Sweep the one you love off their feet with a romantic break to Lough Derg. Whatever the weather, wrap yourself in the magic of the region and let romantic walks, cosy restaurants or visits to historic sites warm your heart. There are oodles of options to choose from but here are just a couple of experiences to stoke of the fires of romance.
Nenagh Castle
Keep love alive at the finest cylindrical keep in Ireland. Climb up the 101 steps and enjoy the stunning views from the top that stretch all over County Tipperary. This is a wonderful backdrop for an important question.
Lakeside Hotel
Originally built in 1894, The Lakeside Hotel is an intrinsic part of the local landscape and history. As well as playing host to many of a guest through their long and distinguished history, the hotel has also seen generations of brides and grooms start their lives together in this spectacular setting with the Arra mountains of North Tipperary and Mount Bernagh of Clare majestically looking on.
Positioned in their own surrounds on the waterfront, couples can soak up Ireland’s Hidden Heartland’s unique tranquillity as they sit and watch the river Shannon lazily roll by in these stunning rooms.
Holy Island
Go old style on that all-important question and seal the deal at the Bargaining Stone on Holy Island. The tradition states that contracts were sealed between monks on the island by shaking hands through this stone. Now that’s a proposal you’ll tell your grandkids about.
Ballina / Killaloe
Make it a super special weekend and book a stay in one of the many towns or villages on the shores of Lough Derg. For example, in Ballina / Killaloe you can eat, drink, sleep and amble along the floating docks right on the waterfront. The picturesque town also throws up plenty of surprises along its narrow, winding streets in the form of quirky little cafes, shops, galleries, lively pubs and delicious eateries. It’s time to take your romance exploring.
Hike Beautiful Trails
Of all the adventures that Lough Derg has to offer, walking through its beautiful trails is one of the most charming and relaxing. With each successive step, you will experience the soothing peacefulness of the unique region where the vistas of Moylussa and Tountinna will take your romance to new heights.
The Snug, Mountshannon
Like things a bit off the beaten path? The Snug, in Mountshannon, has you covered. Not only is the atmosphere beautiful and romantic, but the service you’ll receive is excellent.
Wilde Irish Chocolates
Romance and chocolate have enjoyed a long and fruitful relationship since time began. If your loved one likes chocolate you simply have to make time to visit Wilde Irish Chocolates in Tuamgraney on this special day. More than 80 chocolates are handmade in the small artisan factory and there’s an open plan production area where you can see the chocolates being made and packed. You can taste what’s in production and make suggestions for your own favourite flavours. Now there’s a special proposal gift: a bar of chocolate inspired by your visit to Lough Derg.
Killaloe River Cruises
Why not gently cruise along the calm, sheltered waters of Killaloe on a river cruise? Out on deck, you can drink in the magnificent scenery or pop inside and enjoy an Irish coffee while being entertained with stories of legends and folklore.
Drive around the Lake
Cruising the lake’s tranquil waters is not the only way to explore the stunning surrounds of Lough Derg. Hop in your car and explore this enchanting drive along the country roads, stopping off in cosy pubs and cafes. Sounds idyllic, right? Add some icing to your visit with a trip to a gallery, pop into a farmer’s market, take a meander around a quay and snap a perfect sunset. Sometimes it’s the journey that we remember most.
