As dreary January fades into the background, the next occasion to look forward to is Valentines Day, the most romantic day of the year. We may be a little more restricted this year but you can still make this Valentine’s Day one to remember. Some celebrate it with a card and a romantic night at home and others go all out with a luxury hotel stay. If you’re planning to pop the question on the 14th, we can’t think of a more romantic setting than Wicklow. Take your other half to the Garden of Ireland and visit some of our most beautiful spots, giving you the perfect background for a wedding proposal they won’t forget!
Take a Hike
We’re lucky to have some of the best and most scenic walking routes in Ireland on our doorstep in Wicklow. While walking in the mud and rain may not be some peoples idea of a romantic day out, getting out into the fresh air, stretching your legs and soaking in the picturesque Irish countryside is many couples idea of heaven! Take yourselves out to the Blessington Lakes (virtually on our doorstep) and follow the Blessington Greenway Walk, about an hour and a half around the lake through beautiful forest and woodland. Dress well, layer up and don’t forget to pack the ring and a bottle of bubbles so you can have a mini celebration!
Romantic Dining Al Fresco
If hiking isn’t your idea of fun, you can opt for a drive or a short walk with a delicious picnic at the other end. Surprise your other half by packing their favourite food and drink, a comfy picnic blanket to keep you dry and the ring they have always dreamed of! Drive less than 30-minutes to one of Ireland’s not so hidden gems, Glendalough. The lakes surround are scattered with picnic areas and it’s a beautiful place to pop the question. If you really want to impress, gas barbecues are permitted at the upper lake at Glendalough, so you can have a delicious hot meal!
Russborough House
For a picturesque spot for a proposal in Wicklow, look no further than the magnificent Russborough House. Less than 10-minutes’ drive from Tulfarris is Russborough's beautiful demesne with over 200 acres of scenic parklands to explore. You can visit the 18th century walled garden, the fairy trail and maze, then enjoy the 2km wildlife trail through the wildlife habitat, learning more about the local flora and fauna. This easy walking route takes in the breath-taking scenery and the best views of the palatial house and has plenty of secluded spots for you to get down on one knee.
For the Adventurous Type
If traditional romance isn’t your partner’s idea of fun, and they would rather be active than relaxed, arrange a hike on Wicklow’s highest peak and propose with some of the best scenery in Ireland as a backdrop. Lughnaquilla stands at 925 and is better known to locals as Lug. It is the highest mountain in Ireland outside of Kerry and takes around 6 hours of challenging uphill hiking to summit. You can climb unassisted but if you’re inexperienced, you may want to brush up on your navigation skills and check you have the correct kit packed. The last thing you need is to get lost on a mountain on the most romantic day of your life! Pack a flask of your favourite tipple for Dutch courage before you pop the question and as a celebration afterwards!
Boat on the Lake
Is there anything more romantic than a boat trip on the beautiful Blessington Lakes? Not a speedboat or a tourist carrier, but a private boat, skippered by a friendly local, complete with a gourmet picnic. Some companies also allow you to rent a boat without a skipper, if you’d like some privacy. It’s the perfect secluded setting to ask the one you love to marry you. Our team are happy to assist you by booking your boat, arranging anything we can to help and we will of course be waiting for you with a warm welcome and a glass of champagne to celebrate with you upon your return.
Tulfarris Hotel in Wicklow is the perfect setting for your engagement celebration whether you pop the question on a luxury boat on the lake, or wading through the mud on top of a mountain. While we cannot welcome leisure guests this February 14th, we will be here when restriction allow and would be delighted to share your celebration with you