The best hotels for your weekend break in West Cork

Set on the beautiful Bantry Bay and the three rugged peninsulas of Mizen Head, Sheep’s Head and Beara, this stylish hotel is an excellent base for your time in West Cork.

The designer rooms boast panoramic views of the bay or the woods of Bantry House, and most come with their very own balconies so you can truly take in your spectacular surroundings.

To truly enjoy some well-deserved me-time, check out the spa’s 19 metre pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and luxury treatment rooms that overlook the picturesque coves and sea.

Situated on the shores of Clonakilty Bay, this cosy family-run hotel neighbours an adjoining 9-hole golf course and sea terrace to ensure you make the most of West Cork’s beautiful vistas.

Most of the bright and spacious rooms overlook the Atlantic Ocean and feature great little touches like wool-cashmere throws and L’Occitane toiletries.

Dining at Dunmore House is all about local produce, whether it’s fresh shellfish from Union Hall or meat from the craft butchers in Clonakilty, paired with a superior wine list.

Set on a 163-acre estate overlooking Lough Abisdealy, this serene resort boasts its own impressive lake and unique Sky Garden crater, and without a doubt is one of the most spectacular places to stay in West Cork.

The refined rooms are located in the Georgian house, converted stable block or lakeside lodge, and offer scenic views of the surrounding parkland or ornamental gardens.

Enjoy afternoon tea in the elegant drawing room, or if weather permits, out on the Cedar Lawn, while the restaurant combines home-grown ingredients from the gardens with fresh local produce.

You’ll find this historic hotel along the Wild Atlantic Way on the Beara Peninsula, positioned just above the pretty Glengarriff Harbour.

Special occasion? Then spend a night or two in the elegant Yeats Suite, commanding unparalleled views across Bantry Bay and featuring a balcony and Jacuzzi bath for the ultimate indulgence.

To top it all off, why not treat yourself to a spot of afternoon tea? After all, what could be better than sitting next to a crackling fire as you look out to Garinish Island with a plate of freshly made mini scones in your hand?

A beautiful country house set on private grounds and subtropical gardens, this hotel boasts views of the bay and mountains along one of the most beautiful stretches of coastal scenery in Ireland.

The individually-decorated rooms feature antique furniture to ensure that ‘country house’ feel, and look out over the landscaped lawns or the Atlantic Ocean.

Dining here is an intimate affair, whether it’s in the main dining room or the airy conservatory. Think polished mahogany tables, crisp white linen, a well-stocked wine cellar and local delicacies like West Cork lamb.

Situated in the colourful historic harbour town of Kinsale, Actons is the area’s oldest hotel, yet still offers chic boutique-style accommodation in the centre of the town.

The contemporary rooms feature luxury duck and down duvets, black-out curtains and a large waterfall shower in the ensuite bathroom. Stay in one of the superior rooms and look out over the famous harbour and yacht club.

As Kinsale has been hailed as the gourmet capital of Ireland, why not treat yourself to some creamy seafood chowder in the hotel bar followed by a chilled glass of wine on the outdoor garden patio?

This charming hotel is set on the banks over the River Ilen, while also being ideally situated in the centre of the market town of Skibbereen.

Take advantage of the area’s emphasis on locally-caught seafood and enjoy some dinner at the Kennedy Restaurant before unwinding with a pint in the Bridge Bar’s cosy snug.

Can’t bear to leave your pup at home while you explore West Cork? Then you’re in luck – there are two new purpose-built kennels in a secure area of the hotel grounds.

Nestled on the coast in the cathedral town of Rosscarbery, this modern hotel promises to be your peaceful haven after a day of exploring all that West Cork has to offer.

Many of the charming rooms enjoy beautiful views over Rosscarbery Lagoon or Rosscarbery Bay. Upgrade to the Penthouse suite for panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows, a large Jacuzzi bath and a walk-in-wardrobe.

Foodies, make sure you visit the chic Kingfisher Bistro for some fresh, farm-to-fork cuisine and fine local produce. The seafood in this region is also spectacular, so we recommend treating yourself to the water bay oysters.

Tucked away on a cliff overlooking Blue Flag Beach, just outside the heritage town of Clonakilty, is an upscale spa resort that’s guaranteed to make you fall even more in love with West Cork.

The luxury rooms feature everything from wooden love seats on your patio or balcony to uninterrupted views of Inchydoney Beaches – upgrade to a suite for your personal panoramic sitting area and grand four-poster bed.

The hotel is also home to Ireland’s first seawater spa, offering unique seawater therapies as well as traditional beauty treatments. Guests can also unwind in the pool, steam room, sauna and ocean view relaxation areas.