Enjoy the peace and sea air of a holiday near the coast in Ireland. From the rugged Atlantic coast with its many small islands, peninsulars, headlands and bays in the west, to the Irish sea coast with its mountains and beaches in the West. There is something here for everyone.
The extraordinary Giants Causeway is an exhilarating sight. Set at the very top of Ireland, this geological phenomenon is composed of about 40,000 columns of black basalt rock that descend into the sea. Most visitors also head for nearby Bushmills. Here Ireland's (and indeed the world's) oldest licensed whiskey distillery has been in operation since 1608.
Ireland's history is reflected in the warm hospitality, traditional Irish food and drink, brilliant Irish folk music, and beautiful landscape. Whether enjoying a morning breakfast in a cafe in Dublin, downing a pint or two in a pub in Belfast, experiencing the local artists of Kerry or Cork, or hiking along a seaside cliff on the Dingle Peninsula, it is hard not to feel a part of the dramatic culture of the country's people and the rich history that is Ireland.
The following coastal cottages in Ireland can be rented for self-catering holidays and short breaks and most are near a beach. Click on any photographs shown to read more about each cottage and the self-catering holiday on offer.