Last week I started writing about honeymoon accommodation in Northern Ireland and it quickly became apparent that there were far too many incredible places for me to fit into one blog post so here is Part 2- 'Honeymoon Hotels'.
There are so many lovely hotels throughout Northern Ireland but when it comes to honeymooning nearer home, these are my favourites- think views, spas, scenery and unforgettable experiences.
Killeavy Castle Estate, Newry
Situated within the ring of Gullion, an area of outstanding natural beauty, Killeavy Castle Estate offers luxury accommodation in a rural setting. A four star, boutique hotel with 45 spacious bedrooms, a self- catering Gatelodge (sleeps up to 6 guests), bar, restaurant and spa with mountain view hydro pool and range of therapies. There are a variety of great value overnight spa packages available... ultimate relaxation.
Dunadry Hotel & Gardens, Dunadry, Co. Antrim
Dunadry Hotel & Gardens sits on the banks of the Six Mile River, just 3 miles from Antrim. Originally a linen mill, this four star hotel retains a lot of traditional features although it has recently been renovated and with the beautiful internal gardens and river walks, it is a place full of charm. I particularly love the 'Secret Garden'- hidden from view, very romantic. The hotel offers executive rooms with garden & courtyard views or choose the master suite for absolute luxury. As well as the bar and restaurant, the hotel has a health club with heated indoor swimming pool, gym and a beauty salon for pampering during your stay.
Fullerton Arms, Ballintoy
A perfect North Coast location close to Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a- Rede rope bridge and Game of Thrones filming locations, this hotel has a familiar, country pub feel, a warm welcome and a fabulous menu using local produce- guests rave about the food! The rooms are modern and spacious and they even offer dog-friendly rooms if you want to bring your four-legged fur-baby along too.
Lusty Beg Island
Take the short ferry crossing to Lusty Beg Island where you feel like you are leaving the busy world behind to enjoy the peace and tranquility of nature. Explore the woodlands and nature walks or take in the views over the lake to experience a slower pace of life. Choose a stay in one of the hotel's ensuite bedrooms or one of the self- catering lodges. Treat yo'self to one of their popular seaweed baths at The Island Spa - a traditional therapy said to promote health and beauty. The spa offers couples packages- perfect for honeymooners! Or if you are an adventure seeker, there are lots of activities available including archery, canoeing and power boating.
Salthouse Hotel, Ballycastle
This luxury hotel has made my list because of its cracking location overlooking Ballycastle- those views (we all know how I love the views!!) An intimate, luxury hotel with beautiful bedrooms - the suite is stunning- and... OCEAN VIEW DINING! Now if that doesn't scream romance, I don't know what does! Of course they also have spa facilities with two outdoor hot tubs (views!!), sauna, steam room and lots of treatments available.
Ballygally Castle Hotel, North Coast
While we are on the subject of views, Ballygally Castle Hotel has got those sea views in abundance. It is one of my favourites because it is steeped in history with the castle dating back to 1625. The tower rooms are some of the oldest hotel bedrooms in Ireland or you can choose from their coastal view rooms, superior rooms or garden view suites. Much of Game of Thrones was filmed in this area so if you are a fan (and even if you are not) the local landscape is worth exploring and of course, the hotel is home to one of the Game of Thrones doors (photo opp, right there.) Treat yourself to their lovely afternoon tea... you won't regret it.
Other hotels in the Hastings Hotels portfolio are also perfect for honeymooning- Culloden Estate and Spa, Slieve Donard Resort and Spa and of course, the newest Grand Central in Belfast city centre with the observatory but for me, Ballygally's charm, sea views and peaceful setting make it my favourite.
Beech Hill House, Derry/Londonderry
This four hundred year old country house set on over 30 acres of woodland and lakes is also only three miles from Derry/Londonderry. So you can enjoy a rural retreat and a city break too! The manor house retains many of the original features and each of the rooms are beautifully decorated making this hotel a charming place to stay.
The Harrison, Belfast
One of the newest hotels in Belfast, The Harrison Chambers of Distinction is already one of my favourites because it offers a unique stay experience. Each one of the bedrooms has been carefully decorated using locally sourced furnishings, conveying its own individual character and the entire place wraps you in history, literature and the arts. It's different, it's tongue-in-cheek and it is definitely quirky (and oh, how I love quirky). I love the four poster beds and the free-standing bath tubs. Located on Belfast's tree-lined Malone Road, there are an array of bars, cafes and restaurants within walking distance in this Queen's Quarter area of the city. The Harrison also offers a range of spa treatments with spa packages available.
Photo credit: Individual hotel websites and social media
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