Ireland

Stay in the wilds of south Cork, where new life is being breathed into a much-loved family home and you can simply join in

A 17th-Century Irish castle on the water’s edge. Watch the yachts from your bedroom, join local wine nights, discover the rich history

Books, meadow flowers, a rocking chair by a cosy fire at this treasure-trove cottage of beautiful things - down tiny lanes in west Cork

Anglo-Irish meets Italian and Indian; the owners have peppered this charming home with furniture and artefacts from their broad travels

A grand spot for this sweet thatched cottage sitting at the foot of moody Coolcross Hill with wrap-around views over the ocean and bay

Choose the quirky, atmospheric family house or the new annexe: Paul will make you feel genuinely welcome, and provide delicious dinners

All the bleached beauty of the beach inside this comfortable cottage; a dining terrace with uplifting sea views and arching views of Kerry

In tranquil countryside close to the Ring of Kerry, a rustic farmhouse with wonderful stargazing and brilliant walks starting from the door

Countryside and seaside all in one go – what could be more inspiring? Lovely Louisa lives down the road, on hand if you need her

Stay in an apartment in a 1700s Queen Anne style country house or a self-contained loft circled by 25 acres of grounds, near Wicklow mountains

Return to warming fires after hiking in Ireland's highest mountains. Two traditional cottages on the outskirts of pretty Killorglin

The garden-blessed Lodge is quiet, friendly, cleancut and smart. Family-run and with great staff - award-winning breakfasts too

Peaceful converted barn on a remote working farm – pet the donkeys, wild swim and row on the lake, warm up around the wood-burner

Creative organic food, friendly young hosts and plenty of space to unwind at this hotel surrounded by woods and fields

A stunner of a setting for this restored croft house with long views to a sparkling loch and a lively village nearby. Good beaches too

Sheep's Head Way is reputedly one of the best walks in Ireland. Come back to roaring fires, a Rayburn, art and style – terrific restorations

Take your time here. Lucy will take you round her wonderful garden, introduce you to her donkeys, and share her laid-back approach