Ireland - the most Romantic Country in the World!
February is without a doubt the month of love. Valentine's Day is upon us and some of you might be dreaming of being dragged away to a romantic spot somewhere. You might think of Paris now or a deserted sandy beach somewhere in the Carrribean - but hold on, what about Ireland? The Emerald Isle boasts some hidden romantic gems too!
Where to go - Romantic Places in Ireland
You wouldn't believe it but Ireland is actually a pretty romantic country. We have a beautiful landscape which is spreckled with picturesque villages, majestic castles and luxurious manor houses. And we can tell you quite some romantic stories which happened here on the Emerald Isle. Romance can be found and felt everywhere in Ireland and here are some of our top romantic must-visit places:
Dublin City - Whitefriar Church: The relics of St. Valentine are kept in this church and what is more romantic than visiting the Saint of Love himself? Enough said! A long stroll through St. Stephen's Green Park will quicken your appetite, so I would suggest you visit one of the many Dublin City Restaurants for a quiet dinner date , before you go back to your luxurious hotel room right in the heart of the capital. Does sound good, right? If you need a hotel in Dublin City, make sure to check out this website.
Blarney Castle - This one is pretty obvious, you can KISS the famous Blarney Stone which won't give you eternal love, but the gift of eloquence (not too bad either). Make sure to also explore the ancient Rock Close, walk down theWishing Steps, find the Witch’s Kitchen and stroll through the beautiful Blarney Castle Parkland & Gardens. Oh, and talking about kissing… there is something truly magical about this castle and its gardens and I’m sure that the stone isn’t the only one to be kissed that day!!! Blarney Castle is definitely one of the most romantic places in Ireland! Click here for accommodation in Blarney.
Cliffs of Moher - It's all about the scenery when it comes to this famous Irish miracle of nature. The views from the Cliffs of Moher are magical, especially on a sunny and bright day. What is more romantic than standing on the edge of the Cliffs, your hair tousled by the wind, enjoying the breathtaking views, arm in arm with your big love? Nice place for a proposal, too - just sayin'!
Inistioge, County Kilkenny - This picturesque little South County Kilkenny village stole my heart. I still remember how amazed I was when I drove through Inistiogue for the first time a couple of years ago - the sun was shining, the grass of the village green and the newly grown leaves of the trees where shining in that typically Irish bright green which complimented the deep blue of the Nore river which flows through the village. In short, a magical place, nearly too romantic & perfect to be true.
Where to Stay - Romantic Hotels in Ireland
So you might not feel like travelling all over Ireland to see the most romantic spots of the island - so what about a relaxed, enchanting stay at a charming hotel? You can find quite a few of those on the Emerald Isle, and here are my favourites.
Renvyle House Hotel - This Connemara Hotel would be my romantic hotel of choice! It is not only the perfect location on its own peninsula on the rugged Connemara coastline, but also the atmosphere of the Renvyle House Hotel which radiates comfort, old world charm and a rustic kind of romance. Think long walks by the beach, a warming afternoon tea by the open turf fire and a romantic dinner in the hotel restaurant. Talking about the restaurant at the Renvyle House Hotel - the food here is excellent, absolutely gorgeous, I want to get married to the chef! No really, when you are there, make sure to have ALL of your meals in there. Yum!
Hayfield Manor Hotel Cork - Luxury, that's the only work I can think of when I hear someone mention the Hayfield Manor Hotel in Cork. 5 Stars and they deserve every single one of them. The staff is exceptionally friendly and helpful, the rooms boast with charm and old-world affluence and the in-house Spa "The Beautique" is to die for. And if you are a dog-lover like I am, you will love to hear that Hayfield Manor is a pet-friendly hotel. They even have a "canine menu" with special gourmet doggie treats on it. Wooficlicious!
Kilronan Castle - Yes, I know, an Irish castle hotel just has to be on this list! I picked Kilronan Castle because it ticks all the boxes: it is secluded, luxurious, surrounded by lush green pastures and ancient forrests and overlooks a glistening lake. If you want to relax - there is a spa, if you feel like being pampered and a leisure centre with whirlpool for the ultimate relaxation. And even the most basic rooms are equipped with beautiful antique furniture and are oozing with old-world charm.
You see, Ireland is a charming place! No matter if you are living on the Emerald Isle right now or not, if you are looking for a romantic getaway, don't forget about Ireland!
So start planning now, you can find some great value romantic weekend breaks here.
