10 hopelessly romantic Irish hotel stays 

Ashford Castle

Synonymous with luxury and grandeur,  you can’t get more romantic than Ashford  Castle. The most idyllic setting for a romantic Valentine’s Day out west, the five-star hotel has launched a new package that is sure to impress that special someone. Offering couples a two-night exclusive stay in the Hideaway Cottage, prices start from €5,750 and includes a bottle of chilled Champagne waiting on arrival, a private cinema viewing of a classic romantic movie in the hotel’s art deco cinema room as well as a one-hour archery lesson. Additionally, on one evening, the guests will enjoy an intimate wine tasting in The Castle’s wine cellar followed by a five-course table d’hote dinner in the George V dining room. 

The castle is also hosting a very special wine weekend, combining outstanding world wines with exceptional Irish produce for the ultimate in February feasting. Running today until Sunday, guests will also have the rare opportunity to meet and learn from some of Ireland’s leading winemakers. Priced from €1,040 per person sharing, you can find out more by emailing reservations@ashfordcastle.com. 

Farnham Estate

Set on a beautiful 1,300-acre country estate on the outskirts of Cavan Town, Farnham Estate is one of Ireland’s most popular spa and golf destinations. A peaceful retreat from the business of the outside world, the interiors are a seamless blend of country charm and contemporary style, though it’s the hotel’s stunning surroundings that are the real pièce de résistance. Nestled among ancient forest, rolling meadows and pristine lakeland, this resort has it all – wonderful accommodation, tasty food and relaxing spa facilities. Helping you treat your loved one to some R&R this Valentine’s Day, their Love Actually package includes a rose petal arrival, along with prosecco and chocolates in your room and access to the hotel’s indoor/outdoor hydrotherapy pool, water mint thermal suite, relaxation rooms and gym. Prices start from €389 per person sharing. 

The Shelbourne

A timeless hotel in the capital’s historic centre, The Shelbourne is a Dublin city institution with almost two hundred years of stories contained behind its genteel brick facade. A favourite with some of the world’s most famous stars, everyone from Charlie Chaplin to Greta Garbo, Grace Kelly, Elizabeth Taylor and JFK has stayed here over the years, so you know you’re in for something special. Their Valentine’s Day package includes an overnight stay in one of their five-star deluxe rooms, a romantic dinner in The Saddle Room restaurant and a welcome glass of Champagne to toast the evening. Prices start from €569 per room per night and is available on stays between 12th – 19th February 2023.

Powerscourt Hotel & Spa

A totally immersive hotel experience, Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa offers five-star luxury with genuine warmth, in breathtaking surroundings. Located near the picturesque village of Enniskerry, it’s only 30 minutes from Dublin City centre and features Palladian-style architecture with luxurious amenities including a 20m Swarovski crystal-lit indoor pool. The estate also features not one, but two championship-level golf courses and a luxury spa with 20 treatment rooms by ESPA. They currently have three different romantic escapes on offer with prices starting from €181 per person sharing. 

Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa 

Fancy falling asleep to the sound of waves lapping against the shore? Well, that’s exactly how you’ll be lulled off at Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa in Rebel County. One of the country’s most exclusive and tranquil retreats, it’s a true destination hotel and the perfect place for you to celebrate love in all its forms. Located just outside the colourful heritage town of Clonakilty in West Cork, the hotel is privy to some of the best views around. Combining incredible views with contemporary accommodation, unique seawater therapies and sumptuous dining, the locality also offers plenty of outdoor activities should you need further entertainment – including surfing, whale watching, kayaking and yoga. This year’s Valentine’s Day offering also includes a special floral gift from Bumblebee Flower Farm in Drimoleague, and will see guests treated to a selection of locally grown Hyacinths and Narcissus, which have only travelled mere kilometres to reach the resort. After dinner in the Gulfstream Restaurant, with its spectacular views over Atlantic, guests can retire to one of the luxurious guestrooms featuring a private balcony and listen to the waves crashing below. The following morning, they’ll enjoy the wonderful West Cork Breakfast. During their stay, guests can make the most of the relaxing heated Seawater Therapy Pool, Hammam and Ocean View Relaxation Areas in the Island Spa. Prices start from €180 per person sharing.

Fota Island Resort 

Another luxury hotel in Co Cork, Fota Island Resort encapsulates everything you’d expect from a five-start hotel and more. One of very few resort hotels in Ireland, it can be found on its own private island amidst the tranquillity of Cork Harbour, and yet is still within a short distance from the hustle and bustle of the city. A great choice for a fairytale escape for two, their No Ordinary Love package is all about romance and decadence. With a focus on wellbeing and reinstating the rhythm and harmony between body, mind and soul, during your stay, you’ll be treated to a luxurious couple’s ritual at the Fota Island Spa which includes a cleansing ritual, a warm spiced mud bath and a signature WaveStone back massage followed by a glass of prosecco overlooking the lush gardens. Prices start from €419 per person sharing. 

The Marker

Ideally located along the docklands, The Marker is the ideal base for couples looking to explore Dublin’s fair city this Valentine’s Day. A contemporary landmark inspired by the elements and overlooking the waterfront of Grand Canal Square, the hotel features an all-day brasserie showcasing the best of modern Irish cuisine, while the rooftop bar draws crowds from across the city with its 360? views of both the mountains and the sea. For culture lovers, combine your stay with a visit to the iconic Bord Gáis Energy Theatre where you’ll find any number of top-class performances scheduled. Valentine’s Day packages start from €452 and include a bottle of champagne upon arrival and some handmade sweets.

The Westbury

The Westbury is celebrating all kinds of love this Valentine’s Day. For couples looking to spend a romantic night away together, The Westbury has a special package which includes an overnight stay, a three-course dinner in Wilde and an a la carte breakfast the following morning. Everything from the flowers to the food to the hotel’s art collection (one of the country’s finest) speaks to the level of luxury and attention to detail you can expect. And with its convenient city centre location, The Westbury offers unrivalled access to the capital – from the pedestrianised social hub of Grafton Street to the historic open spaces of Trinity College and Stephen’s Green. Full details here.

Red Castle Oceanfront Golf & Spa Hotel

Located along the shores of Lough Foyle, Redcastle Oceanfront Golf & Spa Hotel is excellent value with an overnight stay (including full Irish breakfast, three-course evening meal in The Edge Restaurant, €10 spa credit, glass of bubbly, rose petals and chocolates on arrival) starting from just €169 per couple.  Ideal for spa breakers and those hoping to explore the Wild Atlantic Way, the four-star hotel has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment of its 94 bedrooms and luxury suites. The decor reflects the natural colours and textures of its local environment while upgraded features offer the highest standards of attention to detail and modern convenience. Added to that, Redcastle Hotel’s location on Inishowen allows guests easy access to the great outdoors and a full range of leisure activities and visitor attractions in the local area.

The g Hotel & Spa

Meticulously designed by world-renowned milliner Phillip Treacy, the g Hotel & Spa is a glamorous Galway escape, perfect for lovers. Home to the City of Tribe’s only five-star spa ESPA, guests have their pick of a wide range of specially-tailored treatments. Celebrating Valentine’s Day with a month-long All You Need is Love Valentine’s package (starting from €265 per person sharing for two nights), it includes a chilled bottle of bubbles and chocolate-dipped strawberries, a delicious three-course dinner on one night of your choice, freshly cooked breakfast to order each morning and a rose petal turn down. Bliss.

Glasson Lakehouse

Nestled in Co Westmeath, deep in Ireland’s hidden heartlands, you’ll find Glasson Lakehouse – a peaceful oasis along the shores of Lough Ree. Designed with the discerning guest in mind, the four-star hotel also boasts 65 spacious bedrooms with magnificent views of either the lake or the golf course. Woodland scenic walks, local historic attractions, old-world villages and the Athlone Town Centre (perfect for a spot of shopping) are all situated nearby too. Lean into the indulgence this Valentine’s Day and book in for their Suite Dreams package which will give you access to one of their luxury suites, your own copper bathtub, a spacious living area, and a massive TV. Prices start from €405 and they’ll throw in a complimentary bottle of bubbly, a box of Skelligs chocolates and breakfast at Bonnie’s too. They’re also dog-friendly should you want to bring your furry best friend along for the excursion. 

Feature image: Ashford Castle