Valentine’s Day on the island of Ireland

St Valentine’s relics in Dublin

Visiting relics that date back almost 2,000 years might not sound like a promising start to a romantic day out, but these are the relics of St Valentine himself – patron saint of lovers. The Shrine of St Valentine in Whitefriar Street Church, Dublin is a must-visit on a Valentine’s trip to the city. Love letters, flowers and other trinkets are left at the sacred spot by loved-up couples hoping for a long and happy relationship.

Elsewhere in Dublin, there are lots of romantic things to see and do. If you’re a fan of the TV hit, Normal People, you can follow in the footsteps of young lovers Marianne and Connell and take a stroll through the beautiful grounds of Trinity College Dublin. Afterwards, cosy up in a snug in a traditional Irish pub, such as Toners or Kehoes.

In the evening, why not try some fresh Irish oysters for dinner? They’re believed to be an aphrodisiac after all! WILDE in The Westbury serves up delicious Carlingford Lough rock oysters. For a more affordable option, try Klaw, an oyster and crab shack which offers an Oyster Happy Hour from 5-6pm.

Next, how about a tipple? The Vintage Cocktail Club in Temple Bar is a small, intimate spot, and it has a cocktail menu for the ages, literally! It offers drinks from down through the centuries, starting in the 1400s and going right up to the present day.

Then sleep sweet dreams in luxury accommodation at the likes of The Shelbourne or The Merrion. For cheaper places to stay, check out some of the Maldron hotels available, or book The Dean, a trendy boutique hotel with a rooftop restaurant and bar that offers panoramic views of the city.

Romantic destinations in Ireland

The island of Ireland is full of romantic places to stay. In Northern Ireland, The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat is a four-star gem with a stunning spa just a short hop from Belfast. The Grand Central Hotel Belfast and The Fitzwilliam Hotel offer special Valentine’s Day packages in the city itself.

Further afield, Newforge House in County Armagh is a fabulous country escape, and Bishop’s Gate Hotel is an exquisite base from which to explore the historic Walled City of Derry.

Just off the Wild Atlantic Way, five-star Adare Manor in County Limerick is a showstopper if you fancy pulling out all the stops! In Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, Castle Leslie Estate in County Monaghan is an award-winning retreat surrounded by glorious Irish countryside. And Cliff House Hotel in County Waterford is a seaside boutique hotel in Ireland’s Ancient East boasting gorgeous views out into Ardmore Bay.

As for idyllic attractions to visit, Kylemore Abbey in the wilds of Connemara should be top of your list. The magnificent landmark was built as a “love token” by businessman Mitchell Henry for his wife Margaret in the 1870s. Lough Ouler in County Wicklow is another sight to behold. Although a hike is required to get to this remote location, an unbelievable view of a heart-shaped lake is your reward! In Galway, stop into Thomas Dillon’s, makers of the traditional claddagh ring since 1750. The ring shows two hands holding a heart that’s topped with a crown, and is one of Ireland’s most romantic pieces of jewellery.

Wine and dine in style

No Valentine’s getaway is complete without a standout meal... or three! Luckily, in Ireland you’re spoilt for choice. You could go high end at a Michelin-starred establishment such as Aimsir in County Kildare or you could savour fresh local seafood at Harry’s Shack, accompanied by breathtaking views of the Causeway Coast. And Paradiso in Cork has a reputation as one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Europe!

To really celebrate in style, a toast is required. While Ireland is known for its traditional pubs full of Irish music and warming firesides, it also has a fine selection of trendier bars to frequent. The Observatory in Belfast's Grand Central Hotel bills itself as a luxurious liquor lounge and it provides majestic views over the Titanic city. Out west, The Lamplight Wine Bar in Clifden, Connemara is a wine-lover’s dream, with its wine garden, terrace and retail store.

If you’d rather a simple pint of "the black stuff" or perhaps a local craft beer, check out Ireland’s pubs here.