Ireland

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

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

Hosts who were made for B&B, these smiling ex-farmers welcome the world to their snug sitting room and simple rooms with immense warmth

The cottage looks down over Lough Swilly, idyllic for boats and safe swims... and the neighbours are friendly, just sheep and cows

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

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

Fresh, simple country charm - pretty rooms with enchanting river views, freshly baked bread for breakfast... Beautiful, fragrant gardens

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

A lovely, spacious 1830s house in the heart of arty Westport with nearly an acre of garden, an apple orchard and the river running past

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

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

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

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

Fall asleep to the sound of the sea in your dreamy thatched cottage, one of 6, right on the beach for those head-clearing walks...

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

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

Music evenings, pop-up theatre nights and great food at the Sash brasserie. You’re just a stroll from shops and bars