Romantic Getaways Ireland: 21 Indulgent, Unique + Memorable Stays For Couples

If you’re in search of romantic getaways Ireland has plenty!

From lakeside manors and treehouse pods to luxury spa hotels and quiet, cosy cabins, there’s endless romantic getaways for couples in Ireland.

Below, we’ll take you through our favourites, from the magnificent Cliff House and the gorgeous Glenlo Abbey to many more.

What we think are the most romantic getaways in Ireland

The first section of our guide looks at our favourite romantic getaways in Ireland – these are places that one or more of our team have stayed and loved.

Note: if you book a stay through one of the links below we may make a tiny commission that helps us keep this site going. You won’t pay extra, but we really do appreciate it.

1. The Cliff House Hotel (Waterford)

As its name suggests, the Cliff House Hotel in Ardmore is perched on top of the cliff boasting stunning ocean views from throughout the property.

Overlooking Ardmore Bay, it is reputedly the finest small luxury 5 star hotel in Ireland, so we’re off to a good start! It has 39 boutique rooms, all offering sumptuous furnishings and artworks by local artisans.

Pamper your loved one with a morning in the destination spa and look forward to candlelit dining at the Michelin Star House Restaurant with stunning coastal views.

There’s an upscale bar for pre-dinner aperitifs and a summer terrace for tasty lunches. This is, in our opinion, the best romantic hotel in Ireland for good reason!

2. Glamping at the Grove (Kerry)

Glamping at the Grove is a wonderfully unique place to enjoy a weekend tryst. This adults-only venue has romantic suites with proper double beds, electric blankets for cooler nights and a private ensuite bathroom with shower.

Enjoy dining together on your private deck and for dessert, toast marshmallows over the barbecue. If the budget allows, upgrade to a swanky luxury lodge with king-size bed, heating, Nespresso coffee machine and self-catering kitchen.

Located in Killarney it’s the perfect getaway for those looking for a romantic getaway in Ireland a stone’s throw from endless things to see and do (the Ring of Kerry is on its doorstep).

3. Wineport Lodge (Westmeath)

Nestled on the shores of Lough Ree, Wineport Lodge is one of the more popular romantic hotels in Ireland.

It offers the ultimate luxury lodge experience with ankle-deep carpet, comfy beds and your own bubbling hot tub on the terrace along with stunning lake views.

Relax in steamy warmth together enjoying lough views with a glass of bubbly and spot starry constellations after dark.

Other treats for two include decadent cocktails in the bar before a memorable dinner, tea for two after an afternoon hike or how about a couples’ massage in the treatment rooms.

Browse Luan Gallery artworks, visit nearby Athlone Castle or explore pretty Glasson village as part of your romantic break. 

4. Fernwood (Galway)

Arguably one of the most notable places to go glamping in Ireland, Fernwood in Clifden is the perfect place to recharge your batteries (and your love life!).

This eco-friendly space is designed as a couples’ retreat in an eco woodland paradise. There’s a luxury studio with woodburner and views through a wall of glass, or how about the Treehouse Dome to sweep your partner off their feet literally?!

Located 5m off the ground, it is surprisingly plush with a super-king Murphy bed and woodburner stove warming the amazing geodesic dome in the treetops.

It includes a kitchenette with combi oven, fridge and hob for preparing breakfast in bed and a large deck for sipping coffee together while planning your day’s adventures.

There’s even a bathroom with flush loo and piping hot rain-shower. If you’re looking for unique romantic getaways in Ireland, look no further.

5. Lough Eske Castle (Donegal)

Few castle hotels in Ireland have a reputation for delivering a memorable stay like Lough Eske. Set in the Donegal countryside just outside of the county town, it boasts its own swimming pool and spa for treatments and total relaxation.

Nestled on the lough shores, the castle enjoys a stunning setting surrounded by beautiful gardens. This luxury resort holds a host of top awards including The Times Best Luxury Hotel in Ireland.

Bedrooms include four poster beds and opulent decor. The Cedars Restaurant has its own awards for Culinary Excellence It’s perfect for a honeymoon, anniversary or just to enjoy a romantic escape.  

6. Glenlo Abbey (Galway)

Another of the more unique romantic hotels in Ireland is the gorgeous Glenlo Abbey Hotel in Galway. Located in a 138-acre estate near the city, Glenlo Abbey delivers five star luxury for guests.

Look forward to a beautiful bedroom with old world charm, luxury linens and comfy mattresses. Book a table and dine in style at the award-winning gourmet restaurant.

The special Champagne Amore Package includes a bottle of champagne to welcome you, a la carte breakfast for two and a love movie and popcorn.

As well as the spa, the hotel has a 9-hole golf course, private movie theatre, fishing, horse riding and bike rides.

7. Shandon Hotel & Spa (Donegal)

Check out those views from the Canadian hot tub on the terrace as you enjoy your romantic break at Shandon Hotel and Spa.

Overlooking stunning Sheephaven Bay and steps from the Wild Atlantic Way, this Donegal hotel has spectacular sea views from almost every room.

If the weather’s chilly, spend time together in the thermal spa with swimming pool and relaxation room.

Rated one of the top romantic hotels in Ireland, this serene hotel is perfect for couples with well appointed rooms and suites and gourmet dining in the Marbles Restaurant from breakfast to dinner.

Romantic hotels in Ireland for a bit of R&R

Now that we have our favourite romantic getaways in Ireland out of the way, it’s time to see what else the island has to offer.

Below, you’ll find everywhere from the Ice House and Monart to a handful of the more overlooked romantic hotels in Ireland. 

1. The Ice House Hotel (Mayo)

For the ultimate couples break, why not chill out at the Ice House Hotel on The Quay in Ballina? Waterfront rooms offer city chic furnishings and decor with floor-to-ceiling windows framing wide open views across the water.

Opt for an exclusive Riverside Suite and really wow your loved one. It comes with goose-down duvet and pillows, king-size bed with pillow-top mattress and your own relaxing lounge for spending time together over a bottle of wine.

The Chill Spa is a haven for pampering with massages, facials and relaxing therapies for men and women. The restaurant is the finishing touch.

2. Monart (Wexford)

Arguably one of the most exclusive romantic hotels in Ireland, Monart is Ireland’s only true destination spa.

Located in Enniscorthy, the hotel has 68 deluxe rooms surrounded by 100 acres of countryside, woodland walks and lakes around the 18th century Monart House.

Plan spa days together in the Finnish sauna, steam room, salt grotto and hydrotherapy pool. There’s also a warm caldarium, infra-red pro suite and a host of spa treatments delivered at the hands of a team of expert therapists. 

If budget isn’t an option and you’re looking for romantic getaways in Ireland to mark an occasion, you won’t go wrong at Monart.

3. Ballynahinch Castle (Galway)

Ballynahinch Castle is an excellent choice for rekindling romance in one of the top luxury resorts in Ireland, according to Conde Nast and Travel&Leisure.

Overlooking the famous salmon fishery and 12 Bens Mountains, the setting alone is reason to visit. It’s a place to relax and chill with a loved one, dine well and explore the surrounding area.

Order a picnic hamper from the kitchen and feast on wine, champagne, cheese, sandwiches and a flask of homemade soup as a romantic treat.

After a wonderful night’s sleep in the superior bedrooms, enjoy breakfast in the elegant restaurant, voted Best in Ireland 2017 by Georgina Campbell. 

4. Castlemartyr Resort (Cork)

Head to Cork for a romantic stay at Castlemartyr Resort spending time together in beautiful surroundings. The 17th century manor sits on the ruins of an 800-year-old castle in 200 acres of woodland walks.

It has been carefully restored to create 108 guest rooms and 47 luxury lodges which all exude comfort and luxury. It’s a place to celebrate and create memories.

Book a room with a romantic four-poster bed and book spa experiences as part of your retreat. Dining at Castlemartyr is a decadent treat in the Bell Tower Restaurant, The Grill or Knights Bar.

Castlemartyr is, in our opinion, one of the most overlooked getaways for couples in Ireland.

5. Ballyfin Demesne (Laois)

Another lavish country house retreat for lovers, the Ballyfin Demesne is at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains and is a place steeped in history and natural beauty.

You’ll be papered in five star luxury with first class service, luxuriously appointed rooms and open fires for warming your toes in the public lounge and bar. It’s an elegant home from home for relaxing together.

With an excellent wine cellar and gourmet restaurant serving inspirational cuisine, this is a place you’ll definitely want to return to.

6. The Lake Hotel (Kerry)

Few romantic hotels in Ireland offer views like the renowned Lake Hotel in Killarney which combines comfortable guest rooms with stunning views across the lough.

Four poster beds, deep mattresses and balconies can all be booked. The ultimate Irish hospitality is delivered by the Huggard family owners who have been in business here for over 100 years.

Explore the beauty of Killarney National Park with your partner on foot, bicycle, kayak or book a romantic horse and buggy ride.

Visit Torc Waterfall and Muckross Abbey or just enjoy each other’s company over a romantic meal in the Castlelough Restaurant. 

7. Glasson Lakehouse (Westmeath)

Laid back luxury is assured when you stay at Glasson Lakehouse. This luxury retreat is in the heart of Ireland and is a great choice for a couples’ getaway.

This hidden oasis is popular for weddings and romantic retreats. It promises spacious well furnished rooms and suites, delicious cuisine in Bonnie’s Restaurant and plenty of activities nearby.

Make use of the onsite leisure facilities which include hot tubs and an outdoor pool. Play a round of golf together or just explore the beautiful grounds on a quiet walk, hand-in-hand. 

Places for unique and romantic weekend breaks in Ireland

The final section of our guide to the most romantic getaways in Ireland looks at unique and quirky stays.

Below, you’ll find everywhere from the Hideaway and Cabu Cabins to some beautifully boutique romantic hotels in Ireland. 

1. The Hideaway at Dromquinna Manor (Kerry)

Whisk your loved one away on a surprise romantic trip at the Hideaway at Dromquinna Manor. This stunning country house and grounds is the perfect setting for a wedding, anniversary or special weekend break.

Enjoy the cosy intimacy in the drawing rooms and look forward to casual dining together at the Boathouse Bistro right on the waterfront.

There’s a full range of accommodation including glamping in the Potting Sheds, luxury tents and fully furnished lodges all with proper beds, a private terrace and a breakfast hamper of fresh croissants delivered to your door. 

2. Cabu Cabins (Cavan)

Cabu offers one of the more unique romantic breaks in Ireland. For something a little different, Cabu by the Lakes offers a romantic break in the woods of Killykeen Forest Park on the shores of Lough Oughter.

It’s a fabulous area noted for its fishing, lakes and boating opportunities. Stay in your own cosy log cabin or lake house with logburner stove.

Look forward to spending quality time together with woodland walks, bike rides, forest bathing and plenty of shared laughter.

Cabu House has a fully licensed bar, a shop and nature spa with bubbling hot tub, sauna and relaxation room.

3. Sperrinview Glamping (Tyrone)

Sperrinview Glamping in Cookstown, Co. Tyrone is one of the most popular places to go glamping in Northern Ireland.

Book yourself one of the luxury wooden pods that include a viewing window for gazing at the night sky from your comfy double bed.

How romantic is that! Set in a recognised Dark Sky Site, these luxury glamping pods include air conditioning and heating, private bathroom with shower and bath and a convenient kitchenette for rustling up breakfast in bed.

Outside you’ve got your own patio with seating, BBQ and fire pit for toasting marshmallows and sharing dreams.

4. Finn Lough Bubble Domes (Fermanagh)

How about a romantic stay in a Bubble Dome within a private forest setting? Immerse yourself in nature in this private forest retreat near Enniskillen.

The transparent geodomes create a private space surrounded by the beauty of nature. Upgrade to a Premium Dome and enjoy your own free standing stone bath in the woodland for a unique outdoor experience.

Inside, the cosy dome has a four poster bed, ensuite bathroom, fluffy robes, Nespresso coffee machine and breakfast included.

Finn Lough provides one of the most unusual (in the best possible sense!) romantic breaks in Ireland for couples.

5. Grove House Treehouse (Cork)

Looking for something different for your romantic getaway? Grove House Treehouse in West Cork could be just the place.

Built in the treetops, this quirky accommodation comes with a spacious deck with a private hot tub for the two of you to share. This eco-friendly treehouse was constructed from 100% sustainable materials and leaves no carbon footprint.

It includes a kitchen with oven, hob and fridge, running water and a bathroom with sinks, hot water shower and flush loo. Fully furnished with home comforts, it even has satellite TV!

6. Kilkea Castle Hotel (Kildare)

Another romantic fairytale castle, Kilkea is one of the oldest inhabited castles in Ireland, dating back to 1180. Located in Castledermot, Co Kildare, it has been superbly update.

The 140 elegantly furnished bedrooms include a themed Carriage Bedroom, Castle Bedroom and self-catering lodges. Family-owned and managed, the hotel oozes luxury and romance.

Make use of the spa for some serious pampering together in the large couples’ suite and hydrotherapy pool. Dine like royalty in Hermione’s Restaurant or opt for romantic In-Room Dining in the comfort and privacy of your room.

7. The Armada Hotel Spanish Point (Clare)

Finally, the Armada Hotel Spanish Point offers an epic stay for couples right on the edge of the Atlantic in West Clare. The spacious rooms are comfortable and contemporary with amazing sea views the moment you wake up.

They use furnishings and handwoven tweed fabrics produced by local crafts and artisans. Gourmands will appreciate the local produce which features on the restaurant menu including local oysters, crabs, Burren smoked salmon and meat and vegetables from the hotel’s own Farm.

They also produce their own whiskey and Mist+Moss Gin so you’re in for a real treat. 

Romantic getaways Ireland: Where have we missed?