From stunning Celtic settings to awe-inspiring places fit for a fairytale, these are ten romantic breaks in Ireland to add to your bucket list.
With its impressive backdrops and postcard-worthy settings, Celtic heritage and wild soul, Ireland is a dynamic destination for couples.
Home to endless attractions, adventure activities, and charming coastal settings, there’s something in Ireland to suit all types of travellers.
Those keen to discover all that the Emerald Isle has in store, read on. These are the top ten romantic breaks in Ireland to add to your bucket list.
10. Valentia Island, Co. Kerry – the hidden gem
Ireland is surrounded by 80 islands, of which 20 are populated; this makes island hopping one of the most exciting parts of any Irish adventure.
Valentia Island is easily accessible, connected to the mainland by a bridge, and is one of Ireland’s lesser sung islands. The perfect place to leave the world behind, Valentia Island is ideal for couples.
Location: Atlantic Ocean
9. Beara Peninsula, Co. Cork/Kerry – the lesser-known gem
Located on the border of counties Cork and Kerry along the west coast of Ireland is the Beara Peninsula.
Off the beaten track, yet neighbour to the famous Ring of Kerry, the Beara Peninsula boasts stunning natural and heritage sites and is one of the top places for romantic breaks in Ireland.
Location: Munster
8. Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland – for a Northern Irish road trip
There’s nothing quite as spectacular as the feeling of freedom as you set off on a road trip.
The Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland is one of the best routes on offer, with sparkling coastlines, charming coves, and sleepy seaside towns along the route.
Location: Ulster
7. Dublin, Co. Dublin – the capital city
When considering romantic breaks in Ireland, Dublin City is certainly a top contender.
Home to the great poets and artists, ripe with history and brimming with culture and charm, there’s romance to be found on every street in the capital city.
Location: Leinster
6. Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland – the mega drive
The Wild Atlantic Way is the longest-defined coastal route in the world at 2,500 kilometres (1,553 miles).
Spanning the entirety of the west coast, the route can be travelled in either direction and offers endless sights along the way. If you’re looking for one of the most epic romantic breaks in Ireland, you’ve found it here.
Location: West Coast of Ireland
5. Connemara, Co. Galway – for outdoor pursuits
Connemara is the jewel of Galway. Home to rolling landscapes and lush foliage that is only punctuated by tranquil lakes and impressive peaks, Connemara looks like it has been plucked from the pages of a storybook.
Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and keen adventurers, Connemara promises to be a trip to remember.
Address: Connemara, Co. Galway
4. Inishowen Peninsula, Co. Donegal – the off the beaten track option
The Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal is one of the more off the beaten track destinations on our list of places for romantic breaks in Ireland.
Nestled in the northern tip of Donegal, the region is characterised by its wild spirit, stunning natural landscapes, and quiet charm, detached from the hustle and bustle of the big cities.
Address: Inishowen Peninsula, Co. Donegal
3. Aran Islands, Co. Galway – the great escape
If the thought of a great escape sounds to your liking, check out the Aran Islands off the coast of Galway.
As if a portal to the past, these three majestic islands offer a glimpse into traditional life, with emphasis placed on the Celtic culture and customs.
Address: Aran Islands, Co. Galway
2. Achill Island, Co. Mayo – the island paradise
Achill Island is another one of the top romantic breaks in Ireland to add to your bucket list.
Located off the coast of County Mayo and easily accessed by a bridge, this island is ideal for holidaymakers during the warmer months. With its pristine beaches of crystal blue waters and velvet sand, there’s much to make this an experience to remember.
Address: Achill Island, Co. Mayo
1. Wicklow Mountains National Park, Co. Wicklow – the ‘Garden of Ireland’
Colloquially, Wicklow is known as the ‘Garden of Ireland’, and with its impressive flora, towering waterfalls, perfectly preserved medieval cities, valleys, and vistas, it is plain to see why.
Topping our list of romantic breaks in Ireland has to be Wicklow Mountains National Park. With so much on offer in this stunning part of Ireland, it comes as no surprise that courting couples favour it year-round.
Province: Leinster
