Airbnb has announced the winners of its annual Irish Host Spotlight Awards.
The awards are a celebration to shine a light on Hosts who deserve recognition for the incredible impact their work has on guests’ experiences in rural communities across Ireland.
The latest award categories included: “Best Room Host”, “Most Unique Stay”, “Best Design Stay”, “Best New Host”, and “Community Champion”.
Receiving the award for “Most Unique Stay” was Breege from Roveagh, County Galway, for her Luxury Truck Lodge, with its own private pool. Breege’s endeavors to host began by following in her father’s footsteps, as he rented out a lakeside property in her early years. The Truck Lodge started off as a rally truck used for races, until herself and her husband converted it into a luxurious space. Breege aims to make the Truck Lodge memorable for its guests, by adding little touches such as robes and slippers, and treats for special occasions.
“Best Room Host” was granted to Aisling from Spanish Point, County Clare, for her listing of a 2-bed, luxury historic home, located within close proximity to many incredible tourist sites that Clare has to offer. Aisling opened up her home in 2024, as she felt that the fascinating history of the property was too beautiful not to share. With a passion for organising dinners and parties, Airbnb was the perfect opportunity for Aisling to share her love of hosting.
“Best Design Stay” was given to Peter and Anna from Fintown, County Donegal, for The Hide – their cosy cabin Airbnb, with stunning views of the Glenveagh National Park. Just fifteen minutes drive from The Wild Atlantic Way, The Hide is ideal for a peaceful retreat, or as a great base for exploring everything that Donegal has to offer. Peter and Anna began listing on Airbnb in 2016, and have resided in a traditional byre and stone cottage for the last eighteen years.
Awarded “Best New Host” was Sandy from County Cork for her Dripsey Castle Estate, featuring 8 en-suite bedrooms, a reception hall, drawing room, games room, library, professional kitchen and early 20th century ballroom – all situated across 110 acres of organic pasture and native woodland. Sandy was inspired to open the doors of the estate, as she believes in sharing the unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty of the property. The estate operates on renewable energy, using a hydroelectric turbine and wood furnace to ensure that the natural surroundings remain protected for generations to come.
The “Community Champion” award was received by Aidan of Ballyharren, County Wexford for his Kilpatrick Glebe family and pet-friendly farm stay. The property is set across 15 acres, and houses modern amenities such as an electric vehicle charger, a barbeque, and shared beach access. Kilpatrick Glebe was built in 1842 as a pastoral home, and since 2020 has been extensively updated. Aidan’s listing contributes to the sustainability of local businesses and tourism, offering trips and puffin packages, seashore exploration, and itineraries of local attractions for guests.
Speaking about the awards, Velma Corcoran, Director of Government Relations and Policy Campaigns, Airbnb said: “We are delighted to celebrate Airbnb hosts across Ireland for their outstanding hospitality and commitment to the hosting community. The time, care and dedication invested in every listing is evident, helping to create memorable and truly authentic experiences for guests. These hosts personify the crucial role that short term rentals play in boosting tourism in rural Ireland.”
Winner of the “Most Unique Stay”, Breege said:“I’m absolutely thrilled to receive the award for Most Unique Stay. The Truck Lodge has truly been a labour of love for both myself and my daughter Ruth, so it means the world to us to see it recognised in this way.
“Hospitality has always been part of my life. I grew up watching my grandmother run her very own fishing lodge many years ago. She taught me that the small details and warm welcomes are what people remember most. We have always wanted to create a luxury retreat for our guests, especially in the unique setting of a truck! From all the little touches to celebrating big occasions, we want to make every stay feel memorable for our guests.”
Hosts and short-term letting platforms such as Airbnb remain crucial to the rural tourism sector in Ireland, with the Host Spotlight Awards allowing those who operate and promote tourism in these areas the chance to showcase their dedication to their communities. According to a study by Digital Tourism Think Tank and Airbnb, nights spent in rural accommodation surged 88% between 2019 and 2024, demonstrating sustained visitor demand to explore areas off the beaten track.
