The Emerald Isle is enchanting, there are no two ways about it, with its natural beauty, diverse things to see and do, and friendly locals. There is so much on offer that wherever you stay in the country, you’re going to have the best time.
That being said, your accommodation can provide a totally different experience depending on your choice. From auto hotels to glamping, it’s important to consider all options to enhance your trip.
These days, Ireland accommodation goes far beyond your conventional hotel or B&B. Here are a few unique options I recommend for your next or upcoming visit.
Where to Stay in Ireland
First things first, which city should you base yourself in for exploring Ireland? There’s no right or wrong answer here, but it does depend on what you have on your itinerary as to where it would make the most sense to stay.
Most head to Dublin, Galway or Cork — three of the largest cities in Ireland with the most popular attractions and good transportation links. Or, you may choose to do what my husband and I did, and plan an Ireland road trip stopping in each of these cities! I’d highly recommend this, as you get to spend a good amount of time in each place and sample the variety Ireland has to offer.
Galway, in particular, has a special charm with its cobbled backstreets, traditional pubs and waterside walks. It’s not as big and busy as Dublin, but it has such a good vibe.
5 Unique Accommodations in Ireland
Ireland has hotels, B&Bs and Airbnbs aplenty, but you also have other choices for your stay!
1. Auto Hotel
Auto hotels have arrived on the scene, and I’m absolutely loving the concept. They’re an “automatic” hotel in the sense that you get a code to enter your room and the building itself. You get all the benefits of hotel comforts without having to worry about queues, small talk and carrying keys around (and potentially losing them!).
If you do decide to stay in Galway, check out the Galway Rooms. They are centrally located and super affordable without scrimping on room luxuries.
2. Hostel
Many people may avoid hostels because they’re not up for sharing a dorm with other tourists, forgetting about private rooms. The best thing about staying in a hostel is they tend to be the most affordable accommodation option (including the private rooms!). They have cooking facilities which are ideal for those on a strict budget.
Dorms are also great because you get to mingle with like-minded travellers. They’re very social without being intimidating, ideal for those travelling on their own. And if the back-to-basics type doesn’t sound appealing, there are more luxury styles available nowadays!
3. Campervan
Travelling via campervan is a wonderful way to see a new place as you can get off the beaten track and sleep in remote areas that otherwise wouldn’t be accessible. Plus, you save money on accommodation when your transportation is your accommodation!
In somewhere like Ireland, travelling via campervan would be such a special experience as there’s so much untouched natural beauty. You’ll often get to wake up with a view and can be more flexible with where you stay and when. There are also more home comforts than if you just went camping.
4. Glamping
With glamping, you get all the benefits of camping and sleeping in the great outdoors with a few more luxuries!
Ireland has a ton of glamping spots throughout the country, in the form of yurts, pods and lodges. They tend to have proper beds and some even have amenities like heaters, kitchenettes, living spaces, en-suites and smart TVs. However, they tend to be in remote areas, so you still get the peace and quiet.
5. Homestay
Lastly, one of the most unique accommodation options in Ireland is a homestay. This is where a local family will invite you into their home, whether it’s a cottage, castle or regular house. As well as accommodation, they usually provide meals, day trips and social activities so guests can fully experience their culture.
It’s likely you’ll learn things from the locals that you wouldn’t otherwise know, and have the most authentic adventures too. The Irish people are known for their warmth and hospitality, so many choose homestays to experience this first-hand.
Homestays are also typically cheaper due to the per-night cost that covers other amenities. Additionally, they’re not as popular as other accommodation options, making them the most unique.
Final Thoughts on Unique Accommodation Options for Ireland
There are tons of choices for Ireland accommodation, so make sure you do your research as to what would work best for you. If you are staying in multiple locations, you could try out different types for a varied experience.
Either way, there are many benefits to the above 5 options as opposed to your traditional hotel. You don’t know how much you’re going to love them unless you give them a try!
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