Whether you prefer a cosy cottage, luxe self-catering or a secluded escape, discover these unique stays in County Cork …
Derry Duff Farm: Digital Editor Síomha Connolly recommends this secluded retreat in West Cork (pictured above). “On a recent stay we loved the breakfast basket delivered to the door on the first morning of our stay, and the considered touches around the cabin – from Irish bedlinen by White & Green to luxe linen Amurelle robes. Make sure to order some Derry Duff Dexter steaks to grill on the barbecue for dinner.” An overnight stay, from €300. www.derryduff.ie
Killee Cottage: If you’ve dreamed of a thatched cottage surrounded by a wild meadow garden, endless scope for walks through the Galtee Mountains, and an evening by the fire, then this is your romantic fantasy made real. The early 19th-century cottage is well-equipped. Guests love its al fresco picnic table and wood burning stove – it’s pet friendly too. From €316 for two nights. www.irishlandmark.com
Perryville House: The Corcoran family owns this Georgian townhouse, which has 34 rooms decorated with antiques and Colefax & Fowler fabrics. Some suites have balconies. Breakfast is served in the pretty Garden Room, and overnight stays cost €320. www.irelandsbluebook.com
Seagrass: This luxurious apartment is 20m from Youghal’s Blue Flag beach and boardwalk and features two bedrooms, an open-plan kitchen and living area. It’s a great base from which to explore the delights of Youghal. Check out the new website Living Youghal for information on historic sites, experiences and activities (including birdwatching on Ballyvergan Marsh and Slob Bank). Take your bikes too as the Midleton to Youghal Greenway is launching this summer. Overnight stays are €300 in summer and in winter, €180. www.livingyoughal.ie
Ballyshane Coastal Retreat: Within a private 20-acre compound on the grounds of an 18th-century farmhouse are four properties within walking distance of secret coves and sandy beaches. All options guarantee bucolic bliss; a stylish barn with two bedrooms, €180 per night; a light filled studio overlooking four acres of wild meadow, from €220-€250 with a minimum three-night stay; or a one-bedroom Coastal Cabin (pictured above) with super views, from €180 per night, a minimum three-night stay applies. www.ballyshanestays.com.
Galley Head Lighthouse: Built in 1875, Galley Head once boasted the most powerful lighthouse light in the world. Now it offers two keeper’s houses, which enjoy amazing views. Each sleeps six people and they are linked for bigger groups, with adjoining walled gardens. Look out for dolphins and whales during a stay. From €500 for two nights. www.irishlandmark.com.
Island Cottage, Heir Island: No culinary tour of West Cork is complete without booking lunch, €25, at Island Cottage, timed to guests arriving and departing by the ferry from Cunnamore Pier. www.islandcottage.com. If you don’t make the ferry, stay at Heir Island House which has great views of Roaring Water Bay; www.heirisland.house.
Dunmore House, Co Cork: In addition to its inspiring Ocean garden, ten beaches within ten minutes’ walk and dog-friendly rooms (from €265 per night) the hotel has one of the best terraces in the county overlooking Clonakilty Bay. Even if you’re not staying, pop in to try the new Boatshed Pizzas created by Italian chef Paolo Chiappa. www.dunmorehousehotel.ie.