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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.
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!
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.