Ireland makes the ideal choice for a holiday with your true love: beautiful, mystery-steeped, constantly surprising and delighting, and one of the most warmly welcoming places on the planet. The enchanting Emerald Isle is country singer Johnny Cash’s ’40 Shades of Green’, after all. Yes, you risk trading sunshine for far-wilder weather, but with some of the most dazzling coastline around, several millennia of poignant history and world-famous traditional music at its best when starting impromptu in a cosy traditional pub, this is a land highly charged with romance. Here are the best destinations for a honeymoon in Ireland.
## An Enchanting Irish Honeymoon: Discovering Romance Across the Emerald Isle
Ireland, a land of ancient legends, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture, presents an idyllic setting for a honeymoon that will etch itself into your hearts forever. While appearing compact on a map, the allure of Ireland lies in its richness of attractions, each mile unfolding a tapestry of captivating sights and experiences. Don’t be deceived by its size; the country encourages a slower pace, inviting you to savor every moment and engage in the cherished Irish tradition of storytelling and connection.
Even with a limited timeframe, you can curate a remarkable journey through this enchanting island. Dublin, the vibrant capital, serves as a central hub, offering easy access to the diverse landscapes of the north, east, south, and west coasts. However, if you yearn to immerse yourselves in the dramatic beauty of Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast and the rugged southwestern peninsulas of County Cork and County Kerry, allow at least a week to fully appreciate their splendor.
To help you craft the perfect Irish honeymoon, consider these inspiring itineraries:
* A Whirlwind of Wonders: Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway – 5 Days
* Urban Charms and Mountain Majesty: Dublin City & Wicklow Way Walk – 6 Days, an exploration of the capital and the captivating mountainous region of Eastern Ireland.
* Wild Atlantic Embrace: Hiking Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Coast – 9 Days, an adventure through the scenic countryside of County Kerry and County Clare.
* Coastal Delights and City Lights: Exploring Dublin & the Northern Coastline – 10 Days
## Unveiling Dublin: Shrines of Love and Scenic Strolls
Dublin, the heart of Ireland, exudes an irresistible charm, embraced by the Irish Sea on one side and the majestic Wicklow Mountains on the other. The city’s splendid historic buildings, inviting traditional pubs, verdant green spaces, and an air of effortless sophistication create a truly special ambiance for a romantic getaway. Even the city’s public transport system adds a touch of whimsy, with the DART sharing its name with the arrows of Cupid, the Roman god of love!
Begin your honeymoon journey at the revered **Whitefriar Street Carmelite Church**, where the relics of St Valentine, the patron saint of love, rest in peace. After paying homage to the saint, stroll hand-in-hand through the exquisite **St Stephen’s Green** and **Iveagh Gardens**, perhaps pausing for a refreshing drink while you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Continue your romantic exploration to **Love Lane**, a unique thoroughfare adorned with love-themed art and messages, part of a project dedicated to enhancing Dublin’s streets.
Make time to wander through the esteemed **Trinity College**, where you can marvel at the **Book of Kells**, one of the world’s oldest and most beautiful illuminated manuscripts. And if a drink sets the mood for romance, you’re in the perfect place! Dublin is home to the world-renowned Guinness brewery and Jameson’s distillery. Embark on a captivating tour of the **Guinness Storehouse Brewery** and **Jameson’s Distillery** to learn about these iconic beverages and sample their delightful flavors. At the distillery, you can even participate in an Irish whiskey tasting together!
Or, simply indulge in a drink at one (or more!) of Europe’s best and most lively pubs, such as the historic **Kehoes Heritage Pub** or **The Brazen Head**, the city’s oldest tavern. Dublin is also a haven for live traditional Irish folk music, with **The Temple Bar** widely regarded as one of the best venues to experience its captivating rhythms.
The appeal of Dublin extends far beyond the city center. Take a leisurely romantic walk along the charming **Dún Laoghaire Pier** or explore the dramatic clifftops of **Howth Head**. Discover Dublin’s hidden gems: several islands accessible by boat trips, such as the **Skerries Islands**, providing a tranquil escape from the city’s bustle.
## Wicklow Mountains: Enchanting Gardens, Serene Lakes, and Majestic Peaks
In stark contrast to the cosmopolitan energy of Dublin, the Wicklow Mountains, located just south of the capital, offer a serene escape into Ireland’s magical rural landscapes. The **Powerscourt Estate** is sure to captivate you and your spouse. Nestled amidst glorious countryside, at the intersection of rugged peaks and gentle woodlands, **Powerscourt Gardens** is consistently recognized as one of the world’s finest formal gardens. Explore its meticulously landscaped grounds and embark on a hike to **Powerscourt Waterfall**, Ireland’s highest cascade.
For romantics seeking solace in remote environments, venture on a hike to the naturally heart-shaped lake of **Lough Ouler** or explore the serene monastic site of **Glendalough**, with its enchanting lakeside **walks** through a glacial valley that will leave you breathless. The 82-mile (132-km) **Wicklow Way multi-day walk** encapsulates the very best of the Wicklow Mountains.
## County Cork: Kissing the Stone of Eloquence and Kayaking Under the Moonlight
Communication is key to everlasting love. To acquire “the gift of the gab” (the ability to speak in a captivating manner), visit the captivating 15th-century ruins of **Blarney Castle**, near Cork. Legend has it that leaning backward over a parapet and kissing the **Blarney Stone** while upside down will bestow you with the gift of eloquence!
If you prefer a less daring way to ignite your romance, the brightly painted town of **Kinsale**, south of Cork, provides an ideal backdrop. Stroll through its picturesque **streets**, savor delectable seafood in one of its acclaimed **restaurants**, explore the impressive **forts** flanking the estuary, or embark on a scenic **boat trip**. Water-based activities offer some of the region’s most romantic experiences. Glide into the waters of the lovely **Lough Hyne** for a moonlit kayak adventure, or escape by boat to balmy islands such as **Cape Clear** (from Baltimore or Schull).
## County Kerry: Horse-drawn Carriage Rides and Rugged Scenery
County Kerry is synonymous with Ireland’s rugged west coast, boasting three of the country’s most picturesque peninsulas: Beara, Kerry, and Dingle. Each peninsula offers a multi-day walk: the **Beara Way**, the **Kerry Way**, and the **Dingle Way**, tracing their remote and pristine shorelines. These trails offer countless opportunities to discover your own private piece of coastal paradise.
Begin your explorations in the lively town of **Killarney**, renowned for its fantastic **live music** scene and the scenic **Killarney National Park** that stretches out at the edge of town. Take a captivating **boat trip** on Lough Learne or Muckross Lake. Alternatively, embark on a **horse-drawn cart ride**, known as a jaunting car ride, which can be combined with a visit to the 15th-century lakeside Ross Castle or even a grand afternoon tea. All the while, the majestic mountains of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks loom in the background. This **Kerry Peninsula** mountain range is home to Ireland’s highest peak, **Carrauntoohil**, which you can climb together for an outdoors-themed honeymoon. Nestled between Killarney and Carrauntoohil, at the dramatic **Gap of Dunloe**, a bridge known as the **Wishing Bridge** is said to grant the wishes of all who cross it.
From Killarney, embark on a road trip around either the Kerry or Dingle Peninsulas. The **Dingle Peninsula** offers a particularly relaxed and romantic ambiance. The idyllic town of **Dingle** invites you to enchant your partner with more beautiful **traditional live music** at venues like John Benny’s or embark on a **boat trip** along the stunning surrounding coast. For a truly unforgettable experience, journey to the uninhabited **Blasket Islands**, where you can camp overnight, surrounded only by seabirds, on the westernmost edge of Europe.
## Galway & Western Ireland: Symbolic Rings and Wild Walks
Even if you’re already married, Galway, Ireland’s ring-making capital, might tempt you to purchase another ring to express your love. **Galway’s Claddagh Quay** is where Ireland’s renowned Claddagh rings are traditionally crafted. Discover the numerous craftspeople in the area who create these beautiful pieces of jewelry, featuring hands representing friendship, a heart symbolizing love, and a crown signifying loyalty. Galway, a spirited ocean-side city, is centered around one of Ireland’s most beautiful **cathedrals** and hosts an annual **festival** dedicated to the celebrated aphrodisiac, the oyster! The city’s vibrant nightlife scene includes venues like the elegant **Hyde Bar**, boasting Ireland’s best gin selection and crafting sensational cocktails.
Venture west from Galway to experience the rugged wilderness of **Connemara**, one of Ireland’s most striking outdoor playgrounds. At the end of this mountainous peninsula, discover one of the most romantic (and unusual) experiences: the **Connemara Seaweed Baths**. Soaking in a tub filled with nutrition-packed seaweed is a common therapy in Ireland, but these baths offer the unique opportunity to bathe side-by-side in saltwater, providing additional health benefits. A 45-minute drive north will lead you to the refined 800-year-old fortress and estate of **Ashford Castle Hotel**, the nation’s most romantic overnight stay. Indulge in the spa, take a boat trip, and curl up together in the property’s exclusive cinema.
Journey south from Galway into County Clare to discover **Lisdoonvarna**, famous for its live music and matchmaking festival, and Ireland’s iconic clifftop beauty spot, the **Cliffs of Moher**, separated from the United States only by the vast ocean. From Doolin, embark on a boat trip to the otherworldly **Aran Islands**, renowned for their fascinating ancient history, handicrafts, and remoteness, a truly memorable location to conclude your honeymoon.
## Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland: Embracing Savage Beauty
The Causeway Coast encompasses the solitary and dramatic Antrim coastline in northeastern Ireland. The focal point is the **Giant’s Causeway**, a rocky shoreline expanse of approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, often hailed as one of Europe’s most spectacular natural sights. Begin your Northern Ireland honeymoon by exploring this wonder and capturing the ultimate “couple” shot. Then, escape the crowds and find the perfect spot along this breathtaking seaboard to enjoy the solitude that your honeymoon deserves.
Consider visiting the **Mussenden Temple**, a clifftop temple perched above a stunning sandy beach at Castlerock. This domed building was commissioned by Bishop Frederick Hervey, 4th Earl of Bristol, in honor of his niece, for whom he held a special affection. Brave the heart-stopping **Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge**, a walkway precariously connecting the mainland with a rocky island high above the crashing ocean near Ballintoy. Stroll along one of the region’s isolated beaches, such as the dune-backed **Whitepark Bay** near Dunseverick. Or sweep your partner off their feet and into a **kayak** for a self-guided paddling adventure, witnessing the coast and its impressive geology at its most magnificent from the sea.
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