Whatever the weather – how cute and romantic are picnics? Especially on Valentines day.
They are free, picturesque and you can just wrap up and keep each other warm. Here are our best picnic picks for your romantic valentines outing.
1. War Memorial Garden, Islandbridge, Dublin 8
Why picnic there This sunken park south of Phoenix Park is practically hidden from view. For mind-space alone, sit in the centre of the rose garden. Hello, romance. The flowering plants smell sweet and look edible. Just remember, Pinterest didn’t say to steal the flowers for your inspired bring-along salad. We suggest you grab a gourmet coronation chicken salad with sh-amazing Asian slaw from the Suffolk Street Poulet Bonne Femme – only if you really want to win at picnics. Mmm.
What’s so great Admire the two granite bookrooms that frame the garden. They are exquisite pieces of architecture.
Freaky fact All War Memorials worldwide share exactly the same dimensions #fact
2. Inishbofin Island, West Galway
Why picnic there It’s an easy day trip from Galway. Leave Cleggan Pier on one of two daily Summer sailings to ‘Bofin’. The area has an indescribable sense of calm with a mere one hundred and twenty inhabitants (including three generations of one island family), settled on the rugged landmass. Strong ties to history and folklore are abounding in Day’s ‘Beach Bar’, of a Saturday night, we’ve been informed. Bofin is the perfect spot to lay your blanket and indulge in some old-fashioned storytelling.
What’s so great The ‘Island of the White Cow’ as it’s known, boasts crystal clear water and an amazing diving culture. Bofin waters are home to the world’s second biggest fish, the basking shark. Don’t be scared as it’s a veggie. Stay the night you say? Cue the sound of crashing waves to lull you into a slumber. Aw yeah.
Freaky fact Gráinne Uaile, the infamous pirate Queen of Irish waters, once lived in the castle west of the pier #fact
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3. The walled garden at Glenveagh Castle, West Donegal
Why picnic there It’s only stunningly beautiful. The park is exploding with bursts of duvet-like floral arrangements and winding paths. One particularly pretty section is just beside a big ash tree that takes residence in the corner of the garden.
What’s so great Donegal people have this dead-sexy accent that makes picnicking with one of them the most dream-worthy scenario possible. Hire an electric bike from the castle and zip about without any exertion. Golden Eagles, Ravens (Winter is coming) and Red Deer are regularly spotted by tourists too. Where would you get it? Emotional.
Freaky fact Marblehill Beach in Donegal was where the word ‘picnic’ was invented. #nonfact …but, Glenveagh is one of the last places you will hear the call of the Corncrake bird. Yep.
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3. Ballycroy Park on the Wild Atlantic Way, North Mayo
Why picnic there This is Ireland’s largest National Park with a crazy 30,000 acres of uninhabited land. So you need to tick that box – just saying. The tree-less sweeping landscape is oozing biodiversity. Starting the walking loop from the Ballycroy Visitor’s Centre, ramble the marked route and spot Achill Island on the horizon. Anywhere you choose to picnic in the park will provide an unforgettable backdrop. Mayo is unreal. #nonbiased
What’s so great The endless sea views are breathtaking. The oldest pub in the area, ‘Cleary’s’ is a reminder of old Ireland. The original, exceptionally high counter top and grocery shop off the main bar area is too cool to be missed.
Freaky fact There are so many legends about this area of Mayo, not least the fact that a huge mythical giant lives atop the highest mountain Corsleive, and his name is ‘Dáithi Bán’. No joke.
4. Glenariff Forest Park, Antrim
Why picnic there Winding paths uncover raw beauty around every corner of the park livened up by picturesque waterfalls. The cacophonous sound of slicing through rushes underfoot makes you understand why HBO chose the North of Ireland to shoot Game of Thrones. The flora jutting out of the rock walls and gorges are spectacular. That fresh air is all you need as a picnic accompaniment. Relax and breathe.
What’s so great I think I mentioned the gigantic waterfalls but, there are also stunning views over the adjoining Glen to transport your mind peeps.
Freaky fact The original waterfall walkway is eighty years old #fact
Keoghs* the cool, crisp people did a survey that hit a nerve when it comes to picnicking in the homeland. 37% said crisp-sandwiches topped their childhood memories and who do you think were our ideal picnic partners of choice? You guessed it – our homegirl Amy Hubes and BOD #snap
If you suggest a further fabulous Irish picnic haunts in your townland, mail us Amanda.Cassidy@HerFamily.ie
