21 Dog Friendly Cottages in Ireland (2024)
Updated On: July 24, 2024 | Published On: June 15, 2022
It's time to pack up the car to the brim and bring the whole family on a summer adventure. Whether your perfect holiday includes driving along the Wild Atlantic Way, exploring the more rural, off-the-beaten-track locations, or paddling in the Irish Sea, make sure you bring your VIP (Very Important Pooch) along for the ride. So let's pull out the diary, reserve the days off work, and start planning. There will be no need to book a pet sitter for this holiday- no paws left behind. Your furry friend is not only invited, but very welcome to stay at all of these picture-perfect Irish cottages!
It doesn't matter if this is going to be your first dog-friendly holiday, or if you are a seasoned pro, a dog-friendly cottage is a perfect accommodation to dip your paws in the water when it comes to traveling with your dog. When staying at pet-friendly holiday homes you are able to bring all of your pup's favorite items, to ease the stress of traveling for them and help them feel like they are at home. Pack their bed, blanket, treats, and toys and they will be set to have a grand ole time.
The Republic of Ireland is one of the finest places for a family holiday, awash with natural beauty and hosting a huge selection of high-quality dog-friendly accommodation.
Here are 21 of the best dog-friendly holiday cottages to choose from!
County Galway
1. BaySide Cottage
💤 Sleeps: Sleeps 10 humans and no limit on dogs
🛌 Rooms: 3 bedrooms with 5 beds
✅ Best For: Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts keen on exploring the Wild Atlantic Way and Connemara's natural beauty
🏆 Why we love it: Enjoy breathtaking sea views from the patio and large decked area.
🚗 Dog-friendly day trip: Take a scenic drive to Roundstone to enjoy a long walk on the sandy beaches of Gurteen and Dog’s Bay
This charming, traditional cottage with a thatched roof is located smack-dab in the middle of the Wild Atlantic Way. With direct access to the bay, it is the perfect place for all family members (four-legged ones included) that love a morning swim or a run along the seafront. There are 3 double en-suite bedrooms, a mezzanine over the sitting room with a sofa bed, a large decked area, a barbeque, washer and dryer set, and a wonderful stone fireplace. There is also a garden but it isn't fully secured, so you will need to make sure you keep your eyes on your pup, especially small dogs, as they would be able to wander off.
Pet Policy at BaySide Cottage
- No additional pet fees - Dogs stay FREE!
- Big dogs allowed
- No limit on how many dogs can stay
- A garden, however not fully enclosed
"Really lovely, modern cottage equipped with everything you could possibly need with the most spectacular views. Spacious and cosy, wish we could have stayed longer!" – Leslie, Australia (read more reviews)
🐶 Check Prices and Availability! 🐶
County Clare
2 - 6. Fiddle + Bow
Fiddle + Bow offers a collection of 5 luxury cottages and lodges set in a rural location, all a short drive away from the Cliffs of Moher. Next door, they have dog-friendly outdoor dining at The Meadow, where they provide water bowls for their furry guests. They offer a range of amenities and services, with each pet-friendly self-catering cottages sleeping between 4 to 11 people and up to 2 dogs.
Russells Cottage
💤 Sleeps: Sleeps 4 humans and 2 dogs
🛌 Rooms: 2 bedrooms with 2 beds
✅ Best For: Couples and small families looking for a serene retreat with stunning views of the Irish coast
🏆 Why we love it: The beautiful stone cottage combines old Irish charm with modern amenities, creating a perfect getaway.
🚗 Dog-friendly day trip: Drive down to the Cliffs of Moher, where dogs are welcome to walk along the cliffs as long as they stay on a lead.
🤗 Book Fiddle + Bow Russells Cottage here
Saltcliff Cottage
💤 Sleeps: Sleeps 6 humans and 2 dogs
🛌 Rooms: 3 bedrooms with 3 beds
✅ Best For: Dog owners looking for a peaceful retreat
🏆 Why we love it: Comfortable and cosy living space with a panoramic view of the Aran Islands
🚗 Dog-friendly day trip: Visit the charming village of Doolin and enjoy a meal at one of the dog-friendly pubs or cafes
🤗 Book Fiddle + Bow's Saltcliff Cottage here
Elfin Cottage
💤 Sleeps: Sleeps 4 humans and 2 dogs
🛌 Rooms: 2 bedrooms with 2 beds
✅ Best For: A tranquil, eco-friendly getaway with stunning views and a cozy, luxurious interior
🏆 Why we love it: The perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort
🚗 Dog-friendly day trip: Explore the scenic Burren National Park or take a coastal walk along the Wild Atlantic Way
🤗 Book Fiddle + Bow's Elfin Cottage here
Storytellers Cottage
💤 Sleeps: Sleeps 4 humans and 2 dogs
🛌 Rooms: 2 bedrooms with 2 beds
✅ Best For: Romantic getaways and cozy retreats with stunning sea views and luxurious amenities
🏆 Why we love it: Modern amenities combined with old-world charm, a hot tub with breathtaking views, and thoughtful touches like local smoked salmon and Irish cheese in the fridge
🚗 Dog-friendly day trip: Take a dog-friendly ferry from Doolin and visit to the Aran Islands
🤗 Book Fiddle + Bow's Storytellers Cottage here
Mount Vernon
💤 Sleeps: Sleeps 11 humans and 2 dogs
🛌 Rooms: 5 bedrooms with 6 beds
✅ Best For: Literary enthusiasts and history buffs seeking a luxurious and serene retreat with breathtaking sea views
🏆 Why we love it: It's rich history and extensive walled garden and high-end amenities make it a perfect spot for relaxation and inspiration
🚗 Dog-friendly day trip: Take your furry friend for a scenic walk along The Flaggy Shore
🤗 Book Fiddle + Bow's Mount Vernon here
Pet Policy for Fiddle + Bow
- €40 additional pet fee
- Water bowls provided
- Big dogs allowed
- 2 dog limit
County Donegal
8. Ballydevitt Retreat
💤 Sleeps: Sleeps 5 humans and 2 dogs
🛌 Rooms: 3 bedrooms with 3 beds
✅ Best For: Families looking for a private retreat close to Donegal Town and the Wild Atlantic Way
🏆 Why we love it: Large enclosed lawn and patio area perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities
🚗 Dog-friendly day trip: Explore the local area with dog-friendly beaches, walks in the woods around Lough Eske, or the boardwalk by the bay, taking in the sea views with your furry friend.
Located only 1.5km from Donegal town, this pet-friendly holiday home is perfect for anyone looking to explore the Wild Atlantic Way. The holiday home is in a quiet, peaceful setting with an enclosed lawn and patio area. Cozy up with your pup in the living room and enjoy the wood-burning stove after a day of exploring the nearby beaches and walks.
Pet Policy for Ballydevitt Retreat
- No additional pet fees - Dogs stay FREE!
- Water bowls provided
- Big dogs allowed
- 2 dog limit
- Large enclosed garden with a hedge
- No dogs on the furniture
- Do not leave your furry friend alone in the house
- Clean up after your dog, especially in the garden
"At the back & side of the house there was a big fenced garden which has been the favourite (& safe!) exploring playground for our small dog! " – Ckt, Ireland (read more reviews)
🐶 Check Prices and Availability! 🐶
County Meath
9 - 16. Decoy Country Cottages
💤 Sleeps: Sleeps 2-8 humans and 2 dogs
🛌 Rooms: 1-4 bedrooms with 1-4 beds
✅ Best For: Families and couples looking for a peaceful countryside retreat with easy access to local attractions and Dublin
🏆 Why we love it: The cottages are spacious, well-equipped, and surrounded by beautiful grounds.
🚗 Dog-friendly day trip: Explore the Hill of Tara, only 6 km away, offering scenic walks and fascinating historical sites for both you and your furry friend.
With 8 dog-friendly rentals on their *list*, you will be sure to find a great place for a romantic getaway, family holiday, or group gathering in the Emerald Isle. Located only a short drive from Dublin airport, these cozy cabins are perfectly located for discovering Ireland's Ancient East. Their pet-friendly cottages can sleep anywhere from 2 to 8 humans and offer a variety of amenities from underground heating to jacuzzi baths in the cottages to a shared spa area, playground and a den with a pool and air hockey. .
Pet Policy at Decoy Country Cottages
- Extra Charge - €30 per pet per stay
- Can provide dog beds, feeding bowls, pet blankets, toys, and lead
- Dogs are not to be left alone at any time in the accommodation
- Dogs must stay off the furniture
- Dogs are not allowed upstairs, on the beds, or on the chairs
- Dogs must stay on a lead at all times while outdoors and please use bags provided for cleaning up
"The accommodation is very spacious and very well equipped. The welcome basket is lovely with local produce and dog biscuits. The beds are really comfy and it's so peaceful. " – Fiona, United Kingdom (read more reviews)
🐶 Check Prices and Availability! 🐶
County Mayo
17. Cottage 194
💤 Sleeps: Sleeps 4 humans and 1 dog
🛌 Rooms: 2 bedrooms with 3 beds
✅ Best For: Couples and friends, Nature and adventure enthusiasts
🏆 Why we love it: Stunning fjord views
🚗 Dog-friendly day trip: Grab your captains hat and enjoy a day on the water with Killary Fjord Boat trips (allow dogs on the deck) --https://killaryfjord.ie/the-tour/
Cottage 194 in Leenane is a delightful two-bedroom retreat, nestled at the edge of Killary Fjord, providing stunning views of the surrounding countryside and mountains. Perfect for couples and friends, this cottage comfortably sleeps four guests.
Located in a prime area for adventure sports and activities, you can easily arrange boat tours, hill-walking, seaweed baths, and much more. The nearby village, featured in the movie "The Field," offers plenty of dining and shopping options. Major towns like Westport and Clifden are just a 20-minute drive away, with Galway City accessible within 40 minutes.
"Cottage suitable for our dog lots of room to run outside and not adjacent to any houses. The cottage itself was lovely, beds very comfortable." (read more reviews)
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County Wexford
18. Scar Bridge Cottage
💤 Sleeps: Sleeps 6 humans and 2 dogs
🛌 Rooms: 3 bedrooms with 4 beds
✅ Best For: Families and nature lovers
🏆 Why we love it: Expansive, dog-friendly garden
🚗 Dog-friendly day trip: Visit to Hook Lighthouse, one of the oldest operational lighthouses in the world. Dogs are welcome on the grounds (while on a leash, and the coastal scenery is breathtaking.
Scar Bridge Cottage offers a cozy holiday escape, perfect for the whole family and pet owners. Nestled on 3 acres of landscaped lawns and gardens, this charming 200-year-old Irish cottage has been refurbished and extended to provide modern comforts while retaining its rustic charm.
Located near many sandy beaches, it’s an ideal spot for a family holiday or a short break.
The property features a large private garden complete with a swingset, tyre swing, junior playframe, and a small river with brown trout. Guests can enjoy a summer games room in the stone stables, and various outdoor seating areas with al fresco dining options. The cottage boasts a fire pit for cozy evenings under the stars, with plenty of throws and cushions provided for comfort.
Inside, you'll find a country kitchen with an Aga, a snug room with a cut stone fireplace, and a bright sunroom. Upstairs, there are three stylishly furnished bedrooms with a king-size four-poster bed, wrought iron bedsteads, and plentiful towels and linens. There is no need to leave your loyal companions behind.
"We had an amazing time with our dogs, fantastic massive garden. Very safe and secure. We will definitely be back" (read more reviews)
🐶 Check Prices and Availability! 🐶
County Cork
19. Rock Cottage
💤 Sleeps: Sleeps 3 humans and 2 dogs
🛌 Rooms: 1 bedrooms with 2 beds
✅ Best For: Couples
🏆 Why we love it: Convenient location for exploring West Cork
🚗 Dog-friendly day trip: Visit Mizen Head Signal Station, Ireland's most southwesterly point with your four-legged friend. The stunning views and dramatic cliffs are perfect for a scenic dog walk.
Rock Cottage Country House is a delightful Irish cottage set in the tranquil courtyard garden of an 18th-century Georgian hunting lodge offering the ultimate dog-friendly escape. Despite its historic charm, the cottage boasts all modern conveniences.
The cottage provides easy access to beautiful beaches, making it the perfect getaway, and it is an excellent base for exploring West Cork, including the Mizen Head, Sheep's Head, and Beara Peninsulas. Guests can do a lot of dog walking and exploring of the 17 acres of grounds, enjoy the 360-degree views from the hilltop.
Pet Policy:
- Pet size: Maximum weight of 55 pounds per pet
- Pet limit:2 small dogs or 1 large well-behaved dog
"The location is excellent, quiet, beautiful surroundings and ideally situated for exploring west Cork. We had our two dogs with us. It’s hard to find pet friendly accommodation that is really pet friendly as well as comfortable for the adults. Would definitely love to stay again. Highly recommend Rock Cottage." (read more reviews)
🐶 Check Prices and Availability! 🐶
20. Bay House
💤 Sleeps: Sleeps 10 humans and 1 dog
🛌 Rooms: 5 bedrooms with 7 beds
✅ Best For: Families and large groups
🏆 Why we love it: Spacious and well-equipped for families
🚗 Dog-friendly day trip: Head to Barley Cove Beach for a relaxing afternoon. This Blue Flag beach is perfect for a stroll or a swim, and your dog will love running on the sand and playing in the waves.
Bay House is a superb waterfront property located on the "Wild Atlantic Way," offering a truly spectacular and private setting. Set on 1.7 acres and approached by a half-mile private country lane, Bay House and its gardens overlook Dunmanus Bay, providing breathtaking views that stretch over twenty miles into the Atlantic, encompassing the Sheep's Head, Mizen, and Beara peninsulas.
This stunning family house has everything you and your guest will need, from an American style fridge/freezer with ice machine to a children's playroom stocked with toys and books.
Pet Policy:
- Pet size: Maximum weight of 55 pounds per pet
- Pet limit: 1 large well-behaved dog
"We spent an idyllic week at Bay House. Grandparents and 2 families and the dog and we had plenty of space." (read more reviews)
🐶 Check Prices and Availability! 🐶
County Kerry
21. Skellig Bay Cottage
💤 Sleeps: Sleeps 10 humans and 2 dogs (or cats)
🛌 Rooms: 4 bedrooms with 5 beds
✅ Best For: Families and large groups
🏆 Why we love it: Incredible ocean and mountain views
🚗 Dog-friendly day trip: Walk along the Kerry Way, one of Ireland's longest signposted walking trails. Enjoy the stunning coastal views and the serene countryside with your dog.
Skellig Bay Cottage is a luxurious seaside dog-friendly cottage located on the picturesque Ring of Kerry. This property offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and mountains, making it an ideal spot for a memorable holiday in Kerry. Nestled between Waterville Links and Skellig Bay golf courses, the cottage provides amazing views of the Skellig Islands and Bay, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy walking, golfing, fishing, diving, riding, and windsurfing.
This pet-friendly holiday home is designed with modern Irish country living in mind, using natural materials like oak wooden floors and travertine stone tiling. The eco-friendly property is warm and welcoming all year round, with underfloor heating sourced from a geothermal system.
"We had a wonderful stay at Skellig Bay Cottage! The house was spacious and comfortable and had everything that we needed. The location was perfect for relaxing in front of the views and short day trips to all of the sights." (read more reviews)
🐶 Check Prices and Availability! 🐶
Discovering the ultimate dog-friendly retreat in Ireland is now easier than ever. With an array of charming dog-friendly holiday cottages in perfect locations, your next vacation is set to be memorable for both you and your furry companion.
From serene countryside escapes to picturesque coastal getaways, these accommodations offer comfort and convenience. Plus, with lots of dog-friendly pubs and scenic spots to explore, you'll find Ireland to be the perfect destination for a relaxing and adventure-filled holiday with your best friend.
Remember, when planning a dog-friendly holiday it is your responsibility as the pet owner to make sure your furry friend is relaxed and comfortable. I always prefer to bring Poppy's own dog bed, her preferred food, treats, and toys. With Poppy being a smaller dog, I always bring her carrier bag in case she gets tired of trying to keep up with all the day´s activities.
Make sure to check out our website, www.pawsfriendly.com for more dog-friendly places to visit on your next adventure.
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