Planning a really romantic day in Ireland? Let’s face it: anyone can buy a box of chocolates, a bottle of champagne, some roses, a candle, for some kind of instant romance. Add a dinner for two and you’re done. That might be what you think. But is this really what she (or he) really wants? Ireland offers much better ways of saying “I love you” and maybe even asking the big question. These are some of the most romantic things to do in Ireland.
Sweep them off their feet in a castle hotel
Is there anything more romantic than being treated like a real life princess (or prince)? Plan an amazing stay at one of Ireland’s most beautiful castle hotels and splurge a day at the spa. From the secluded beauty of Ballynahinch Castle in County Galway, to the irresistible charm of Adair Manor and the pubs and thatched houses of its surrounding village – Ireland’s dream castles were made for romance.
Visit the Saint of Lovers in Dublin
Not many people know that Saint Valentine, Patron Saint of Lovers, can actually be found in Dublin. More precisely, a part of Valentine you can find a church on Whitefriar Street (Aungier Street), built in the 19th century. In 1835, Pope Gregory XVI gave the relics of St. Valentine to the Carmelite Church there, to advance Catholicism in Ireland. Valentine was martyred for helping couples secretly marry, and his penchant for romance makes for a sweet story even today. Pay tribute to his relics with your favorite person and start your own modern love story.
A Jaunting car for a special day in Killarney
Everyone knows that the horse and carriage are the most romantic way to travel. Planning this romantic day in Ireland is going to cost you, but it will be worth it! Travel to Killarney and speak to a few “jarveys,” the men who roam the city with their horse-drawn carts. If you arrange everything in advance, the carriage will pick you up in the morning, complete with a fully stocked picnic basket. Then you will have a personal guide (and a driver-coach) for a unique day in one of the most beautiful areas of the country. As long as the moody Irish weather holds up, it should be a perfect ‘old Irish experience’. Touring the National Park in an open cab, seeing deer in the fields, and stopping for champagne on the way to Ross Castle will create an unforgettable day.
Medieval romance in an Irish castle
Even if you don’t stay in a castle, you can still dine in one! Medieval banquets are available in various Irish castles, with Bunratty being the best known. You are treated like guests in a Renaissance court, complete with food and entertainment. If you plan to ask the question, call on the phone to inform the team of your intention to propose, as they can accommodate you and arrange a minstrel to seat your beloved while you offer the ring. Rest assured, you will not be challenged to a quick joust to win your favor.
Fly below the towering Cliffs of Moher
Another special event that might cost you a few euros, but provide a true panoramic view (from below) is flying over the Cliffs of Moher. The windswept Cliffs of Moher are normally only seen from above, or perhaps from a boat, but you can organize an impressive helicopter flight. The aerial experience will take you alongside the seabirds that make the cliffs their home. And why not enjoy the Aran Islands too? Let the helicopter drop you off and spend the rest of the day walking, enjoying seafood, and finally snuggling up to a cozy B&B. Contact Elite Aviation and Executive Helicopters in Galway for a possible charter.
Do like Leonardo and Kate in “Titanic”
Everyone knows the scene on the bow of the Titanic , the iconic sight of Leo showing Kate how to fly. Although the doomed ship was last built and seen in Ireland (Belfast and Cobh respectively), a recreation of that scene might not be so easy, especially with modern passenger ship safety standards. But an alternative would be to walk to the bow of the Titanic and have a Kate moment, on Titanic Belfast. Outlines of sister ships Titanic and Olympic are part of the exhibit, and people have been seen recreating THAT scene there. Carrying a CD player loaded with Celine Dion is strictly optional!
Follow the footsteps in love with Finn on the Giant’s Causeway
Whatever geologists say, the Giant’s Causeway was actually built by Finn MacCool to head to Scotland. One version of the story suggests that the giant supposedly built the 40,000 basalt columns as a kind of bridge to cross to meet his great love, a Scottish giantess. What better place to swear that you would cross the most stormy seas for your true love? Whenever the proverbial Irish weather plays out, you’ll even see the Scottish coastline on the horizon.
Plan an island getaway
Ireland may not have a tropical climate but it has islands full of unique beauty. Even if a helicopter isn’t on the cards, you can plan a romantic ferry trip for the day to one of Ireland’s most beautiful islands. Watch the sun set over the Blaskett Islands or stroll through the gardens of Garnish Island, while holding hands, of course.
Visit Dublin’s most famous lovers at St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Dublin is not generally known for its romantic partners throughout history: James Joyce’s books tend to describe faulty relationships, Molly Malone died of a fever, and Oscar Wilde found himself in jail for whoever he dared to love. But remember that Dean Jonathan Swift of “Gulliver” fame wrote some of his best prose for his beloved Stella. They are both long dead, but their love is kept alive in people’s memories by Swift’s writing. You can visit their burial places, where they lie for eternity next to each other, in St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The National Cathedral of Ireland is a worthy setting for any proclamation of undying love and makes for a romantic day in the Irish capital.
