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Travel

19th Jul 2020

Staycation: 8 unusual B&Bs and gorgeous guesthouses worth sussing this summer

Jade Hayden

We know, we know.

Another staycations recommendation piece. But listen lads, there’s no point in telling you all about the gorgeous spots you can visit in Seville, or the incredible haunts ready to see in Hamburg.

We can’t go there right now. Or at least, we’re not supposed to go there – so let’s just get on with things and enjoy a lovely holiday here in Ireland, alright?

We’ve already provided you with a comprehensive list of gorgeous glamping spots and hotel getaway breaks across the country, but what about the B&Bs of the country? What about the boutique hotels? What about all the lovely little unusual rental gaffs in between?

Look no further, guys. We got you.

Bridge House, Skibbereen, Co Cork 

If you haven’t heard of this place, you clearly don’t know your B&Bs.

Voted the “most unusual” B&B in Ireland, Bridge House is as quirky as it is quaint.

Nestled in the heart of Skibbereen, Bridge House gives travellers a taste of the Wild Atlantic Way, while owner Mona offers visitors an opportunity to experience a distinctly different world.

No really, look how class this place is. Worth a shout if you’re over that way this summer.

Number 31, Co Dublin 

If you fancy adding a little more glam to your B&B bits this summer, look no further than Dublin’s own Number 31.

On a quaint residential lane that’s two blocks from the Grand Canal, Number 31 is a chic bed-and-breakfast set across a classic Georgian townhouse and a contemporary mews house.

It also looks like this so, you know, if that’s not enough to tempt you – what is?

The Botanical B&B, Co Cork 

Back to Cork again for yet another B&B with a twist – and this time, it’s a botanical one.

This guesthouse sits tucked away in the magical Willy-Wonka inspired edible paradise, ‘The Garden of Re-Imagination’ at a secret location in the woodlands above Glengarriff, West Cork.

There’s a private forrest, there’s mountain views, there’s even a stunning bell tent so you can get your fairy on in the middle of the countryside. Stunning vibes all round.

Knockbawn Cottage, Co Wicklow 

Otherwise known as Zoe’s Bed & Breakfast, this fabulous 1905 English-style house has got a load of character, a gorgeous garden areas, and is a mere five minutes away from Greystones beach.

Very quaint, very farmhouse glam.

The Doll’s House, Co Wexford 

No, your eyes do not deceive you, this is literally a doll’s house – and you can stay there (for a minimum three nights) this summer.

With a carefully selected treasure trove of charming little bits to enjoy, chances are you’ll need a good bit of time to explore every little nuance and attention to detail that has been painstakingly selected.

Just imagine the pics, like. Imagine.

Trinity Townhouse, Dublin 2

A 31-bedroom boutique hotel set within three listed Georgian buildings, Trinity Townhouse is Dublin’s latest boutique spot perfect for a night away from it all.

Glamorous, charming, and authentically Georgian, the South Frederick Street townhouse is sure to make any stay in Ireland’s capital as elegant (and boujie) as humanly possible.

Looks class, in fairness.

Gregan’s Castle, Co Clare

Located right in the middle of the Burren, Gregan’s house has been welcoming guests since as far back as the 1940s.

The stunning 18th century manor house is set in its own established and lovingly-attended gardens on the Wild Atlantic Way, and has lovely views that stretch across the Burren hills to Galway Bay.

A taste of glamour in the guesthouse, nonetheless.

The Ice House, Co Mayo 

Alright, aright, this one is technically a bit of a hotel, but listen – it’s got heritage-style suites in it so if you fancy splashing the cash and taking yourself back in time, you know what to do.

Timeless furnishings, character filled design details, monsoon showers, antique sinks and cast iron baths – the Ice House ain’t playing when it comes to heritage.

At the time of writing, all B&Bs and guesthouses have vacancies available throughout the summer, so if you fancied spending a night or two in one of them, you may want to get yourself a booking.

There’ll be a considerable amount of internet in staying local this summer, for sure.

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