Love is in the air. And in quite a few very romantic locations around Northern Ireland too. Perhaps it’s down to the stunning scenery, the rolling landscapes, the dramatic coastline, the wild sea air. Who knows? But it does seem that there are places here where you just can’t help falling in love. And if you’d love to know just where they are, read on for inspiration for a romantic night away in Northern Ireland.
1. Be awe-inspired at Dunluce Castle
Is there anywhere more romantic that a windswept clifftop? Well, if you’d like to be the heroine or hero of your own love story, take a trip to Dunluce Castle. Perched high above the sweeping Antrim coastline, the ruins are rich in myth and legend. Including tales of a banshee and kitchens that fell into the sea one stormy night in 1639.
The castle's magical setting is said to have been the inspiration for the dramatic Cair Paravel in C.S. Lewis' Chronicles of Narnia - and was also included in BBC Countryfile Magazine's top 10 romantic ruins. So, over to you now.
2. See the sunset at the Giant's Causeway
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Seeing the sunset anywhere has to be pretty high up on the romantic scale. When you add in 40,000 basalt columns and a UNESCO World Heritage Site it’s off the scale completely. This most atmospheric of places, the home of giants and legends, the Giant's Causeway has romance written all over it.
3. Enjoy a romantic break in the Fermanagh Lakelands
The beautiful Lakelands of Fermanagh are the ideal spot for a romance-filled getaway. Book a short break on the shores of tranquil Lough Erne, enjoy a picnic at Lough Navar Forest Walk or go for a hand-holding stroll around one of the county's three National Trust properties, Florence Court, Castle Coole or Crom Estate.
4. Experience romantic highs in the Mourne Mountains
Kilbroney Park - ©Tourism Ireland photographed by Brian Morrison
You can’t help but love the view from Slieve Donard, the highest peak in the Mourne Mountains. Find common ground on a riverside walk through the forests at Kilbroney Park. Or get up close and personal in a hot seaweed bath at SOAK in the seaside town of Newcastle. Something for everyone, as they say.
5. Take a walk on the wild side at Mussenden Temple
Mussenden Temple - ©Tourism Ireland
A clifftop walk takes you through the very beautiful surroundings of Mussenden Temple & Downhill Demesne. 120ft above the Atlantic Ocean, it’s got to be Northern Ireland’s wildest and most dramatic headland. Inspired by the Temple of Vesta, it can also be booked as a wedding venue. Just so you know.
6. Get active break in Tyrone & the Sperrins
The couple that plays together, stays together. So if you’re lovers of the great outdoors, head for the Tyrone & Sperrins region for some spectacular walks – perhaps in Gortin Glen Forest Park near Omagh or Banagher Glen near Dungiven.
Or if you're after an adrenalin fix, make tracks for outdoor activity centres, such as The Jungle NI in County Londonderry or Todds Leap in County Tyrone.
7. Enjoy quality time with a break on the shores of Lough Neagh
Go somewhere off the beaten track for a little ‘us’ time. Places such as Antrim Lough Shore Park, Ballyronan Marina, the 10th century Ardboe High Cross or the quaint Coyles Cottage are definitely worth a visit. As are Tannaghmore Gardens in Craigavon. Couples who canoodle over its kissing gate are said to marry within the year. Watch this space.
8. Blow away the cobwebs with a beautiful beach walk
Northern Ireland has some of the most spectacular beaches in Europe, with long stretches of sand and dunes – ideal for a gentle romantic stroll. There’s seven miles of golden sands at Benone Strand or try Murlough National Nature Reserve with its stunning views of the Mourne Mountains.
9. City walls, forest parks and romantic walks
Your boots may not be made for walking, but walled cities and forest parks are. Get out there for a stroll around Derry~Londonderry’s City Walls. Or go further afield to Roe Valley and get to know each other all over again in a very picturesque setting.
10. Enjoy a beachside romantic lunch for two
Take a time-out together to sit and gaze across Portstewart Strand as you enjoy the freshest, finest local seafood at the famous Harry’s Shack, right on the beach.
11. Ready to pop the question?
First find your dramatic setting. A six hour hike up Fermanagh’s Cuilcagh Boardwalk takes you through spectacular scenery to a perfectly romantic backdrop. And if the proposal doesn’t take their breath away, the views certainly will.
So that’s our romantic stroll through the many loveable places and adventures that Northern Ireland has to offer. Though, if you find some of your own, we’d love to hear about them too.
Dunluce Castle is located dramatically close to a headland that plunges straight into the sea, along the North County Antrim coast.
Flanked by the wild North Atlantic Ocean and a landscape of dramatic cliffs, the Giant's Causeway is a geological wonder and home to a wealth of history and legend. The 40,000 basalt stone columns left by volcanic eruptions 60 million years ago, has captured the imagination of all who see it.
Seven-mile drive through the forest to a magnificent panorama over Lough Erne. Viewpoints, picnic sites. Red deer, wild goats. Marked trails. Wheelchair access limited.
Florence Court is a truly welcoming home. The house, formerly the home of the Cole family, Earls of Enniskillen, is surrounded by a large area of parkland, garden and woodland, with breathtaking views to Benaughlin and the Cuilcagh Mountains. You can enjoy glorious walks around the grounds which include a pretty walled garden, holiday cottage, sawmill and icehouse. In the gardens you will find the famous Florence Court Yew - reputedly the 'parent' of all Irish yew trees.
Castle Coole one of Ireland's finest Neo-classical houses, allowing visitors to glimpse what life was like in the home of the Earls of Belmore. Discover the story of the people who lived and worked below stairs as you explore the servants quarters.
Set on the shores of Upper Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, Crom is one of Ireland's most important nature conservation areas.
Kilbroney Park Forest features riverside walks and an arboretum. There is a two-mile forest drive which showcases panoramic views over Carlingford Lough. There is also a Play Park with children's play area and tennis courts, an Information area and a café all on site.
Soak offers customers a unique experience, a place to be spoiled or to simply ease the body and soothe the mind. Relax in a silky hot seaweed bath in our award winning bathhouse or Revive with a sensual spa treatment in our bespoke treatment rooms.
Mussenden Temple is located in the beautiful surroundings of Downhill Demesne near Castlerock in County Londonderry. Awe inspiring views, colourful gardens and woodland walks.
There are over 10km of walking trails, a 6km scenic drive, wildfowl enclosure and deer enclosure and a new children's playpark to enjoy and explore.
Nestled in an enchanting woodland in the very heart of Northern Ireland, just 45 minutes from Belfast, The Jungle is the perfect location to engage with life and put to test your sense of daring and adventure. Some of the activities on offer include high ropes Tree Top Adventure for kids and adults, archery, coasteering, kids Polaris Quad Bikes, Llama trekking, segway tours and downhill zorbing.
Days outs at Todds Leap are all about getting outdoors, spending time with friends and having lots of fun! There are over 20 action packed activities available including off road driving, a 500m zipline, a giant swing, a free fall drop zone, woodland trails and the Big Yella Slide, all spread across a purpose-built off-road track, so getting around is really fun!
Situated on the shores of Lough Neagh, the Lough Shore Park in Antrim is a popular destination for visitors and residents at all times of the year. It is an area steeped in history and natural beauty with many attractions and activities to enjoy.
Situated on the picturesque western shores of Lough Neagh, this award winning marina is ideal for the water sports enthusiast. There are walks around the marina as well as picnic areas and a park for children.
A 10th Century Cross situated on a rocky height on the shores of Lough Neagh. It is a national monument which is believed to be the first High Cross of Ulster. The cross stands 18.5 feet high and 3.5 feet wide.
A Fishermans Thatched Cottage, approximately 250 to 300 years old. The nearby Gort Moss Walk commences here. The house can be visited at any time and interior access is available on Sundays in July and August. Open for groups on request.
Gardens around this Georgian farmhouse. Experience old Irish gate, tree and sculpture trails. Rare Breeds Farm which includes Irish Moiled and Dexter cattle, Galway and Jacob Sheep, Saddleback, Tamworth and Gloucester Old Spot pigs.
Benone Strand, multiple recipient of the European Blue Flag and Seaside Award, is a must-see when visiting the area. With seven miles of golden sand and a magnificent back drop of mountain and cliff scenery and stunning views.
Murlough National Nature Reserve is a fragile 6000 year old sand dune system owned by the National Trust and managed as Ireland’s first Nature Reserve since 1967. It is an excellent area for walking and bird watching.
Derry~Londonderry is the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland and is one of the finest examples of Walled Cities in Europe. A walk around the walls reveals a city crammed full of history, heritage, interest and a vibrant cultural scene.
This scenic and tranquil park on the outskirts of Limavady offers spectacular riverside views and woodland walks along with opportunities for salmon and trout fishing, canoeing, rock climbing and orienteering.
Between Portstewart and the mouth of the River Bann lies the golden sands and domineering sand dunes of Portrush Strand Beach. This area of natural beauty and of scientific interest is owned and managed by the National Trust.
A shack, located on arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in Northern Ireland - Portstewart Strand - which serves fresh local fish, meats, vegetables and more. What's not to love!
The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail meanders through one of the largest expanses of blanket bog in Northern Ireland, traversing over tracks, boardwalk and staircase. A steep climb is required to reach the viewing platform which provides breath taking views of the surrounding low lands.
