secret escapes Ireland

Finding secret escapes in Ireland can be a great way to discover somewhere different for your next break. With a Hotel & Spa Gift Card, you can choose from hotels in Ireland and beyond, giving you the freedom to find a stay that suits you.

If you’re looking for somewhere quieter than the usual tourist spots, there are plenty of hotels worth discovering. From hidden townhouses in Dublin to peaceful country houses and coastal retreats, these secret escapes offer something a little different.

 

1. Stauntons on the Green, Dublin

 

If you want secret escapes in Ireland without travelling too far, Stauntons on the Green is a great place to start. This elegant Georgian townhouse sits directly on St Stephen’s Green in the centre of Dublin.

Its location is one of its biggest advantages, but the hotel offers something you might not expect from such a central address. A large private rear garden provides a peaceful place to relax away from the busy city streets. Some bedrooms also overlook St Stephen’s Green or the hotel garden, while the Iveagh Gardens are close by.

It’s a great choice for anyone who wants a Dublin break but would rather stay somewhere with a more intimate feel.

 

2. The Wilder Townhouse, Dublin

 

For secret escapes in Dublin, The Wilder Townhouse offers a quieter side of the city. It’s tucked away on Adelaide Road, just a short walk from St Stephen’s Green.

With just 42 individually designed guestrooms, The Wilder has the feel of a private townhouse rather than a large city hotel. There’s also a Garden Room and secluded garden terrace, giving guests somewhere peaceful to relax away from the busy streets.

Its quiet residential setting is what makes it feel like one of Dublin’s best kept secret escapes. You can explore the city on foot, then return to a much calmer setting.

 

3. BrookLodge & Macreddin Village, Wicklow

 

For a countryside break, BrookLodge & Macreddin Village offers something a little different. Set in a secluded Wicklow valley, the hotel forms part of Macreddin Village, with restaurants and other amenities all within the grounds.

The Wells Spa is an adults-only spa with a spa pool, sauna, steam room, indoor Jacuzzi and outdoor hot tub. There is also The Strawberry Tree Restaurant, Ireland’s first certified organic restaurant.

This mix of a secluded village setting, adults-only spa and organic dining make BrookLodge a secret escape worth considering for a relaxing break.

 

4. The Ardagh Hotel & Restaurant, Clifden

 

If you're searching for secret escapes in Ireland on the west coast, The Ardagh Hotel & Restaurant is worth considering. It sits on the water’s edge of Ardbear Bay, just outside Clifden in Connemara.

The family-run hotel has 20 individually styled bedrooms and is set across six acres of gardens. Its position on the bay gives guests views across the water, while the gardens add to the peaceful setting.

The combo of its waterfront location, small size and Connemara setting makes it feel like a genuine hidden gem. It is also well placed for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way and the wider Connemara area.

 

5. Ballymaloe House Hotel, Cork

 

Ballymaloe House Hotel offers a classic country house setting in East Cork. The hotel is set across 300 acres and has 32 individually appointed guestrooms.

Food is an important part of the Ballymaloe experience. The hotel restaurant makes use of seasonal produce from the farm, while the surrounding estate provides plenty of space to slow down and enjoy the countryside.

Ballymaloe is one of the best hotels in Ireland for those seeking a peaceful country house escape.

 

6. Culloden Estate & Spa, Belfast

 

If you’re looking for secret escapes in Belfast, Culloden Estate & Spa offers a country estate setting just outside the city in Holywood.

The spa has eight treatment suites, including rooms for couples. Guests can also make use of the swimming pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and relaxation areas.

Its estate setting makes it feel removed from Belfast, while still being close enough to explore the city. Add in the spa facilities, and you have a secret escape that combines a city break with a peaceful retreat.

 

7. Belmont House Hotel, Banbridge

 

There are plenty of secret escapes in Northern Ireland outside Belfast. Belmont House Hotel is a four-star boutique hotel in County Down, just outside Banbridge.

Set within an 1800s Georgian mansion and nine acres of grounds, Belmont combines historic character with modern comforts. Its newly renovated bedrooms retain the building’s period features, giving the hotel a distinctive country house feel.

Just 24 miles from Belfast, it offers a chance to explore the city while staying somewhere with a more peaceful, historic setting.

 

8. Dunluce Lodge, Portrush

 

For a coastal break, Dunluce Lodge offers a five-star stay on the Causeway Coast. The hotel sits alongside the fourth fairway of Royal Portrush Golf Club and has 35 suites.

Its location also gives guests a chance to explore Portrush and the wider Causeway Coast. The surrounding landscape makes it a particularly appealing choice for anyone who want to combine a hotel stay with time outdoors.

Its relaxed atmosphere gives this hotel a more understated feel, making it a secret escape in Ireland worth discovering.

 

Find Your Own Secret Escape in Ireland

 

From Dublin townhouses to country estates and coastal hotels, there are plenty of secret escapes to discover across Ireland and Northern Ireland. You do not always need to travel far to find somewhere that feels different from your usual break.

Whether you want a city stay, a spa weekend or a few quiet nights in the countryside, a Hotel & Spa Gift Card gives you the flexibility to choose your destination.

Explore the Hotel & Spa Gift Card collection to discover hotel stays and experiences. You can also browse our hotel vouchers in Ireland and find a gift or getaway to suit your plans.