Take their breath away — top romantic spots in Ireland
Young couple in love. Photo by: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Ireland, the country of saints and scholars, is known for its green lush countryside, ancient history and ‘craic’ (fun) at the local pub, but it’s also filled with romance from small boutique hotels in the middle of Ireland’s idyllic scenery to the spectacular great outdoors.
Anyone can buy a box of chocolates or go on a date to your favorite local restaurant but bring your loved on to any of this spots and they will be more than impressed.
Here’s some of IrishCentral.com picks of the top romantic spots in Ireland:
1. Castle Leslie, County Monaghan
One thousand acres of ancient woodland and glittering lakes, this is a fabulous spot to live like a king or queen. This is a family-run regal sanctuary where the Leslie family have lived since the 1660s where they entertain politicians, ambassadors and stars.
Spend the morning horseback riding or pampering yourself in the Victorian spa in preparation for the gala ball.
2. Kinsale, County Cork
Kinsale is indisputably one of the most picturesque little villages in Ireland. Just 15.5 miles outside Cork city, near the Old Head of Kinsale, the village sits on the mouth of the River Bandon.
Not only is the village filled with beautiful buildings, but it also has a wealth of excellent restaurants and intimate pubs. It is an ideal place to spend a relaxing couple of days with your loved one. Or if you like you’ll also find a great lively night life with traditional music sessions, dancing and theater.
3. Whitefriar Street Carmelite Church, Dublin 2
Well it doesn’t get more romantic than this! Nestled in the center of Dublin city, in the Liberties area are the real life remains of none other than Saint Valentine.
What could be better than bringing your loved one to visit the patron saint of lovers.
His remains were previously in the cemetery of Saint Hippolytus in Rome, but they were gifted to Dublin in the 19th century by Pope Gregory XVI.
This Church has long been a pilgrimage location for those seeking love, celebrating love and indeed cursing love.
4. Bunratty Castle, County Clare
What is more romantic that a real medieval fortress. At Bunratty Castle each night there is medieval banquet where you are treated like members of the medieval court along with singers and musician.
If you phone ahead, you can even get a minstrel to serenade your loved one while you offer her a ring or some other token of your love.
5. Ross Castle, Lough Sheelin, County Meath
Why do you think people tell ghost stories around the campfire? What’s better than snuggling up in a scary place. Spend a night in the haunted Ross Castle on the beautiful banks of Lough Sheelin.
According to the stories the ghost of Sabina Nugent roams the flagstones of the castle. Sabina died of a broken heart. The girl was the daughter of an ill-tempered English lord known as the Black Baron. She decided to elope with Orwin O’Reilly the son of an Irish chieftain, but sadly he drowned while crossing the lough. To this day she wanders the castle seeking for her lost lover.
6. Lakes of Killarney, County Kerry
This is the perfect lovers heaven, green landscapes, mountains and the most spectacular views.
The area consists of three main lakes – Lough Leane, Muckross Lake and the Upper Lake. The lakes are in a mountain-ringed valley which starts at the Black Valley.
Ladies View is an amazing stopping point to view the area. It’s located on the N71 from Killarney to Kenmare.
There are some amazing natural, historic and religious interest in the area surrounding, Killarney National Park. On the shores lie Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey and Muckross House.
7. Cliff of Moher, County Clare
The Cliffs of Moher may soon be one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. These 394 foot cliffs over the Atlantic Ocean have amazing views and are a sight to behold. On a clear day you can see all the way to Galway Bay.
There is nowhere quite as magical and what better place to pop the magic question to your special someone.
8. Waterford Castle, County Waterford
What could be more special that living staying in your own castle on a secluded island. If you’ve a big anniversary, a honeymoon planned or even if you are just a hopeless romantic this is the idea spot for you.
The 15th-century castle sits on an island in the River Suir and can only be reached by private ferry. The hotel is a superb four star facility with an 18-hole golf course.
9. Inistioge, County Kilkenny
Nestled amongst the green countryside and beautiful woodlands, this is a perfect romantic haven and the ideal place to declare your love.
The village is located 16 miles southeast of Kilkenny and it has been the scene of many films, notably “Circle of Friends” and “Widow’s Peak.» The Woodstock Estate is also located one mile outside the village.
10. Adare Manor, County Limerick
A luxurious spa, world-class dinning, fishing, shopping, sightseeing and other special and pampering activities. You’ll earn some major brownie points with a trip to this amazing 19th-century manor house on the banks of the River Maigue.
The house is set on 840 acres and operates as a five-star hotel including Adare golf club, Elemis Treatment Rooms and townhouses and villas.
from IrishCentral