A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to stumble onto a fantastic new Instagram account @covidbridetribe. Such a fantastic idea- offering tips and sharing information to help followers plan a wedding under current restrictions. Let's be honest, planning a wedding is stressful enough without trying to do it in the midst of a global pandemic!
So, here we are with lots of potential honeymooners, still looking for a memorable, unique honeymoon experience without travelling too far from home... and there are actually lots of fabulous places in Northern Ireland that will tick all the boxes. It's actually been quite tricky this week to create a shortlist of my favourites in fact. So much so that this will be part one of two. Look out for 'Luxury Honeymoon Hotels' coming next week!!
Have a look at some of my favourites...
Tara's Hill Cottage
This beautiful self- catering cottage at the foot of the Mournes has some of the most beautiful views (very romantic). The cottage is finished to perfection with exposed brick and a wood burning stove in the living area, rustic kitchen and double bedroom for two but my absolute favourite thing about this place is without a doubt the outdoor terrace with dining area created from natural stone, complete with wishing well. Perfectly private and peaceful. They only thing that could make this place even better is a hot tub... wait, what? That's right. There is a new hot tub being installed right now in time the 2021 season.
Finn Lough Bubble Domes
What could be more romantic than gazing up at the stars with your new spouse than your very own transparent bubble dome hidden away in a private forest? Each bubble dome sleeps two adults with 180 degree transparent walls so you can leave the busy world behind and really relax surrounded by nature. The luxury bedrooms boasts a four poster bed, bathroom, freestanding stone bath overlooking the woodlands, coffee machines and fluffy robes. You can even include a luxury spa experience and enjoy the two hour spa trail and experiences.
Causeway Country Pods, Bushmills
Glamping is becoming increasingly popular with some amazing sites across Northern Ireland. These cosy pods are perfect for honeymooners. As well as a cosy pod for two with shower room, kitchenette (with microwave, kettle and toaster), they each have their own private hot tub overlooking the rolling fields of the North Coast. Order a fire pit and BBQ pack for relaxed, late evenings under the stars. The location is fantastic too. Less than 5 minutes drive to Bushmills town for shops, cafes, bars and restaurants and of course, you can explore all the North Coast has to offer from beach walks to surfing, the Giant's Causeway to Game of Thrones territory.
Killyhevlin Lakeside Lodges, Enniskillen
Overlooking the banks of Lough Erne, these wood-panelled lodges are modern and stylish in decor with kitchen, ensuite bathrooms and open plan living space leading to your own private outdoor decking area.
Because the lodges are located adjacent to Killyhevlin hotel, you have the best of both worlds. You can enjoy all the privacy of a self-catering stay with the convenience of three restaurants, bar area and treat yo'self to a luxury spa experience or enjoy the health club with pool and indoor jacuzzi and outdoor hot tub. (The facilities are so lovely and the staff have always been so helpful and friendly when I have stayed!!)
You are a short walk to Enniskillen centre for shops, cafes, bars and restaurants too and you can venture a bit further afield to enjoy the many highlights of the Fermanagh Lakelands too.
Wrens Cabin, Willowtree Glamping, Mournes
The new Wrens Cabin at Willowtree is ideal for a couple's retreat. This spacious cabin with king size bed, kitchenette and lounge has AMAZING panoramic views over the Mourne Mountains. Tucked away in its own little meadow under the Mournes, you can enjoy seclusion and tranquility with private woodfired hot tub just outside your front door!
Situated in Annalong, Co. Down, you can enjoy walks down by the harbour with shops closeby and you are only a short drive to the seaside town of Newcastle.
Strangford View Mews, Killyleagh
Three charming cottages each with their own private entrance restored in keeping with the countryside with reclaimed timbers and stone. Just a few minutes away from Simmy Bay, you can enjoy views overlooking Strangford Lough. The hot tub pavilion with outdoor seating is perfect for relaxing or sit around the fire pit toasting marshmallows long into the evening. Special couples packages are available which can include champagne, chocolates and even your own private chef!! Only 2 miles from Killyleagh for shops, restaurants and bars.
Ren- ellen Cottage
This brand new luxury accommodation is situated along the County Down coast between Annalong and Kilkeel. Since I first featured it on my socials earlier this week, I've had so many messages. Ren- ellen cottage is incredible. The renovation is stunning and contemporary. Wake up to stunning sea views made even more striking by the huge windows. The outdoors space offers a hot tub, outdoor dining & seating as well as private steps down to a quiet beach. A QUIET BEACH. Wow!!
Belfast Cottages, Castlereagh Hills
Nestled in the Castlereagh Hills but only half an hour from Belfast city centre, there are four cottages on site each with private hot tub. Modern, quirky cottages sympathetically renovated with views over the countryside. Modern bedrooms, spacious kitchen and living areas and all offer a private outdoor area and hot tubs are sheltered so you can enjoy whatever the weather! Belfast cottages offer really great packages too which can include hampers, bubbles and dinner depending on which package you choose.
Myrtle at Larchfield Estate
As well as being an award winning wedding venue, Larchfield Estate offers a range of luxury accommodation and me, loving all things a little bit quirky, think they have one very special gem for a unique honeymoon stay. They call her 'Myrtle,' the glamping truck and I am totally in love. A 1952 army truck that has been adapted into a romantic accommodation for two with underbed heating for cosy nights, complete with wood burning stove, deck, sauna and outdoor fire pit set on the grounds of this six hundred acre country estate of forest and woodland.
Glamper UK
Finally, if you want a honeymoon with a difference, why stay in one place? Glamper UK are a local company specialising in the hire of luxury motorhomes. Embrace all that Northern Ireland has to offer, from coastline to countryside and take your accommodation with you. These spacious motorhomes are perfect for explorers, adventurers and those who love to wander.
For more Staycation Inspiration, follow @Staycationsni on Facebook and Instagram.
For more information on the accommodation above, please contact the accommodation provider directly via their website or social media channels.
Photos courtesy of each individual accommodation's website and/or Instagram.