We’ve all seen The Notebook which means we have grand notions about romance. But it doesn’t have to be all building houses and kissing in the rain. In fact, there are plenty of romantic places you and your other half can go which are pretty much on your doorstep.
Here are three butterfly-inducing romantic breaks in Northern Ireland, along with all the details you need to know, which are big on love and low on hassle…
By the Sea
The ocean has romance written all over it… waves crashing, windswept hair and the sun setting on the horizon. What could be sweeter? Take it to another level by exploring Northern Ireland’s famous Causeway Coastal Route which is undoubtedly one of the world’s most beautiful road trips. Romance is a cert.
Check in: Carrick-a-Rede cottage. A bijou and picturesque National Trust abode just beside the famous Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, with stunning views towards Rathlin Island, Islay and the Mull of Kintyre. Inside is a cosy haven with pretty furniture and an open fire (all you need is a hot chocolate and a pair of slipper socks and it’s heaven). There’s also a pub nearby if you fancy a beverage… or two!
Check out: Where to start? There’s the spectacular Giant’s Causeway and its epic new Visitor Centre. If you fancy something unforgettable, you’ve got to see the stones at sunset. You’re also in the heart of Game of Thrones® territory so if your other half is a fan, take them to Ballintoy and wax lyrical about it being the harbour of the Iron Islands. Oh, and you have to visit the Dark Hedges. After all this, you can top up the energy tank at the Harbour Bistro and enjoy a tipple at the Old Bushmills Distillery.
Don’t miss: Dunluce Castle, a crumbling wonder on the very edge of a cliff, not far from Bushmills. This place is like something out of a Jane Austin novel, dating from the 14th century, and has a serious aura about it. In fact, it may just be a special place you could revisit, we don’t know, perhaps when there’s a certain question being asked.
In the City
If your amour is more about glittering cities than shimmering seas, choose a mini break in Belfast. Luxury hotels, shopping, award-winning restaurants, more pubs and clubs than you’re likely to ever need, and cocktail bars at every turn.
Check in: If you’re feeling flash, check into The Merchant. This place isn’t known around the world for nothing. It’s the last word in chic and it has everything you could ever need. From breakfast in The Great Room to a treatment in The Spa (there’s also a rooftop hot tub) to the in-house fashion boutique, you will be spoilt for choice. Heads up, you probably won’t want to leave.
Check out: Sadly, you will have to leave the hotel but never worry, even more romantic destinations await. You might, for instance, sample the Gin Menu in Muriel‘s bar, tuck into some spectacular local fare at Hadskis or visit St George’s Market for food, antiques and knick-knacks.
Then there’s the legendary Titanic Belfast where you can discover the fascinating history of Belfast’s most famous ship and right next to Titanic Belfast is the SS Nomadic, that ferried 1st and 2nd class passengers to Titanic in 1912. Discover the story behind her incredible journey home to Belfast aboard the ship and recreate your very own Jack and Rose pose at the stern of the ship.
If you’re looking for brunch and fashionable boutiques, then a visit to Lisburn Road is a must and don’t forget Queen’s Film Theatre for offbeat screenings. If you’re lucky, there’ll probably even be a festival or two.
Don’t miss: Oysters, lobsters and champers at the Mourne Seafood Bar. Another must on the list is a VIP box at the Grand Opera House. And yes, we would put those two together for an even more memorable night!
On the Lakes
If the city sounds too lively and you don’t like to be beside the seaside, don’t worry. Northern Ireland is also famed for its lakes, the most romantic of all being Lough Erne, a lake that weaves it’s way through spectacular County Fermanagh. It’ll just be you, your beloved and a whole lot of R&R.
Check in: Choose a stayover like a world leader and opt for the 5* Lough Erne Resort, home of the G8 Summit 2013. Choose a room, villa or lodge right on the lake and get set for spa treatments, high tea, golf, and seriously glorious views. The hotel is at your disposal and can organise helicopter trips, lakeside adventures and candlelit dinners on the terrace. Your romantic wish is their command… wonder if they could get Ryan Gosling flown in…
Check out: Fermanagh is brimming with gorgeous offerings. It’s home to some of the most beautiful National Trust properties, like Florence Court and Castle Crom which are perfect for romantic walks or afternoons on the water. Lough Erne has over 150 islands, coves and inlets, so it makes for some majestic sightseeing.
You could also opt for some adrenaline sports if you’re so inclined, or enjoy a sunset dinner cruise on the water. There’s also the nearby town of Enniskillen if you and your man fancy pottering about. Visit Dollakis Restaurant for some Greek cuisine or stop in at Blakes of the Hollow; a famous local bar with roaring fires and romantic inglenooks.
Don’t miss: Marble Arch Caves. Take a guided tour through this ancient, spectacular subterranean world. You’ll see cascading stalactites, glistening cave formations, lofty chambers, waterfalls, silent rivers and sandy beaches that have never seen sunlight. It’s truly magical.
For more information on Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com and to book your very own romantic break in Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com/accommfinder
