Bed and breakfasts (B&Bs) have been a staple in the Irish holiday sector for years. As a humble alternative to the often more expensive and less personable option of a hotel, B&Bs are favoured by locals looking to explore their fair island as well as by tourists seeking a personal touch.
Oftentimes, a stay in a B&B can boast tonnes more positive qualities than a hotel or self-catering stay, such as larger rooms, home-style finishes, a cosier space, and a warmer welcome—not to mention a better breakfast!
And seeing as us Irish people are known to be friendly, another major bonus of staying in a B&B is getting a great opportunity to connect with the local people.
TripAdvisor—a world-leading travel search engine, price comparison, and booking website—has rounded up the 10 best B&Bs in Ireland for 2019. Curious to know which ones rule the roost? Here are the results.
10. Marless House, Co. Galway
TripAdvisor awarded tenth place to Marless House in County Galway. This quaint family-run B&B is situated in Salthill, just moments from the hustle and bustle of Galway city.
Elegantly decorated with a timeless Georgian charm, a roaring open fire, effortless family-home touches, and a warmth second to none, Mary and Tom’s B&B is an unsurprising choice for this list.
Address: 8 Threadneedle Road, Salthill, Co. Galway
9. The 19th Lodge, Co. Kerry
This family-run four-star luxury B&B in County Kerry stole ninth place on TripAdvisor’s list. It teeters along the lines of being considered a hotel for its stand-out service, atmosphere and amenities.
As a matter of fact, over 80% of customers are returning, just proving the quality and comfort offered at The 19th Lodge. This B&B was purpose-built to meet the demand of golfers visiting and touring the adjacent Ballybunion course.
Address: Golf Links Road, Ballybunion, Co. Kerry
8. Friar’s Glen, Co. Kerry
Eighth place goes to Friar’s Glen, a family-run country house and B&B set in the heart of Ireland’s (arguably) most-dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape: Killarney. This is a four-star B&B so expect spacious rooms, home-cooked breakfasts, and first-class service.
Address: Mangerton Road, Muckross, Killarney, Co. Kerry
7. Daly’s House, Co. Clare
Daly’s House in County Clare slotted in at seventh place among the best B&Bs in Ireland. With panoramic views over the Irish countryside and personal touches aplenty, it seems only right that this four-star B&B got a nod on TripAdvisor’s “Top 10” this year.
Bonus points go to the renowned uilleann piper Tom Delaney, who often pops by to entertain guests.
Address: Daly’s House, Doonmacfelim, Doolin, Co. Clare
6. Coill an Rois, Co. Kerry
Sixth place on TripAdvisor’s list was awarded to Coill an Rois in County Kerry. This humble homestay has been greeting guests for nearly two decades, and with its five-star ratings across the board, clearly its host, Jimmy Bruic (who is also a pastry chef and makes the most amazing breakfasts) is doing something right!
Address: Baile Ghainin, Ballydavid, Tralee, Co. Kerry
5. On the Rocks, Co. Donegal
Stealing fifth place on TripAdvisor’s list of the best B&Bs in Ireland is On the Rocks in Donegal. Having won a hoard of accolades, this eco-friendly homestay offers its guests breath-taking views of the surrounding Lough Foyle and the Irish countryside.
Address: Drumaweer, Inishowen, Greencastle, Co. Donegal
4. Lawcus Farm Guest House, Co. Kilkenny
Fourth place—and perhaps the most atmospheric and enchanting entry on the list—has been awarded to Lawcus Farm Guest House in Stoneyford, County Kilkenny. This superbly renovated farmhouse offers guests a luxury stay in a property rich with ambience and charm.
Address: Lawcus, Stoneyford, Co. Kilkenny
3. Desmond House, Co. Cork
Desmond House in County Cork takes third place on TripAdvisor’s list of the best B&Bs of 2019. Sitting in the heart of Kinsale, this stunning Georgian Townhouse offers luxury, sophistication, elegance and comfort, all in equal measure. Family-run with stellar customer service, it’s easy to see why Desmond House ranked so high.
Address: 42 Cork Street, Sleveen, Kinsale, Co. Cork
2. Larkinley Lodge, Co. Kerry
Larkinley Lodge in Killarney took second place. A home-style welcome and service to boot make Larkinley Lodge a class act. But it is the extra attention to detail, such as a private driver available to its guests and guided tours, that puts this boutique lodge a cut above the rest.
Address: 2 Lower Lewis Road, Moyeightragh, Killarney, Co. Kerry
1. Creevagh Heights, Co. Mayo
The top place on TripAdvisor’s list was appropriately awarded to Creevagh Heights in Ballina, County Mayo. This stunning family-run B&B provides mind-blowing postcard views of the wild Atlantic Ocean with weather-worn cliffs and deserted beaches all in arm’s reach.
This intimate B&B consists of only four en-suite rooms, promising the highest level of customer service and tranquillity during your stay.
Address: Rathlackan, Carrowmore-Lacken, Ballina, Co. Mayo
