Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend away, a night away with your pals, or a full-blown road trip of Ireland, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to quirky accommodation options to suit all tastes.
With the rise of staycations back in 2020, finding quirky accommodation offering something different from the standard hotel, hostel, or B&B became a top priority for those booking trips.
From quaint and traditional Irish cottages to treehouses, horseboxes, and more, the options for unusual and unique places to stay in Ireland are many.
So, whether you’re looking to surprise your significant other with a night away or you just fancy treating yourself and your pals to a fun break, then read on. Here are our picks for the top ten most unusual and unique places to stay in Ireland.
10. Alpaca My Bags @ Andean Alpacas, Co. Westmeath – the perfect spot for animal lovers
Located in Mullingar, Alpaca My Bags @ Andean Alpacas is definitely one of our top picks when it comes to the most unusual and unique places to stay in Ireland.
This little wooden log cabin sleeps four and offers breathtaking lake views that can be enjoyed from the private terrace and balcony. However, what makes this spot so special is the resident alpacas living on the grounds. It’s the perfect stay for animal lovers!
Alpaca My Bags @ Andean Alpacas aren’t accepting bookings at the moment, but keep an eye on their website for future availability.
9. The Ringfort, Co. Wexford – live like a Viking
Located in the sunny southeast, The Ringfort is the perfect place to experience what life would have been like as a Viking.
With wattle walls, a thatched roof, and a central hearth, this is the perfect place to escape modern life. If you really want to immerse yourself fully in the experience, you can dress in authentic costume and cook on the open fire.
8. Portsalon Luxury Camping, Co. Donegal – a cosy beachside experience
Located close to Portsalon Beach, Portsalon Luxury Camping offers a camping experience like none you’ve ever had before.
Stay over in a luxury private yurt, which is fully equipped with all you need for a comfortable stay. You can also take advantage of the shared lounge, garden, and kitchen to cook your own meals.
7. Finn Lough Resort, Co. Fermanagh – gaze up at the stars from a luxury bubble dome
The perfect romantic escape, Finn Lough Resort is well-known for its luxury bubble domes that offer an unrivalled view of the night sky. Tucked away in the forest, you can experience the ultimate private night under the stars.
This resort also offers a truly unique spa experience through the Elements Spa Trail that allows you to feel truly connected to nature. It isn’t far off the best cabins in Saskatchewan.
6. Riversdale Farm B&B and Boat Buildings, Co. Leitrim – experience an unforgettable stay on the water
Located on a picturesque 80 acres of farmland in Ballinamore, County Leitrim, Riverdale Farm B&B offers a magical escape on the water.
Guests can relax in comfortable en-suite bedrooms, which offer stunning views of the countryside and the River Shannon. The B&B also boasts a heated indoor pool, a fully-equipped gym, a guest lounge, free parking, and a sauna.
5. The Lodges at Kilkea Castle, Co. Kildare – an opulent countryside escape
Fancy staying at a historic Irish castle? If this is an experience on your bucket list, then we can’t recommend The Lodges at Kilkea Castle in County Kildare highly enough.
Undoubtedly one of the most unusual and unique places to stay in Ireland, guests can enjoy a magical stay at this beautiful 12th-century castle set on 180 acres of countryside with its own woodland and gardens.
4. Rock Farm Glamping, Co. Meath – for glamping in the country
Located in Slane, County Meath, Rock Farm Glamping offers a variety of unique glamping options that you won’t want to miss.
From various yurts to shepherd’s huts and more, guests can enjoy cosy, low-impact accommodation that allows them the chance to feel connected to nature.
You can certainly add any of these top 10 fairy-tale forest lodges in Ireland to this list.
3. The Rusty Mackerel, Co. Donegal – stay in a traditional Irish pub
Set at the foot of Sliabh Liag, The Rusty Mackerel is a cosy and traditional bar, restaurant, and accommodation.
Known for its warm and friendly atmosphere, traditional live music, and delicious selection of food and drinks, staying here is an experience you’ll never forget.
2. The Birdbox, Co. Donegal – a beautiful treehouse stay
Boasting breathtaking views over Glenveagh National Park, the Birdbox is truly as unique as it comes regarding accommodation.
This beautiful, handcrafted treehouse for two is finished with double glass doors, a cosy couch, and a tiny wood-burning stove. Offering the ultimate level of privacy, it is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
1. Nature Cabin Burren Lowlands, Co. Galway – for breathtaking natural surroundings
Topping our list of unusual and unique places to stay in Ireland is this beautiful nature cabin in the Burren lowlands of County Galway.
Complete with one bedroom, a living room, a bathroom, and a fully-equipped kitchenette, this stunning spot offers everything you could need for a relaxing break away.
