Thomas Lyons 
As the pandemic continues to impact the hospitality industry, Ireland’s hotels, guesthouses, and campsites have been forced to adapt to the changing landscape. In 2023, travelers can expect to see a variety of new trends and offerings from accommodations all over the island. Our Fab 50 list highlights the best places to stay and provides insight into the changing landscape of the hospitality industry.
One trend that has emerged is a focus on home comforts. Guests are looking for accommodations that offer the same level of comfort as their own homes, but with added luxuries. River Run House & Cottages in Co Tipperary is a prime example of this trend. Owner Caragh Walsh took inspiration from AirBnB trends and upgraded the property with Chromecasts, a Quooker boiling water tap, and an impressive selection of teas. This trend shows that hotels are following in the footsteps of homes, rather than the other way around.
Family rooms are also undergoing a transformation. With competition from cabins and lodges, hotels are being forced to rethink their family room offerings. Bloomfield House in Mullingar has introduced new dens that can sleep up to six people. Other self-catering stays like An Cúlú are also getting creative with bunk beds. Hotels are also starting to offer rooms that sleep families of five, six, or more.
Another trend that is on the rise is the minimum stay requirement. From Center Parcs to hotels, AirBnBs, and glamping sites, two-night (or more) minimum stays are becoming increasingly common. While this may annoy some guests, it allows for more efficient staffing and housekeeping, and also helps to maximize revenue. Many accommodations also offer discounts of 10-15% if guests add a third night.
Honesty bars are also making a comeback. From the period lounge at Stauntons on the Green in Dublin to a mini bar at Mount Congreve’s Gate Lodge, these trusting touches can save costs, create positivity, and add a memorable 24/7 experience where guests pour their own drinks. However, this trend is only successful if guests do not abuse the privilege.
A new generation of townhouses is also emerging in Ireland. Properties like Stauntons on the Green, No.31, Trinity Townhouse, and The Wilder in Dublin, The Regency and Harrison Chambers of Distinction in Belfast, One Pery Square in Limerick, and Butler House in Kilkenny are bringing small-hotel style, personal service, and central locations to life in Ireland. This trend is a perfect fit for the kind of hospitality that Ireland is known for.
Maximalist mega-headboards are also becoming popular. While boldly patterned wallpapers are still in style, some properties are opting for huge headboards with maximalist prints instead. Brushed brass is another hot interior trend this year.
Futuristic farm stays are also on the rise. Family-run farms are diversifying to provide unique, sustainable, and cool small stays that blend in with the landscape. Properties like the treehouse dome and stilt house at Fernwood Organic Farm in Co Galway, the off-grid Letteran Lodges in Co Derry, and The Hidden Haven in Co Cork are starting to pay dividends for creators and customers.
Some hotels are also forgoing televisions in their rooms. Properties like Ballymaloe House, The Hidden Haven, and Strand Cottage in West Cork are avoiding TVs in their rooms, instead opting for nature-focused experiences and reliable Wi-Fi. This allows them to save on expensive upgrades every couple of years.
A younger generation of stays is also targeting Gen Z guests and putting Instagram and TikTok marketing front and center. Properties like Letteran Lodges in Co Derry and Hyde in Galway are inviting content creators with credible audiences to stay and share imagery before directing them to book directly on their websites, saving third-party fees.
Finally, hotels are leaning into their gardens with outdoor dining areas and special packages. Properties like The Sea Rooms at Kelly’s, Killeavy Castle’s walled garden studio, The Park Dungarvan’s outdoor dining area, and Ballymaloe’s special packages with Birdwatch Ireland’s Niall Hatch are all examples of this trend. As travelers continue to prioritize outdoor experiences, this trend is likely to continue.
As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, it is exciting to see the new trends and offerings that are emerging. From home comforts to futuristic farm stays, Ireland’s accommodations are sure to offer something for everyone in 2023.
