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As temperatures drop and leaves turn, travel creator Tara Povey recommends a set of warm, atmospheric getaways across Ireland ideal for short autumn breaks. These choices range from lakeside cabins to historic manor houses, each offering reasons to swap city routines for a snug escape.
Head Gardener’s House — County Cork
Housed on the edge of the Fota House estate, this Irish Landmark Trust property dates from the 19th century and sits close to the estate’s arboretum and gardens. It’s an easy spot for a bracing walk to watch the colours shift.
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The cottage sleeps up to five guests and welcomes dogs, making it suitable for small families or groups of friends. Interior design by Jessie Wilkinson brings vivid touches and several cosy corners meant for evenings by the fire.
One quirky attraction: the nearby Fota Wildlife Park is loud enough that a morning lion’s roar is not unheard of during a stay.
CABÜ by the Lakes — County Cavan
For a classic autumn scene, CABÜ’s lakeside cabins promise solitude and water views. Povey has not yet visited but places it high on her seasonal list.
What to expect
The site features a nature spa and a communal “sitooterie” around an open fire, designed for slow mornings and relaxed evenings. Activities include kayaking, forest bathing and scenic walks. Guests are also likely to spot wildlife such as otters, pine martens and red squirrels.
There’s even a playful local tip: toast a Tunnock’s tea cake over the flames for a sweet, nostalgic treat.
The Hideaway at Foxhollow Farmhouse — County Meath
Povey stayed here in October and compares the atmosphere to cosy television and film sets: think snug kitchens and old‑world charm. The farmhouse sleeps up to eight people and is stocked with small comforts, from plush fox slippers to raincoats and wellies for guest use.
The owner, June, leaves homemade cakes for visitors, adding to the domestic feel. For fans of Halloween, the location is handy for the nearby Farmaphobia scare event.
Harvey’s Point — County Donegal
Perched beside Lough Eske, this four‑star hotel is known for its warm hospitality and intimate communal spaces. A snug by reception, complete with a roaring open fire, is a favourite for quiet afternoons.
Outdoor options include lakeside paths and trails into the nearby Bluestack Mountains — ideal for cool, invigorating walks. Rooms at Harvey’s Point are notably spacious, with even standard rooms feeling unusually generous.
The hotel stages weeknight activities such as wine tasting and cooking demonstrations, and it hosts cabaret evenings every Wednesday, so there’s indoor entertainment if the weather is unkind.
Number 31 — County Dublin
For an autumn city break, Number 31 offers a Georgian townhouse stay just off St Stephen’s Green. Its sunken seating area in front of an open fire is a handy refuge after a day exploring Dublin’s streets.
The hotel runs a seasonal package called the Fabulous Fireside Fashion Fix, which bundles bed and breakfast with a complimentary €50 Brown Thomas gift voucher — a tempting add‑on for shoppers.
Voco The Club — County Kildare
Located a short drive from Dublin, this boutique hotel is pitched as a romantic option and includes a welcome glass of Prosecco on arrival. Certain rooms can be booked with a private hot tub.
The standout feature is the outdoor garden spa: hot tubs, saunas and cold plunges surround a small cocktail bar, creating a warm, restorative retreat on crisp days.
Lyrath Estate Hotel — County Kilkenny
This five‑star estate spreads across about 170 acres of woodland, with marked walks that are especially scenic once the leaves begin to fall. Povey recalls an autumn visit when the grounds felt particularly striking.
Afternoon tea in the boldly decorated tea room was a highlight, and the hotel’s spa facilities make Lyrath a popular choice for a girls’ weekend in cooler weather.
Horse and Jockey Hotel — County Tipperary
Set at a well‑known crossroads, this creeper‑clad, family‑run hotel has served the local community in various forms for more than 250 years. The building retains a village‑scale charm that draws both regulars and visitors.
On‑site bakery goods — breads, cakes and pastries — are a local talking point. Staff can also prepare picnic baskets for walkers heading out on nearby routes such as the Derrynaflan trail.
Shorter daylight and cooler air make October and November ideal for swapping a rushed day for a quieter break. These properties offer varied ways to embrace autumn — from brisk walks and wildlife spotting to spa warmth and hearty home baking.
The views expressed here are those of the author and do not represent or reflect the views of RTÉ.
Drink responsibly.
