Hotels by the sea in Ireland: from country house hotels to luxury B&Bs

Explore the Wild Atlantic Way or head to any of its many beaches, Ireland has over 1,450km of coastline to explore, and much like everywhere else in the Emerald Isle, the coast has its own unique and breathtaking character to delight and inspire.

In particular, the Wild Atlantic Way has become known as an explorer’s dream. Take a road trip from the wind-whipped of Malin Head and wrap your way around the west coast to Kinsale Harbour on the world’s longest defined coastal touring route. Ireland’s rugged landscapes are the home to myth, legend and plenty of wildlife, not to mention opportunity for invigorating activity including thrilling surfing and challenging hiking. Of course, superb travel would not be complete without ample warm hospitality, and Ireland’s hoteliers meet that challenge with unparalleled standards.

Guests who find themselves at Rathmullan House for example, can be forgiven for never wanting to leave. The country house hotel dates back to 1760 and its lawns run down to the sandy beach at the bottom of the garden like something out of a storybook.

Alternatively, Stella Maris at Ballycastle is a chance to wake and watch dolphins frolicking in the bay from the conservatory as you sip your morning coffee. The Victorian Butler Arms at Waterville provides a warm welcome on the edge of Ballinskellig’s Bay, and at Whitepark House at Ballintoy you can rest your head at the luxury bed and breakfast, nestled into its own world and surrounded by mature trees and the sound of waves crashing and birds singing in the background at Whitepark Bay.