
Holiday rentals in County Down
Find and book unique accommodation on Airbnb
Top-rated holiday rentals in County Down
Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

River Fane Cottage Retreat - Hot Tub~Sauna~Plunge
Experience unparalleled luxury at Ireland's top private riverside haven for couples - The River Fane Cottage Retreat. Nestled on the banks of the majestic River Fane in County Monaghan, our stone-built sanctuary offers a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Immerse yourself in relaxation with our custom sauna, hot tub, and cold plunge pool, all fed by natural spring water. Let the river's energy infuse every moment of your stay, creating unforgettable memories. Your romantic escape awaits!

Cosy Couples Retreat at THE COOP with Hot Tub
T H E // C O O P After a year of bringing this beautiful 1800s building back to its former glory, we're delighted to finally offer it for holiday rental! This is a cosy cottage with a tiny house vibe nestled at the foot of the M O U R N E M O U N T A I N S and minutes from Silent Valley & the sea with private outside area and wood-fired hot tub. Situated adjacent to our Victorian farmhouse in a private location but within easy reach of the local shops and restaurants of Kilkeel & Annalong.

Croob View Black Hut
Enjoy the setting of this romantic spot on a working sheep and cattle farm in the Dromara Hills, nestled in nature. Between Castlewellan and Dromara, 15min drive to Newcastle, 25min from Belfast. A couples retreat with a new electric hot tub in the middle of a mountain, sheep as the only possible disturbance. Guests are welcome to meet and greet our animals at the gate up to the hut. Honey the Falabella horse, 5 pygmy goat and our Free range hens, who give our guests eggs in our welcome pack.

Luxury seaside lodge just feet from the sea.
A perfect waterside getaway all year round for two. On the waters edge, giving commanding views out to sea, mountains and panoramic views. Only 5 mins drive from a large market town and 20 min to Belfast city. Dog friendly. Close to leading golf courses. Stylish. Vaulted ceilings, Large floor to ceiling windows, doors open out to large terrace south facing for sunset drinks or bbq and a balcony area from master suite. Outdoor seating for chilling or dining. Wood burning stove in living area.

The Beach House Strangford
Unique and stunning self-catering cottage situated on Kilclief Beach, metres from the waves. This is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty near Strangford - enjoy water sports (especially swimming), walking, cycling, bird watching, relaxing and much more in our cosy one-bedroom home. Certified by Tourism NI, all our rooms (except the bathroom!) have spectacular sea views. Restaurants only a short drive away with mountains, golf courses, nature reserves and much more within easy reach.

Tollymore View: Newcastle
A home away from home, in the grounds of our family holiday home, the house is just 300m away from the entrance of Tollymore Forest Park. Unwind in the hot tub soaking in the dramatic view of the Mourne Mountains. Inside, relax in front of a cosy wood burning stove. Lively Newcastle town, with its many shops, cafes, bars and restaurants is less than 5 minutes drive away. Other attractions close by are Murlough Beach, Castlewellan forest Park & many walking, hiking & cycling trails.

Seaview Cottage I. with HOT TUB & SAUNA
The cosy cottage provides perfect accommodation for up to 4 people. You can enjoy the spa pool, sauna, and paddle boards whilst experiencing breath-taking views. The cottage is located a stones throw from the beach, with stunning views looking over Strangford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. Only 5 minutes walk is the village of Kircubbin, where there are pubs, restaurants and a supermarket. With the water so close, wake up to the sounds, views & smell of the sea.

Balance Treehouse - Luxury high in the tree tops
High in the tree tops as you look out over the craggy Heather covered hills, stone ditched fields and winding narrow roads. Take a deep breath, relax and reconnect with nature. A unique hand crafted resort, boasting a natural rustic look with full modern connectivity. Accessed via a private rope bridge, a hot tub, outdoor net/hammock, outdoor shower built for two and super king bed complete with glass roof for star gazing. All fully controlled by voice commands.

Sunset Meadow
Kick back and relax in this calm, stylish space. Sunset Meadow is nestled between the majestic Mourne Mountains & the scenic backdrop of Slieve Croob. Offering uninterrupted, unparalleled views of both. This luxurious rural retreat truly is the perfect spot to spend quality time with your better half. An adult only space with all mod cons including a wood fired hot tub to soak the night away in. Relax, unwind & enjoy all that Sunset Meadow has to offer.

Meadow View - Shepherds Hut with hot tub
Nestled in the picturesque rural countryside, close to the Dromara Hills. Meadow View is your perfect retreat to relax and enjoy the peaceful countryside. Escape and unwind from life's stresses in our luxurious hot tub or explore the Mourne Mountains, Newcastle and the beautiful surrounding areas. The property is situated only 15 minutes from Banbridge and the A1 (main route from Belfast to Dublin) and is close to an abundance of local amenities.

Tollymore Luxury Cabins-Mourne Mountains-hot tub
Welcome to Tollymore Luxury Cabins, your perfect escape to nature in the heart of the Mourne Mountains. Nestled in the foothills of the Mountains, overlooking Tollymore Forest Park and the Irish Sea our hand crafted log cabin offer comfort, space and scenery in every direction. Whether your seeking a quiet couples' escape or an active adventure the 'Rabbits Retreat' is designed to let you slow down, switch off and soak up the country air.

Maggie's Cottage
Check out our discount for longer stays. No Dogs or Pets. In order to provide you and us with the best experience we would love to learn more about your stay. What is the purpose of your stay and who will be joining you on your stay. 5 * Tourism NI approved. Located in the heart of the Mourne Mountains , two bedroom new build is the perfect couples getaway. Each bedroom boasts a statement king size bed.Maximum 4 guests.
Popular amenities for County Down holiday rentals
Other great holiday rentals in County Down

Mourne Coastal Guesthouse

Teach Cois Farraige / House by the Sea

Wee Hoose -private-Hottub-Romantic Break-2 adults

The Boathouse at Old Court

Beachfront Sea-View Apartment | Peaks & Tides

Whiterock Retreat

Adult only Retreat - Views of Carlingford Lough

Private Luxury Wellness Escape
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to stay in County Down?
Stays in Newcastle are often chosen for seaside ambiance and Mourne Mountains access, while Bangor and Saintfield provide a more tranquil, small-town atmosphere. Rural cottages and countryside retreats suit those seeking quiet settings surrounded by nature.
What are the best things to do in County Down with kids?
County Down has interactive experiences such as exploring the Mourne Mountains, enjoying coastal walks near Newcastle, and family-friendly attractions like castle tours or hands-on discovery centers. Many beaches and forest parks are welcoming to children of all ages.
What are some of the best things to do in County Down?
Explore Castle Ward's unique architecture, stroll the gardens at Mount Stewart, or hike the Mourne Mountains for sweeping views. The beaches around Bangor and Newcastle are also frequently suggested for relaxation and seaside fun.
How is the weather in County Down?
County Down experiences cool, damp winters around 36–46°F (2–8°C), and mild summers near 53–66°F (12–19°C), with regular rainfall year-round. Waterproof layers and a warm outer jacket are practical for outdoor adventures any time of year.
When is the best time to visit County Down?
Late spring through early autumn is often recommended for milder weather and blooming landscapes in County Down. Many local festivals and outdoor experiences are scheduled during this season, drawing both visitors and residents outside.
What are the best places to visit in County Down?
Many visitors explore Castle Ward, Mount Stewart, and the Mourne Mountains for outdoor and heritage experiences. Seaside towns like Bangor or Newcastle, as well as Tollymore Forest Park, are frequently highlighted for their unique charm.
What are some hiking trails in County Down?
The Mourne Mountains feature a variety of trails, including Slieve Donard for panoramic views. Tollymore Forest Park and Castlewellan Forest Park have walking paths through woodland, gardens, and around scenic lakes.
What are some family activities we can do in County Down?
Families often explore Tollymore Forest Park's trails, take part in local wildlife spotting, or enjoy outdoor adventures along sandy beaches. Castle visits and boat trips around Strangford Lough are also popular with visitors of all ages.
What are some of the best day trip ideas from County Down?
Explore the Ards Peninsula for its coastal villages, discover Downpatrick’s spiritual heritage, or wander through Mount Stewart’s historic gardens. Castle Ward and the scenic Mourne countryside are also frequently suggested escapes.
Are there any pet friendly accommodations available in County Down?
County Down has pet-friendly vacation rentals, especially around rural areas, coastal villages, and towns like Newcastle or Bangor. Many walking trails and beaches are enjoyable for guests traveling with dogs.
What are some local tips for visiting County Down?
Layered clothing helps with changeable weather, and waterproof shoes can be useful for exploring both towns and nature trails. Chatting with local residents often reveals hidden eateries and scenic viewpoints that may not be widely known.
What is County Down known for?
County Down is known for its striking Mourne Mountains, rich Celtic history, and scenic landscapes blending coast, woodland, and loughs. The area features important heritage sites, gardens, and vibrant local festivals throughout the year.
What are the best hidden gems to explore in County Down?
Delamont Country Park, the sculpture trails at Crawfordsburn Country Park, and the quiet gardens of Rowallane are frequently suggested as lesser-known spots. Exploring small villages reveals local bakeries and art studios for a more laid-back experience.
What are the best foods to try in County Down?
Try local seafood such as oysters, smoked salmon, or mussels, especially in coastal towns. Hearty stews, traditional breads like soda farls, and sweet treats featuring apples or rhubarb reflect County Down’s food traditions.
What should I bring for a trip to County Down?
Bring layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, walking shoes, and a hat—weather changes frequently in County Down. If you plan to explore outdoors or coastal paths, a camera and lightweight backpack also come in handy.
What is the nightlife in County Down like?
Nightlife in County Down is centered around local pubs, music venues, and seaside bars, especially in towns like Bangor and Newcastle. Live traditional music sessions and relaxed social spots give evenings a friendly, inviting atmosphere.
What are the most popular events or festivals in County Down?
County Down celebrates Saint Patrick’s Day in Downpatrick, with parades and cultural events. Summer is a lively time for music festivals and local fairs in towns like Bangor, Newcastle, and Holywood, bringing people together with performances and food vendors.
Are there family friendly vacation rentals in County Down?
County Down has a selection of family-friendly vacation rentals in seaside towns, countryside villages, and near major attractions like Newcastle or Castlewellan. Many stays feature outdoor space or larger living areas for group gatherings.
All about County Down
Situated along the eastern coast of Northern Ireland, County Down is where the peaks of the Mourne Mountains sweep down to the waters of the Irish Sea. Hundreds of kilometres of hiking and biking trails through nature reserves thread through this breathtaking landscape, with golden beaches, rolling hills, and ancient forests. Strangford Lough, an inlet protected from the rough waves of the Irish Sea, provides calm waters for kitesurfing, fishing, and swimming.
In Tollymore Forest, the filming location for a famous television series, you can follow winding paths that pass by rivers and over bridges. Crawfordsburn Country Park, on the oceanfront, has sandy beaches, waterfalls, and wooded glens. Slieve Gullion Forest, in the south of the county, looks like something out of a storybook, complete with moss-covered trees and a fairy kingdom for children to explore. The largest city in County Down is Bangor, a seaside town where you’ll find a marina and pier, several museums and galleries, and eateries offering locally caught cod, oysters, and crab.
What are the top things to do in County Down?
The Mourne Wall
Built in the early 20th century to keep free-grazing cattle and sheep away from the Silent Valley Reservoir, this 30-kilometre-long dry-stone wall weaves up and down 15 summits in the Mourne Mountains, the highest mountains in Northern Ireland. You can hike the entire length of the wall, or find shuttle buses to bring you to various peaks along the route.
Castlewellan Forest Park
Just north of the Mourne Mountains, the 460-hectare Castlewellan Forest Park is home to the National Arboretum of Northern Ireland, started in 1740 and containing many rare trees from around the world. The greater park features hiking and biking trails around the lake, a play area for children, and a stately Victorian castle. Walk through the intricate hedged paths of the Peace Maze and ring the bell when you finally arrive at its centre.
The Down County Museum
At the late-18th-century Down County Museum in Downpatrick, once the county jail, you can learn about the rich history of the county. You’ll find exhibitions and interactive displays of Neolithic axes and pottery, the 10th-century Downpatrick High Cross, farming equipment, and artifacts from everyday life throughout the centuries. And if you’re most curious about the museum’s own past, you can tour the floor of restored jail cells.
Destinations to explore
- Durham Holiday rentals
- Elgin Holiday rentals
- Sea of the Hebrides Holiday rentals
- Thames River Holiday rentals
- South West Holiday rentals
- Dublin Holiday rentals
- Yorkshire Holiday rentals
- Newbridge Holiday rentals
- Tarbert Holiday rentals
- Manchester Holiday rentals
- Cotswolds Holiday rentals
- North Wales Holiday rentals
- Beachfront rentals County Down
- Serviced apartment rentals County Down
- Rentals with a firepit County Down
- Loft rentals County Down
- Rentals with an EV charger County Down
- Cottage rentals County Down
- Townhouse rentals County Down
- Bungalow rentals County Down
- Rentals with breakfast County Down
- Hotel rooms County Down
- Pet-friendly rentals County Down
- Cabin rentals County Down
- Rentals with outdoor seating County Down
- Waterfront rentals County Down
- Tiny house rentals County Down
- Barn rentals County Down
- Flat rentals County Down
- Shepherd’s hut rentals County Down
- Guest house rentals County Down
- Smoking-friendly rentals County Down
- Rentals with a kayak County Down
- Farm stay rentals County Down
- Rentals with lake access County Down
- Fitness-friendly rentals County Down
- Private suite rentals County Down
- Rentals with a fireplace County Down
- Rentals with a hot tub County Down
- Family-friendly rentals County Down
- Rentals with beach access County Down
- Rentals with a washing machine and dryer County Down
- Bed and breakfasts County Down
- Rentals with a patio County Down
- Boutique hotels County Down
- Apartment rentals County Down
- Titanic Belfast
- Royal County Down Golf Club
- Boucher Road Playing Fields
- Ulster Museum
- Hillsborough Castle
- Botanic Gardens Park
- Titanic Belfast Museum
- Queen's University Belfast
- Belfast Castle
- Glenarm Castle
- Grand Opera House
- Carrickfergus Castle
- W5
- Sse Arena
- Exploris Aquarium
- Belfast Zoo
- Crawfordsburn Country Park
- University of Ulster
- The Mac
- ST. George's Market
- St Annes Cathedral (C of I)
- Belfast City Hall
- Ulster Hall
- Ulster Folk Museum
- Things to do County Down
- Art and culture County Down
- Things to do Northern Ireland
- Art and culture Northern Ireland
- Things to do United Kingdom
- Food and drink United Kingdom
- Sightseeing United Kingdom
- Entertainment United Kingdom
- Nature and outdoors United Kingdom
- Tours United Kingdom
- Sports activities United Kingdom
- Art and culture United Kingdom
- Wellness United Kingdom




