Romantic Ireland is alive and kicking and below are a few suggestions to prove the point. A romantic stay in one of Ireland’s castles may be what does it for you, or perhaps cruising along the Shannon, or even a jaunting car ride around Killarney’s beauty spots - literally there are 1001 romantic ways to be romantic in Ireland. Read on for our top 7 things to do in the Emerald Isle this Valentine’s Day.
A romantic stay at one of Ireland’s castles…
The sumptuous luxury and romance of staying in one of Ireland’s castles - could you really ask for more!
Dine in style, take a tour of the castle and delve into its history. Maybe there are some romantic tales to be heard about the lords and ladies resident in by-gone days.
Some castles have an in-house spa - this is the best way to relax and unwind and get some quality “you time”.
St Valentine’s Shrine, Whitefriar Street, Dublin…
Even if you aren’t the religious kind a visit to the Shrine of St Valentine is a must for all couples.
The church is especially popular on St Valentine’s Day. There’s actually a special “blessing of the rings” ceremony for couples intending to marry.
What’s so special about this church? Well it just happens to house the remains of St Valentine in a reliquary. This reliquary is placed on the altar each Valentine’s Day for veneration.
The statue of St Valentine himself was carved by Irene Boe and shows the Saint in red vestments (that of a martyr).
Yeats Country, County Sligo…
The Sligo landscape inspired much of WB Yeats poetry. You too can explore what is often referred to as “Yeats Country” and take in the stunning views. And no matter where you go in the area you’re never too far from the Benbulben slopes.
Places to see when in the area are include Lissadell House, home of Countess Markiewicz (1st woman elected to Parliament). Please check opening times for the premises as they vary during the year. However the grounds remain open all year long, perfect for a romantic stroll.
Another popular tourist attraction is Glencar Lake, not far from Drumcliffe, where Yeats is buried.
Also try to take in the 17th century fortified manor house, Parke’s Castle, and keep an eye out for Lough Gill and Dooney rock. Breathtaking countryside to say the least!
Looking for Sligo hotels.
A Banquet at Bunratty Castle…
Famous throughout the world, the Bunratty Castle Banquet is held twice nightly.
Setting the scene there is a piper in full regalia playing a welcoming tune. Then it’s across the drawbridge to be greeted by the ladies of the castle and the Earl of Thomonds butler.
Step back in time in the Upper Great Hall for refreshments and songs from medieval times by the resident Castle singers.
On to the banquet hall then for a medieval themed meal in candle light (how romantic!), followed by the Bunratty Castle entertainment section giving their rendition of songs from the medieval era along with traditional Irish music and instrumentals.
Cruise the River Shannon…
Cruising the majestic river Shannon, how romantic, just the two of you!
The River Shannon is 240 miles long so depending on where you set out from you could be taking in 11 counties on route.
The alarm bells are ringing and I can hear you say, do I need experience; sure I’ve never driven a boat before. No need to worry, as tuition will be given beforehand and you won’t be left off in the boat till the reps are sure you are confident enough. And by the way, you don’t need a licence to drive a boat either!
You will have everything you need to live on the boat, and if the weather is good it’s perfect.
Quality time together, peace and quite, away from the humdrum of today’s fast pace living - heaven!
A trip to the capital…
A sharp contrast to the peace and tranquillity of your Shannon Cruise, Dublin has so much to offer in the way of romance.
There are so many art galleries, theatres, clubs, eateries, parks, walkways and beaches not too far away either.
Sure what would we be doing at a beach in med-February I hear you say - romantic stroll is the answer!
Look across Dublin Bay, listen to the waves crashing on the seashore and enjoy the stark beauty of winter coastline views.
Instead of walking around the capital, huddle together in an open-top bus and view some of the marvellous architecture Dublin has to offer as well as some of the more contemporary sites.
And if you book into a Dublin hotel you’ll definitely be in your beloved’s good books.
Killarney, County Kerry…
Killarney with its stunning lakes and falls is sure to bring out the romance even in the most reluctant of us.
An idea would be to hire a jaunting car and be taken around to such beautiful spots as Torc Waterfall (gallons of water cascading down the side of Torc Mountain - a wonderful photo opportunity).
Then there’s the famous Killarney Lakes and the grand Muckross House and farms as well as Killarney National Park with its amazing flora and fauna. Who knows you may spot a deer or two as well!
Other areas of interest around Killarney are Ross Castle, The Gap of Dunloe, Molls Gap and Ladies View.
Again if you need somewhere to stay take a look at our Killarney hotels page.
So there you have it, our take on St Valentine’s Day in Ireland. It doesn’t matter what you decide to do as long as you are having quality time together!
For a full list of accommodation in Ireland, including hotels, guesthouses B&Bs and self catering properties, take a look at our Ireland accommodation page.
Have you any tips for a romantic break in Ireland. Feel free to drop us a line in the comment box below.
