Christmas is the perfect time of year to embrace your inner amour and make a surprise proposal to your loved one! Why not get snuggled up in front of an open fire on a romantic break over the holiday season and pop that long overdue question! Here are a few cosy ideas to help you woo your loved one – and ensure that the answer is a big YES!
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Get loved up in the City
If you really want to impress this Christmas take her (or him) to WhiteFriar Street Church in Dublin one of the most romantic spots in Dublin with its splendid tall ceilings stunning arches and amazing stained-glass windows. More significantly the church is home to the shrine of St. Valentine containing the original relic of the Saint of Love brought from Rome in 1835. Afterwards celebrate a successful proposal with a fizzy a glass of champagne in one of the many chic bars or buzzing restaurants afterwards... the city is truly sparkling this Christmas!
Get Romantic along Dublin Bay
Dublin Bay has a wide choice of romantic spots to choose from for a lovey-dovey day out. Why not venture out to Howth Head for a romantic and refreshing walk and soak up the inspiring panoramic views at the same time. Glance north to County Down's Mountains of Mourne, south to the lush green Wicklow Mountains, and straight ahead for the expanse of Dublin city and its bay in between. Or cross the Liffey and head South to Dun Laoighaire pier for a stroll along what is one of the most romantic spots in Dublin! Continue along the bay to Dalkey and celebrate in one of many tempting restaurants.
Lights, Camera, Action
For fans of romantic comedy, set the scene for the perfect festive proposal by whisking your loved one off on a tour of magical Wicklow, including a visit to the set location from the Hollywood blockbuster, “PS, I love you”. This picturesque tour takes in the stunning scenery of the Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, Sally Gap and Malahide, winding its way through glistening lakes to recapture the magic of the novel's cherished love story.
Meeting of Minds in Avoca
The Meeting of the Waters, where the Rivers Avonmore and Avonbeg meet, was immortalised almost 200 years ago by poet Thomas Moore when he stumbled upon this scenic spot in the Vale of Avoca, Co. Wicklow. Why not pop the question while taking your true love for a walk by the picturesque beauty spot, and drop by local Avoca for lunch and head to the infamous Avoca Handweavers for a gift to mark the occasion.
Get loved up in the Lakelands...
For romantics walking on air, why not take a trail with a difference and venture to Ireland's only Tree Canopy Walk in Lough Key, Co. Roscommon. Nine metres above the woodland floor, take a birds-eye view of the history, flora and wildlife while taking in the panoramic views of the shimmering lake. Enjoy an escape amongst the treetops and take your time wandering around the routes with a self-guided tour leading to the 5-storey Moylurg viewing tower - the ideal spot to await a sunset and pop the question.
Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend
Draw inspiration from Connemara National Park and take the trail that will lead you and your other half to Diamond Hill. Follow the crushed rock hiking routes and rustle up the courage to propose to your true love with the backdrop of seaside cliffs, towering mountains and sweeping inland valleys. After your stroll in the fresh country air stop by the local Tea Rooms offering tasty homemade treats to warm your tummy - a perfect match for the flow in your hearts!
Dance on the promenade
The recipe for a perfect festive proposal could be found amongst the large variety of restaurants and cafés dotted along the promenade in Salthill, Co. Galway. After grabbing a bite to eat, why not stroll along the infamous promenade to watch the sun set on Galway Bay, an ideal spot to make it a proposal to remember.
Let Music Be the Food of Love
Whenever a member of the McOstrich family marries, anywhere in the world, the Shandon Bells, Cork City ring out in honour of the people who were involved in the creation of Cork's St Anne's Church. The iconic monument offers an idyllic scene for marriage proposals – perhaps the viewing balcony overlooking the bustling city and River Lee could be the spot for you? Not ready to propose? Why not serenade your true love by ringing the bells using the numbered cards provided!
To the end of the earth
Would you go to the ends of the Earth for the perfect proposal? Whisk your other half away for a trip to Mizen Head, Co. Cork, Ireland's most southerly point. From crashing waves, stunning wildflowers amongst the cliffs and a visitor centre hosting the pioneering efforts of Marconi and some fascinating local history, the peninsula hotspot offers a charming backdrop with a rich heritage to explore while waiting for that cliff-hanging answer....it better by yes!
Get carried away in Cork
Alternatively, get carried away with a trip in Ireland's only cable car, which runs 250m above the sea. Crossing the heaving tides of the infamous Dursey Sound, pop the question to your other half en route to this fabulously secluded island free of shops, pubs or restaurants. Dursey Island, Co. Cork offers a unique experience, where, for a few stolen hours, romantics are offered a getaway of calm and serenity amongst the magnificent selection of bird species inhabiting the rugged landscape.
For more idea on where to pop the question this festive period see www.discoverireland.ie
