Restrictions on COVID-19 are lifting, but many holidays have been cancelled and travelling abroad can be tricky. This means that many people are considering an Irish staycation to be the right choice for their holidays this summer.

However hotels, especially for groups can be expensive, which is why a self-catered Airbnb can be the perfect choice for cost effective travel options this summer.

Plus, when you rent with Airbnb you can move out of your comfort zone and find some truly unique lodging. As the country begins to open up, you and your friends deserve nothing more than a little break away to recharge and hear all about the last three months on lockdown. We’ve found these three Airbnb’s which are PERFECT for the friend’s getaway.  

Kilcolgan Castle – Kilcolgan, County Galway 

Have you ever wanted to stay in a castle? You will now! Kilcolgan castle is one of the top Airbnb castles in Ireland and boasts and impressive 4.88 star rating on Airbnb.

The grounds of the castle feature breathtaking views from all sides with over 9 acres of property to explore which includes your own private lake and stables where you can visit the resident horses.

If you’re a real animal lover, you can meet the owner Karen’s champion Greyhounds who are more than happy to spend time with you and your crew.

The private lake on the property features its own private dock and is perfect for those who want to try their hand at fishing or take a leisurely boat ride. This is the kind of peace and tranquility you can’t find in the cities.

On colder evenings, guests can spend their time exploring the castle including the formal dining room, sitting room, smoking room and sitting room. The castle features two cosy bedrooms which can sleep you and four of your friends. This is a location to not be missed!

McCormac’s Farmhouse – County Longford 

McCormac’s Farmhouse is located in Longford, just a 90-minute drive from Dublin! If you’ve ever wanted to know what it’s like to live on a farm – this is your chance! This 140-year-old farmhouse is located on top of a picturesque hill that features extensive views of the Irish landscape.

Now this location is often touted as perfect for families (and it is!) but if you’re a group of friends who loves the outdoors and wants a place to sit back, relax and enjoy a long weekend away – this is the place to be. The area surrounding the 4-bedroom house features an open-air barn that includes a fire pit which is perfect for sitting around in the evening and swapping stories.

If you’re looking for something to do, there is a lake just short walk away with its own private pathway and dock which is perfect for lounging around on a warm summer day using one of the houses canoes. If you’re fortunate enough to own your own boat, you can bring it with you and the owners will help you to moor it in the water.

But wait – there’s more! The house also comes with PJ the Pig, the houses friendly and domesticated pig who is more than happy to follow you around the farm and nap beside the fire as you share stories (just don’t let her inside the house!).

If you’re looking for a fun, relaxing weekend – there’s nothing like McCormac’s farm to get you and your friends into the relaxed mindset of the summer.

 Dublin City Centre Apartment – Dublin City, County Dublin 

Maybe for your weekend getaway with your friends you’re looking to explore all the attractions and nightlife that Dublin has to offer!

This stylist apartment which sleeps a total of 6 people is located right in the heart of Dublin’s city centre which offers a host of amenities including cultural attractions, art galleries, shopping and some of the best restaurants that Ireland has to offer.

The apartment itself is classic with a modern flair featuring beautiful exposed brick walls and a full kitchen with all the modern amenities which gives you the option to buy your own food if you don’t want to be constantly eating out.

Just a stone’s throw away you’ll find Trinity College, Grafton street shopping quarter, Temple Bar and Dame Lane which holds some of the best pubs in Dublin. At the end of a long day (and night!) of exploring Dublin’s vibrant city centre you and your friends can pop open a bottle of wine and curl up on the cosy couches to recount your adventure.

If your Irish staycation requires a taste of Dublin City life, this is the perfect choice for you and your group. 

Medieval Ringfort Stayover – Ferrycarrig, County Wexford 

If you are looking for a really creative place to stay over with some friends, you need to look no further than this Medieval Ringfort located in Wexford. You can experience this fully immersive stay which is located in the beautiful Irish National Heritage Park. While this is another location that can be perfect for families, it’s also an ideal place to have a completely unique experience with an adventurous group of friends.

The Ringfort has been completely constructed using authentic materials that would have been used by our Irish ancestors to completely immerse yourself in the experience and bring you back in time. The location does not feature WIFI or a television, meaning that you can completely shut off and enjoy the company of those around you.

For sleeping quarters, you and your friends will stay in the farmhouse located on the grounds which offers three double beds, making this a perfect getaway for a few couples. During your stay you have access to the entire 35 acres of park to explore and experience what life would have been like back in the 1500’s.

No need to fret about losing all your modern amenities however, the location features a kitchen where you can bring and cook your own meals and in the morning you can treat yourself to a delicious breakfast in the café where you can recount your evening spent living like Vikings.

These are just a few of the great Airbnb’s that are available to you and your friends over the summer and can help you to make memories even when staying on Irish soil. COVID-19 has been a struggle for everyone and providing yourself with a break away can be the perfect way to reset and recharge.

Are you an Airbnb owner and would like to be featured in one of our articles? Contact us today, and learn more about our exclusive Airbnb insurance from Insuremyhouse.ie