It seems everyone is looking forward to a break —never has a staycation seemed so appealing. But if your family includes a beloved dog, you may feel that your accommodation options are limited.
Luckily, there are plenty of great hotels around Ireland that will welcome your furry friend, whether you’re looking for a good value break or want to splash out and treat yourself.
Situated just metres from the sea, The Seafront Inn is ideal if you and your dog want a break on the beach. The restaurant has an outdoor seating area that looks out to the water, and the spot is also popular for windsurfers and cyclists.
Dogs are permitted on request, and there are double rooms available in July from €149 per night, including breakfast.
Overlooking Killary Harbour, Leenane Hotel is located close to Connemara National Park, Kylemore Abbey and Croagh Patrick, so is a perfect base from which to explore Connemara. The hotel itself also seaweed baths so you can unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Pets are permitted, but it’s advised to ring before booking to confirm details. Rates per person in July and August start from €65 per person, including breakfast.
Renowned for its restaurant that makes local, home-grown ingredients its focus, The Mustard Seed at Echo Lodge is a perfect stay for food-lovers. The Dingle Peninsula, Killarney, the Ring of Kerry, the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren are all within range for a day trip if you want to bask in Ireland’s natural beauty, or you can simply relax in the laid-back surroundings of the lodge.
Dogs are permitted in the deluxe suite or courtyard mews, both of which have doors opening onto the garden. The deluxe suite is available from €170 per person and the courtyard mews is available from €100 per person.
Set on the shores of Lough Eske, Harvey’s Point is a perfect base to explore Donegal. Generously sized rooms and several dining options make this an ideal retreat. Pet-friendly rooms are available with outdoor access, and there is no extra charge for dogs. Double rooms in July are available from €278.
For a special stay, Cliff at Lyons is a great option. Each of their rooms has been individually designed, and their restaurant Aimsir is renowned across the country for its innovative food under chef Jordan Bailey and front of house manager Majken Bech Christensen.
The hotels offers a dog-friendly package of a one night stay in a two-bedroom cottage, including a treat for your pet from €275 per night for two people and one dog, including breakfast.
Awarded the Gold Medal Award ‘Best Pet-friendly Hotel’ in 2019, Castlemartyr Resort has plenty of experience in welcoming dogs to stay. Each dog receives a gift upon arrival, there is a pet concierge service with details and discounts on local dog walkers, sitters, groomers and vets, and the hotel also has a map of nearby woods and beaches for dog walks.
The hotel charges €50 for the first night and €20 for any additional nights that a dog stays. Double rooms are available from €344 per night.