Unspoiled landscapes, colourful villages, and tranquil coastlines.
West Cork (County Cork)
Distance from Dublin: 220 miles (354 km), drive time approximately 4 hours.
Distance from Cork City: 50 miles (80 km), drive time approximately 1.5 hours.
Romantic Things to Do:
- Drive the Sheep’s Head Peninsula for breathtaking coastal views.
- Visit the colourful village of Baltimore and take a ferry to Sherkin Island for a peaceful walk.
- Explore Gougane Barra, a serene forest park with a picturesque chapel on a lake, even more beautiful in the autumn.
- Dine on fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants in the pretty village of Kinsale, considered the culinary capital of Ireland.
Spectacular coastal drives, charming villages, and mountain lakes.
Ring of Kerry (County Kerry)
Distance from Dublin: 195 miles (314 km), drive time approximately 4 hours.
Distance from Cork: 60 miles (97 km), drive time approximately 1.5 hours.
Romantic Things to Do:
- Drive the Ring of Kerry, stopping at scenic spots like Ladies View and Muckross House.
- Take a romantic walk around Killarney National Park.
- Visit the charming town of Kenmare for boutique shopping and cozy cafés.
- Embrace your inner tourist and enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through the Gap of Dunloe.
Rugged beauty, sandy beaches, and vibrant culture.
Dingle Peninsula (County Kerry)
Distance from Dublin: 210 miles (338 km), drive time approximately 4.5 hours.
Distance from Limerick: 85 miles (137 km), drive time approximately 2 hours.
Romantic Things to Do:
- Drive along the Slea Head Drive, one of Ireland’s most scenic routes.
- Visit Coumeenoole Beach, perfect for a quiet stroll.
- Explore the quaint town of Dingle and its colourful harbour.
- Share a seafood dinner in a local restaurant or pub and listen to traditional music.
Serene lakes, ancient ruins, and lush forests.
Glendalough (County Wicklow)
Distance from Dublin: 30 miles (48 km), drive time approximately 1 hour.
Nearest Big City: Dublin.
Romantic Things to Do:
- Walk the Spinc Trail, offering stunning views of the Glendalough Valley.
- Visit the Monastic City, a site of historic ruins and round towers.
- Pack a picnic and relax by the Upper Lake.
- Take a long walk along the beach at nearby Brittas bay, and watch the seals playing in the sea.
Wild landscapes, serene beaches, and traditional Irish charm.
Connemara (County Galway)
Distance from Dublin: 170 miles (274 km), drive time approximately 3.5 hours.
Distance from Galway: 50 miles (80 km), drive time approximately 1.5 hours.
Romantic Things to Do:
- Drive the Sky Road loop, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic.
- Explore Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden, a fairytale-like setting.
- Take a quiet walk along Dog’s Bay Beach, known for its white sands and turquoise waters.
- Stay in a romantic country house or rustic lodge in the heart of Connemara.
Related Articles
More romantic break ideas
- Romantic Getaways in the UK
- Romantic Weekends in Ireland
- Couples Weekends Away in France
- Spanish Couples Getaways
- Couples Breaks in Germany
- Romantic Breaks in Italy
- Romantic Trips in Denmark
- Couples Getaways in Austria
- Romantic Destinations in Turkey
- Romantic Destinations in the Czech Republic