Where alternative accommodation is part of regenerative tourism practices of the region
County Offaly sits quietly at the centre of Ireland, but for tourists and locals seeking adventurous experiences and alternative places to stay, it has a lot to offer. From bogland glamping and farm cabins to eco-designed lodges and heritage houses, Offaly’s alternative accommodation reflects a growing shift towards regenerative tourism practices of the region — tourism that restore damaged houses and landscapes, reinvest in the place, engages with local community, and makes the place better.
For Epic Stays, County Offaly represents a destination where slowing down, reconnecting with nature and supporting local communities are the key features of the experiences.
Mount Briscoe, Co. Offaly
“Nature is at the heart of everything we do at Mount Briscoe. We farm, eat and live in a way that nurtures and nourishes her. We hope to inspire you to connect with and celebrate nature, by living in season and in balance with our beautiful planet.” https://www.mountbriscoe.ie/
Mount Briscoe Country House, near Daingean, is a beautifully restored historic home that already operates as a B&B and is planning further glamping development. According to Modern Camground, the project aims to expand accommodation while “respecting the rural character of the area and enhancing the visitor experience”. https://moderncampground.com/europe/ireland/mount-briscoe-country-house-plans-new-glamping-development-in-offaly/
Boglands, Gorteen, Daingean, Co. Offaly
Located in County Offaly’s countryside near Daingean, Boglands offers a rustic glamping experience. Yurts, shared spaces and open land invite guests to disconnect from busy routines and reconnect with each other and with nature.
The name itself reflects Offaly’s deep relationship with bogland — landscapes that are now widely recognised for their ecological value and role in carbon storage.
Giltraps Townhouse & Glamping, Birr, Co. Offaly
Located in Birr, Giltraps Townhouse & Glamping blends traditional hospitality with outdoor accommodation, offering guests the choice between a comfortable indoor stay or sleeping closer to nature.
Birr itself is a heritage town, known for Birr Castle, its gardens and strong local food culture. Staying here encourages visitors to stay longer, rather than just passing through.
The Lodge and Jack Wright’s Cottage at the Hushabye Farm Alpacas, Killeigh, Co. Offaly
In Hushabye Farm which is located at the foothill of the Slieve Bloom mountains in County Offaly, there are a couple of self-catering accommodation options, these offer an opportunity for the visitors to engage with the Alpacas, see them interact with each other, feed them and take them for a walk. This is a unique animal based tourism experience where the visitors stay onsite, and experience everyday farm life. These stays help diversify farm income while giving visitors a deeper understanding of rural livelihoods.
https://www.hushabyefarmalpacas.com/accommodation-ireland
These examples of alternative accommodation in County Offaly illustrated the importance of non-traditional accommodation — glamping, cabins, self-catering and small rural stays — in building a resilient tourism economy in rural regions. The increased bed capacity went hand-in-hand with sustainability, community benefit and landscape protection.
Written by:
Dr Tony Johnston
TUS, Ireland
https://tus.ie/
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