It doesn’t have to be exactly on 14 February, but think of the brownie points you can score if you can set up a romantic smooch somewhere in Ireland for Valentine’s Day itself. Here are 10 of the best places you can pucker up.
1. The Blarney Stone
It’s definitely all in the lips at Blarney Castle in County Cork. Legend has it that bestowing a kiss on the iconic Blarney Stone will give you the ‘gift of the gab’ – as in great eloquence or persuasiveness. Where better to canoodle with your other half than an Irish attraction famous for its kissing?
2. The Giant’s Causeway
The setting for many a marriage proposal, these world-famous hexagonal stones in County Antrim are one of Ireland’s most photographed locations. Home to stories of myths and legends, it can also be your amazing backdrop for a kiss, a cuddle and maybe that big question you’ve been meaning to ask.
3. St Valentine Shrine
On the feast-day of St Valentine make a romantic pilgrimage to Dublin’s shrine to the patron saint of lovers. The shrine, in the Whitefriar Carmelite Church on Aungier Street, contains relics (some of the remains) of St Valentine, brought to the city long ago. On 14 February, it’s popular with loved up couples from all around the world.
4. Titanic Belfast
Recreate the famous ‘Jack and Rose’ pose from the Titanic film and grab a selfie with your beau at Titanic Belfast, the world’s largest Titanic visitor experience. Afterwards, indulge in a Valentine’s Day afternoon tea and brush lips in front of the beautiful replica Grand Staircase from the ship.
5. Glencar Waterfall
Great Irish poet W. B. Yeats used to visit this beautiful waterfall in County Leitrim. He found it mystical and inspirational, and you will too when you bring your sweetheart. Take some of Yeats’ romantic poems with you to read aloud, and love will truly be in the air.
6. Finn Lough Resort
Set your hearts on the luxury bubble domes at this five-star resort in the lakelands of County Fermanagh. With 180-degree transparent walls, the domes come with bespoke four-poster beds, comfy armchairs, Nespresso coffee machines, telescopes for admiring the constellations – plus a breakfast to swoon over.
7. Dromoland Castle
Whisk your lover away to this fairy-tale castle in County Clare on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. Dine under the chandeliers and sweeping views of the Earl of Thomond restaurant and sleep in a four-poster bed. Wake up in the lap of five-star luxury and blow a kiss to your lover, the unbelievable hospitality, the ambiance, and the superb country pursuits at one of Ireland’s best addresses.
8. Armagh Observatory and Planetarium
A Valentine’s Day trip to the ancient city of Armagh is bound to show the special person in your life that you love them to the stars and back. Take a journey around the solar system and look out for Betelgeuse, the Valentine’s Day Star which has a distinctive red hue similar to that of a rose.
9. Cliffs of Moher
For an inspiring, magical, and unforgettable place to share a kiss, make a proposal, or even stage a wedding, there is little to beat the awesome beauty of the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare. As one of Ireland’s most stunning natural attractions, the appeal of this sight is enduring. The setting is magical at sunset, and of course your photographs will be amazing.
10. Love Lane
Bring your partner on a romantic wander down Dublin’s Love Lane, which links Dame Street and Temple Bar, the cultural hotspot of the city. Hand-in-hand with your Valentine, soak up all the romantic quotes and artworks engraved into the wall. A definite Instagram moment and the ideal place to steal a kiss.
