Gothic churches, secluded lakeside castles, hopefully-not-haunted historical mansions — if you’re planning an Irish staycation this midterm, here are some AirBnB options to book now…
A beautifully restored 19th century Gothic church
Portlaw, Waterford, sleeps six
If you want to spend the midterm break thoroughly embracing the spirit of Halloween, a night or two in a Gothic church is bound to do the trick. Guilcagh Church is set on an old graveyard, with headstones visible from windows around the property, adding an eeriness to an otherwise luxurious, comforting, and serene atmosphere.
Highlights of the space include a wooden spiral staircase, underfloor heating, a pulpit and altar that’s been imaginatively converted into a kitchen area, and beautiful arched entryways into each of the two bedrooms. There is an oversized wood-burning stove in the living area that invites you to curl up for the evening, and a regal dining table for mealtimes.
Exploring the surrounding area is obviously a must, with loop walks, pony trekking, exotic gardens and trout fishing all within a close radius of the property.
Carraigin Castle
Headford, Galway, sleeps 12
A 13th century lakeside castle surrounded by seven acres of lawns, park and woodland, Carraigin Castle is an idyllic holiday home in a beautiful setting on the shores of Lough Corrib. A rare and beautiful example of a fortified, mediaeval ‘hall house’, the accommodation has been beautifully restored to its original grandeur after more than two centuries as a roofless ruin.
Standout features include an imposing stone staircase that leads to a grand entrance, an oak-beamed Great Hall, a stone-arched fireplace, winding staircases, and outdoor parapets to unwind on. In addition to the master and two main bedrooms, there are also four cosy sleeping ‘vaults’ complete with partitions, arches, and vaulted ceilings.
Design-wise, this property is exquisite, with tapestries, brass rubbing portraits of ancient kings and knights, and a magnificent triptych featuring a Galway galleon. From the castle, you can enjoy boating, fishing, walking, riding and plenty of sightseeing.
Fanningstown Castle
Adare, Limerick, sleeps ten
Another Gothic-style location, Fanningstown Castle dates back to the 12th century and has been sensitively restored to a spacious, relaxing accommodation offering among the dairy farms in the heart of the Golden Vale.
The historical castle has a homely atmosphere that harks back to days gone by, and from the plush chairs and carpets to the red walls and low lamp lighting, it’s a space that invites you to sit back, relax, and unwind.
The AirBnB boasts open fireplaces, king-size beds with thick overhanging canopies, a long dining table for entertaining, and a patio to the rear that’s perfect for enjoying your morning coffee. Just three miles from Adare, you can head off golfing, fishing, horseback riding, clay pigeon shooting, shopping, eating and drinking in the local area if the mood takes you!
Wilton Castle
Bree, Wexford, sleeps 14
Elegant and imposing, Wilton Castle is a 19th century castellated residence set on the banks of the Boro River. The AirBnB specialises in providing luxury accommodation in the sunny south-east of Ireland, surrounded by open parkland and quiet wooded countryside.
Having been a part of the local landscape since 1247, when the first fortified tower was built on the land, the building’s heritage is vast, and the interiors remain fit for royalty — right down to the stone walled shower room and standalone clawfoot bathtub.
With woodburning stoves, hardwood flooring, high ceilings and plenty of chandeliers, the property has a spacious feeling to it, and whether you’re perched on the balcony or strolling around the grounds, there’s so much to look at and appreciate. Oh, and the bedrooms (of which there are seven) provide the most incredible comfort imaginable.
The Abbey room at Claregalway Castle
Claregalway, sleeps two
The magnificent four-poster luxurious bed in the Abbey Room, adorned with rich and intricate carvings, will transport you to a bygone era of opulence and grandeur. You will certainly feel like royalty, with the weight of history and the allure of regal comforts surrounding you.
The room is very comfortable with underfloor heating and luxurious bedding. Your stay includes a complimentary bottle of wine, tea/coffee facilities, a generous continental breakfast and a private tour of the Castle Tower.
Claregalway is a busy village and a perfect mix of urban and rural. It has plenty of modern facilities such as restaurants, supermarkets, pharmacies etc and also enjoys the beauty of Claregalway castle, Claregalway Abbey and the River Clare.
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