Honeymoon on the Enchanting Emerald Isle

It’s been said that “there are only two kinds of people in the world, the Irish and those who wish they were.” And after a honeymoon on the Emerald Isle, you’ll readily agree. Ireland’s scenic beauty is the stuff of legend: cool morning mists, a verdant countryside dotted with farms and cottages, winding roads that lead to centuries-old villages and a dramatic cliff-lined coastline with spectacular views.

Romance is inherent on this magical island, and as you explore the country, you’ll revel in all it has to offer — from luxe accommodations to mouthwatering meals — and be charmed by the warmth of its people, who will invite you to feel right at home and share a pint or two.

By: Diane Forden

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Natural Wonders -140689

On the west coast of Ireland, County Clare boasts a number of iconic, must-see landmarks. The world-famous 702 foot-high Cliffs of Moher extend for nearly five miles and can be viewed from a walkway atop the cliffs, a sea-level cruise or by helicopter. The immense limestone plateau, Burren, features a variety of unique foliage such as purple orchids and wild thyme due to its unusually temperate climate. Visit The Burren Perfumery for fragrances, soaps and other products made from the indigenous flora and fauna.

Photo courtesy of Tourism Ireland
Natural Wonders
Take a trip to another era and tour the 15th-century Bunratty Castle filled with medieval furnishings. You can also golf, hike, bike, horseback ride in the countryside or on the beach and even surf! (Doughmore Bay is one of Ireland’s best surfing beaches.)

Photo courtesy of Tourism Ireland
Regal Retreat
The surrounding landscape is breathtaking — sand dunes, rolling waves and a Greg Norman-designed golf course that embraces the area’s natural beauty.

Photo courtesy of The Lodge at Doonbeg
Regal Retreat
With its magnificent manor-like architecture, the five-star 205-room Lodge at Doonbeg is a grand country estate where every guest is royally treated.

Photo courtesy of The Lodge at Doonbeg
Regal Retreat
Inside, the Lodge is simultaneously luxurious and cozy. Rooms, suites and guest cottages are uniquely decorated with comfy furnishings, antiques and artwork. Dine at both the elegant Long Room for an array of international dishes and at the informal Darby’s with its views of links and sea, fireside tables and a bustling bar (room rates start at about $195 a night; doonbeglodge.com).

Photo courtesy of The Lodge at Doonbeg
Culture
Irish culture is steeped in a history that’s often told through song and dance. On the grounds of The Lodge at Doonbeg, an evening of entertainment at the Shebeen, a stone cottage that was home to an Irish family until the early 1900s, promises a walk back in time. Listen to soulful melodies of loss and longing punctuated with raucous, laugh-out-loud stories told as only an Irishman can.

Photo courtesy of The Lodge at Doonbeg
Culture
The merriment continues with joyful dancing as a performer’s rapid foot movements amaze with gravity-defying dexterity and darling children enchant with a traditional Irish dance performance. Musicians accompany the performers and the audience is invited to join in. To ensure that guests feel especially welcome, Irish stew is served along with a bit of whiskey throughout the evening. Heartwarming, indeed!

Photo courtesy of The Lodge at Doonbeg
Culinary Treats
Nearby, visit St. Tola’s Cheese for a demonstration on goat-cheese making, check out the Burren Mmoke House for its outstanding salmon (selected for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee dinner) and stop by Morrissey’s in Doonbeg Village for traditional fish ‘n chips.

Photo courtesy of The Lodge at Doonbeg
Culinary Treats
Make no mistake: the Irish take great pride in their food. Seafood, dairy and meat are locally sourced and seasonal. The Irish stew, a blend of beef, potatoes, carrots and leeks, will warm your soul, the salmon is fresh and tasty, and perhaps the best lamb I ever enjoyed was served at the long room at the Lodge at Doonbeg, where Executive Chef Heiko Riebandt and his team offer food and wine tastings and a fantastically varied menu. Indulge in oysters and Guinness and sample the artisanal cheeses. Desserts are plentiful and at Darby’s, the to-die-for sticky toffee pudding will have you begging for more.

Photo courtesy of The Lodge at Doonbeg
Spa Scene
A honeymoon is never complete without some soothing spa treatments and after a day of golfing, hiking or biking you’ll definitely want to indulge. Renowned Irish designer Clodagh created the subterranean White Horse Spa at The Lodge at Doonbeg, to mirror the natural environment: Sleek stone walls, wood furnishings and neutral hues enhance the ambience and a full-service beauty salon is also available. Bonus: Treatments use local natural salts, seaweed and herbal extracts. Try the über- relaxing Burren Wilderness Massage that includes a heated towel immersed in wildflower oil, hot stones, and hands and feet wrapped in warm mittens and booties. Pure bliss!

Photo courtesy of The Lodge at Doonbeg

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Honeymoon on the Enchanting Emerald Isle

Natural Wonders -140689

On the west coast of Ireland, County Clare boasts a number of iconic, must-see landmarks. The world-famous 702 foot-high Cliffs of Moher extend for nearly five miles and can be viewed from a walkway atop the cliffs, a sea-level cruise or by helicopter. The immense limestone plateau, Burren, features a variety of unique foliage such as purple orchids and wild thyme due to its unusually temperate climate. Visit The Burren Perfumery for fragrances, soaps and other products made from the indigenous flora and fauna.

Photo courtesy of Tourism Ireland