athletic sealight on the doorstep slab,” is how Seamus Heaney described the shifting light at Bóthar Buí, Co Cork, in his anthology Seeing Things. The retreat, made up of old farm buildings and contemporary studios, was designed by the late modernist architect Robin Walker. Writers and musicians are drawn to its privacy and home comforts including spa-like sunken bath tubs. “There are plenty of coastal walks and loops from the Eyeries Coastal Loop, to the Garnish Loop Walk”, says owner Sarah Walker, a noted artist, who also recommends Derreen Gardens. “A must is lunch in Helen’s Bar at Kilmackillogue Pier in Co Kerry (just a 20-minute drive away), famous for its delicious crab sandwiches.” @botharbuihouse
Dromgariff Rainforest, Co Cork
Surrounded by fuchsias, ferns and oak woodland, there are five distinctive houses on the private estate of Dromgarriff Rainforest, Co Cork owned by Bryan and Tara Meehan (who also own Park Hotel Kenmare). They have been implementing rewilding projects and working with conservation groups to make sure the forest’s beauty endures for generations. The show-stopping Linden, with ten bedrooms, was redesigned by Japanese architect Jo Nagasaka (also overseeing the new spa at Park Hotel Kenmare). It’s defined by its spaciousness, vaulted ceilings, mid-century furniture and contemporary art by Sean Scully and Louis le Brocquy. Guests can be as active or as lazy as they wish. There’s a barrel sauna by the water, plus a yoga room that overlooks Bantry Bay, and an indoor sauna. Massages, forest bathing, sound baths and meditation can be arranged as can private chefs. @dromgarriff
Breac House, Co Donegal
Designed by MacGabhann architects, Breac House, Co Donegal melds with the landscape overlooking Sheephaven Bay and Muckish Mountain. Inside, natural materials and locally crafted furniture, fabrics and products impress. Breakfast is silently delivered into a private hatch, ready for guests to enjoy in bed, on the terrace or in the garden. It’s part of the experience here which includes picnics, seaweed baths, saunas and sundowners. Owner Cathrine Burke also organises seasonal retreats with Michelin-starred guest chefs, wine and gin tastings, mountain walks, food tours and architectural visits. @breac.house
Birch Cabins, Co Down
Florida Manor is a historic Palladian estate, outside Killinchy, Co Down, which dates back to 1676. It belongs to the Lagan family who have developed eight Birch Cabins which allow guests to unwind in nature without compromising on comfort. Think king-size beds, well-equipped kitchenettes, 42-inch TVs, balconies overlooking a tree-lined lake, walk-in rainfall showers, Swedish outdoor wood-burning hot tubs and a lakeside sauna. Other details include woven throws from Mourne Textiles, artworks by Emily McIlwaine Textiles, handmade ceramics by Annadale Brickwork, and outdoor furniture from Belfast homewares store, Maven. On the doorstep are popular local restaurants: Daft Eddies, the Poachers Pocket and Balloo House. @birchcabins
House Boat at Carrickreagh Bay, Co Fermanagh
“People don’t necessarily want standard hotel rooms anymore. They’re looking for experiences and somewhere that feels memorable. Staying overnight floating on the lake definitely gives people that,” says Richard Cathcart. FP310 at Carrickreagh Bay, Co Fermanagh is one of two floating boathouses. One of its biggest attractions is the lack of WiFi. “What surprises us most is how many guests say they sleep better here than they have in years. Once they settle in and start watching the water instead of their phones, you can physically see people relax.” @theboathouse_carrickreagh
Stilt House, Fernwood, Co Galway
Once you arrive at Fernwood, Co Galway, there’s no need to leave. The camouflaged Stilt House, built on 57 stilts with an elliptical curve, was designed by MarMar Architects. The vibe is more luxury suite than rustic perch thanks to its designer furniture, top notch appliances and huge bathroom with rain shower. Most guests remark on the mattresses (the same as those in the Merrion Hotel), the Swedish hot tub and a private lakeside sauna. Other activities include taking a dip in its salt lake where encounters with the resident otters, a swooping swallow or a kingfisher are par for the course. @fernwood_farm
E Gray House, Co Waterford
Every detail, from the cork ceiling to the carefully selected furniture and artwork, contributes to the charm and comfort of E Gray House, Co Waterford, including a mezzanine bedroom with views of Dungarvan Bay. The main space includes a kitchen with all the essentials, plus French press coffee and a few surprises included in the pantry. An outdoor fireplace doubles as a barbecue. Guests can enjoy a cinema experience with a projector and hidden screen, and there are bicycles on hand to explore the Waterford Greenway, literally on the doorstep. @egray_house
Bay Beach House, Co Waterord
Bay Beach House, Co Waterford gives Hamptons vibes because of its direct access to Whiting Bay beach. It has six bedrooms, a stateof- the-art kitchen, cinema room, tennis court and indoor swimming pool with steam room. @adamsandbutler
