A vital component of Vagabond is the effort we put in to find accommodation that is just right. Instead or large impersonal hotels, we overnight is locally owned establishments (in some cases for generations) where the welcome really is genuine.
Plus, our small group sizes allow us to choose from a wider variety of high quality establishments in some of the most untouched places in the country.
A hot shower, a pint, a fire in the evening or heading down to the pub; what we can assure you is that wherever you stay - you'll love it. Below are a few of the places we stay while on tour:
The Gougane Barra Hotel
A unique place, nestled in the hills of West Cork, Gougane Barra is a totally secluded family run hotel. The stunning location is equally matched with the friendly and professional service supplied by your hosts, The Lucey family, and their staff. The restaurant is renowned for its fresh produce and the evenings can be spent walking in the forest park or rowing on the lake. (5 day s/w and 7 day tours)
Website: www.gouganebarrahotel.com
The Moorings Guesthouse, Portmagee
One of Irelands best Guesthouses, The Moorings is always a favourite with Vagabond passengers and staff. Situated directly on the harbour front of the tiny, picturesque fishing village of Portmagee (out on the western tip of the Iveragh Peninsula) the Moorings also has its own award winning restaurant and bar. Gerard and Patricia Kennedy's warm and genuine welcome is a great way to end a good day's adventuring. (5 day s/w and 7 day tours)
Website: www.moorings.ie
The Dingle Bay Hotel, Dingle
Dingle is a buzzing little town and right in the heart of it all is the Dingle bay hotel. A small, locally owned hotel is a mix of local charm and modern comfort. Just downstairs is Paudie's Bar, with some of the best bar food to be found in any of Dingle's 50+ pubs and often followed by live traditional Irish music. (5 day s/w and 7 day tours)
Website: www.dinglebayhotel.com
The Doolin Activity Lodge, Doolin
Niall and Deirdre O'Dwyer have created in the Doolin Activity Lodge a unique type of high quality B&B. the Lodge is divided into spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens and living areas, so you can relax and make yourselves feel at home. The Lodge is equipped with under floor heating, so you can lay your clothes out on the floor and they will be all toastie the next morning. Doolin, County Clare, is a small village on the west coast of Ireland which has become world renowned for the traditional Irish music, of the highest quality, which can be heard in any of the excellent pubs almost every night of the year. Plus the Irish stew in McCann's pub is about the best in Ireland. Not to mention the seafood chowder, the apple crumble... (7day tours)
Website: www.doolinlodge.com
Eldons of Roundstone
A traditional pub/guesthouse of the highest standard which has been totally re-vitalised by the new owners Bronagh and George, Eldons is not only a great place to stay but also a central part of the Roundstone community. The views from your rooms of Galway bay and the mountains of Connemara are fantastic and food in the bar and restaurant downstairs is excellent. (3 and 4 day tours)
Website: www.eldons.ie
Waterfront House, Enniscrone
Waterfront House is a purpose built luxury bed & breakfast run by the legendary Martina Tuffy and situated on the waters' edge overlooking Killala Bay. Enjoy spectacular uninterrupted views of the bay, the 5km of golden sandy beaches and Enniscrone's famous sunsets. An amazing B&B and location, plus only yards from a rejuvenating hot seaweed bath. (3 and 4 day tours)
Website: www.waterfronthouse.ie
The Nesbitt Arms Hotel, Ardara
Built in 1838 The Nesbitt Arms Hotel takes its name from the last Whaling family in Ireland and lies at the hub of the heritage town of Ardara. This beautiful family run hotel, was completely refurbished in 1998 to the highest modern standard. For many people the Nesbitt arms typifies the small Irish country hotel welcome. (5 day NI tour)
Website: www.nesbittarms.com
The Londonderry Arms, Carnlough
Once owned by Winston Churchill, The Londonderry Arms is always a favourite on the northern tour. It oozes old world charm and character and is located right on the harbour of picturesque Carnlough in Antrim. A great overnight stop on the first night of the tour.
Website: www.glensofantrim.com
