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E-mailThe Top 10 most romantic places in Ireland
Donegal is the most romantic county in Ireland and also the most remote. There’s the breathtakingly beautiful beaches, the great wide loughs (lakes) and the rolling hills. But there’s also the people: in surveys, over and over, the Donegal accent is voted as the most charming in Ireland. One visit to this off-the-beaten path destination will make you a convert for life (just ask Sarah Jessica Parker, a frequent visitor).
2. The Ritz Carlton, Powerscourt, County Wicklow.
This deluxe hotel has it all: a stunning location in the undeniably romantic setting of the beautiful Wicklow Hills located just a short drive south of Dublin. Amenities include golf and a world-class spa – and, most famously, the Gordon Ramsay restaurant, for dining in style. The perfect destination for a Valentine’s break – or if you’re finally ready to pop the question, the hotel offers a menu of packages involving some elaborate scene setting. It’s open all year round.
3. The Merrion Hotel, Dublin.
Dublin is a romantic city (St. Valentine himself is actually buried there) and the Merrion Hotel is the ideal base to explore it all from. Located just off a Georgian Square, the period elegance of the hotel will transport you back to an earlier more romantic time in Ireland, as will a meal at the hotel’s Cellar Restaurant and Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, still unchallenged as the country’s premier fine dining destination.
4. The Burren.
Some people suggest only an Irishman like Samuel Beckett could appreciate the stark natural beauty of this County Clare landscape, but 10 minutes after you arrive you’ll know it’s one of the most remarkable places on the earth. The name Burren is from the Irish - bhoireann meaning a stony place. Its formation has lain unspoiled since the ice age – that’s right, there are relics of human habitation dating back almost 6000 years! The landscape of the Burren is very special, and it’s a memorable place to show off to a loved one.
A 15th century castle, it sits on an island in the River Suir, and the castle can only be reached by its own private ferry. You’ll arrive at the landing on the other shore, to be driven up a long and winding road lined with huge ancient trees, passing the Castle golf course on the way. Just watch out that you don’t get the haunted bedroom. If you are planning a honeymoon, or you’re just a hopeless romantic, Waterford Castle is the place for you.
