Travelling the Wild Atlantic Way with your dog has never been more popular, but “pet-friendly” can mean very different things depending on the hotel. While some hotels around Ireland allow dogs only in rooms, or specific designated areas, others offer full access, welcome packs, and walking areas - which in my honest opinion is truly dog-friendly. 

Although Ireland may be behind countries like the UK or Italy in dog-friendly policies, there are still some fantastic accommodation options ready to welcome you and your four-legged friend(s). You wouldn’t believe the incredible treats and perks some of these amazing dog-friendly spots have for your four-legged friends.
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Below is a county-by-county guide from Donegal to Cork, featuring trusted dog-friendly hotels, so you can have confidence when booking your dog-friendly trip. It is worth noting there are also many Air BnB's, apartments and cottages that allow dogs, but below is a list of the most welcoming dog-friendly hotels along the Wild Atlantic Way that I would recommend. 

​So, let's dive in!

1. Donegal Boardwalk Resort, Carrigart
Spanning 188 acres, the resort’s dedicated pet-friendly lodges welcome dogs of all shapes and sizes. Availability is limited, so booking ahead is recommended—especially since it’s a popular spot along the stunning Atlantic Coast.
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Why stay here:

• Direct access to beaches and open space for long walks with your pooch
• Ideal for dogs who love to swim or play catch on an endless beach
• Ample space at the resort for dogs and owners to take advantage of (dogs should be leashed)
• Pet pawrents have access to spa facilities, nearby golf links and on site dining options

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Note: A €30 per pet per stay fee applies 

​Check availability & prices

​2. Ocean Sands Hotel, Enniscrone
​Located right on the beachfront in Enniscrone, Ocean Sands Hotel is one of Ireland's most welcoming dog-friendly hotels. With dedicated dog-friendly rooms, pet-friendly self-catering apartments, and direct access to a 5km sandy beach, it's an ideal Wild Atlantic Way escape for both you and your four-legged travel companion.

Why stay here?

• Dedicated dog-friendly rooms and ground-floor apartments designed for guests travelling with pets.
• Located just steps from Enniscrone Beach, offering 5km of sand and sea views right outside your door.
• Dogs are welcome in designated lobby dining areas, allowing you to relax and dine together.
• Easy access to the Enniscrone Coastal Loop Walk and other scenic dog-friendly trails along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Note: ​Pet fee applies – contact the hotel for the current charge

​​Check availability & prices

3. Sligo Southern Hotel, Sligo Town
Located in the heart of Sligo Town, the Sligo Southern Hotel is one of the few town-centre hotels in Ireland that actively welcomes dogs. The family-owned four-star hotel offers dedicated dog-friendly rooms and understands that pets are part of the family, making it a convenient base for exploring Sligo and the Wild Atlantic Way. We love to see it!

Why stay here?

• Dedicated dog-friendly rooms complete with a dog bed, food and water bowls, treats, waste bags, and a towel for muddy paws.
• Convenient town-centre location close to Sligo's shops, cafés, riverside walks, and coastal attractions.
• Dogs are welcome in the hotel gardens and outdoor areas when kept on a lead.
• Their super cute hotel mascot Miss Siog, acts as an in house "Canine Concierge" from time to time. How amazing is this?

Note:  €30 per dog per night fee applies

​Check availability & prices

4. Ashford Castle, Cong
One of Ireland’s most famous luxury hotels, Ashford Castle is a historic 800-year-old estate offering a truly high-end dog-friendly experience. Dogs are welcomed as VIP (Very Important Pets) in the Lodge at Ashford Castle with thoughtful in-room amenities and access to the vast castle grounds.

Why stay here?

• Dogs are treated as VIP guests with a bed, bowls, towels, and treats provided in the room - they even provide a pet preference form 
• Access to the 350-acre Ashford Estate with woodland trails, gardens, and lakeside walks
• Dog walking, sitting, and grooming services available on request
• Although dogs are not allowed in the indoor dining, bar, or lounge areas, they can enjoy estate walks and designated outdoor spaces

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Note:  A €75 per dog per night fee applies

​Check availability & prices

5. The Twelve Hotel, Barna
Located in the seaside village of Barna, just minutes from Galway City and on the doorstep of Connemara, The Twelve Hotel Galway is widely regarded as one of Ireland's most dog-friendly hotels. Its dedicated "Pampered Pet Program" ensures that dogs receive the same warm welcome as their owners, making it a standout choice for travellers exploring the Wild Atlantic Way.
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Why stay here?

• Dogs receive a welcome pack including treats, toys, clean-up bags, bowls, towels, and access to a dedicated pet lobby.
• Unique dog-friendly extras include a pet menu and even doggy room service.
• Ideally located near beaches, woodland walks, and Connemara adventures, with walking maps provided for guests.
• Recognised as one of Ireland's leading pet-friendly hotels, with dedicated luxury pet suites designed specifically for guests travelling with dogs.

Note: There is no additional charge but a security deposit is applied.

​Check availability & prices

6. Otter Hostel, Letterfrack, Connemara
For travellers exploring Connemara on a budget, Otter Hostel offers a relaxed and pet-friendly base in the heart of one of Ireland’s most spectacular regions. Located in Letterfrack, just minutes from Connemara National Park, Diamond Hill, Kylemore Abbey, and some of Galway’s best walking trails, it is a great option for adventurous dog owners who want to spend their days outdoors exploring with their four-legged companion.

Unlike many traditional hostels, Otter Hostel welcomes guests travelling with dogs, making it a unique option for backpackers, solo travellers, and road trippers exploring the Wild Atlantic Way.

Why stay here?

• Dog-friendly accommodation in the heart of Connemara, ideal for travellers exploring with their pets.
• Located within walking distance of Connemara National Park and the Diamond Hill trails.
• Perfect base for exploring nearby beaches, scenic drives, Kylemore Abbey, and the Wild Atlantic Way coastline.
• A more affordable alternative to traditional hotels for dog owners travelling on a budget.
• Great option for walkers, hikers, vanlifers, and outdoor adventurers looking for a simple and welcoming stay.

Note: A €15 dog charge applies per stay and more info can be found in their dog policy
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​Check availability & prices

7. Rathbaun Hotel, Lisdoonvarna
​A traditional family-run hotel in the heart of the Burren, close to the Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, and Lahinch. Rathbaun Hotel is one of the most established dog-friendly stays in Clare.

Why stay here?

• Dog-friendly rooms available.
• Excellent location for exploring the Burren.
• Close to the Cliffs of Moher and coastal walking routes.
• Family-run hospitality with a welcoming atmosphere.

Why stay here:
Perfect base for exploring the Burren, Cliffs of Moher, and nearby coastal walking routes. Great stopover for travellers touring the Wild Atlantic Way with dogs.

Note: ​Rathbaun Hotel allows 1 pet up to 60 kg for an additional fee of €20 per stay

​Check availability & prices

8. Gregan's Castle Hotel, Ballyvaughan
​Nestled in the heart of the Burren, Gregans Castle Hotel offers a luxury countryside escape with panoramic views across Galway Bay. It is one of the few luxury hotels in Ireland with a clearly published dog policy and that is because they are avid dog lovers themselves - which we love. 

Why stay here?

• Dog-friendly Superior Rooms, Junior Suites and Premier Suites some with garden access.
• Located in the Burren with walking trails directly from the property.
• Dogs are allowed in the bar with owners, once on a lead. 
• Luxury country house experience with award-winning dining​​

Note: There is a €25 charge per pet per stay. Booking in advance is strongly advised. 

​Check availability & prices

9. Kileen House Hotel, Aghadoe
​A charming country house hotel just outside Killarney, set in beautifully maintained gardens overlooking the surrounding countryside. Killeen House is a genuinely pet-welcoming hotel with a clear and structured dog policy, treating pets as VIP guests with thoughtful in-room amenities and flexible dining options.

Why stay here?

• Dogs are welcomed as “VIP (Very Important Pets)” with a blanket, bowls, toys, and treats provided on arrival.
• Set within 1.5 acres of landscaped gardens, ideal for on-site dog walking in a quiet rural setting.
• Dogs are allowed in the bar/lounge and can dine with you in designated areas (not the main restaurant).
• Close to Killarney National Park, lakes, and scenic walking routes

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Note: €30 per pet per night for the first two nights, reducing to €20 per night for each additional night.

​Check availability & prices

​10. Brook Lodge Hotel, Killarney
​A centrally located boutique hotel in the heart of Killarney, Brook Lodge Boutique Hotel offers designated dog-friendly rooms for guests travelling with pets. With a clear pet policy and in-room amenities provided, it’s a practical base for exploring Killarney National Park and the wider Ring of Kerry with your dog.

Why stay here?

• Dog-friendly rooms available, but must be booked directly by phone or email in advance.
• Pet welcome pack provided, including bowls, treats, towel, and dog essentials on arrival.
• Small garden area on-site with dogs allowed on a lead in outdoor spaces.
• Central Killarney location, ideal for walks into town or nearby National Park trails. 

Note: A ​€30 per pet per night fee applies

​Check availability & prices

11. Carbery Cottage Guest Lodge, Sheeps Head Peninsula, West Cork
A multi-award-winning, family-run guest lodge set on the rugged Sheeps Head Peninsula overlooking Dunmanus Bay. This is one of the most genuinely dog-focused stays on the Wild Atlantic Way, offering both B&B rooms and a self-catering cottage surrounded by open countryside, animals, and coastal walking routes. 

Why stay here?

• Officially confirmed dog-friendly guest lodge with pets welcome throughout the property
• Set on 5 acres with panoramic views over Dunmanus Bay and the Mizen Peninsula
• Direct access to the Sheep’s Head Way walking trails from the property
• Dedicated dog facilities including enclosed dog exercise areas and pet-friendly outdoor spaces

Note: ​A €5 per pet per night applies

​Check availability & prices

​12. ​Seaview House Hotel (Bantry, West Cork)
​Set in a peaceful countryside location overlooking Bantry Bay, Seaview House Hotel is a traditional country house hotel offering a genuinely dog-friendly stay in West Cork. With garden access rooms and a relaxed rural setting, it’s a strong base for exploring Glengarriff, the Beara Peninsula, and the wider Wild Atlantic Way.

Why stay here?

• Dogs are allowed in selected ground-floor rooms (must be requested in advance) (seaviewhousehotel.com)
• Direct access to hotel gardens and outdoor areas for walking and relaxing with your dog
• Beautiful rural location close to Bantry Bay, Glengarriff Woods, and coastal drives
• Family-run country house hotel with spa, restaurant, and traditional Irish hospitality 

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Note: ​€30 per pet per stay fee applies

​Check availability & prices

• Book dog-friendly rooms well in advance since these are usually limited. 
• Get familiar with any restrictions before your arrival, so you can plan your stay accordingly. 
• Never leave your dog unattended, apart from when you are dining. 
• Pack some doggy essentials, such as an extendable leash, collapsible doggy bowl and a dog robe for after a morning dip. 
• If you are unsure of any dog policies, call ahead to find out. It is best to have your questions answered before you arrive. 
• One of my go-to options when i take Gimli to busy public areas or leave him in a hotel room is to give him a Kong toy filled with peanut butter - it is a game changer. 
• Some hotels require a security deposit to check in advance so you are aware. 
• Check out our favourite dog friendly experiences in West Cork here. 
• I always research dog friendly cafes or pubs in the area I am going, so I can plan my visit. 
• Check out more dog-friendly options around Ireland here 

As a travel writer and full-time traveller, I’m almost embarrassed to admit this was my first visit to Cong, County Mayo. I’d heard about it countless times, well-known as the filming location for *The Quiet Man* starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara, yet I’d never experienced it in person. That was about to change.

While researching dog-friendly campsites in Cong, I found Cong Camping, Caravan & Glamping Park, which boasts a fantastic location near Cong Village, Ashford Castle, and Lough Corrib. And I was delighted when they agreed to host us. My aim this summer is to seek out the best dog-friendly experiences, stays and dining options, and I was excited to see what Cong had to offer. 

An Overview of Cong Camping, County Mayo
​Nestled between Lough Corrib and Lough Mask, and just a short walk from the village of Cong, this campsite is perfectly positioned for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way, Connemara, and Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.

​It’s a popular stop for campers, caravanners, motorhomes, and glampers alike, and it also forms part of a wider holiday group that includes a hostel-style accommodation (Lakeland House) and a B&B across the road (Michaleen's Manor) —making it suitable for a range of travel styles and budgets. 

The place had a lovely vibe—peaceful yet full of atmosphere—with families, couples, and solo travelers all enjoying their stay. The gentle sound of birdsong stood out, adding a sense of calm, especially around where we were staying. It was the perfect, serene backdrop for some morning yoga.

Location, Location, Location
When picking a place to stay, I look for somewhere close to the main area with plenty of walks for Gimli and me to enjoy. One of Cong Camping’s biggest draws is its location. Right on the Mayo–Galway border, it puts you in the middle of some of Ireland’s most photographed landscapes, with plenty to explore in every direction for days.
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From the campsite you are:

• A short walk (~1km) to Cong village and Cong Abbey
• Close to Ashford Castle & estate grounds
• A 10 minute walk from the shores of Lough Corrib 
• A short drive to Lough Mask
• Within reach of Connemara National Park, Galway City, and Westport​

​Campsite Facilities at Cong Camping Caravan & Glamping Park
Cong Camping is well-equipped compared to many other Irish campsites, making it suitable for both short stays and longer road trips. Although i had just planned to stay the one night, i could easily see why others set up camp for a few days, coming and going to explore the surrounding areas. 

Facilities include:

• Modern toilets and shower blocks (showers are included)
• Fully equipped campers’ kitchen (this was huge and very clean)
• Indoor communal lounge and dining space (again a large space to enjoy)
• Laundry facilities (washing machines & dryers)
• Electric hook-ups for tents, caravans, and motorhomes
• Waste disposal including grey water (marked with yellow) and a separate black water disposal in a small nearby cubicle (I appreciated the privacy aspect here)
• Water taps and electricity at each pitch which I loved 
• BBQ areas and picnic benches
• Free WiFi across the site
• On-site playground for families

The site is clean, organised, and designed for practical comfort, especially for travellers exploring the West of Ireland by campervan, car or even by bike.

Dog-Friendly Things to Do Near Cong Camping 
For anyone travelling Ireland with a dog, Cong Camping is a solid and convenient option.
Dogs are welcome on-site (kept on a lead), and the surrounding area is ideal for daily walks.

​We had a large pitch at the back of the campsite with ample green space, which Gimli could enjoy while tethered to his long leash. Outside of the campsite there are a number of dog-friendly things to do, which I will go dive deeper into in my dedicated Cong article, but below are some great options. 

Nearby dog-friendly highlights include:

• Ample woodland walks around Cong Woods
• Cong Abbey is a dog-friendly and beautiful historic site to stroll around
• Lakeside paths along Lough Corrib and to Ashford Estate
• Quiet rural roads near the campsite with low traffic

This makes it a great base for a dog-friendly Ireland road trip, especially if you’re exploring Mayo, Galway, and Connemara.

​So, if you’re looking for a dog-friendly campsite in Ireland that puts you right in the middle of some of the country’s most iconic scenery, Cong Camping, Caravan & Glamping Park is a strong contender.

​Not only is the campsite happy to welcome your four legged friends, but Cong as a destination has plenty to see and do, that I would suggest booking 2-3 nights here to make the most of your surroundings.

We can't wait to return!