A Leitrim lair The Old Rectory Ballinamore, Co Leitrim


This Georgian house in Leitrim's lakelands operates as a B&B but if you require something more private, then book into the Gardener's Cottage, which adjoins the 19th-century home. This restored, rustic getaway is a one-bedroom and has a lovely wood-burning stove. The 50 acres of surrounding woodland park are at your disposal and there are myriad day trips to take and historical remains to explore. Visit the Stokestown House and Famine museum; the Swan Island Animal Farm; go for a cruise on the Shannon; explore Boyle Abbey or check out Dun Baile Fort, the home of the high kings of Ireland. Perfect for those who really want to revel in country living. Rates start at €280 and go up to €320.


Tel: 071 964 4089 www.theoldrectoryireland.com


Two's company Anne's Grove Gatehouse, Co Cork


This is very much a couple's retreat, given the fact that it sleeps only two and is ridiculously romantic – it is a mini medieval castle after all. The Gatehouse, which is one of the Landmark Trust's staple of restored properties, was built in 1853, although until its restoration it hadn't been inhabited since 1940 and is positioned at the crossroads of three country roads. The bedroom is accessed by a spiral staircase and the Grove has timber ceilings, wooden floors and stone arches. If the bickering starts and you're feeling claustrophobic, Cork city is within easy access. There's also fishing on the Blackwater River and strolls through Annes Grove Gardens and nearby Doneraile Park to amuse yourselves with. Weekend rates start from €372 in high low season and go up to €686 during the busier periods.


Tel: 01 6704733 www.irishlandmark.com


It's lodge-ical
Glengarriff Lodge Glengarriff, West Cork


The fascinating history of this West Cork hideaway is enough to warrant a visit. Built by the first Earl of Bantry, it played host to literary luminaries such as Vanity Fair author William Thackeray and poet William Wordsworth. Today the Lodge, which has seen many architectural incarnations since, is one of the most luxurious self-catering options you'll come across. Owner Alan Callender spent five years restoring it and takes a very hands-on approach – nothing is too much trouble and you get a hamper of fresh local produce with bottle of champagne upon arrival. Log fires, period furniture (much of which was garnered by Alan's grandfather on his travels to far-flung places) and an exotic purple conservatory with riverside views are notable features. The kitchen, bathrooms, heating etc are entirely modern. Sitting on 50 acres, there's plenty to do here, whether that's investigating the orchard's harvest or some salmon fishing, but of course the lively restaurants (we like the Martello), craft shops, pubs and galleries of Glengarriff are a short and scenic drive away. Weekend rates start from €800 in low season to €1550 in high and it sleeps 10 people comfortably.


Tel: 027 63833 www.glengarriff-lodge.com


Country casual
Tir na Fiuise Terryglass, Co Tipperary


The self-catering cottages here tick so many boxes for those in need of a restorative, wholesome yet fun retreat. Tir na Fiuise, which translates as 'land of fuchsia' was set up in 1999 by Niall Heenan and his wife Inez, on their organic farm in the Tipperary countryside. They have five cottages of varying sizes, suitable for couples and young families and all are a stone's throw from Lough Derg. You can try your hand at organic gardening, take walks across the bog or simply revel in the snug comfort of the cottages, which are charmingly rustic but of course have all modern conveniences. In Terryglass village, which is 2km away, you can enjoy great local fare in Paddy's pub and in the Derg Inn. For a gourmet treat, feast at Brocka on the Water in nearby Kilgarvan Quay. Rates start at €250 but it varies from cottage to cottage and depends on time of year and length of stay.


Tel: 067 22041 www.countrycottages.ie


King and queen of the castle Ballybur Castle
Cuffsgrange, Co Kilkenny


The next time somebody asks you what you're doing for the weekend, wouldn't you just love to be able to say, "Mmm, not much. Going to spend some quiet time at a little castle we know. What are you up to?" Ha! Ballybur Castle, which was built in the 16th century and is only 8km from Kilkenny city should provide enough privacy and grandeur for any select party you should chose to hold. Originally the home of the Comerford family, the five storey castle has been restored without losing any of its original charms, while still providing all mod cons. It will sleep eight people comfortably but can accommodate up to 12 and will provide the backdrop to a holiday you won't ever forget. There's the Chapel Room, the former family church, which is now a magnificent bedroom; a reception room at the top of the castle where you can see Sleivenamon on a fine day as well as a dining room with a medieval stone fireplace, perfect for roaring log fires. You can rent it for a week or just a weekend and the rates, which vary, start from €1,200.


Tel 087 050 5668 www.ballyburcastle.com