Franklin Dean
Ireland is a beautiful country that offers a variety of romantic destinations for honeymooners. From stunning coastlines, dramatic cliffs, and lush greenery to charming villages and vibrant cities, there's something for every couple looking for a memorable honeymoon experience. The country's compact size makes it possible to explore multiple regions in a single trip, offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Whether you're seeking breathtaking views, quaint towns, or lively cities, Ireland has something unique to offer. In this article, we'll explore the best places to honeymoon in Ireland, providing insights into destinations, accommodations, and activities for an unforgettable romantic getaway.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Country | Ireland |
| Currency | Euro (EUR) in the Republic of Ireland, Pound Sterling in Northern Ireland |
| Language | English, Gaelic |
| Flight time from New York City | 6-7 hours |
| Best time to visit | Summer for the best weather, Spring and Fall for fewer crowds |
| Transportation | Car, bus, train, bicycle, by foot |
| Accommodation | Luxurious castles, cosy bed and breakfasts, modern hotels, quaint cottages |
| Regions | Wild Atlantic Way, the Hidden Heartlands, Dublin, the Ancient East |
| Cities | Dublin, Belfast, Galway, Cork, Waterford, Kerry, Clare, Kilkenny |
| Attractions | Scenic drives, small towns, castles, ruins, vistas, natural beauty, Celtic culture, food and beverage scene, music, Guinness |
| Activities | Sheep herding, pub visits, craft beer tours, walking tours, golf |
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What You'll Learn
Luxury castle stays
Ireland is an ideal destination for honeymoon couples, with its rich culture, history, and romantic sites. The country is dotted with fairy-tale castles, each with its own unique offering for visitors. Here are some options for luxury castle stays in Ireland:
Dromoland Castle
Dromoland Castle, one of Ireland's finest castle hotels, promises gourmet dining, award-winning spa treatments, afternoon tea, and five-star standards. The castle is known for its luxurious offerings and is sure to provide an unforgettable honeymoon experience.
Lough Eske Castle
Lough Eske Castle, another luxurious option, offers a similar range of amenities as Dromoland Castle, including gourmet dining and five-star standards. It is renowned for its historic charm and natural beauty.
Ashford Castle
Ashford Castle, formerly the home of the Guinness family, blends historic features with modern luxuries. The castle has 83 rooms, suites, and the Hideaway Cottage, all extensively refurbished to offer a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary comforts.
Ballygally Castle Hotel
Ballygally Castle Hotel, dating back to 1625, is the only 17th-century building still used as a residence in Northern Ireland. It overlooks the sandy beaches of Ballygally Bay, providing a romantic seaside escape.
Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa
Kilronan Castle, built in the 18th century, is located in County Roscommon. It boasts luxurious features such as four-poster beds, antique furniture, and exquisite cuisine prepared by executive head chef Daniel Willimont, known for his Michelin-starred restaurants.
Castle Leslie Estate
Castle Leslie, situated on 1,000 acres of Irish countryside, is one of the last Irish castle hotels still owned by its founding family, the Leslies. The castle offers a tranquil escape, with no TVs, radios, or minibars in the bedrooms, but it does provide WiFi and antique furnishings throughout.
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Exploring the Wild Atlantic Way
Ireland is an ideal destination for honeymoon couples, offering a full range of honeymoon packages that can be customized to individual requirements. One of the best road trips in the world, the Wild Atlantic Way is a 1500-mile route along the west coast of Ireland, offering adventurous hiking trails, scenic overlooks, foodie stops, and ancient historic sites.
Day 1
Fly into Shannon Airport and head straight to the coastal town of Kinsale, known as the "gourmet capital of Ireland." Enjoy the colourful streets, historic buildings, and delicious seafood restaurants.
Day 2
Take a leisurely drive along the Wild Atlantic Way to County Clare, stopping at the iconic 15th-century Bunratty Castle, the most complete and authentic castle in Ireland. Continue to the Falls Hotel & Spa in Ennistymon for a luxurious and sustainable stay in the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Day 3
Explore the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, which tower over the Atlantic Ocean and offer stunning views. Continue to Galway, the gateway to the west of Ireland, and check into the 4-star Park House Hotel, known for its excellent accommodation, customer service, and food.
Day 4
Discover the beauty of Connemara, a wild and rugged region of mountains, lakes, streams, bogs, and unspoilt beaches. Enjoy a relaxing day exploring the nature and panoramic views of this unique landscape.
Day 5
Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Galway, including a visit to the Galway City Museum and a stroll through the Latin Quarter. In the evening, experience the vibrant pub and music scene, with traditional Irish music and a pint of Guinness.
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Dublin's pub scene
Dublin is famous for its pubs, and its longstanding pub culture includes haunts of poets and playwrights, sports pubs, and traditional Irish music venues with folk dancers and fiddle bands. The Temple Bar district is the beating heart of Dublin's nightlife, and the Temple Bar Pub is one of the most iconic drinking holes in the city, if not the whole country. With its red-painted signage and gold lettering, it's a must-visit, offering a cozy interior, a range of whiskeys, Galway oysters, and regular live music.
For a quirky spot, head to the north side of the city and The Gravediggers, named after the workers of the next-door Glasnevin Cemetery who used to pop in for a post-graveyard pint. This old-school pub promises to take you off the beaten path, with a surprising mix of European tapas and Irish fusion food. If you're looking for a traditional pub, you couldn't get more Irish than Smithfield's The Cobblestone, with its old-school pub layout, Guinness, and traditional live music. On any given night, you might hear bluegrass, folk, or country music, and you'll inevitably end up dancing the céilí.
For a step back in time to the Victorian era, try The Long Hall, which sits in the shadow of Dublin Castle. Or there's Toners, which has been going since 1734 and is one of Dublin's most venerable pubs, with its shabby-chic charm and huge outdoor space that gets lively during rugby games. If you're looking for something more upmarket, there are sophisticated cocktail bars popping up across the city, such as Tengu, which has one of the best sound systems in the capital and plays a mix of R'n'B, disco, and techno.
For a night of grooving to cheesy '90s bangers, head to Coppers, Ireland's most famous club, which attracts a diverse crowd. Or, for a more low-key evening, there's the LGBTQ+ bar with luxuriant armchairs, board games, and furry four-legged locals. By night, the vibe shifts, and you might catch drag queen Pixie Woo hitting the decks and playing classic gay anthems.
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Cliffside dwellings
Ireland is a great destination for honeymoon couples, offering a full range of honeymoon packages that can be customised to individual requirements. The country's stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural history make it an ideal place to relax and explore.
One of the most popular attractions in Ireland is its dramatic coastline, featuring towering cliffs that offer breathtaking views and a chance to step back in time at ancient Celtic hill forts. Here are some notable cliffside dwellings and experiences for couples seeking a romantic and adventurous honeymoon:
Cliff House Hotel, Waterford
The Cliff House Hotel in Waterford is a magnificent choice for couples seeking luxury and dramatic coastal scenery. This 5-star, privately-owned boutique hotel clings to a cliff on the south side of Ardmore Bay, a traditional fishing village. The hotel boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, an intimate destination spa, and sweeping views of the Irish Sea. Its design blends modern Irish aesthetics with old-world charm, featuring white walls, cupa stone columns, and sedum moss-covered roofs.
Kerry Cliffs, County Kerry
For couples who enjoy hiking and breathtaking views, the Kerry Cliffs in County Kerry offer a demanding walk with incredible rewards. Ascend to the top of these cliffs, and you'll be treated to stunning vistas of the Skellig Islands and Puffin Island. Proper footwear is recommended for this challenging yet rewarding experience.
Cliffs of Moher, County Clare
The spectacular Cliffs of Moher in County Clare are a must-see for any couple exploring Ireland's cliffside dwellings. These cliffs are part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark and offer a thrilling natural experience. The cliffs are also a designated special protection area for birds and wildlife, making them an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts.
Slea Head, Dingle Peninsula
When planning your itinerary, consider adding a drive around Slea Head on the Dingle Peninsula. This route offers breathtaking coastal views and is a great way to explore Ireland's rugged beauty at your own pace.
Aran Islands, Inis Mór
For a unique cultural experience, step back in time by visiting the Aran Islands, specifically Inis Mór (Inishmore). Here, you can explore a cliffside Celtic hill fort and immerse yourself in Ireland's ancient past.
Ireland's cliffside dwellings offer a combination of luxury accommodations, natural wonders, and cultural experiences. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a connection to the past, these destinations will create unforgettable memories for your honeymoon.
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The best of the Ancient East
Ireland is an ideal destination for honeymoon couples, offering a wide range of experiences, from luxury romantic retreats in majestic castles to quaint cottages, adventure tours, all-inclusive packages, and active honeymoons. The country is also known for its hospitality and magnificent scenery.
One of the can't-miss sections of Ireland is the Wild Atlantic Way, with its breathtaking, picturesque views of the island's western seaboard. Small towns and fishing villages dot the coastline, offering honeymooners a chance to relax and spend quality time together.
For those interested in exploring the Ancient East, here are some highlights:
Waterford
Waterford is a gem in the Ancient East, offering a range of experiences. The Waterford Greenway is a spectacular 46-km off-road cycling and walking trail along an old railway line between Waterford and Dungarvan. It provides a unique perspective on the region's natural beauty. The Powerscourt Hotel, a five-star Palladian-style accommodation, is another highlight. Its restaurant, Sika, combines Irish classics with modern methods, and its summer terrace offers dining with a view of Sugar Loaf Mountain.
Kilkenny
Kilkenny Castle, founded after the Norman conquest of Ireland, has been adapted over 800 years and is now largely a Victorian remodelling of a 13th-century defensive castle. It is open to visitors all year round and is a must-see for its magnificent architecture and friendly staff.
Bantry
Bantry House and Garden is a stately home in southwest Ireland, offering panoramic views of Bantry Bay and the Caha Mountains. The estate has been in the same family since the 1700s and features original furniture and objects d'art. The garden is laid out over seven terraces, with a fountain, large wisteria circle, and 100 steps leading up to the woodland.
Blarney
Blarney Castle, located near Cork City, is famous for its stone, which bestows eloquence upon all who kiss it. To reach the stone, one must lean backward from the parapet walk, grasping an iron railing.
Other Highlights
The Ancient East offers a wealth of other experiences, including the Sheep's Head Peninsula, King of the Vikings, Rock of Cashel, Russborough House, Cahir Castle, St. Canice's Cathedral & Round Tower, and the Cliffs of Moher, which offer awe-inspiring views of the West Coast.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many romantic places to stay in Ireland for your honeymoon, from luxurious castles to cosy bed and breakfasts or modern hotels in the city. Here are some highly-rated options:
- Adare Manor
- Ballinalacken Castle Country House
- The River Lee hotel
- Dingle Skellig hotel
- Rosapenna
- The Merrion Hotel in Dublin
- Cliff House Hotel in Waterford
- The Park Hotel in Kenmare
Ireland has a lot of natural beauty, charming villages, storybook castles and dynamic cities like Dublin and Galway. Here are some romantic things to do:
- Take a leisurely cruise on the River Shannon
- Explore the Wild Atlantic Way, which offers breathtaking, picturesque views of small towns and fishing villages along the coastline
- Visit the Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, Kinsale, Kilkenny and Connemara
- Take a scenic drive along the Dingle Peninsula
- Enjoy traditional Irish music, Guinness and amazing local food in a pub
Many hotels in Ireland offer special honeymoon packages with romantic extras. Here are some activities offered by hotels:
- Private tours of grounds
- Full Irish breakfast
- Library whiskey tastings
- Afternoon tea
- Falconry classes
The best time to visit Ireland for your honeymoon depends on what you are looking for. Summer has the best weather but it is also the high season for tourists, so you may prefer spring or fall for a less crowded experience.
