Happy Valentine’s Day! The celebration of love has rolled around again, but if you’ve left it to the last minute to make plans, fear not. Help is at hand if you fancy the idea of a last minute getaway…
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In Dublin
To Do: Heading to church may not be your idea of romance, but you may make an exception for the Whitefriar Street Carmelite Church in the capital, noteworthy as it is home to the relics of the patron saint of lovers, St. Valentine himself.
To Stay: Opt for five-star opulence at the Marker Hotel on Grand Canal Square. This stunning hotel boasts one of the nicest spas we’ve ever visited, and chef Gar Mullins has created an incredible menu for Valentine’s weekend that we’re itching to try.
Enjoy a deluxe king with breakfast from €262.
See here for more details and to book.
In Galway
To Do: Keep it simple with a romantic sunset walk along the Salthill Prom, ideally with a Galway Girl – singing is optional. That is, of course, provided that the storms have abated! Otherwise, stay indoors in one of Galway’s many amazing restaurants.
To Stay: The Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa is perfectly located in the city of the tribes, located just a short walk away from Eyre Square. You may not want to leave the hotel though; the luxury rooms and outdoor hot tub are enough to inspire anyone to leave the outside world behind!
Enjoy a king-sized room from €187.
See here for more details and to book.
In Cork
To Do: Feel the love amongst the animal kingdom with a visit to Fota Wildlife Park. Cork’s most visited Tourist Attraction and has been awarded best family day out in Cork and Munster. When you’re amongst the red pandas and the giraffe, you’ll see why.
To Stay: Head for the situated directly overlooking the Ballycotton Bay. Luxurious bedrooms, a fine restaurant and another outdoor hot tub (we have a soft spot for these babies). Chill out together in Thhe Health Club, which boasts a splash pool, water jet massage area and a unique aqua jogging area. There is plenty to do in the area, but once again you might want to keep it indoors!
Enjoy a standard room from €168
See here for more details and to book
In Kilkenny
To Do: One of the country’s most popular proposal spots, take in the view from the top of Ireland medieval 9th Century skyscraper, St. Canice’s Cathedral Round Tower. Make a romantic grand gesture, or simply watch the world go by in the company of the one you love.
To Stay: Mere steps from Butler House and National Craft Gallery, this hotel is perfectly situated to help you take advantage of beautiful Kilkenny. You’ll be in close proximity to Kilkenny Castle and Talbots Tower if you can tear yourself away from the four-star luxury rooms and one of the friendliest welcomes you’re likely to find.
Enjoy a standard double from €121
See here for more details and to book
In Belfast
To Do: Play Jack and Rose, (without the unhappy ending) with a visit to the Titanic Quarter. The famous ship was built in Belfast, and now the former Harland & Wolff shipyard plays host to the Titanic Quarter, where visitors can take a self-guided tour of the Titanic Trail.
To Stay: One of the world’s most famous hotels, The Europa is an institution. You can consider yourself in very good company, as anyone famous who has ever stayed in Belfast has likely darkened these doors. Situated in the heart of the city, the Europa is only a five minute walk to the shopping district, the Grand Opera House and the Golden Mile.
Enjoy a superior double from €295
See here for more details and to book
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