Following the recent government announcement on the easing of restrictions, it is hugely positive to have a roadmap of dates to work towards. With inter-county travel on the horizon and hospitality like hotels with self-catering facilities set to re-open in stages, now is the perfect time to indulge that nagging feeling of wanderlust.
Self-catering in Ireland is the ideal staycation option for families this year. Here, you can embrace the best of both worlds. Pack all the family necessities and relax in the comfort of a homely larger space, yet enjoy the luxury touches of the nearby hotel facilities. Winning!
We’ve curated your go-to guide to hotels with self-catering in Ireland. Hurry though – dates are filling up fast!
Truly picturesque, Loughcrew Estate and Gardens dates back to the 17th Century. Brimming with history and religious significance, the medieval architecture and ancient buildings are a sight to behold. The property boasts 200 acres of rolling parkland, stunning lawns and gardens; full of nooks and crannies including a whimsical fairy garden for the little ones to explore.
Situated one hour from Dublin, a stay here is a luxurious treat for the family and a great base to explore from. Choose from the self-catered Courtyard Apartment or Stable Lodge for your stay.
Things To Do Nearby:
- Tayto Park
- Boyne Valley
- Dublin Zoo
- Loughcrew Cairns
Unwind and embrace a slower pace of life at the laid-back Parknasilla Resort. Connect with nature underneath the shadows of the Kerry Mountains and refresh yourself with the sea breeze at the area’s many beaches and inlets. Choose from cosy two-bedroom courtyard lodges just a three minute stroll from the hotel or opt for a luxury woodland villa situated 10 minutes away.
At Parknasilla, there is so much to enjoy for the entire family. From a manicured on-site golf course, swimming pool and lots of fun-filled activities for the kids such as ‘Meet The Owls Experience’, an on-site Playground, Treasure Trail, Fairy Trail, and Fun Golf.
Things To Do Nearby:
- The Ring of Kerry
- Sea Kayaking
- Kenmare Bay Boat Trip
- Visit Moll’s Gap
The epitome of heritage marred with elegance, Mount Falcon is infamous for its luxurious experience and accommodation. Summer 2021 activities include; bike hire, clay pigeon shooting, Woodlands Hawk Walk, Birds of Prey Experience, Tom’s Grill, and so much more.
Choose from a selection three/four-bedroom Courtyard Lodges with elegant furnishings and underfloor heating, three-bedroom Woodland Lodges, and three-bedroom Lakeside Lodges.
Things To Do Nearby:
- Downpatrick Head
- Keem Bay
- Ceide Fields
- Foxford Woolen Mills
Escape this summer to Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort. Located on its own private island, accessible by short car ferry, the 16th Century castle marrs ancient elegance and modern facilities beautifully. The resort’s three-bedroom self-catering family lodges offer spacious living and a private patio area.
The little ones will thoroughly enjoy the area’s wildlife including foxes, squirrels and a family of sika deer. Avail of the many resort facilities available to families like tennis and basketball courts, 18-hole championship golf course, fairy trail, picnics, playground and much more.
Things To Do Nearby:
- Visit Tramore
- Cycle the Waterford Greenway
- Visit Hook Lighthouse
- Mahon Falls and the Comeragh Mountains
Castle Oaks is a stunning Georgian manor sitting on the banks of the river Shannon. Set in 26 acres of gardens and with a newly renovated leisure centre, fairy trail and outdoor dining space, it is the ideal base for a summer 2021 staycation. Self-catering at Castle Oaks presents itself in the form of self-contained apartments on the hotel grounds. The Courtyard Suites host two bedrooms and are ideal for medium to longer term family stays.
Things To Do Nearby:
- Bunratty Castle
- The Burren
- Lough Derg
- Cliffs of Moher
- University of Limerick
[*Jan 2023 Update: Self-Catering Apartments no longer available due to Long Term Rental. Accommodation in Breaffy House Hotel]
In the heart of county Mayo, Breaffy House Hotel is a relaxing four-star destination for families. Fantastic on-site family facilities include a swimming pool and leisure centre, outdoor playground, crazy golf, astroturf pitch, GAA pitch and more outdoor activities.
Things To Do Nearby:
- The Great Western Greenway
- Visit The National Museum of Ireland
- Visit Mayo Memorial Peace Park
- Lake Lannagh Hiking Trails
Located in Clonmel, the family-run Hotel Minella is nestled by the Comeragh Mountains in a riverside setting. Self-catering options at Hotel Minella includes two and three-bedroom courtyard lodges. The leisure centre features a 20 metre pool and there is also an on-site playground to keep the kids entertained.
Things To Do Nearby:
- Visit The Rock of Cashel
- Visit Cahir Castle
- Visit Mitchelstown Caves
- Visit Fethard Horse Country Experience
Only one kilometer from Lahinch Beach, the stunning Falls Hotel & Spa overlooks the cascades of the River Inagh. Acting as a fantastic base to explore county Clare with the family, the hotel is surrounded by vast woodland with ample trails for walkers and also boasts a leisure centre.
The hotel offers nine two-bedroom self-catering apartments with all mod-cons.
Things To Do Nearby:
- The Burren
- Visit Father Ted’s House
- The Cliffs of Moher
- Surfing at Lahinch
- Doolin Cave
- Fota Island Resort, Cork
Your starting point to explore Ireland’s Ancient East, Fota Island’s self-catering lodges offer a home away from home with five-star elegance on your doorstep. Choose from two, three and four bedroom lodges, each designed with comfort in mind, a fully-equipped kitchen and modern amenities.
The resort is famed for its pristine golf course facilities; including the accolade of being three-time host to the Irish Open. Those looking for some R&R after a challenging year can unwind amidst the serene atmosphere of Fota Island Resort’s world-class spa.
Things To Do Nearby:
- Fota Wildlife Park
- Fota House and Gardens
- Spike Island
- Cobh Titanic Experience
- Leahys Farm
- Ballymaloe House & Gardens
- Garryvoe and Youghal Beaches
The Johnstown Estate is a four-star Georgian manor offering warm service and an abundance of comforts. With 120 acres of parkland adjacent to the property, enjoy fairy trails, explore the many walking trails or hire a bike for the duration of your stay. The on-site leisure centre features a 20m swimming pool and individual kiddies pool.
The Johnstown Estate offers a number of deluxe two bedroom self-catering lodges with all modern amenities. A play area is conveniently located in the green area by the lodges.
Things To Do Nearby:
- Tayto Park
- Dublin Zoo
- Boyne Valley
- Irish National Stud & Gardens
- Clonfert Farm
- Wallaby Woods
- Lullymore Heritage Park
Have a recommendation? We’d love to hear your tips for family-friendly staycations in Ireland. Submit your tips and reviews in the comment section below or share with us on Instagram @thefamilyedit
