7 stunning Airbnbs along the Wild Atlantic Way that are perfect (and available!) for an autumn weekend escape

Now that the kids are back to school and everyone and their mother isn’t “staycationing”, it’s time for those without children to capitalise on the glory of off-season rates and quiet(er) pubs and restaurants.

So where to go? We’ve selected seven gorgeous and very different Airbnb’s that all have weekend availability in September and October

Ardnavaha House Poolside Cottage, Clonakilty
€130 per night

Just a short drive from scenic Clonakilty is this quaint little cottage perfect for a romantic weekend away for two. Located in a quiet woodland and sprawling gardens next to the main house, with a quaint courtyard, heated pool for the summer months and hot tub for the winter. 

Inside has been finished to a very modern standard with plenty of light and period features, include the exposed stone walls.

Wild Atlantic Bus, Oughterard
€150 a night

Fancy something a little more kitsch? This converted double-decker bus in Co Galway might be the winner, with its very cosy interiors. Don’t be deterred by its size either, it sleeps six people. On the ground level, a large U-shaped living room with a stove, that converts to a double bed, self-contained bathroom, a full-height kitchen area. Another bedroom is upstairs.

Nestled in the countryside and just a short walk to Lough Corrib, it also has a private deck and firepit area and outdoor shower.

Little Black Shack, Skibbereen
€155 per night

This unusual teepee-style timber house is not a stay you will forget in a hurry. This secluded tiny house includes its own private jetty with views overlooking Heir Island and Baltimore Beacon.

Inside the cosy interiors include a double bed, kitchenette and gas-fired stove with views overlooking the water. A smaller version to the rear houses the bathroom. There’s no WiFi or Tv here, so this is ideal if you’re looking for a complete escape.

Liosachan, Castlebar
€120 a night

I mean, just look at this place! It’s adorable and we’ve always wanted to spend at least one night in Bilbo Baggins’ house. Part of a glamping site, the house is teeny tiny with room for two bedrooms and a seating area plus firepit outside, but there are loads going on besides. There’s an indoor and outdoor kitchen, a wood-fire pizza oven, a hot tub, a cinema area and of course bathrooms and showers.

Everyone has their own privacy within the earth-covered homes while the communal areas are just around the corner. 

Urban Tranquilatree, Cork City
€130 per night

With a view stretching over Cork City, this south-facing treehouse is fully insulated and really is a house in the trees – six metres off the ground to be precise! Located in a quiet garden with plenty of privacy, it has been beautifully finished for a double bed and veranda and a circular shower room and bathroom on the lower level.

With coffee and tea-making facilities in the room, warm croissants are sent up for your morning breakfast via pulley, so you don’t have to go anywhere. 

Dutch barge, Galway City
€205 per night

What about a floating getaway? This barge on the shores of Lough Atalia is a perfect little city escape, with Galway city just a short away.

The barge has been lovingly restored with a large kitchen and breakfast bar, open-plan kitchen and dining area, large bathroom and a cosy bedroom. You can curl up next to the stove on chillier evenings or enjoy an aperitif on the deck if the sun is shining.

Ocean cottage, Bantry
€100 per night

Looking for a quiet retreat space to catch your breath? This stunning little cottage overlooking the water has been beautifully restored and rustically designed, with three beds, a kitchenette and snug seating area. 

There’s even a yoga studio next door if you need a little help unwinding as well as lots of lovely walks from your front door.