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Leap into a romantic getaway in Northern Ireland

It’s the perfect time to propose a short break with a loved one

Murlough Beach Co Down, near Newcastle in the foothills of the Mourne Mountains

Tue Feb 6 2024 - 05:00

Embrace the giant spirit of the leap year in 2024, but rather than going down on one knee, why not propose a romantic and indulgent getaway in Northern Ireland to your loved one?

Whether it’s Valentine’s Day or making the most of the new St Brigid’s Day public holiday, what could be better than spending it in a luxurious hotel or a quirky and unique accommodation that oozes style and character.

With food and drink to fall in love with and home of musicians whose lyrics and melodies have helped sweep people off their feet, Northern Ireland is a haven for romantics seeking to make special memories. From dishes to ignite the soul made by outstanding chefs to street food, sumptuous cocktails or a cosy pint in the snug, no matter the depth of your pocket, you’ll find great value in Northern Ireland and a host of amazing attractions, many of which are less than two hours from Dublin.

With everywhere so accessible, you can enjoy a morning shopping in Belfast and embrace the splendour of the Causeway Coast in the afternoon before marvelling as a million stars light up the night sky in Co Tyrone’s OM Dark Sky Park.

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Tourism Northern Ireland has compiled this list of amazing places to stay, perfect for a romantic getaway.

Galgorm Resort & Spa, Ballymena

Galgorm Resort, County Antrim

Close to the Causeway Coast, Galgorm Resort is one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic hotel and spa complexes. Just 30 minutes from Belfast, Galgorm is an oasis of relaxation. It’s Thermal Spa Village, featuring pods, massage rooms, mini-jacuzzi’s and hot tubs, is the jewel in its crown. With 125 luxurious guestrooms and suites on offer, plus a range of log cabins, cottages and shepherd’s huts, you’ll find the perfect place to snuggle up. Foodies will be spoilt for choice with four restaurants, McKendry’s pub, a cocktail bar and an extensive gin menu.

A picture-perfect sunset always sets the romantic scene but when you add in 40,000 basalt columns and a Unesco World Heritage Site it’s off the scale completely. The jagged edge of Northern Ireland and home to great legends, the Giant’s Causeway has romance written all over it.

The Observatory Lounge Bar, Grand Central Hotel. Courtesy of Hastings Hotels

The Grand Central Hotel, Belfast

Unwind in luxury in the heart of Belfast at the Hastings four-star Grand Central Hotel, with its elegant suites and breathtaking views from ceiling-to-floor windows. For the wow factor, go to the sky-high 23rd floor and embrace the panoramic vistas from The Observatory. The tallest bar in Northern Ireland, it’s an awe-inspiring cocktail lounge with spectacular cityscape views of Belfast and beyond, perfect for taking your romantic break to new heights.

Belfast has become a food mecca and it’s impossible to walk the city without being lured in by world-class cuisine. Try dinner at the riverside Michelin-starred OX restaurant. Or go bistro, with a New York vibe, at local favourite James St, right around the corner.

Letteran Lodges, Derry. Photograph: Rob Durston

Letteran Lodges, County Derry

Nestled in the heart of Mid-Ulster at the foot of Slieve Gallion, two luxury Letteran Lodges with floor to ceiling windows provide panoramic views across five counties so you can immerse yourself in nature and sleep beneath the starry skies in this remote location. The A-frame accommodation offers spacious living interiors and lots of luxurious extras including a private hot tub and rainfall shower.

The Sperrin Mountains in the heart of County Tyrone is home to an official Dark Skies location. Just 12 miles from the lodges, the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory has the latest technology, from holographic installations to virtual reality headsets with colourful, accessible interpretation panels and hands-on activities.

Fermanagh Lakelands. Courtesy of Erne Water Taxi

Lusty Beg Resort, County Fermanagh

The four-star Lusty Beg Island resort and spa is a unique and utterly charming destination offering the perfect location to relax and unwind. The sense of tranquillity starts with the five-minute ferry ride across Lough Erne. Set among beautiful lakeside woodlands, accommodation includes self-catering houses and en suite bedrooms. There is a restaurant, a retreat spa, an activity centre, nature trail and fairy trail and it even has tennis courts if you want to hit some aces of your own.

Fermanagh is Northern Ireland’s lakeland county, with over a third of it covered by lakes and waterways including the mighty Upper and Lower Lough Erne. A boat cruise is the best way to discover it – on a guided option with Erne Water Taxi or channel your inner captain on the “wee red boats” with Erne Boat Hire.

Slieve Donard Hotel, Newcastle,. Courtesy of Marine and Lawn Hotel and Resorts

Slieve Donard Resort, County Down

The Slieve Donard Resort & Spa has an elegant new look, inspired by the hotel’s four-star impressive history. With golden beaches on one side and views of the world famous Slieve Donard mountain from all angles; you won’t find a more picture-perfect location in County Down. From relaxed to upscale, Slieve Donard offers four options for drinking and dining with a focus on local produce, game and seafood while the spa is housed across two floors.

Mourne Country is famous for mountain ranges, beaches and golf courses. But they also have an impressive collection of distilleries – check out Hinch Distillery, Killowen Distillery and Shortcross Gin Distillery just 30 minutes from the seaside town of Newcastle and part of the NI Spirits Trail.

Treetop Spa at The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn

The Old Inn, County Down

The Old Inn is the perfect escape for your next romantic retreat, perched above Crawfordsburn Country Park. The hotel is bursting with character, from cosy firelit corners and elegant interiors to gourmet dining. Unwind in their new Treetop Spa and enjoy outdoor bathing in the heated pool and hot tub, followed by a unique shower experience to awaken your senses with sounds and aromas transporting you to a tropical rainforest and finish in their relaxing cabana. A nightcap in the cosy 1614 Bar is a must.

Gateway to the Ards Peninsula and close to the picturesque North Down Coastal Path, it’s a spectacular place to be. Take a left on the coastal path and you will eventually come to the bustling town of Holywood while a right turn takes you to the city of Bangor. If the shops are calling, Belfast’s just a short hop away from Crawfordsburn.

Ebrington Hotel Derry

Ebrington Hotel, Derry City

The Ebrington Hotel, sited in a former army barracks in Derry, has left an impression on guests since it opened in 2023. A landmark building where modern luxury and Georgian style intertwine, this premium hotel has state-of-the-art facilities, including a fantastic restaurant and bar, spa and leisure complex. Take a romantic stroll across the iconic Peace Bridge straight to the heart of this vibrant walled city.

One thing you’re guaranteed in Derry is a fantastic night out. The historic city boasts incredible nightlife with a wide array of pubs and an eclectic live music scene. Peadar O’Donnell’s and Brickwork are our top tips.

Can’t make the trip to Northern Ireland now? Don’t worry, you can treat your other half to a gift voucher and be rest assured a giant welcome awaits you when you travel. Visit discovernorthernireland.com

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