Ireland is finally catching up as a country who greet its tourists, be they two or four legged, with a thousand welcomes. With more and more dog friendly destinations opening up and accepting our furry pets, it’s a great time to bring your family companion with you and the kids on holiday.
Not only is our countryside awash with adventure for our dogs, with wide open spaces and dog friendly beaches, since a 2018 EU rule change man’s best friend is now welcome in our pubs and restaurants at the approval of the owners. With more and more options available, there’s no reason not to bring your dog with you on holiday.
So where are the best dog friendly destinations in Ireland? We’ve chosen five here but there are plenty more and remember if an accommodations website does not specify if pets are allowed, ask!
Solis Lough Eske Castle, Donegal
If a castle is good enough for us, then its good enough for our dogs! This restored 17th century castle on the shores of Lough Eske is exactly the kind of luxury our pets don’t know they need. And certainly something we do! With over 40 acres of mature woodland, it’s a paradise waiting to be explored. So our pets won’t exactly make it into the castle, which is for dog owners only, but our pets will love the dog hotel which offers great care for our pets who can of course join us when we go out exploring this stunning rural location. https://www.lougheskecastlehotel.com/
Railway Country House, Wexford
Wexford is home to some of the most beautiful beaches which are just waiting to be explored. And staying at the Railway Country House in the coastal town of Gorey in Wexford ensures not only that your dog gets to explore these sandy beaches with you, but they will also get to stay with you in one of the dog friendly bedrooms. http://railwaycountryhouse.ie/index.html
The Lodge at Ashford Castle, Mayo
Expect a very warm welcome for you and your pooch at The Lodge! This 4-star boutique hotel is one of Irelands best dog friendly hotels, giving as much attention to you as to your pet. With a comfortable pet bed, food and water bowls, their favourite treat, even fluffy doggy towels, your pet will probably not want to leave! With countryside walks and the VIP treatment, this is a luxury pet breakaway at its finest. https://thelodgeac.com/
Lough Inagh Lodge, Galway
Situated on the shores of Connemara’s most beautiful lakes, Lough Inagh, this boutique hotel offers pet friendly rooms with access to the lounges for both you and your dog. With beautiful views of the Twelve Bens (otherwise known as the Twelve Pins) mountain range, plentiful wildlife areas to explore (with dogs on a lead) and stunning countryside, Lough Inagh Lodge is a wonderful rustic getaway. https://www.loughinaghlodgehotel.ie/en/
The Dunloe, Kerry
This 12th century Irish castle was turned into a five-star luxury hotel with some of the finest pet-friendly accommodation ever seen. With 64 acres of land to explore which lead down to the River Laune, your dog will be spoilt. And if that’s not enough, the hotel boasts an enclosed run for your dog to run free in safety. https://www.thedunloe.com/
