As an island, Ireland has the advantage of being completely surrounded by the ocean and this abundance of water gives Ireland some of the most magnificent sea views and coastal scenery in the world.
With this in mind, we’ve put together a list of some of the country’s finest luxury hotels with sea views, all of which boast top quality dining as well as spectacular views of the ocean.
The Redcastle Hotel, Donegal
Located on the Inishowen Peninsula, this oceanfront hotel boasts a 9-hole golf course and spa for guests to relax and unwind in. The interior mixes the traditional features of the 18th century estate with more contemporary influences.
Catering for all tastes, there is fine dining at the Edge restaurant or the the more casual Captain’s Bar or The Deck. All guest rooms either have magnificent views overlooking the shores of Lough Foyle or parkland views.
More Information: www.redcastlehoteldonegal.com
The Bayview Hotel, Ballycotton, Cork
This 4-star manor house hotel offers rooms overlooking the stunning Ballycotton Bay. The renowned restaurant uses locally sourced produce to indulge the appetites of its diners. Visitors to the hotel can enjoy a wide range of activities in the area such as the wild Atlantic cliff walk and deep-sea angling.
Visitor can also drive to nearby Garryvoe and take advantage of its unspoilt beaches. As an added bonus, guests of The Bayview Hotel can enjoy complimentary use of the Health Club at sister residence, the Garryvoe Hotel.
More Information: www.thebayviewhotel.com
Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa, Cork
Experience heavenly rooms with Atlantic ocean views at Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa. With spectacular balconies and terraces, you can bask in all the glory of the coastline. This unique accommodation is situated outside the heritage town of Clonakilty.
Enjoy Seawater Therapies in the Island Spa, a seven-time winner of the World Travel Awards’ “Leading Spa Resort”. Dine at the hotel’s Gulfstream Restaurant where the menu reflects the ingredients of the area, such as fresh seafood served with a Mediterranean twist.
More Information: www.inchydoneyisland.com
The Royal Marine Hotel, Dublin
This luxury 4-star hotel overlooks Dublin Bay and is steeped in history, dating back to 1828. The Dún restaurant offers a sophisticated Irish menu with spectacular sea views. For more relaxed dining options try the Bay Lounge with its incredible backdrop of Dublin Bay.
The hotel offers a state of the art gym and 18-metre swimming pool. And why not follow up your workout with one of the hotel’s luxury treatments in the Sansana spa.
More Information: www.royalmarine.ie
Dingle Skellig Hotel, Kerry
With a number of dining options, including a bistro, restaurant and cocktail bar, guests will be spoilt for choice at Dingle Skellig Hotel. This 4-star hotel has elegantly furnished rooms and luxurious presidential suites.
There are many family friendly activities in the area to help keep everyone entertained. These include horseback riding and dolphin spotting. The hotel also offers a créche and kids club for parents to take a few hours for themselves to enjoy the breathtaking vistas of the Wild Atlantic Way.
More Information: www.dingleskellig.com
The Armada Hotel, Clare
This hotel has some magnificent Atlantic views. Be sure to make the most of the local area by visiting the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren. For those who enjoy the outdoors, choose from golfing, kayaking and more. With three dining options, you can dine on West Clare crab and local beef.
On site are the Armada Cottages, which offer self-catering accommodation that’s perfect for families. Choose from one of the three restaurants serving up homemade breads and jams and some of the area’s local seafood and vegetables.
More Information: www.thearmadahotel.com
Kelly’s Resort Hotel, Wexford
Located in Rosslare, Kelly’s hotel sits right along five miles of sandy beach and is the perfect place to relax with friends and family. Kelly’s offers private and buffet dining, along with the award-winning restaurant Beaches and the informal La Marine Bistro.
There is also a wine club where members can join events and tastings. Most swoon-worthy though is the option to stroll along the golden shores of the beach, which is just a stone’s throw from the hotel.
More Information: www.kellys.ie
Seafield, Wexford
With views over Ballymoney Beach or Tara Hill, it’s hard to pull yourself from the haven of Seafield’s deluxe rooms and suites. For those wanting a little more privacy, there are self-catering apartments, and guests staying here have full use of the hotel’s facilities.
Enjoy afternoon tea overlooking the landscaped grounds, or dinner in the AA Rosette awarded Greenroom restaurant. The food is locally sourced and foraged from the Seafield grounds and local forests. While you’re there don’t miss out on visiting the famed and multi award-winning Oceo Spa.
More Information: www.seafieldhotel.com
The Cliff House Hotel, Waterford
Nestled in Admore, The Cliff House Hotel offers deluxe rooms with floor to ceiling windows, which offer the most breathtaking sea views. It is also home to the Michelin starred House restaurant, run by executive chef Martijn Kajuiter.
With an ever-evolving menu, you’ll be in for a real treat. At The Cliff House, you can wile away the hours in the infinity-edge swimming pool or outdoor rock pool, indulge in a spa treatment or take in the sea air while bathing in the outdoor heated jacuzzi.
More Information: www.cliffhousehotel.ie
Rathmullan House, Donegal
This Georgian house sits across seven acres on the shores Lough Swilly, Donegal. The restaurants take ingredients from their own vegetable garden or are supplied with local pork and fish.
The two miles of sandy beach is perfect for walking, horseback riding or to taking in the glorious views of Lough Swilly. Guests can also enjoy walks through the tranquil walled gardens and woodland forest.
More Information: www.rathmullanhouse.com
Renvyle House Hotel, Galway
This historic 4-star hotel opened its doors in 1883 and is situated on 150 acres overlooking the shores of the Atlantic. The hotel has a private lake, 1km of beach and leafy woodlands and gardens.
Diners can enjoy Connemara lamb paired with a wide selection of New World wines. Visitors to the hotel can also enjoy numerous activities, including canoeing, tennis, swimming and more.
More Information: www.renvyle.com
Aldridge Lodge, Wexford
Since Billy Whitty and Joanne Harding opened Aldridge Lodge in 2005 it has received numerous awards. The small but intimate accommodation offers three rooms overlooking the fishing village of Duncannon.
The kitchen focuses on using as many local ingredients as possible, such as fish from Dunmore East and Kilmore Quay. Guests at Aldrige Lodge can enjoy the local attractions like Hook Head and the nearby Waterford City.
More Information: www.aldridgelodge.com
Mulranny Park Hotel, Mayo
Located in Westport, Mulranny Park Hotel overlooks Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick. Guests will appreciate the fully equipped leisure centre after spending a few hours on Mulranny Beach, just a few steps away from the hotel.
The hotel offers apartment suites or standard rooms, both offering views of the bay or the beautiful woodlands. Also on offer are two dining options, the Waterfront bar and bistro and the Nephin Restaurant.
More Information: www.mulrannyparkhotel.ie
Parknasilla Resort and Spa, Kerry
This resort, set on a 500 acre estate, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding inlets, islands and hidden beaches of Kenmore and the Caha mountains. With coastal walking trails, boat rides, and sea-kayaking, you will be sure to soak up the scenery.
Parknasilla also provides self-catering accommodation, golfing, a spa and lots of activities to entertain the whole family. There is a wide range of dining options for guests to choose from, making this resort well worth the trip.
More Information: www.parknasillaresort.com
Ballygally Castle Hotel, Antrim
This 17th century castle hotel is ideal for Game of Thrones fans wishing to explore the the TV show’s filming locations. With coastal rooms offering panoramic views of the Antrim Coast, guests will want to unwind while enjoying the panoramic views.
In the surrounding area, there is so much for the happy adventurer to explore, including the Bushmills Distillery, Carrickfergus Castle and Carnfunnock Country Park.
More Information: www.hastingshotels.com/ballygallycastle.com
Slieve Donard Resort and Spa, Down
Located on six acres of private grounds at the foot of the Mourne mountains, Slieve Donard boarders a strand of golden beach and golf links.
There is an abundance of local attractions close to the hotel, including Tollymore Forest Park and St.Patrick’s Visitor Centre to fill your days. Guests can enjoy local produce in the resort’s Oak Restaurant or enjoy a fine wine in Chaplins Bar.
More Information: www.hastingshotels.com/slievedonardresortandspa.com
Culloden Estate, Belfast
Only six miles from the centre of Belfast, you will find this 5-star Gothic mansion overlooking Belfast lough and the landscape of Antrim’s coastline.
Dating back to 1876, Culloden Estate was the first hotel in Belfast to be awarded five stars. You can breathe easy in the newly developed Health Club and Spa or enjoy a sumptuous afternoon tea in the luxurious Crozier Lounge.
More Information: www.hastingshotels.com/cullodenestateandspa.com
Portmarnock Hotel and Spa, Dublin
This historic hotel was once home to John Jameson, the patriarch of the famous Jameson Whiskey company. The rooms here take inspiration from the surrounding landscapes, incorporating land, sea and sand into their design.
Rooms give way to views of the uninterrupted coastline of “The Velvet Strand”, the manicured gardens and the golf course. Those wishing to relax can do so in the hotel’s spa, stocked with the lush products of Elmis and Carita.
More Information: www.portmarnock.com