From historic guesthouses in converted stone stables to beachfront buildings where you can dine on the sand, each of these places has something special to offer.
What’s more, these appealing hideaways are all ideally located for discovering Dingle’s enchanting landscape, where its vast expanses of sandy beach, tall mountain peaks and gently rolling hills await you. Plus, you can’t go to Dingle without paying a visit to Fungie, or enjoying a few scoops in one of the town’s traditional cosy pubs.
Sitting majestically at the water’s edge, Heaton’s Guesthouse is an idyllic spot for a few days of peace and solitude. Upon arrival, take a moment to explore the well-tended gardens and watch the light dance upon the water as the sun sets over Dingle Bay. Step inside to be greeted by a quietly luxurious lobby, adorned with chandeliers, a white stone fireplace and charming antiques.
Bedrooms are decorated in an elegant style, with soft yellow walls and classic French mahogany furniture. With traditional winged armchairs, landscape paintings in gilt frames and vintage lamps, they provide a sophisticated place for a weekend away. For a taste of luxury, book a Junior Suite, so you can while away the evening in the warm water of the whirlpool, before clambering between the crisp cotton sheets of the super king-sized bed.
This guesthouse has a light and airy breakfast room, where you’ll want to linger to take in panoramic views across one of Ireland’s most stunning bays. Help yourself to dishes like home-made vanilla waffles with sweet maple syrup as you admire the magical landscape that surrounds you. The tall cliffs and crashing waves make sure that it’s truly a view to remember.
Sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and a swathe of marshland abundant with wildflowers lies Gorman’s Clifftop House. This seafront guesthouse is ideally located for uncovering the joys of the Dingle Peninsula, with its wild hedgerows, quaint abandoned villages and fuchsia-lined lanes. Borrow one of the bikes and cycle through meandering country roads, all the while catching glimpses of Brandon Mountain, which towers gracefully over green fields, sleepy hamlets and ancient chapels.
Bring your day of discovery to a fitting conclusion with a sumptuous three-course meal in the waterfront dining room. Find a quiet table by the floor-to-ceiling windows, so you can look out at the crashing waves as you dine on gourmet delights. The owner, Sheenagh, lovingly prepares a constantly evolving repertoire of dishes, including dry-aged Angus Irish striploin steak and roasted mountain lamb.
If you’ve ever dreamt of waking up overlooking the ocean, simply spend the night in one of the guesthouse’s well-appointed Seaview Rooms. There you’ll be able to look across the swirling waters that have inspired many a poet, musician and artist. Snuggle up on the king-size bed as you listen to the sea breeze and lapping waves outside. With a fully stocked library of books and DVDs, you’ll have everything you need for a cosy night in at this serene Irish hideaway.
Hidden within a former stone-built stable you’ll find the historic Quayside B&B. This converted 19th-century building is a welcoming and serene spot for a few days of rest and recuperation. Ascend upstairs to the lobby and you’ll be greeted with a hot drink, before being shown to your comfy room. Don’t forget to ask the knowledgeable staff to arrange a guided tour of Dingle – they’re more than happy to share their detailed local insights.
After a day outside in the salty sea air, perhaps visiting Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium to spot penguins and otters (an 8 minute walk away), return to this charming B&B, where you can continue to admire the ocean from afar. Your individually decorated bedroom awaits. Designed in a contemporary style, rooms here have bold feature walls, nautically inspired artwork and soft, woollen blankets to provide a cosy feel.
Wake up bright and early to make the most of your time on Ireland’s most westerly peninsula. The B&B owners serve a daily breakfast in the dining room, which sits under the eaves of this old building. As you eat, cast your eye over the quirky old-world features that make this unique little place so special – polished wooden floorboards and an old grandfather clock, along with vases of freshly picked flowers add to the warm, traditional ambience.
Indulge in a few days at this pleasantly old-fashioned Irish B&B that doubles up as a popular local pub. The Barr na Sráide Inn has 26 welcoming guest rooms dotted around its bright blue building, with plenty of home comforts and brightly tiled en-suite bathrooms. Bring the children along for the adventure, too – you’ll find generously sized family rooms, with more than enough space for everyone.
Make your way downstairs, where you’ll discover a hearty continental buffet breakfast. Help yourself to glasses of fresh orange juice and mugs of steaming tea, before taking your pick from the local cheeses, home-baked scones and fruits on offer. For a taste of Irish cuisine, order a full Irish breakfast from the à la carte menu. With rashers, traditional black and white pudding, local sausages and eggs, you’ll be well-prepared for a full day of exploring.
Uncover Dingle’s hidden gems, which include a sheltered fishing port, tucked between the Atlantic Ocean and hilly moorland. This rural town also has a lively farmers’ market, lined with stalls selling local produce. Ireland’s well-known for its atmospheric pubs, so make sure you find time to visit the B&B’s cheerful bar area. Grab a spot on one of the tall bar stalls and order a stout or a dram.
Located on the aptly named Wild Atlantic Way, the newly built Inch Beach House offers contemporary bedrooms by the sea. Spend long summer days in the landscaped garden, where you’ll have far-reaching views across the 3 miles of sand that form Inch’s popular Blue Flag beach. After sunset, dance until late to live Irish music at the B&B’s vibrant beachfront restaurant and bar.
Make your way back up the hill to the welcoming B&B, where you’ll find a crackling log fire waiting for you – why not pass away an hour here in the sitting room, amid the plumply stuffed pink sofas and board games? Afterwards, you can climb between the crisp white sheets of your deluxe queen-size bed, ready for a refreshing night of slumber. Decorated in comforting tones, like warm orange and caramel, the bedrooms provide a relaxing and tranquil haven.
The next day, take yourself back down to the beach for an al-fresco meal on the soft white sand. Treat yourself to a glorious full Irish breakfast with all the trimmings. If you’re feeling energetic, why not let the B&B arrange an adrenaline-filled surf lesson amid the powerful Atlantic swell? It’s the ultimate way to experience the Irish coast.
Warm up next to a roaring fire at the peaceful An Bothar Guesthouse. This countryside establishment provides a welcome retreat after a day of walking across the heather-covered moorlands and mountainous terrain nearby. Spend the morning climbing the snowcapped peaks of Mount Brandon, before sipping a well-deserved drink in the guesthouse’s stone-walled bar. Taste drinks from all over Ireland, including local craft beers, Irish gins and vodkas.
Steps from the well-trodden path of the Dingle Way, each of the bedrooms offers panoramic views of the mountain itself. Some also look across the flower-strewn gardens to the gently bobbing boats of Smerwick Harbour. From the backdrop of scenic vistas to the traditional oak furniture and deep armchairs, every aspect of the room is designed for pleasure and comfort. Each room also comes with an en-suite bathroom, so you can freshen up for an evening of fine local cuisine.
Experience a homely ambience at this B&B’s country restaurant, with its dark grey slate floors, well-loved piano and wooden shelves adorned with ornaments and antiques. Dine from a menu that includes lamb so local that it comes from the owners’ farm next door. It also features delicious regional delights, such as freshly caught seafood, straight from the Atlantic Ocean.