An extract from Ireland of the Welcomes September/October 2006
Islands have always been appealing to honeymooners. Hawaii, Bermuda, the Caribbean, the Seychelles, and the Greek Islands. In recent years, another island – Ireland – has been recognised by many travelling twosomes to have the same alluring attributes (including the palm trees). Couples of all ages are selecting the green and misty Emerald Isle for a first or second honeymoon, wedding anniversaries, or romantic getaways. Ireland has an added bonus for romantics – an endless supply of fairytale castles. Epic films such as Braveheart (filmed at Trim Castle) and Excalibur and Barry Lyndon (set at Cahir Castle) have put the spotlight on Ireland’s castles for a worldwide audience.
Best of all, Ireland’s castles are not just vacant ancient buildings amid the scenery. Many castles have been restored to highest standards, and beckon visitors to partake of luxurious accommodations and gourmet meals. The “live-like-a-king-and-queen” appeal of a castle, with its usual turrets and towers, canopy or four-poster beds, sprawling estate settings and pampering staff.

In sync with such dreamy accommodations, honeymoon trips tend to be more relaxed than a usual “touring” itinerary. Couples prefer to stay a few nights in each place, relaxing and savouring an area, rather than hopping to a new lodging every night. Since most honeymoons last only one to two weeks, this means itineraries have to be selective, covering only a part of Ireland.
Although Dublin, Waterford, Cork, Belfast, Derry and other large cities are sometimes part of a honeymoon itinerary, the major emphasis for most couples is on the West of Ireland, often referred to as “the real Ireland” – from Donegal south to Cork, with Kerry, Clare, Galway and Mayo being the prime do-not-miss destinations.
In the evenings, no matter where honeymooners roam, there are always plenty of pubs and other entertainments, providing opportunities to mix and mingle with the locals. Getting to know the people and speaking the same language rank high on the list of reasons that honeymooners choose Ireland. It ensures a no-hassle honeymoon.
Call us toll free at 1-800-876-5084, email to
info@castlehoneymoons.com or go to our website at
www.castlehoneymoons.com to see several different honeymoon packages in either Ireland or Scotland.
Text from Irish Tourist Board publication Ireland of the Welcomes