Finding a picture-perfect hotel, B&B, or guesthouse in Wicklow, Wexford, or Waterford will not take that much effort — finding one that is not full on a holiday weekend or in the high travel season might. Because Dubliners head south whenever an opportunity arises, book your accommodations before you go, especially in places such as Glendalough, Arklow, Hook Head, Kilmore Quay, and Dungarvan.

Riversdale B&B and Cottage

Glendalough, Co. Wicklow 0404 45 858 www.glendalough.eu.com 80+ per room, 300+ weekly cottage, S/D/T/F.

If you long for heaven on Earth; the sounds of birds chirping, gentle gurgling brooks, and a picture-perfect forest out your window, then the Riversdale B&B will suit you perfectly. The well-designed B&B has six en suite rooms available, including two triples and one quadruple with satellite television. A private, self-catering cottage that sleeps three to four is also available for weekly rentals. Riversdale B&B is at the doorstep of the Wicklow Mountains National Park. Locate Riversdale B&B by following the R756 from Laragh.

Bracken B&B

Anamoe Rd., Co. Wicklow 0404 45 300 http://homepage.eircom.net/~brackenbb 35+ per person, S/D/T/F

You will have a hard time finding a nicer couple than those running the Bracken B&B, just outside Laragh, near Glendalough. Conveniently located near the center, it is only a five-minute drive or fifteen-minute ride to the Glendalough visitor center and trailhead. This quaint B&B has both en suite and shared bathroom rooms available and is family friendly. For a relaxing evening, sink into one of the leather couches beside the fireplace in the living room.

Woodbrook House (Eco-Lodging)

Killanne, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford 053 925 5114 www.woodbrookhouse.ie 75+ per person, S/D. MC/V

Just outside of Enniscorthy, the Woodbrook House is a finely decorated Georgian house set in the shadow of the Blackstairs Mountains. The historically significant house is brimming with Irish hospitality and a luxurious air that rests the soul. The house has recently made some eco-friendly conversions, including solar-heated water, pellet-burning stoves, and bio-fuel transport.

Dunbrody House

Arthurstown, Co. Wexford 051 389 600 www.dunbrodyhouse.com 135+ per person, S/D. MC/V

This house hotel, award-winning restaurant, and day spa provide luxury-seeking globetrotters with life's most enjoyable treats. Not only does the house sit on a 120-hectare (300-acre) parkland, but the meritorious service surpasses all expectations as well. Special weekend and low-season packages are available.

Gaultiere Lodge

Woodstown, Co. Waterford 051 382 549 www.gaultier-lodge.com 65+ per person, S/D. MC/V

Built originally for Lord Huntington, the Gaultiere Lodge has awe-inspiring sea views set among tranquil, sunny environs. This eighteenth-century B&B is near Dunmore East and is easily accessible from the Passage East ferry port. Golf and sea fishing are available. Additionally, this establishment is one of the rare dog-friendly lodges in Ireland.

Foxmount County House

Passage East Rd., Co. Waterford 051 874 308 www.foxmountcountryhouse.com 65+ per person, S/D.

The proprietors, Margaret and David Kent, will make sure your stay is nothing less than fabulous at the renowned Foxmount Country House. Not only is the award-winning breakfast going to last you a full day, but the pleasing purlieus of the area inspire exploration. The fastidiously kept rooms make this a truly top-notch, first-class B&B.

Other Accommodations

Here are some other accommodations you might consider. (In the listings that follow, = around 25 euros per person.)