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Looking for a holiday cottage in rural Ireland where pets are welcome?

Pet-friendly holidays with dogs in rural Ireland

Complete with rolling hills and drop-dead-gorgeous landscapes, rural Ireland is honestly one of the greatest places to holiday in all of Europe. During the summer months, this area becomes a hotspot for tourists who are just looking to get away from it all. It’s clear to see what it is that draws people here. From the coastal walks to the fine towns and cities, there is just so much to love. If you’re looking to book your next family holiday, you may just have found the perfect destination.

​Holiday homes in the Irish countryside that welcome dogs

Self-catering, pet-friendly holidays

If you want to ensure that you get that perfect pet-friendly cottage in Ireland, it’s worth taking the time to book well in advance. Of course, there’s no doubt that there are many hotels and hostels around Ireland. However, if you want a really luxurious experience, you may wish to consider hiring an entire cottage for yourself and your loved ones. Around the region, there are many self-catering holiday rentals that you may want to consider. Be fast, though! These properties tend to book up seriously quickly, especially during peak times.

It goes without saying that Ireland is a vast country with many great things to see and do. Before you plan your self-catering holiday, you must consider the places you will want to visit. Staying near a town or city will mean that you get the best of both worlds. You will have access to a range of rural retreats as well as being able to see some of the more urban areas. Before you book your trip, here are some places that you might want to take a look at:

Limerick

If you’re heading to the south of Ireland, it would be something of a crime to miss out Limerick. The city is a throwback to the medieval era and there are many remnants of the time around the place. As you and your family walk around the metropolis, it’s well worth checking out some of the hottest destinations. From King John’s Castle to the Hunt Museum, you will never be at a loss for things to do.

A little out from the city, as you reach the coast, you will find some of the most beautiful dog-friendly beaches in Ireland. Both Lahinch Beach and Milton Malbay Beach are ideal for dog-walkers, and so you should have no trouble there. Since this area is pretty rural, you will find that there are many pet-friendly destinations there. It’s well worth checking out the guidebooks before you plan your trip!

Cork

Doubtless, Cork is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. That’s why you and your family absolutely have to make sure that you visit should you get the chance. You should know that many of the beaches here are dog-friendly, although some minor restrictions will apply. It’s well worth checking out what rules there are online before you do anything else. That way, you will be certain to avoid any problems when you do head off for a walk.

While the main city is renowned for its art galleries and many points of interest, you should know that there is a whole load of countryside nearby. If you’re hoping to enjoy a long stroll with your family, it’s well worth planning it in advance. For those of you who want to take your pet on holiday, there are lots of options available to you - from beautiful little self-catering cottages to lovely lodges in the country, there’s sure to be something to strike your fancy.

Kilkenny

The medieval town of Kilkenny is so often overlooked by tourists, but it needn’t be. In the town itself, there are quite a few points of interest. St Canice’s Cathedral is certainly worth a visit, especially if you’re interested in architecture and beautiful buildings. Aside from that, you must also visit Black Abbey and Rothe House when you get the chance.

When you and your family have tired of looking around the town, there is so much more to see in the county. The truly brilliant thing about rural Ireland is that there are so many walking trails and hikes that you will never, ever get bored. The Islands Walk starts in the town centre and takes you right out to the country. This walk is totally pet-friendly, and you will likely see many dog-walkers along the way too. Other walks of interest include the Callan Abbey walk and the Mountain Grove Piltown walk. You can download the trail maps online before you set off!