Dog Friendly Ireland: our pick of the best places to stay with your pooch
“You snooze, you lose!” Not at these gorgeous dog friendly rentals and hotels.
Ireland is a country of animal lovers and is increasingly becoming a dog friendly island with stylish and quirky places to rest our heads and put the paws up.
Dogs are family too and their adventurous nature make them the best travel companions. Our four-legged friends love exploring and getting out of the cities and will run themselves silly on golden, sandy beaches before napping by a turf fire. With this in mind, it is really exciting to find gorgeous holiday homes that will warmly welcome our puppers.
This is a roundup of our favourite dog friendly holiday homes and hotels that have raised the bar with personal touches, great locations, charm and style.
Located outside the pretty town of Kenmare, Oaklane Glamping is the perfect base for exploring the Beara Peninsula and the Ring of Kerry. With just two cabins, Oaklane is peaceful space offering a chance to disconnect from busy life and slow down. The cabins have a tiny kitchen, BBQ and fire pit with spectacular views over Kenmare Bay. Watch the sun set behind the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and settle in around the fire for a peaceful night in nature.
Contemporary cottage at the foot of Benwiskin Mountain, Sligo
Benwiskin Mountain Lodge, Co. Sligo
This contemporary cottage in north Sligo offers spectacular views of Benwiskin Mountain from the big picture windows in the living room. You could be tempted to spend all day in this stylish house as the scene outside is ever-changing; from the golden glow of the rising sun to the moon shining against the dark night sky.
If you manage to pull yourself away from the cottage and those views you will find some of the Wild Atlantic Way’s most beautiful beaches nearby. The cottage is also a great base for climbing Benbulben Mountain or exploring the Benwiskin trails, including the famous Gleniff Horseshoe. It is important to note that there is open farmland in the mountains so please respect the ‘no dog’ routes.
Dogs are most welcome at this cool cottage and owner, Kate is very thoughtful. She provides bowls and blankets for her four-legged guests as well as local goodies for the humans.
Benwiskin Mountain Lodge, Co. Sligo
Catch spectacular sunsets from the garden of Winkle Cottage
Perched above the bustling seaside town of Portrush, Winkle Cottage is a perfect base for exploring Northern Ireland’s breathtaking Causeway Coast. With its cool, contemporary beachy vibes complete with wood burning stove, hot tub and sitooterie, Winkle Cottage is one of our favourite airbnbs. It is cosy in the eveningtime and in the morning the rooms are drenched in natural light. The hosts, Sheelagh and Alex are self-confessed “high-maintenance travelers” which means they have thought of everything you could possibly need for a memorable stay; including an incredible welcome hamper of local treats.
Juno loved having the run of the large, escape proof garden whilst we enjoyed the sunset over Donegal’s headland from the hottub. The cottage boosts great views of the Skerries Islands and is less than a 5 minute drive from Whiterocks Beach, the majestic Dunluce Castle and the pretty market town of Bushmills (famed for its whiskey).
Portrush, Causeway Coast, Co. Down
Cosy up in West Cork
Laharandota, The Artist’s Studio, West Cork
Previously the home of American painter Frank Russell, the Artist’s Studio and the Cottage next door (suitable for larger parties) have recently been lovingly restored by its new owner, Julie. Named after a nearby lough, ‘Laharandota’ is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in West Cork’s almighty beauty. Nestled in the unspoilt landscape of the south-western coastline on Sheep’s Head Peninsula, the uninterrupted sea views from the Artist’s Studio over Dunmanus Bay are breathtaking. The Studio is surrounded by a peaceful garden complete with swimming pool and babbling brook! It is a cosy and relaxing space and has everything you need for a few days exploring the Mediterranean of Ireland. Check out our New Year’s trip to West Cork for more dog friendly tips.
Both properties are dog friendly and the garden is a lovely space for pooches to explore. Please be aware that many of the walks in this part of Ireland, including the Sheep’s Head Way and neighbouring Beara Way do not allow dogs. That said, we kept Juno on her lead and were told by locals that provided dogs do not bother the local sheep there is no problem.
Laharandota, Sheep's Head Peninsula, West Cork
Pack the pooch and hit the road in Red in the Wild
Imagine waking to the sounds of the Atlantic lapping against the shore, brewing fresh coffee and having a swim before starting your day. Imagine jumping in the driving seat and moving onto to a different beach along the breathtaking coastal roads in Northern Ireland, parking up in a little harbour or a wooded area in the Glens of Antrim. So many of us dream of having our own van, of hitting the open road and exploring the country’s nooks and crannies. Red in the Wild makes this dream come true - even if only for a few days!
Lovingly converted by award-winning photojournalist, Cathal McNaughton and his four-legged assistant, Murphy. Red in the Wild is a beautiful example of bushcraft with everything being hand carved by Cathal and his dad, between them they have poured soul into this Mercedes Sprinter.
We toured the Causeway Coast in Red over three days, parking up at beautiful beaches each night so that we could enjoy the stars around a little fire made in the sand and wake up to the sound of the ocean before taking a sunrise swim. The van has most things you will need for your adventure, including a loo, you just have to pack the pooch and bedding. You collect the van from Cathal’s cute, traditional cottage in Waterfoot, Co. Antrim where we were gifted chard and spinach from the garden. Cathal and his partner, Jules are so warm and welcoming, you will be tempted to invite them on your trip!
Van collection from Waterfoot, Co. Antrim
The edge of he world at Clare Island Lighthouse
Clare Island Lighthouse, Co. Mayo
There is something romantic and wildly adventurous about taking a boat across the Atlantic. Standing on Roonagh pier waiting for the ferry to Clare Island is an experience in itself as sheep come bounding up the pier having just completed their trip across from the Island. On the other side, Humphrey awaits your arrival at the quay to drive you to the Lighthouse on the northern tip of the Island.
Standing guard at the entrance to Clew Bay with spectacular views of Achill Island, Clare Island Lighthouse is a hotel like no other. The saying arrive as strangers, leave as friends could have been coined with the Lighthouse in mind as you receive the warmest welcome from the manager and her team (including the resident pooches). The Lighthouse on Clare Island is a sanctuary from the mainland. You are as free to wander into the kitchen, the heart of the hotel, and chat with the chef as you are to relax by the fire in the drawing room.
This boutique retreat is the perfect getaway with your dog (dogs are allowed but please mention that your four-legged traveller is coming too when making your booking) as the island is a haven for hill walking and swimming. Check out our best sea swimming spots to discover a hidden cove for a dip close to the Lighhouse.
Clare Island, Co. Mayo
Oystercatcher Cottage, Co. Galway
This charming cottage is literally ‘picture-postcard Ireland’ having been snapped in the 1950s by John Hinde (the photographer who’s jewel-bright Ireland was made famous around the world when his images became postcards) and it hasn’t changed a bit!
Hugging the land as it sweeps down to the sea, Oystercatcher Cottage is located in one of Ireland’s most scenic spots, Connemara. With panoramic views over the Atlantic and the islands off the coast of Galway and Mayo, this traditional cottage will take your breath away. Painted bright white and trimmed in blue, the cottage could not be cuter if it tried. Inside, this traditional two bed cottage is colourful and cosy making it the perfect hideaway.
Located on the Renvyle Peninsula close to beautiful beaches and the Connemara National Park, Oystercatcher Cottage ticks all the boxes for a Wild Atlantic Way trip to remember…it even has the best pub nearby.
Connemara, Co. Galway
Tollymore Gate Lodge, Co. Down
The candy coloured gothic gate lodge of Tollymore Forest Park is the perfect getaway in County Down. Located in the foothills of the Mournes, this cosy cottage is a great base for exploring the mountains.
A traditional house with lovely touches such as a welcome basket of local eggs and honey and a wood burning stove creates a retreat from everyday life.
Situated close to the sea, the rock pools at Bloody Bridge and the majestic Mourne Mountains, Tollymore Gate Lodge is surrounded by nature.
Don’t miss a hike up Slieve Donard, refreshing evening swims in the Tollymore Forest lake and lunch in a magical tepee at Fodder.
Tollymore Forest Park, Mourne Moutains, Co, Down
Prominently placed on the Bray seafront, The Palm is a dog friendly boutique hotel and bar with quirky touches throughout. Puppers are treated to 5 star service as they are allowed everywhere in the hotel.
After you check in, draw a bath in the giant tub and then head up to the coolest wee bar at the top of the building for an apéritif with your doggo.
With so many dog friendly bars and cafes, Bray is the perfect destination for a couple of nights away with your pooch.
The Promenade, Bray, Co. Wicklow
The Surfer’s House, Portrush, Co. Antrim
Surfer, Al and artist, Sara have poured so much love into the Surfer's House in Portrush. The house is beautifully styled, with plenty of room for up to 8 people to enjoy.
We loved the bright kitchen that was a pleasure to cook and dine in and the cosy living room, complete with wood burning stove.
Al and Sara make you feel welcome the moment you arrive, with a homemade cake and so many goodies waiting for you. They even provide a doggie welcome basket complete with fancy treats, a dog bowl and a special towel.
Located in the town of Portrush, this gorgeous house is a great base for exploring the Causeway Coast.
Portrush, Causeway Coast, Co. Antrim
The Fisherman’s Cottage, Inishbofin, Co. Galway
No Fisherman's Blues here!
The Fisherman’s Cottage on Inishbofin is the perfect island getaway. Standing on the shore of East End beach for 150 years, the cottage was lovingly restored by owners Caroline and Dermot a few years ago. You can feel how much love the couple have put into this cottage - from the little painted stones instructing you to 'sleep well' to the hand carved kitchen in the 'captain's quarters.'
We were fortunate to spend four nights at the Fisherman's Cottage during our trip to Inishbofin. The cottage is practically on the beach so you can start each day with a swim in the crystal clear waters of the Atlantic. After a day exploring the island there’s nothing nicer than lighting the turf fire and cosying up for the evening.
Eastend, Inishbofin, Co.Galway
This tiny house comes packed with big ideas and ingenious design!
Located in a tranquil spot in Sligo, between the sea and the Ox Mountains, the Hen House is a great base for exploring Yeats Country.
Lovingly created by hand, the Hen House is a truly special place. Robert has created a cosy cabin for up to 2 people and their pooch. We loved dining in the garden under the hawthorn tree, spending the evening playing cards by the wood burning stove and climbing into the amazing box bed at the end of the day.
The Hen House, Dromore West, Co.Sligo
Hidden Brooks, Sheep’s Head, West Cork
With uninterrupted views over Dunmanus Bay, Hidden Brooks is the perfect escape.
This magnificent house on Sheep's Head Peninsula in West Cork is perfect for families or large groups who seek adventure or simply want to relax. It is styled to perfection with everything you could imagine, including a sauna pod with a view to die for!
Located in the village of Ahakista, this stunning house is a short stroll to the famous Tin Pub and Arundels By The Pier. It is the perfect base for exploring the Peninsulas of Mizen Head, Sheep’s Head and Beara.
In the morning, dander down to the hidden beach behind the Tin Pub for a swim and after a day exploring West Cork, grab a table at Arundels for seafood on the pier before firing up the sauna pod as the sun sets over the Bay.
Hidden Brooks, Ahakista, Co. Cork
Deep within the Killykeen Forest in Cavan on the shores of Lough Oughter, a magical place surrounded by nature waits to be discovered.
CABÜ is a hideaway for anyone looking to relax and reboot and get back to enjoying the simple things in life. This is high end luxury in natural surroundings and it is both family and dog friendly! Spend a long weekend hiking, swimming, fishing or just relaxing in a tasteful cabin in Ireland's beautiful lake district. Read our blog post for the low-down.
