Holiday homes in Ireland – make a trip to the Emerald Isle

Holiday cottages in Ireland are a great place to take the whole family, with many activities available such as whale watching along the Irish coast or discovering some of the many Celtic legends. The people here have a reputation for being charming and hospitable, so you'll certainly feel welcome when you visit.

Take a trip to the Irish seaside

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the North and West, the Irish Sea to the East, and the Celtic Sea to the South, Ireland's many beaches are definitely worth visiting. With such of vast coastline there are plenty of activities and water sports to get involved with during your stay in holiday homes in Ireland, whether you're in search of somewhere to surf or somewhere to kayak. If you're looking to go on a sailing trip then head to Donegal, where you'll also get a view of the Derryveagh mountains. If you aren't feeling too adventurous, why not spend the afternoon whale and dolphin watching in West Cork or simply relax on the beach in Galway?

Explore the wonders of natural Ireland

A Holiday cottage in Ireland also offers you the chance to explore the country's many natural wonders. From the Wicklow Mountains to the Skellig Islands, Ireland's vast landscape makes it the perfect holiday destination for nature lovers. If you're staying around the Lahinch area of County Clare, be sure to make a trip to the Cliffs of Moher, one of the most famous sights in the country and the highest sea cliffs in Europe. With a peak height of 203 metres, the cliffs even offer a view of the Aran Islands when the weather is good enough. Taking a trip around the Ring of Kerry is also worth doing, just to take in the scenic views. The Dingle Peninsula also boasts some beautiful scenery, as the mountainous land is met with a spectacular view of the West Coast.

Discover a history spanning five thousand years

Ireland has a long and rich history and is home to many significant archaeological sites which you can discover during your stay in a holiday rental property. Not far from the capital in Newgrange you can find ancient tombs older than the pyramids in Egypt – they are believed to be from around 5,000 years ago. For slightly more modern historical monuments, make a visit to the medieval Trim Castle or The Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary. You can also re-imagine the Irish potato famine by taking a look around Dunbrody Famine Ship in Wexford, a replica of one of the many boats that sent emigrants to the USA in the 19th century.

Enjoy the city life in Dublin and Cork

Common locations for self catering holiday homes in Ireland are in the country's two major cites – Dublin, the capital, and Cork. Dublin is a Viking city on the East of Ireland and it brimming with history and culture. One of the most popular attractions in the capital is of course the Guinness Storehouse where you can see where the famous beer is made and have a taste of it too. Other sights include St Patrick's Cathedral, the largest in the country, and Dublin Castle, with some of its ruins dating as far back as the year 1258.

Cork, on the other hand, is a much more cosmopolitan city, with its residents often referring to it as the 'real capital of Ireland'. The English Market is one of the oldest municipal markets in the world and is often a hotspot for tourists and locals alike. Don't miss a chance to visit a traditional Irish pub during your stay – its an essential part of the nightlife and there are often music sessions by local musicians being held inside.