Spring is the perfect time of year to plan a mini break with your loved one. So often our romantic getaways are to foreign cities like Rome or Paris but Ireland has plenty to offer couples who stay at home.
Not all romance is the same though, so if you are looking for a break in Ireland that is a little bit different then we have something for you. Whether you love music or the outdoors, Ireland has unique romantic getaways to suit every couple.
Delphi Adventure Resort
ADVENTURE/OUTDOORS GETAWAY
Delphi Adventure Resort is definitely worth a visit if you and your partner like the outdoors. Learn how to surf, kayak and paddle board or hike and bike through scenic Connemara. Unwind after your physical excursions in the Wellness Retreat & Spa before enjoying a sumptuous feast from Head Chef Stefan Matz.
The Tannery Cookery School
CULINARY GETAWAY
Foodie couples love to cook together so what could be better than a getaway where you can learn some new skills from renowned chef Paul Flynn. Paul runs practical and demonstration classes with some guest tutors and you can stay with The Tannery in their Dungarvan townhouse and dine in the award winning restaurant.
Teapot Glamping
NATURE/OUTDOORS GETAWAY
Couples who enjoy camping should take a trip to Leitrim. Teapot Glamping provides a host of accommodation options from yurts to vintage caravans; they even have a treehouse! The site has a communal dining area and you will find plenty of dining options in nearby Mullaghmore and Bundoran.
Number 31
DUBLIN CITY HIDEAWAY
For a unique Dublin city break, Number 31 provides the perfect blend of history and contemporary design. Set in a Georgian townhouse, the interior has been cleverly designed to make the most of the space with a sunken lounge and terraced garden. Breakfast is cooked to order and all of Dublin’s best restaurants are right on your doorstep.
Clare Island Lighthouse
COSY ISLAND RETREAT
If you love the water, an island is a great retreat and this boutique guesthouse is a unique experience. The island has plenty of activities and amenities including a yoga retreat and a working loom. Guests are treated to an exquisite six course menu in the lighthouse and afterwards they can relax and enjoy the spectacular views of Clew Bay.
Cottages for Couples
ROMANTIC RETREAT
If you like the sound of sleeping in a treehouse then Cottages for Couples is for you. They have a range of cottages available and some come with a private hot tub for optimum romance. Based all around West Cork, romantic activities include island trips, whale watching and they have some of the best restaurants in Ireland.
Shannon Princess
RIVER CRUISE
Sailors will love this luxury barge. One of the most recent additions to Ireland’s exclusive Blue Book, the Shannon Princess provides bespoke experiences with incredible views and excellent food. Cruise along the Shannon River and loughs while enjoying the best walking trails and golf courses in the area.
Inis Meáin Suites
REMOTE ISLAND RETREAT
The restaurant here is worth a visit alone. Stunning panoramic views surround the glass covered walls and the food is exceptional with most of it grown on the island or sourced nearby. If you do decide to stay over, the suites provide an ‘escapism experience’ with elemental design and pure relaxation on the cards.
The Merchant Hotel
NORTHERN IRELAND GETAWAY
Some couples prefer the romance of cities and Belfast is thriving right now. With so much to do and see, The Merchant is a great base to make yourself at home. The listed building contains a 2 AA rosette restaurant, award winning bars and 5 AA star facilities with a full wellness centre, gym and a rooftop Jacuzzi.
Ard Nahoo
YOGA/ECO RETREAT
Romance can be found in many activities and it is said that the couple who yoga together stay together. If zen and ecology are important to you, book a retreat in eco-friendly cabins. Relax through yoga, meditation and holistic treatments and massages, then delicious vegetarian meals are delivered to your cabin from a local chef.
Monart Destination Spa
PAMPERING GETAWAY
It doesn’t get more relaxing than Monart where guests are encouraged to spend their entire trip in bath robes. The adult only spa has a large range of treatments for men too so all couples can relax and unwind together. The dining experience is of the highest quality with healthy options for those wishing to detox and more indulgent menus for couples that are treating themselves.
Grouse Lodge
MUSICAL GETAWAY
Music lovers will find a lot to interest them at Grouse Lodge. Home to state of the art recording studios, many famous musicians have spent time here including Michael Jackson, Shirley Bassey, Muse, REM and Tom Jones. The accommodation provides everything you need from organic cuisine to beautiful leisure facilities including sauna, Jacuzzi and swimming pool.
Inish Turk Beg
PRIVATE ISLAND RETREAT
For a more exclusive island getaway treat yourself to a private retreat on Inish Turk Beg. You can live in luxury with a swimming pool, jacuzzi, tennis court and gym. Boats are available if you wish to explore the island from the water and you will have your own personal chef providing you with the best of local ingredients served in exciting and modern dishes.
No. 1 Pery Square
GEORGIAN PERIOD GETAWAY
Step back in time for a Limerick city break at No. 1 Pery Square. The grand Georgian rooms and suites are the utmost in elegance and little touches and details create an old romantic atmosphere. All the city’s amenities are just outside the door, though you might find it hard to leave the building with the excellent Sash restaurant upstairs and the spa in the vaulted basement.
Martello Tower Dalkey
UNIQUE BUILDING GETAWAY
Dublin is known for its defence towers dotted along the coast, now you can enjoy a romantic getaway in one! The Martello tower is a unique setting with incredible views and total privacy located right beside the seaside village of Dalkey where you will find some great restaurants and bars.
Alison has been writing since she could hold a pen, which came in handy for her degree in English, Media and Cultural Studies. She has been working in media since graduating and is the latest features writer for TheTaste.
Writing for TheTaste allows her to combine her passion for the written word with her love of food and drink. Find her on Twitter @AliDalyo