Making plans for the most romantic day of the year? We’ve collected our top five perfect Valentine’s Day getaways in Ireland.
Everyone deserves a little romance in their life, especially on Valentine’s Day. Renowned as the most romantic day of the year, many of us see Valentine’s Day as a great opportunity to show our loved ones that we care about them.
Although we may never truly know where this celebration comes from, it is said to have its roots in Roman culture – others even argue that it was a fictitious event invented by Chaucer!
Since Valentine’s Day falls on a Friday this year, that gives us a full weekend to escape the real world and enjoy the company of our loved ones. We believe that there’s no better way to spend the romantic weekend in 2020 than by soaking up the gorgeous landscapes and traditions of the Emerald Isle.
Here’s our top five romantic Valentine’s Day getaways in Ireland.
5. A magical trip across the Causeway Coastal Route – for gorgeous landscape views
For the perfect romantic escape, we recommend exploring the beauty of Northern Ireland’s Antrim coastline.
Along this gorgeous line of landscape, the Giant’s Causeway may be the most famous attraction—40,000 basalt columns created in the aftermath of volcanic eruptions that occurred around 60 million years ago. It’s a must-see.
You’ll also want to check out the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, which is suspended about 30m above sea-level and was erected almost 350 years ago by salmon fishermen.
If historic ruins are your thing, then make sure to visit Dunluce Castle, which dates back to the 1500s and towers sublimely over the Atlantic.
4. Visit Whitefriar Church in Dublin – to receive a ring blessing from St. Valentine himself
For those romantics who love tradition and want their coupling to be blessed on the Emerald Isle, then we suggest paying a visit to Whitefriar Church in County Dublin.
The church contains a shrine of St. Valentine; it is said that it contains the sacred body of the Saint himself, along with a small vessel that is tinged with his blood. The church is visited year-round by couples that want to ask St. Valentine to watch over their love lives together.
On the 14th of February, rings are blessed for those who are engaged, and special sermons are held.
Address: 56 Aungier Street, Dublin 2, Ireland
3. Visit Love Lane in Dublin – a subtle gesture of affection
A recent initiative made between the Temple Bar company and Dublin City Council, Love Lane is a series of artworks that have transformed the area into a series of cute pinks and reds that cherish romance.
Love Lane connects Temple Bar to Dame Street, making it a very central location for couples who want to enjoy the cobbled paths of beautiful Dublin City Centre.
Artists were given free reign of the design, and now this outdoor gallery attracts couples from all walks of life who enjoy the notes, messages and love letters that adorn the coloured strips lining the walls.
Address: Crampton Court, Temple Bar, Dublin, 8, Ireland
2. Go jewellery shopping in gorgeous Galway city – and visit the original makers of the romantic Claddagh ring
The Claddagh ring is a traditional Irish garment that represents eternal love, loyalty and friendship to whoever may wear it. The heart shape emblemises love, while the crown is for loyalty.
Thomas Dillons in Galway city are the original makers of the ring – having been around since 1750, they are also the oldest jewellers in all of Ireland.
Although many companies produce this sought-after ring, only Thomas Dillons produce it with the famous hallmark stamp.
Address: 1 Quay St, Galway, H91 CP22, Ireland
1. Escape to Belle Isle Castle in County Fermanagh – for luxury and relaxation
Topping our list of Valentine’s Day getaways in Ireland is the beautiful Belle Isle Castle, County Fermanagh, which offers a luxurious, rustic venue with beautiful surroundings. The venue has been inhabited since the 12th century, making it rich in history and Irish tradition.
The award-winning 470-acre estate is spread over eight different pictorial islands and offers cottages, apartments and gorgeous rooms all across the acreage.
And if the top-notch service and beautiful castle weren’t enough, then couples can enjoy the nearby markets or lush panoramas painted by Lough Erne during their stay.
Address: 10 Belle Isle Demesne, Lisbellaw, Enniskillen BT94 5HG
Tempted by the romantic gestures of the Emerald Isle yet? There are so many beautiful locations that make for the perfect Valentine’s Day getaways in Ireland that we’re spoiled for choice. Check out this list of beautiful locations for more Valentine’s inspiration, or if a romantic date over drinks sound like your thing, then be sure to check our guide to bars in Belfast too.
