[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he idea of a romantic getaway in a beautiful medieval castle or deluxe suite with rose petals may be your ideal couples break away, or something adventurous, cheap and cheerful could be the perfect way to spend that all important quality time with your special person.
Whatever it is and of course depending on the budget, there are plenty of places right here on our doorstep in this stunning island to visit and explore as a break away. Let’s face it, as students the budget is a fairly decisive limitation but that doesn’t mean that the options are any less exciting, perhaps just a little less glamourous.
The adventurous type
If you and your significant other are outdoorsy or anyway up for an active weekend away full of activities and memorable new experiences, this is just the place for you. Delphi Adventure Resort is a unique getaway destination for the adventurous couple, where you and your partner could spend the day hiking, learning to surf and paddle board, taking breath taking bike rides through a scenic Connemara and ending your day off with a tasty meal and trip to the spa. This resort, located in the heart of the beautiful Delphi Valley, near Leenane, in Galway is a haven for romantic getaways. The 300 acre resort, described as a place to enlighten your lust for life and awaken your senses will allow you to escape and embrace Ireland’s lustful landscapes and stunning scenery and all for a reasonable price.
A couple of campers
Camping doesn’t sound all that glamourous, but for couples on the search for something new and a little different should give it a go- however why not step it up a notch and go glam. Glamping is the new penthouse suite with rose petals… well, perhaps not that far but it is a unique way to spend a weekend away, especially for those who like to be at home with nature. There’s a few fun ways to explore this staycation idea, whether it’s glamping in a vintage caravan, a romantic night tucked away in a luxury treehouse or even an upgrade to a cosy cottage for those who aren’t quite ready to commit to the great outdoors.
At Teapot Lane, this glamping experience is like no other with a communal dining area and a cosy campfire at night to set the scene against the stunning scenery. Situated on the borders of Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal it is a perfect location for anyone looking to explore the coastal scenery and the stunning mountains while availing of the beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way. Whether you choose to explore the beautiful beaches by horseback while there, taking some surf lessons or taking part in some of the activities organised on site this is a unique and unforgettable way to do a staycation in Ireland.
The foodies
As dreamy as it is to lust for pizza in Italy, or some fresh croissants from a bakery in Paris, sometimes that just isn’t a realistic reality. However, a different alternative for any foodie couples who love to spend time either cooking, learning or just eating good food together is something like some cookery classes and a weekend away as culinary cuties wining and dining in award winning locations. While this can be a little more on the expensive side depending on where you go, there are some cheaper options and group classes that are worth a try for any tingling taste buds and food enthusiasts.
Island to island
One way to do a staycation on our own soil is to explore and take in everything the island has to offer. And what better way to do that than to embrace the islands at our feet here. While island hopping in Greece may sound more adventurous or exciting, island hopping on our own shores is a great alternative for the time being. For any couple, students or non-students this breath taking experience is well worth the trip. Paddle through the channels, bays and explore the islands while staying camping out on one of the Islands.
The Wild Atlantic Way
Last but by no means least, this one of a kind adventure journey across the country’s coastline is not one to be underestimated and could be a road trip of a lifetime for you as a couple. Set aside the weekend for this stunning 2,500km stretch and take the Wild Atlantic Challenge with your loved one to explore the stunning sights from every aspect and angle. Whether you want to bike it, dive into the invigorating sea swells and shorelines or simply embrace the mesmerising landscapes at your own pace, explore and experience these 9 different counties and the breath-taking views along a truly unforgettable coastal way.
So, if you are planning a cheap and memorable couple break away but can’t afford to break the bank abroad, don’t fear. Not only does Ireland have more than enough staycation destinations and locations to keep you occupied, it also boasts a little more adventure and diversity than just going sightseeing in a tourist occupied city.
Katie Gallagher
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