Make it a day to remember and head for Charles Fort. Located on the water’s edge, Charles Fort is a must visit hot spot for every romantic soul. The 17th Century star-shaped fort has two large bastions overlooking the estuary and several lookouts where you can check out the stunning panoramic views of Kinsale and its harbour at the start of the Wild Atlantic Way. If you stay around the grounds till after sunset you will also see stunning sights of the town twinkling in the distance!

For a truly unique dating experience, book a private Foraging and Picnic Tour with Kinsale Food Tours! You will meet your guide at the romantic coastal enclave of Sandycove where you will be treated to a seasonal picnic tailored to your taste followed by a foraging tour where you will learn all about the different types of seaweed and wild edible flowers in the area. They also offer a town tour where you get to sample some of Kinsale’s yummiest food from some of the best eateries in town. Kinsale Food Tours is not to be missed on your Kinsale date!

See Kinsale from a different angle! Think harbour, hills, glistening waters and plenty of fresh sea air. Glide around the harbour with Kinsale Harbour Cruise or explore the Atlantic Ocean and the breathtaking coast of Kinsale with the crew at Sovereign Sailing. 

If your date is a lover of food, impress them by booking dinner at Kinsale’s first Michelin starred restaurant Bastion where you will be served with a warm welcome and big flavours in equal measure. Chef Paul Macdonald creates a memorable dining experience using as much local produce as possible and has an impressive wine list to go with. With its reputation as the foodie capital of Ireland this is the perfect Kinsale date! 

Meander through the colourful streets and immerse yourself in art! A surprise awaits as you never know what you’re going to see each time you visit Kinsale’s Art Galleries. With a mix of contemporary and classic paintings, ceramics, photography and sculptures, you can be sure to walk away feeling inspired and reinvigorated by what you have seen and discovered. Kinsale also has some fabulous street art for you to discover on your next trip to the seaside town. 

Hide away in one of the cosy corners of Daltons Bar. After a day exploring Kinsale, there’s nothing better than a creamy pint by a cosy fire and soaking up the atmosphere whilst enjoying some traditional Irish tunes! 

If food porn is what you’re into then look no further than OHK. Their signature cruffin is spectacular with flavours ranging from hazelnut praline and crème mousseline to the memorable ‘my last rolo’. Dunk your cruffin into your favourite coffee and enjoy! 

Located on Main Street, right in the heart of Kinsale, The Supper Club is the place to go for handcrafted cocktails in a funky, laid back space. They serve up a mix of classic cocktails with some uniquely named mixes like ‘Thyme Folks Please’ and ‘Anne Bonny’.  Pair your favourite cocktail with some tasty bites from their eclectic mix of small and large plates.

Turn up the romance by grabbing some delicious takeaway bites from one of the many cafes in town and watch the sun go down at the spectacular Old Head of Kinsale walk.  Catch a glimpse of The Old Head Lighthouse, expansive beaches of Garylucas and Garrettstown and impressive cliff faces. Or stay in the town and walk along the harbour to admire the stunning views of Kinsale at golden hour.

Indulge in luxury and enjoy massages and relaxing treatments in the stunning setting of Kinsale Hotel & Spa. If there’s something specific you’d like to treat, Kinsale’s Wellness Centre, Kinsale Health Hub who offer a host of holistic treatments tailored to your needs. Give yourselves the ultimate treat of pampering and unwinding in this serene seaside town and feel better together!

Blog written by Lorraine Walsh