The most charming hotels in Ireland

— -- intro: From its vibrant green pastures to its ravishing rugged coastline, Ireland is not lacking in eye-candy. Even better, this photogenic fodder is not limited to sightseeing while out and about. Whether it's a majestic castle atop a lush hill or a homey bed-and-breakfast tucked away in a picturesque alley, the Emerald Isle's hotels are a thing of beauty, too. For those who prefer quainter lodgings with picturesque interiors and attentive service, read on for our list of the most charming hotels in the European country. (And if enchanting castle hotels are more your speed, we have a slew of grand dames to choose from, too.)

quicklist: 1 title: Aberdeen Lodge, Dublintext: The Aberdeen Lodge is a charming mid-range hotel with bay windows and ivy climbing up its exterior brick walls. This small guesthouse is located near Dublin Bay and the exclusive Ballsbridge neighborhood. Rooms are quaint and classic -- some have four-poster beds -- and all have free Wi-Fi. Lovely common spaces include a drawing room with a fireplace and a manicured outdoor garden. One hotel highlight is the extensive daily breakfast, with items such as house-made preserves, bread and pastries. While located away from the center of Dublin in a leafy, residential neighborhood, the DART train is nearby for easy access to the main sights.media: 47206471

quicklist: 2 title: Beech Lodge B&B, Dublintext: When it comes to B&Bs with a homey feel and a personal touch, Beech Lodge is hard to beat. In fact, if it weren't for the hanging sign on the street out front, you'd be hard pressed to tell it was a B&B at all -- the red brick property is modern, detached and completely unassuming. Stepping inside feels like you're entering someone's home. The owners give guests a warm welcome upon arrival and make a point of helping out with any aspect of their stay. Rooms are clean, fresh and comfortable, though you'll hear some traffic noise in those at the front of the house. Breakfast is a particular highlight -- it's freshly cooked with lots to chose from. media: 47206706

quicklist: 3 title: Castlewood House, Dingletext: Castlewood House is a cozy, attractive bed-and-breakfast overlooking picturesque Dingle Bay in the county of Kerry. Owners Helen and Brian have accumulated an impressive collection of antique furnishings and artworks by local artists that are scattered throughout the guesthouse. Rooms are spacious with lovely views, though it's the exceptional breakfast that's the main draw -- reputedly one of the best in Ireland. Rates also compare pretty favorably with other lodging in the area, making this a solid option. However, amenities are few; there's no full restaurant, gym or spa.media: 47206853

quicklist: 4 title: Fernroyd House B&B, Corktext: Fernroyd House is a charming B&B housed in a historic building a 10-minute walk from the city center. Hosts Avril and Tony -- along with house dogs Chip and Mollie -- greet guests with freshly baked scones and a long list of recommendations for those looking to explore the town. Its eight rooms all feature homey decor, mini-fridges, free Wi-Fi and small tube TVs (most). A free, hearty homemade breakfast is served daily in a lovely room with a few tables, two fireplaces and large windows that let in tons of light. Guest can mingle in the charming little yard or in the guest lounge that's equipped with a flat-screen TV, a microwave and a selection of teas.media: 47207040

quicklist: 5 title: Waterloo House, Dublin text: Waterloo House is an upper-middle-range boutique hotel located in a quiet residential area that's about a 10-minute drive or 30-minute bus ride into Dublin's city center. With just 19 rooms set across two beautiful Georgian townhouses, the property has an intimate, guesthouse-like vibe and charming Victorian period decor throughout. Though some rooms are small and lack fridges and safes, they are tastefully decorated and have large, comfortable beds and high-definition TVs. The free breakfast is a highlight, plus the hotel offers free Wi-Fi and limited on-site parking. media: 47207238

quicklist: 6 title: Schoolhouse Hotel, Dublintext: The Schoolhouse is a charming, historic hotel located in the leafy Ballsbridge neighborhood. The building housed a school from 1859 through 1969, and underwent a restoration in 1997 that preserved its historic character. The result is a traditional, cozy boutique hotel unlike any other in Dublin. All rooms are named after a famous Irish writer and have classic decor including floral prints and antiques. Rooms do have modern touches as well, including flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and fluffy duvets. Bathrooms have historic charm but are a little snug. The architecture of the hotel is most striking in the on-site restaurant and bar, which share a beamed cathedral ceiling. The bar happens to be a neighborhood favorite and features a fireplace, outdoor seating and screens to show all the big sports matches. Overall, the quiet location, excellent food and history of this hotel make it one of Dublin's best affordable picks.media: 47207140

quicklist: 7 title: Ballinalacken Castle Country House, Doolintext: Set on the grounds of a 15th-century castle outside Doolin, the family-run Ballinalacken Castle Country House is an upper-middle-range B&B with lots of charm. Its 16 rooms feature lovely antiques, fine linens and large windows offering serene views, though some guests complain rooms are worn and a bit dated. An acclaimed on-site restaurant is popular among locals and guests alike, and there's also a cozy bar and freebies like Wi-Fi, parking and guided tours of the castle. Plus, a fabulous free breakfast is served every morning in a charming room with large windows offering serene views. Guests here are mostly couples looking to enjoy a few quiet days, and the atmosphere is tranquil and friendly.

See the full list on Oyster's website. media: 47206608