Ireland’s thatched cottages are one of its most iconic symbols after shamrocks. In the 19th-century around half the population lived in one, but today they make up only a tiny fraction of housing in the country with less than 1,500 that remain. Fortunately, some of those are rented out as Airbnbs that provide a storybook kind of stay while exploring the country’s most scenic landscapes. Whether you want to discover the wonders along the Ring of Kerry, visit castles, listen to live traditional tunes in a pub or spend time on the beach, you’ll find some especially enticing options on the list.
Nanny Murphy's Thatched Cottage, Longford
Located only about 90 miles northwest of Dublin, Nanny Murphy’s Cottage has been featured in publications like the Irish Times and Independent, making it one of the most popular properties in Ireland for experiencing traditional Irish heritage. The three-bedroom cottage was renovated using century-old techniques with the two-foot-thick walls made of straw and the thatched roof made from Irish reed. It has an open fireplace that uses Irish turf blocks that are supplied, along with modern comforts like Wi-Fi.
Charming And Cosy 300-Year-Old Thatched Cottage, County Kilkenny
This gorgeously restored 300-year-old thatched cottage has retained some of its original features to provide lots of authentic historic character along with modern comforts. It’s the perfect place for those who want to enjoy a quiet, tranquil stay while exploring Kilkenny City attractions. You’ll be just five minutes from Rothe House, a museum set in a late 16th-century merchant’s townhouse complex, Kilkenny Castle, unique shops, galleries and a wealth of pubs like Kytelers Inn which hosts frequently live traditional Irish music and dates back to the 14th-century. It includes two bedrooms, sleeping up to five, along with a living room and dining area, a fully equipped kitchenette, fireplace, washing machine, TV and Wi-Fi.
Quaint Thatched Cottage, Killarney
This quaint three-bedroom thatched cottage offers a peaceful stay on the outskirts of Killarney. It’s ideal for those who want to explore Killarney National Park, the spectacular Ring of Kerry and more. Enjoy a large grassy lawn and relaxing outdoor sitting area on sunny days along with all the usual comforts. Beautifully decorated, it includes a full kitchen, washing machine, TV and Wi-Fi.
Nan's Thatched Cottage, Kiltimagh
Enjoy a serene countryside setting with beautiful mountain views at Nan’s Thatched cottage, a beautiful restored thatched cottage with all the historic charms combined with luxurious modern comforts. An ideal base for exploring County Mayo, it’s just a couple of miles from the small artisan village of Kiltimagh, with a local market close by for picking up ingredients to make your own meals in the fully equipped kitchen. A fireplace, TV and washing machine are included as well.
Aran Thatch Cottage, Inishmore
Built in 1844, the Aran Thatch Cottage is a traditional white-washed cottage with a thatched roof. It sits on two private acres overlooking the sea on the largest of the Aran Island, Inishmore. The island itself is known for its Old World Irish atmosphere, making the cottage a perfect way to complete your time here, enjoying the maze of stone walls and interesting archaeological sites like Dún Aonghasa, a prehistoric hill fort. In town, you’ll find multiple pubs for mingling with the locals and catching live music after dark. The cottage has two bedrooms, accommodating up to four, along with basic comforts and special touches provided by the host.
The Thatched Cottage on The Wild Atlantic Way, Castlemaine
Located in the center of County Kerry just a short drive from Inch Beach and the famously beautiful Dingle Peninsula, this charming restored authentic thatched cottage is filled with character and comforts, including a luxurious four-poster bed. It was built more than 200 years ago and includes two bedrooms, accommodating up to four guests. You’ll have a full kitchen, a living room with a wood-burning stove, Wi-Fi and a patio table with chairs and an umbrella for dining al fresco on pleasant days.
Connemara Thatched Cottage, Oughterard
Book a stay at this two-bedroom thatched cottage location in a peaceful setting. Along with gorgeous mountain views, you can enjoy on-site amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen, two bedrooms (one of which is an ensuite), a living/dining room, and an open fireplace to snuggle up to when it gets chilly. There’s space for up to six people in the cozy cottage, with central heating, a dishwasher, and private parking all available.
Thatched Cottage Near a Surfing Beach, Lettermacaward
This authentic thatched cottage on the Wild Atlantic Way offers an ideal remote retreat near the Dooey strand, a beautiful, nearly 2-mile stretch of beach popular with surfers. Look forward to spending time on the sand and in the pub before returning to relax in your own cozy historic space, complete with a peat-burning fireplace (peat supplied). The living room has high ceilings to provide a more spacious feel and while the kitchen is small it includes everything you need to make your own meals. It has three bedrooms, one of which is in an outbuilding to the rear.
