The art of hosting: how to host a brilliant group holiday for friends or family

Posted on 30/03/202530/03/2025 by HIBlog

When you plan a group holiday, whether it’s for friends getting together to go to an event, or a family reunion spanning multiple generations, your responsibilities as host and chief planner don’t stop when you press ‘pay’ on your online booking.

You are responsible for making sure that the plans are ‘on point,’ and that everyone has a great time, understands what’s happening when, and has equal input when it comes to sharing costs, organising meals and deciding what to do.

If you book a Hidden Ireland property for your group holiday in Ireland, you will be able to choose from many different accommodation options.

So, you can make sure there is enough room for everyone, and that you are located in the most suitable place for what you want to do on your time away together.

Many places offer on-site breakfast and dining too, which helps with much of the meal planning.

Here are some more ways to be the perfect host during your trip away, while making sure you’re having plenty of fun as well.

Work out who’s spending what

Money and how to divide up paying for things can be one of the most contentious parts of a group holiday. To minimise stress in this area, get together before the trip and work out who is going to pay for what. You could divide everything absolutely equally, or work out the finer details of who is doing, eating or buying what – and pay for what each individual, couple or family use. It’s up to you, but having some kind of plan in place in advance is the secret to avoiding arguments over money while you are on your trip away.

Plan your itinerary

While you may be getting together to specifically attend a concert, go to as sports fixture or travel as a group to a wedding or party, there may be other places people int eh group would like to visit, or activities people are keen to try while you are staying in Ireland. Again, prior planning helps with this, as you can work out what time you have and the best days/times to do different things. Good hosts put other people’s preferences and needs first, not just their own, so always ensure you have asked for everyone’s input and ideas before pressing ahead with any major itinerary planning.

Meals, snacks and eating out

Whether you are staying an accommodation that provides meals, or have opted for a self-catering property, meal planning is a large part of any group holiday. Establish whether people want to eat all together, do their own thing or work out a mixture of the two. If you are eating together, check for allergies and dislikes, so that everyone can eat something that suits them. Have plenty of snacks available, as people will like to be able to dip in and out, and running out could be inconvenient, especially if your accommodation is rural. Again, sorting out a kitty or means of paying fairly between you all for meals is important to do early on, if not before the trip begins.

Mix it up and be flexible

A god host is able to adapt and change direction with the planning if the group changes their mind about doing something, or an issue crops up, making new plans necessary. Try to keep cheerful and calm if changes must be made last-minute and look out for alternatives to keep everyone happy and the holiday on track.

Take a look online for local attractions, or ask your accommodation hosts for ideas and advice. You and your guests might enjoy trying something brand new to you all – keep an open mind and see what there is out there for you to have a go at.

You might have found your next reason to return to Ireland for another group holiday and have another go at it!

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Recipes from the past inspired by Hidden Ireland locations

Posted on 18/02/202518/02/2025 by hiddenireland-admin

Ireland is famous for a wide range of delicious dishes that hark back to its rich and vibrant past.

According to a survey run by meal kit provider, Hello Fresh last year (Source: https://www.irishcentral.com/culture/food-drink/irelands-favorite-traditional-dishes), people from different counties across the island of Ireland have very clear preferences for Irish meals and foods according to their location.

Here are some of those findings from the survey, along with tips for making a delicious version at home to inspire your next trip to a Hidden Ireland property.

There are several more detailed recipes online if you want to try your hand at any of them.

Coddle (Counties Laois, Kildare, Louth and Offaly)

Coddle is an Irish stew that warms the very cockles of the heart – perfect for these cold winter months. There are, of course, variants to the recipe, but staple ingredients include sausages, bacon, potatoes and onions. It’s the ideal dish for St Patrick’s Day, not that far away now on 17 March. The dish is slow cooked in stout for added Irish flavor in the oven or on the stove. As well as the main ingredients, you can add extras, such as garlic, thyme, parsley, cayenne pepper and broth. Leave to cook on a low heat for two to three hours. When done, serve with a hearty slice of soda bread.

Colcannon (County Kerry)

This is another popular St Patrick’s Day recipe based on creamy mashed potatoes and cabbage, kale or leeks. It makes the perfect side dish to a bowl of colcannon or Irish stew on a cold winter’s day. Also known as boxty, it contains plenty of cream and milk and is formed into a round shape with a well in the middle for melted butter. You can also make variations by adding bacon, chives and other leafy greens. Boil potatoes and then mash them with onions and greens cooked in butter. Add milk and cream to taste and serve with the melted butter.

Irish breakfast (Counties Cork, Galway and Dublin)

Similar to an English fry-up, an Irish breakfast is a great way to set yourself up before a day of sightseeing in the Emerald Isle. It consists of a large plate of fried eggs, bacon, mushrooms, tomatoes, baked beans and lashings of soda bread and butter – or potato farls if you prefer. Adding white pudding makes it a truly authentic Irish breakfast and differentiates it from its English counterpart. The drink of choice is milky tea with lots of sugar, making this delicious breakfast a really fine example of Irish comfort food.

Potato Farls (County Cork)

Another Irish side dish, the name potato farls comes for the Gaelic word fardel, meaning ‘four parts.’ The potatoes are boiled, mashed and mixed with flour, melted butter and salt. They are flattened into a round dough, cut into quarters and cooked on a griddle until browned and crispy on the outside. Perfect to go with an Irish breakfast for the ultimate comfort food. Or they can be buttered and served like bread with sweet and savoury toppings ranging from honey or jam to smoked salmon and cream cheese. Yum!

Soda bread (Counties Clare, Sligo, Donegal and Wicklow)

This is a popular bread that is quick and easy to make and goes with anything. It is dense and soft with a crispy crust, made without yeast for an unleavened finish. Recipes are available online, however the basics involve whisking together buttermilk and egg in one bowl and flour, baking soda, sugar and salt in a second. Cut cold butter into the bowl of dry ingredients and then combine with the other bowl. Knead the dough and score with a knife to allow the centre to bake evenly. Bake until golden brown.

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Eight compelling reasons to stay at a Hidden Ireland property this year – as revealed by our guests

Posted on 05/02/202505/02/2025 by hiddenireland-admin

There are so many reasons why planning a trip to Ireland could be the best move you make this year. From glorious countryside to the warm welcome you’ll receive from locals; delicious food and drink to the fascinating heritage and history, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the Emerald Isle. We could write for ages about each reason; however, we thought it would be much nicer to let our guests speak for us.

We are fortunate indeed at Hidden Ireland to be able to welcome people to our historic houses, cottages, bed and breakfasts and guesthouses. People come to Ireland for different reasons, including family breaks, weddings, business trips, sporting weekends, cultural events and group holidays with friends. Many leave us brilliant testimonials saying exactly what they enjoyed about their time in Ireland. Here are eight fantastic guest reviews that we have received in recent years.

“What a treat to stay in this handsome home (The Castle, Castletownshend). I can’t imagine what work it is to maintain this old house and extensive gardens, but the owners do a great job of it, and we are delighted they were willing to welcome us. The breakfast was delicious and the staff friendly. I would be happy to stay here again.”

“I recently booked a whole weekend house takeover at Temple House, with dinners on both nights and was delighted with the entire weekend. The food and wine list was fabulous. We were just over 20 mins from Strandhill beach where we went for a lovely breezy stroll to blow away the cobwebs.”

“The welcome (at Roundwood House) was wonderful and the room was beautiful. We had local craft beer and stunning food. Total dedication to local quality produce and a friendly but not intrusive approach. This place exemplifies why Irish business, which had a tough pandemic, will bounce back. They deserve to do so well.”

“The Quay House has an amazing collection of beautiful pictures, animal artefacts and quirky antiques. We were given tea and delicious home-cooked brack in one of the several cosy sitting rooms. The home-cooked breakfasts are very generous in portion and set you up for the whole day. All served in a very inviting conservatory enabling you to look out across the bay at the sailing boats and seagulls. In short nothing is too much effort. Thank you for a very magical stay.”

“We stayed at Lorum Old Rectory for three nights. We are a family of five (two adults and three children) together with two grandparents. Nothing was too much trouble. Comfortable rooms, fluffy towels, sumptuous beds and amazing food – this really is a special place.”

“Fantastic hospitality for a lovely two-night stay. Stayed at Kilmokea as a base for exploring the sunny south east. Lily bedroom was very comfortable and breakfast was very tasty. We dined there both nights and food was great. Being able to stroll around and explore the gardens every day was a bonus.”

“We stayed in Ashley Park House last week for a wedding. I am dreaming of going back! The grounds and views are gorgeous. The food was gorgeous from the canapes to the breakfast. Staff went above and beyond to make sure we had a great day. The marquee/pavilion is so cosy and the views from it were amazing!”

“We had a wonderful stay here (Collon House). A beautifully restored house, full of interesting and fascinating artefacts and paintings. Very comfortable bedrooms and surroundings, giving the impression of staying in a private country house. We had a truly excellent dinner, delicious food served in a very attractive dining room; the table laid out with lovely silver and ornaments.”

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Winter warmers: Ireland’s finest drinks to keep out the cold this November and December

Posted on 18/11/202404/12/2024 by HIBlog

Now that the nights are drawing in and the weather is turning decidedly chilly, it is the perfect time to enjoy something that Ireland has long been famous for – its array of alcoholic drinks that are designed to warm the soul and keep the cold at bay.

From whiskey to brandy; ale to stout, there is something for everyone’s taste in the Emerald Isle.

Not to mention plenty of places to delve into the history and culture of some of Ireland’s most popular tipples, aperitifs and chasers.

Here are four of Ireland’s favourite drinks and ways to enjoy them over the coming weeks, in the run up to the festive season……

Whiskey

Irish whiskey was one of Europe’s earliest distilled drinks, once crafted by monks in the 11th Century.

The drink cannot officially be called Irish whiskey until it has spent a minimum of three years maturing on the island of Ireland. Unlike Scottish whisky (note the spelling difference), the Irish beverage is made from a mix of malted and unmalted barley that gives it a smoother, more neutral taste (Scottish whisky only contains malted barley).

There are four main types of Irish whiskey – single malt, single grain, blended and single pot still. Whiskey distilleries are situated all over Ireland and can offer a great day out for fans of the beverage, who can be treated to free tastings, given the chance to tour the distillery and invited to buy bottles of whiskey made on the premises.

Irish coffee

This warming mix of Irish whiskey and coffee was first served to a group of weary American travellers delayed by bad weather at Shannon airport in the 1940s by a chef from Northern Ireland.

They appreciated the dual effects of this powerful pick-me-up.

The drink quickly made it across the Atlantic, where it remains popular to this day.

The iconic hot whiskey cocktail is also served in bars and restaurants across Ireland and offers a wonderful way to end a delicious meal.

Irish Coffee can be served with brown sugar, cinnamon and whipped cream on top for added decadence.

National Irish Coffee Day happens annually on 25 January.

Guinness

From its iconic TV advertisements to its familiar rich, dark colour and creamy head, Guinness stout is for many people, the essence of Ireland poured into a pint glass.

The Guiness harp trademark was registered in 1876 and was inspired by Ireland’s national symbol – the only difference is that the Guinness harp has its soundboard on the left, while the Republic of Ireland’s harp sports it on the right. Guiness (or stout) is the base for many cocktails, including Black Velvet (made from stout and Champagne, or sparkling white wine) and Guinness Martini (Guinness, dark rum, cold espresso coffee, crème de cacao, vodka and ice).

Mulled Irish cider

If you are looking for something different for your festive drink of choice this Christmas, why not sample some warm mulled Irish cider?

This is a richly flavoured drink made from warmed cider and a blend of spices, including cloves, cinnamon and allspice.

You can also add brown sugar, orange zest and apple juice to sweeten it if desired.

It tastes wonderfully of Christmas in Ireland and adds a comforting, warm glow to what is seen by many as a lighter, summery drink.

Mulled Irish cider always goes down well at parties and helps get the holiday spirit started, especially at this time of year.

If you need to contact Hidden Ireland to find out more about our country houses, cottage or properties please click HERE

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Ideas for enjoying a family break – things for children to see and do this summer

Posted on 02/07/202402/07/2024 by hiddenireland-admin

Summer is almost here and with it will come the long school holidays, stretching out gloriously in front of us.

If you are planning to spend some, or even all of it in Ireland, then read on for some ideas to help keep children of all ages entertained, active and loving summer in the Emerald Isle.

Active kids

Ireland is blessed with easily accessible, stunningly beautiful coastlines offering a plethora of activities for sporty children.

From paddle boarding, water-skiing and surfing to sailing, hiking and fossil hunting, Ireland’s beaches and coastal resorts are fantastic for keeping the whole family fit all summer long.

Other options for active kids include numerous golf clubs, tennis courts, gyms and leisure centres located across the island and open all summer long.

Historical Ireland

History buffs may well appreciate a look round the Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin, or the City Sightseeing hop on-hop off bus that shows off the many delights of the Republic of Ireland’s vibrant capital city.

Another historical delight is Blarney Castle and Gardens in County Cork, where, folklore has it, you can also kiss the famous Blarney Stone to receive the gift of eloquence.

Explore Ireland’s links to the tragedy of the sinking of HMS Titanic at the Titanic Experience in Cobh in County Cork.

This moving museum is based in the original White Star Line Ticket Office, close to the departure point for the final group of passengers who boarded the fateful ship in 1912.

Nature fans

Ireland’s diverse nature and expansive countryside is second to one.

Nature fans are spoilt for choice. Ancient forests and woodlands offer fascinating walking and wildlife-watching options with trees for the kids to climb and signposted family trails to keep youngsters amused along the way.

Other options include the many wildlife parks, sanctuaries and nature attractions around the country.

Examples include Dublin Zoo in Dublin, Burren Birds of Prey Centre in Clare, Connemara National Park in County Galway, The Donkey Sanctuary in Liscarroll, County Cork, Secret Valley Wildlife park in Wexford and Wild Ireland in Burnfoot, County Donegal.

Adrenaline adventurers

Children will love to let off some steam after months coped up in the classroom.

This can easily be done during a trip to Ireland. Rollercoaster fans will enjoy a trip to Emerald Park (formerly Tayto Park) in County Meath, which also has a fantastic zoo and lots of space to run around.

The Aqua Dome in Tralee, County Kerry lives up to its name with plenty of pools, wave machines and water slides to explore.

Funtasia Theme Park in Drogheda, County Louth has plenty for adults and children too, including Pirate’s Cove for small adventurers and casinos for the grown-ups.

Great for wet weather fun.

Culture vultures

Ireland is famed for its folk dancing and lively music.

You can enjoy concerts, theatre, comedy nights, outdoor film showings, opera and dance in several different locations.

Look online for full details of music festivals happening too, including the famous Longitude Festival in Dublin at the end of June, All Together Now Festival in Waterford in early August and Electric Picnic in County Laois in mid-August.

Check out Ireland’s links to famous writers and artists too, including James Joyce, Oscar Wilde and Francis Bacon.

If you need to contact Hidden Ireland to find out more about our country houses, cottage or properties please click HERE

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Book your stay at Coolclogher House

Posted on 10/05/202214/04/2023 by Aidan Gallagher

Explore the Ring of Kerry and book your stay at Coolclogher House!

This is an excellent base for exploring this ruggedly beautiful county and Coolclogher House specialises in vacation rental. It is right on the Ring of Kerry and Killarney town are within walking distance. The Gap of Dunloe and Muckross House are also within easy reach. It is the ideal special holiday destination for extended family groups, golfing groups or families wishing to get away together.

Killarney is an ideal starting point on the famous Ring of Kerry, going by way of Kenmare, Parknasilla and Waterville, and returning via Cahirciveen, Glenbeigh and Killorglin. There are also wonderful drives through Beaufort and the Gap of Dunloe, along Caragh Lake to Glencar. For the more ambitious, a day trip to the Dingle Peninsula or the wonderful Ring of Beara. There are world famous golf courses at Waterville, Tralee and Ballybunion while boat trips on the famous Lakes of Killarney, fishing and horse riding can all be arranged.

Coolclogher House is booking up quite quickly and there are only a couple of weeks left this summer. In order to not be disappointed it is advisable to contact Mary and book your stay at Coolclogher House this summer!

Click HERE to enquire about availability.

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Explore the Wild Atlantic Way

Posted on 16/03/202214/04/2023 by HIBlog

Is it time you went to explore the Wild Atlantic Way?

The Wild Atlantic Way is a world-renowned touring route up the wild and rugged west coast of Ireland. The northerly tip starts on the Inishowen peninsula in Co Donegal and it finishes in the beautiful town of Kinsale in Co Cork, some 2,500 km.

If you are limited on time you can do it in a week but 2-3 weeks would be better. It is a driving (or cycling) tour that meanders its way casually along the Atlantic coast line. The Wild Atlantic Way highlights some 188 of the very best discovery points to see! It also affords you the opportunity to steer off the well sign posted route and explore many more memorable attractions.

You need not try to do it all. Pick out a region or two and explore at a leisurely pace. Come back another time to do some more. Maps are deceiving in Ireland. It takes longer than you might expect because there is so much to see and do around every bend in the road and behind every blossom laden hedge.

Hidden Ireland & The Wild Atlantic Way

Hidden Ireland accommodation is scattered up and down the trail giving you a great choice of where to stay while you explore the Wild Atlantic Way. An historic Country House bed and breakfast might suit you for a couple of days or a whole house vacation rental in a cottage, lodge or even a manor might suit an extended stay better. It will be a memorable experience to share with friends or family.

Make sure to check out what Hidden Ireland can offer as you explore the Wild Atlantic Way! We even have a map to help you organise your trip along the west coast! Click HERE to check it out!

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Exclusive Stay at Preston House

Posted on 10/03/202214/04/2023 by HIBlog

Book an exclusive stay at Preston House and find our beautifully restored 18th Century Georgian House. Preston House has a private courtyard and wooded garden. This beautiful property is located on the Main Street of the picturesque Heritage Town of Abbeyleix.

Preston House is the perfect space to unite for family gatherings or private parties. Explore this home from home with the comforts of a fully equipped country kitchen, a drawing room, a music parlour & two dining rooms. There are six luxurious suites in Preston House. Each suite is individually decorated with a quirky mix of chic and antique furnishings. This provides ample living space to comfortably accommodate 14 people.

Preston House

The country manor kitchen was originally designed to cater for up to 80 people but it’s perfect for large or small gatherings. The individual room mixes are the perfect setting for family dining, relaxing with friends or celebrations. Preston House as a whole can be transformed into an event space, a cultural gathering or wellness space. With a beautiful courtyard for outdoor dining, Preston House is the perfect place as a unique wedding setting.

The Lords Walk is just a short walk from Preston House, every day, there is an adventure waiting in Laois. With its mountains, canals, forest trails, rivers & lakes, Laois is truly an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, Preston House and Abbeyleix is the perfect starting point to explore!

Preston House is only one of the beautiful Exclusive Rentals available through Hidden Ireland.

Click HERE to book an exclusive stay at Preston House!

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Self-Catering Ballynatray Coach House

Posted on 02/02/202214/04/2023 by HIBlog

Looking for an ideal family location for a break away? A stay at the Self-Catering Ballynatray Coach House is a must!

The Coach House

As the name suggests, it was originally the Coach House where the horse drawn carriages along with all the necessary tack for the horses. Sometimes these buildings housed some very ornate and fascinating carriages.

The two storey Coach House takes centre stage in the stable yard. The Ballynatray Coach House is now a beautiful, luxurious 4 bedroom self catering property. Downstairs there is a very relaxing style open plan kitchen & dining area with comfortable couches which allow for great conversations even while you prepare a bite of lunch or dinner.

Within the quaint stable yard and in view of Ballynatray House itself, the Coach House really is a home from home with beautifully maintained gardens & parklands. The Coach House offers self-catering accommodation most suited to families.

This is the perfect retreat for any family who wishes to step back from the hustle & bustle of modern life and just relax and soak up the atmosphere only a private estate can offer.

The Garden Flat

This flat is located in the stable yard and is suitable for those looking for a self-catering holiday. Boasting two double bedrooms on the ground floor. One of the bedrooms can be changed to be a twin room. The Garden Flat is ideal for a luxury self catering week in the beautiful Irish countryside.

The Coach House & The Garden Flat can be booked as one unit. These can accommodate a large family gathering up to 15 people. Families enjoy having more space when the Coach House and the Garden Flat are booked as one.

Click here to book a stay at the Self-Catering Ballynatray Coach House.

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Self-Catering at The Courtyard Mallow

Posted on 28/01/202214/04/2023 by HIBlog

Self-Catering at The Courtyard Mallow is a must for anyone touring the South West of Ireland. The Courtyard, located at the rear of the main Georgian house has been lovingly renovated. Each apartment in The Courtyard, Mallow is elegantly decorated with its own unique style and story. Having scoured vintage and antique shops around the country to add that extra flare and individuality to the living spaces of The Courtyard apartments. We use White & Green luxury organic cotton bed linen on all beds and Dalkey liquid handmade soap to ensure our guests can fully unwind during their stay. All bedrooms are ensuite for your comfort and privacy.

The Blackwater

Named after the powerful Blackwater river which passes through Mallow as it crosses Munster from Kerry to the sea in Youghal. The first bedroom has a 6ft super-king sized bed and the second bedroom has a 5ft king-sized bed. Its modern and stylish kitchen and living area is the perfect spot to relax after a busy day exploring the wonders of Cork and Munster.

The Mount Hillary

Named after Mount Hillary, a 400m mountain located to the west of the property. The first bedroom has a 5ft king sized bed and the second has two 4ft 6in queen/double beds. This apartment is ideal for a family, with its multiple beds and comfortable living areas.

The Gortnagross

Named after Gortnagross – the name comes from the Irish Gort na gCros, meaning the Field of Crosses. This stylish apartment has one bedroom with a 6ft super-king sized bed. This apartment is ideal for a couple looking to relax in a romantic atmosphere in the Munster area.

Click here to book a Self-Catering stay at The Courtyard, Mallow.

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