It’s the same question every summer (well, at least for dog-owners like me): Where can I go on holidays and what will I do with my pet?
Why not bring your little friend with you! I mean, most of us here in Ireland opt for a “staycation” this year anyway – for various reasons (from ash clouds, over the “summer of the century”, to recession). And believe it or not, in the last couple of years the tourism industry here in Ireland opened up towards travelers taking their pets with them. There are various types of holiday accommodation available to pet lovers: B&Bs, Holiday Homes, modern Hotels and even Castle Hotels.
Here are some of my favourites:
Self Catering – I like the idea of going on a self catering holiday with my dog. Simply because it gives us the ultimate freedom. He can be in the same room when we’re eating, he’ll in most cases have a garden to run around and play and there might be other doggies around to play with.
Markree Castle Hotel, Co. Sligo – This Castle Hotel seems to be very pet-friendly. You can take your dog with you into your room which is in the actual hotel and the castle is set in the middle of its own huge estate where you can go for long walks. It looks absolutely lovely and romantic.
Ardilaun Hotel, Salthill, Galway – 4* Hotel with Leisure Centre. On check in you will receive your Ardilaun Doggy Pack which contains all the necessities for your dog’s stay. Love the idea.
Harvey’s Point Hotel, Lough Eske, Co. Donegal – 4 Star Hotel directly at the lake shore. They offer special dog-friendly Courtyard rooms. The area is just beautiful. Will go the in autumn. Can’t wait!
Castlemartyr Resort, Co. Cork - Famous luxurious 5* Resort. Always wanted to go there – can’t believe that they’re taking dogs! They have especially appointed guestrooms for dog owners with an outside entryway and an intimate, private garden area. Unfortunately, only dogs under 50lbs are allowed in. So my German Sheperd will never get to stay in such luxury… If you travel without your four-legged friend and miss going for walks, you can still “borrow” the resident Red and White Irish Setters.
Twelve Hotel, Co. Galway – The Twelve is a modern 4 Star Hotel close to Galway City. It is a lovely hotel and the area is perfect for long walks. When you’re there you can even book pamper-packages for your little friend. The only thing is that there are maaaany rules you have to follow when you want to bring your pet…
If you’re travelling to Ireland from abroad and you’re planning on taking your dog (or any other pet), I strongly advice you to check Ireland’s regulations! There’s no rabies on the island and they want to keep it out, so immigration is very strict regarding pets. You can find more information here.
And just because it’s so funny and we love our doggies:
Tags: dog-friendly hotels, hotelsireland.com, ireland, pet friendly accommodation, pet-friendly hotels, travel
