This month we have decided to bring you some of the best romantic getaway hotspots in the heart of Ireland. The arrival of Spring normally brings improving weather and longer evenings, so it is the ideal time for a couple’s getaway. This time of year, there are great deals to be found.
Ireland’s midlands is often overlooked as a getaway destination, which makes it perfect for a midweek or weekend hotel break as there is so many lesser-known places to visit.
Kildare
Although famed for its rich equine offering with the National Stud and the Curragh and Punchestown Racecourses, Kildare also has a huge selection of attractions, hikes, walks and historical places to visit.
The Royal Canal walk has grown in popularity over the years with the improvements to for walkers and cyclists making it easier to take in all or part of the canal. The ideal place for a romantic walk, many start Maynooth and go west towards Kilcock. The comfortable 6km route can be managed in approx. an hour and 15mins.
If you prefer fashion to walks Kildare is the place for you. Find inspiration in the Newbridge Silverware Museum of Style Icons and then build your own style shopping in Kildare Village.
Where to Stay?
If you’re looking for a bargain Moyvalley Hotel and Golf Resort from €80 per night B&B during February and March is currently one of the best hotel deals in Ireland as you’ll find.
If you’re looking to bring out the true romantic in you Barberstown Castle in Straffan offers award winning dining in a elegant castle setting just 40mins from Dublin City.
Westmeath
If you’re looking to go to the absolute heat of Ireland, it must be Westmeath. Offering ideal options for romantic activities whether you’re looking to stay active, relax or get a taste for something different. Athlone is split by the River Shannon and offers a selection of cruise options to give you a different perspective of the midlands. If you’re looking to be a little more active, you explore the Athlone to Mullingar Greenway or even take a plunge in Lough Ree adventure centre. Kilbeggan may not be the first town that comes to mind when you think of Irish whiskey, but perhaps it should be as Kilbeggan Whiskey is home to the Irelands oldest licenced distillery. Take in the wonderful story of Kilbeggan Distillery and the spirit that comes with this historical building and famed tipple.
Where to Stay?
Athlone Springs Hotel & Leisure Centre is an ideal destination for your midland’s hotel break. This 4-star hotel on the edge of Athlone is one of the most well know hotels in Westmeath. On site pool and swimming pool, the hotel has some fantastic deals from just €199 this Spring.
If you’re look to stay closer to the River Shannon, you could not ask for better than The Radisson Blu Hotel Athlone. Another luxury 4 star with great dining options, as well as a hotel babysitting service, ideal for those that may not be able to getaway on their own.
Offaly
Offaly offers very high volume of castles worth exploring, especially if you manage to catch a sunny day. on the outskirts of Tullamore sits in the heart of magical oakland wood peppered with lavender plants in during warmer weather. Popular with walkers, it’s long avenue entrance can look well beaten after a rainfall, so bring suitable footwear. The castle itself will immediately transport you back in time when you see the amazing gothic features.
Birr Castle is home to one of the Ireland’s lesser talked about castles but definitely deserves a lot more attention. From wildlife to astronomy, Birr Castle is a learning centre as much as it is a tourist attraction. Home to amazing features such as the worlds largest telescope, a Science Centre, the Giants Grove redwood plantation among other fantastic highlights Birr Castle is not to be missed when visiting the midlands.
Lough Boora Discovery Park is another destination in the midlands that may not sound too familiar but is no less impressive. The former Bord Na Mona harvesting region it has now been turned into a home of historical, natural and artistic discovery. Rent a bike and explore the many site hidden around the park from Irish artist sculptures to recreations or ancient settlements.
Where to Stay?
The 4 star Kinnity Castle Hotel in Birr is the perfect place to stay if you’re wishing to explore Offaly. Sitting near the Slieve Bloom Mountains the luxury hotel will have you feeling like royalty from the moment you check-in. Ideal for any romantic break or luxury getaway.
