Looking for apartments, houses or hotels with lodges in Ireland? I’ve hand-picked thirty-five Irish hotels that offer self-catering facilities. 

I’m not a big fan of staying in a hotel room with kids, be it at home or abroad. I prefer the freedom and additional space that an apartment or lodge brings, especially when kids are older. However, it is nice to have the creature comforts of a hotel too – a nice breakfast springs to mind! I am delighted to see more hotels offering self-catering facilities, and hotels with lodges in Ireland.

Having a separate living area, and perhaps a garden can make a huge difference, especially if you fancy a night in. Some hotels with lodges in Ireland provide take-away meals to be delivered to your lodge for the ultimate win!

I have hand-picked some of my favourites across many counties in Ireland, ranging from three to five-star hotels. These are suitable for families as well as groups. There should be hotels with lodges in Ireland suitable for all tastes and budgets in this list.

It is important to point out that not all hotel facilities may be in operation. With this in mind, I recommend booking accommodation with free cancellation, incase there are any changes to facilities, or you need to cancel your booking at the last minute.

Many of these hotels with lodges in Ireland include my affiliate links – where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.

1. 5-star Fota Island Resort, Co. Cork

One of our family favourites, we have visited Fota Island Resort on many occasions. We stayed in one of the new three-bedroom Fushia lodges and loved it. The children were able to play in the large back garden and we even had some resident rabbits join us each morning for breakfast.

The hotel has a large outdoor playground, an indoor pool and a kids playroom. There are also lots of kids clubs and golf camps for kids of all ages, during school holidays. The restaurant has supervised kids buffets followed by movie nights and quizzes, so parents can enjoy a date night if they wish.

One of the advantages of staying in Fota Island Resort is its close proximity to Fota Wildlife Park. My children loved seeing the kangaroos and lemurs roaming free, something they wouldn’t normally see in a traditional zoo. Fota Island Resort is also very close to Cobh where you can take the Titanic experience tour, or take the boat trip to spooky Spike Island, to explore the fortress that once held 2300 prisoners.

2. Castle Leslie, Co. Monaghan

Although luxurious, Castle Leslie is less grand than Ashford or Dromoland Castle, and has a relaxed atmosphere that is extremely inviting – you almost feel like you are in someone’s home, rather than a hotel. It is home to one of Europe’s finest equestrian centres and one of Ireland’s best-preserved lakes for fishing. You can also try kayaking, clay pigeon shooting or even take a hot air balloon ride.

The lodges are located in the village of Glaslough, about five minutes walk from the Lodge at Castle Leslie. These four and five bedroom spacious lodges are more like luxury town houses.

The village of Glaslough is an attraction in itself, with quaint shops and a family friendly pub in the centre. Makes sure you pop in to Ambledown Cottage for some great pizza in a beautiful, albeit quirky setting. Another must do is a visit to nearby Lake Muckno. Take the time to do the Black Island walk, enjoy the forest trails with fairy doors, as well as Wilbert’s adventure playground

3. Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort, Co. Carlow

Famous for its championship golf course and award-winning spa, Mount Wolseley is ideal for a golfing group or a family break. With 4-bedroom self catering lodges on the grounds of the resort, you have full access to all the hotel facilities including 20 metre swimming pool.

Children are well looked after with a kiddies pool, zip line, soft play area, and a teen zone which is open until 11pm daily. There is also a kids club for children aged 4-12 during schoool holi

4. Castle Oaks House Hotel, Courtyard Apartments, Limerick

Set in 26 acres of grounds, and beautifully situated on the banks of the River Shannon, this Georgian Manor House Hotel is a great choice for a family staycation.

The Courtyard Suites are located just a one minute walk from the reception area. There are two double bedrooms with a spacious living area and kitchenette. Guests can enjoy access to the hotel facilities including complimentary breakfast in the hotel restaurant, and access to the River Leisure Club and pool.

5.  Falls Hotel & Spa, Co. Clare

As well as an award-winning spa, swimming pool and fitness centre on site, the Falls Hotel & Spa is ideally situated to explore the Wild Atlantic Way. With the Cliffs of Moher and the lively town of Doolin less than 15 minutes away, a stay at the Falls Hotel & Spa offers the best of both worlds. You can also reduce your carbon footprint by staying here, The Falls Hotel & Spa gets its electricity from the river that runs alongside it.

The Falls Hotel has nine self catering apartments, some of which can sleep up to seven people. They are rented on a weekly basis during the summer, but are available for two nights during the winter. Note that these apartments are only accessible via stairs, therefore they are not wheelchair-accessible.

6. Incydoney Island Lodge and Spa, Co. Cork

Located right on the beach, this award-winning spa hotel is a wonderful choice for a romantic or family escape. Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa has been voted Ireland’s Leading Spa Resort at the World Travel Awards seven times!

The two-bedroomed apartments sleep up to five, and guests have full access to the hotels facilities during their stay, including the heated seawater therapy pool, sauna, steam room and gym. Children have dedicated hours in the pool as well as their own lounge with toys, games and an Xbox. A separate Netflix Room is also available.

7. 5-star Lough Erne, Co. Fermanagh

This luxury hotel in Northern Ireland is situated on a 600 acre peninsula overlooking two championship golf courses and the lower Lough Erne lake. It is an ideal choice for golfing enthusiasts or families looking for luxurious accommodation in a beautiful setting.

The lodges are a huge attraction, with conical roofs that look straight out a fairytale. The food at the hotel is superb, and there are are lots of options to choose from, with a fine dining restaurant, a Loughside Bar and Grill as well as some tasty bar food. The large indoor pool has family swim times and there is also an unsupervised play room, Ernies Den, with table football, air hockey and lots more.

There are some excellent walks around the hotel golf course, as well as more arduous walks close by. The famous Stairway to Heaven boardwalk at Culcaigh Mountain is a popular spot for social media enthusiasts, and the town of Enniskillen is only 5 minutes drive from Lough Erne if you fancy a change of scene.  If you are looking for a luxury hotels with lodges in Ireland – Lough Erne Resort ticks all the boxes

8. Quality Hotel Youghal, Co. Cork

The beachfront apartments and houses in the Quality Hotel Youghal have been a firm favourite with families for many years, and is one of the best value hotels with lodges in Ireland. There are two-bedroomed apartments that sleep up to five, as well as holiday homes that sleep up to seven. They are very affordable and allow you enjoy all the facilities of a hotel, while staying in spacious self catering accommodation. With a gym, spa and swimming pool on site, you will be spoilt for choice.

Special events, a kids camp and movie shows are also available throughout school holidays. The resort has a range of dining options, including bar food, pizzas available for take-away, as well as the Capel Island Restaurant. Musical entertainment is also available in the Coast B

9. Clifden Station House Hotel, Co. Galway

This unique hotel was once an old railway station. It has been beautifully restored and manages to combine the old brick and native oak with modern furnishings. Its location in the upmarket town of Clifden is ideal for anyone who wants shops, bars and restaurants close by, but also wants to get out and about and explore the rugged coastline of Connemara.

The four-star, two and three-bedroom apartments are a great choice for groups or families. All guests get full use of the hotel facilities including the swimming pool and leisure facilities, and children can enjoy the Railway Kids Club which operators during holiday periods.

10. 5-star Sheen Falls Country Club, Kenmare, Co. Kerry

Sheen Falls Lodge enjoys an idyllic location overlooking Sheen Waterfalls, as well as being within walking distance to the picturesque town of Kenmare on the Ring of Kerry and Wild Atlantic Way. A Relais & Chateaux Hotel, it boasts fine food and wine and a host of activities including kayaking, paddle-boarding, archery, fishing, horse riding, clay pigeon shooting and falconry. If you prefer to relax, spend some time in the spa or indoor heated pool.

The Sheen Falls Country Club comprises of luxury townhouse-style holiday homes that sleep up to five, and detached holiday homes sleeping up to eight people. It is one of the most popular luxury hotels with lodges in Ireland.

It is important to note that there are many different accommodation options near Sheen Falls and some lodges do not offer access to the Sheen Falls Lodge Hotel. Guests staying in the mountain view lodges have complimentary access to leisure facilities and bar and restaurant facilities, but not those staying in the courtyard lodges.

11. Talbot Suites at Stonebridge, Co. Wexford

Rated number 1 on TripAdvisor  the luxurious Talbot Suites at Stonebridge is a super choice for groups or families looking for large apartments in the heart of Wexford Town. There are 73 luxury two- and three-bedroom apartments available, with floor-to-ceiling windows, high gloss fully equipped kitchen and TV’s in all living areas and bedrooms.

Guests have access to the swimming pool and Talbot Quay Leisure Centre and all the facilities of the Talbot Hotel Wexford.

12. Knightsbrook Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort, Co. Meath

This multi-award-winning resort hotel has just won Hotel of the Year and Best Hotel Spa Ireland, at the 2019 Hotel Awards Ireland. It is situated in the scenic Boyne Valley yet only 35 minutes from Dublin. However, with an 18-hole championship golf Course, four restaurants and a leisure club and spa on site, you may find it difficult to leave.

The luxurious self-catering cottages boast three bedrooms, a miniature putting green, and a garden terrace. Guests have access to all on-site facilities, and there is also a kids club and games room on site. Its close proximity to Newgrange and Tayto Park are sure to please families too.

13. Waterford Castle, Co. Waterford

I brought my Mum and family to Waterford Castle a few years ago and we loved it. Although just ten-minutes from Waterford City, you have to take a two-minute ferry crossing to get on to Waterford Castle’s private island – so it seems like worlds apart. I also loved the contrast between the old castle and the contemporary lodges. Designed by Paul Costello, the three-bedroom luxury lodges are spacious and are very well equipped.

There is a playground beside the lodges as well as a fairy trail and plenty of wildlife, including deer and squirrels to keep the kids amused. Camps and family activities are also held throughout the year, and if you fancy a day out, the Waterford Greenway is close by

15. Castlerosse Hotel, Killarney, Co. Kerry

We stayed in one of the Castlerosse two bedroomed cottages a few years ago and had a great time. The cottages, are very spacious. They are located just 100 meters from the hotel and you have full use of the hotel facilities including the swimming pool and kids club.

The Castlerosse hotel overlooks their own 9 hole golf course, the Killarney Lakes and the McGillicuddy Reeks. They even have their own resident deer on the grounds. I really enjoyed the 2km walk through the National Park to Killarney town. There are plenty of dining options including a pizza delivery service to your cottage.

There is so much to see and do in Killarney including the National Park, Muckross House and Gardens and Torc Waterfall. We travelled around the Ring of Kerry too – read what I got up to on my blog.

16. Breaffy House Resort, Co. Mayo

Breaffy House Resort consists of two hotels set on 90 acres. The Breaffy House Hotel and Breaffy Woods Hotel are just two minutes walk from each other, and the self catering lodges are located at Breaffy Woods Hotel. The two-bedroom residences have been newly refurbished to a four-star standard and sleep up to four people. We stayed here during the summer and loved them.

Guests have complimentary use of all resort facilities including 20 metre swimming pool, paddling pool, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, gymnasium and award-winning spa. Children are well catered for with two playgrounds, crazy golf, GAA pitch and plenty of opportunities for forest walks

17. Parknasilla Resort & Spa, Co. Kerry

Parknasilla, one of Ireland’s most famous hotels has entertained many celebrities including Princess Grace of Monaco. Its stunning location between the Ring of Kerry and the Beara Peninsula, surrounded by mountains, inlets and beaches, ensure guests return year after year.

The two and three-bedroom lodges and villas are ideal for groups and families. Guests have full use of the hotel facilities including the award-winning spa, resort dining, indoor pool, outdoor hot tubs, fairy trails, treasure trails, playground, and all other activities across the 500 acre estate.

18. 5-star Castlemartyr Resort, Co. Cork

The 5-Star Castlemartyr Resort is  dramatically set on 220 acres, with a 17th century country manor house adjacent to the ruins of an 800-year-old-castle. As well as 103 guest rooms and suites, there are 47 luxury self-catering, two and three-bedroom lodges.

Guests can enjoy full access to the resorts grounds, dining options, golf, health club, spa and seasonal kids club, and will also be treated to a welcome hamper on arrival. Some of the 2-bedroom lodges also allow pets.

19. Faithlegg House, Co. Waterford

The stylish Faithlegg Hotel is an 18th century mansion, set in a woodland location overlooking the Suir estuary in County Waterford. The Mews Holiday Homes offer families or groups access to all the facilities at the hotel’s leisure centre, including the swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and gymnasium, along with the option of health and beauty treatments.

The complimentary tennis courts and reduced Green Fees at Faithlegg’s 18-hole championship golf course are another reason to choose this popular hotel, as is its close proximity to Waterford city and the Waterford Greenway.

20. Kenmare Bay Hotel & Resort, Co. Kerry

Located just a short stroll from one of Ireland’s prettiest towns is the popular Kenmare Bay Hotel and Resort. Complete with a state-of-the-art leisure centre, kids club, summer camps, playground and kids’ play room, its not surprising that it is one of Kerry’s most popular family hotels. There is a dedicated Kids’ Corner in the restaurant with games and DVD’s, so you can enjoy a quiet meal while the kids play happily.

The two-bedroom luxury lodges are discreetly located in the grounds of the Hotel, and just a few minutes walk from the hotel facilities.

21. Gleneagle River Apartments, Killarney, Co. Kerry

Located next to the Gleneagle Hotel Killarney, and providing access to its Aquila Club leisure facilities and kids clubs, it is no surprise that the Gleneagle River apartments are one of Killarney’s most popular family apartments. These spacious two bedroom apartments offer all the advantages of self catering, with hotel facilities on your doorstep. 

22. Mulranny Park Hotel Apartments, Co. Mayo

The Mulranny Park Hotel boasts an idyllic location overlooking Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick Mountain, and also happens to be located on most scenic section of Great Western Greenway. You can swim in the Blue Flag Mulranny Beach, cycle on the Greenway, or take a trip to Achill and discover some of Ireland’s hidden beaches.

If you just want to stay at the hotel, thats fine too – the Mulranny Park Hotel has an indoor leisure centre and Great Fun Club which operates during summer holidays. The two-bedroom apartment suites which are very popular with families

23. Mount Juliet Estate, Co. Kilkenny

Mount Juliet is one of Ireland’s finest hotels and is one of the most popular luxury family hotels in Ireland. We stayed here recently and had a fantastic experience. The grounds, the facilities and the choice of dining options are superb, so if you are looking for luxury hotels with lodges in Ireland – look no further. I was surprised at the extensive children’s activities available in Mount Juliet. There is a large playground with a zip line, as well as a fairy trail located in the gardens. Extensive kids clubs operate during school holidays, (extra charge applies), so parents can enjoy a round of golf or spa treatment while the kids avail of the supervised activities.

There are two kids clubs, one from age 5-12 and the other 12+. Activities range from archery, equestrian and meet the owls, to baking, golf, treasure hunts and arts and crafts. It is important to check activities in advance with Mount Juliet as some activities may change. There are also evening activities such as a talent show and movie nights, and children can dine with their new pals giving parents the opportunity to have a date night.

There is also a leisure centre and equestrian centre which we loved. I tried horse riding for the first time with my daughter Alex and it was fabulous! We trotted past the Manor House, through the woods and along side the golf course – it is an experience I would highly recommend.

There are two self catering options available, the two-bedroom Chauffeurs Lodge and the four-bedroom Walled Garden home.

24. Clonakilty Park Hotel, Co. Cork

This Clonakilty Park Hotel is a popular choice with families due to its superb facilities. There is an award-winning leisure centre, a play zone with separate teen area, and a Kids Kamp during school holidays. A three-screen cinema, outdoor playground, high ropes and zip wire adventure centre, and family friendly dining options are also located within the complex.

The hotel offers family rooms as well as two-bedroom apartments and three-bedroom holiday homes.

25. The Park Hotel, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford

Although only a 3-star hotel, its superb location close to the Waterford Greenway, combined with a leisure centre on site, make it a great option for a family stay. Dungarvan is a pretty town and has some great restaurants – we stayed here last year and loved it.

The Park Hotel has two and three-bedrooom houses with their own private gardens and all have access to the Riverside Health Club.

26. Kilronan Castle, Co. Roscommon

When you drive through the medieval gates of the 18th century Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa, you are bound to be impressed by its beauty. The 50 acres of gardens, woodlands and lake, also add to its fairytale like appearance.

Originally a royal family home, it has been transformed into a luxurious Irish castle hotel. The three-bedroom homes enjoy an enviable position on the grounds of Kilronan Castle Estate. You will have full access to the hotel swimming pool, spa, and gym, and this house has all mod cons including a 40 inch smart TV for cosy nights in.

There are a wide selection of independent owners with homes available, so I have linked two options below.

27. Castle Dargan, Co. Sligo

The four-star Castle Dargan Hotel is set amongst 170 acres of woodlands with stunning views over the 18-hole golf course, designed by our very own Darren Clarke. It also boasts a host of dining options and a spa. The contemporary two-bedroom apartments and gate lodge are ideal for groups or families, and are a popular choice for families looking for hotels with lodges in Ireland.

28. Farnham Estate, Co. Cavan

Farnham Estate is a luxurious award-winning spa hotel that happens to have two and three and four-bedroom houses on site. The hotel boasts a large indoor pool, an outdoor infinity pool, a mud chamber, ice fountain, forest walkways and a wide selection of treatment options. There is also an 18-hole golf course, superb dining options and 1300 acres of grounds for you to explore.

Note guests of the resort houses will be only be allowed access to the Spa facilities (including the pool & gym) if availing of a pre-booked day package at the Spa. These homes are more suitable to groups or friends, as children under the age of 16 are not allowed to enter the Spa.

29. Lake House Hotel, Co. Donegal

Self catering cottages on hotel grounds are like hens teeth in Donegal, but these holiday homes surprisingly offer great value. All cottages are detached with their own private garden, and accommodation sleeps up to eight people. Full use of hotel facilities is included in the cost and cottages can be rented for weekends or week stays.

30. Derrynane Hotel & Oceanfront Cottages, Co. Kerry

These newly refurbished oceanfront cottages are a superb choice if you are looking to explore the Ring of Kerry and the Wild Atlantic Way. With four bedrooms, they can accommodate up to eight people and all have full access to the hotel facilities. All cottages have a private patio area with outdoor seating and an entertainment station with TV/DVD etc.

31. Westlodge Hotel & Leisure Centre, Bantry, Co. Cork:

Set in 30 acres of gardens, yet close to Bantry town, The Westlodge Hotel is a great choice for a self catering holiday in Ireland. The indoor pool, games room and pitch and putt course are a big hit with families, as is its close proximity to West Cork and the Wild Atlantic Way. The two-bedroom cottages can sleep up to five, and have full access to the hotel’s facilities.

32. Johnstown Estate, Co. Meath

Johnstown Estate is the ideal choice if you want a luxury break that is close to Dublin. Set within 120 acres of stunning parkland, this 1750’s Georgian residence has extensive leisure and spa facilities, golf and horse riding, as well as a choice of dining options.

The two-bedroom self-catering lodges are perfect for families or groups who want to enjoy all the hotel’s facilities but enjoy the benefits of spacious self catering homes. Each lodge has a separate dining and relaxing area, a 43” smart TV, a terrace that opens onto a green with a small children’s play area, and a parking spot.

33. Kilkea Castle, Co. Kildare

The self catering lodges at the luxurious Kilkea Castle are the perfect solution for couples or families looking for hotels in Ireland with self catering facilities. You will have full access to the resorts facilities including the spa, golf and 180-acre grounds. As well as deluxe lodges for couples, there are three-bedroom lodges for families or groups.

34. Adare Manor, Co. Limerick

After a staggering two-year long refurbishment, Adare Manor opened to rave reviews and has already won numerous awards, including the best resort in Europe and the 5th best resort in the world, in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers Choice Awards. Be prepared to be astonished by the 840 acres of pristine parkland, the lavish interiors and the award-winning spa. This luxury five-star resort also boasts the Michelin star restaurant – The Oak Room.

There is a wide selection of rooms to choose from, including the two and four bedroom Manor Lodges, and the three-bedroom storybook cottages. As you might expect these are furnished to the highest standard and are arguably the finest lodges in Ireland on hotel grounds – of course they do come with a price tag to match…

35. Center Parcs, Longford Forest, Co. Longford

Although more a holiday resort than a hotel, the lodges at Center Parcs Longford Forest are very impressive. If you are looking for a unique family experience in Ireland, with lots of activities on-site, then look no further. With over 100 activities for all the family including a subtropical swimming pool and a luxury spa, it really does tick all boxes for a family break in Ireland. We visited during the summer time, and for their Winter Wonderland experience at Christmas time, and we loved it both times.