5 Reasons Why Laois is Perfect for a Romantic Break

Written on 27th January 2023.

Header image: Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise

Valentine’s may be coming up but there’s always time to get away for a romantic break

Laois is known for its place in Ireland’s Ancient East, but there’s no hiding the fact that there are plenty of romantic things to do in the heart of the Emerald Isle. From days at the spa, live gigs and cocktail bars, to picnics in one of Laois’ many beautiful gardens and festivals and events worth catching, there’s always a part of your heart that will hold a piece of Laois.

Let us guide you through 5 reasons why Laois is the perfect location for a romantic staycation.

For moments in the gardens, at historic sites and at lush landscapes

Its abundance of beautiful gardens, historic sites and lush landscapes add to the picture-perfect picnic scene you’re so enthusiastic to ensue. Take Emo Court & Parklands with its woodland walks, a lake surrounded by blooming gardens and a beautiful neo-classical mansion, it’s the perfect spot for a slow afternoon in the hazy sun snacking and cheersing to love and life. Or the Rock of Dunamase, a sure contender that sunsets are worth getting up early for with your lover and sunsets are worth waiting all evening for, even if you do have to reschedule dinner plans. Perhaps an afternoon with a picnic blanket at Heywood Gardens surrounded by the sounds of birdsong, tree breeze and chitter-chatter. Find the perfect picnic spot here.

Relaxing Spa days, hot tubs, chocolate & champagne

Enjoying a relaxing unwind in the heart of Ireland with your romantic partner is definitely worth escaping for. Make a break for The Heritage, a 4-star spa and golf resort giving romantic getaways to Laois the idyllic ‘robe on, feet up’ experience. Or if it’s a hot tub and chill kind of trip you’re looking for, visit the beautiful Inch House Ireland, a country house in Stradbally. It’s the perfect excuse for an escape and so worth booking that extra special unique experience in the Midlands. If you would like a romantic break to remember Ballyfin Demense is the perfect place to treat yourself and your partner. Steeped in history and luxury is a magical one of a kind experience.

Entertaining Festivals & Events

Laois is the pinnacle for the most unique festivals and events happening across the Midlands. It is the home of the Electric Picnic and the National Ploughing Championships, after all. Catch up with other couples in the group and meet in the middle to see live music gigs, the arts, comedy, retreats and so much more. Laois’ iconic festivals such as Durrow Scarecrow Festival, Timahoe Heritage Festival, Old Fort Quarter Festival, Forest Fest, Twin Trees Festival and Power of Words Festival are just a few festivals that have made their mark, we are sure you will find an event that peaks your interest in Laois. Learn more about what’s happening across the county here!

Tempting Cocktails

Nothing beats sitting down to a cocktail or mocktail or two (…or three) after a day exploring Laois. Catch a nice meal in one of Laois’ many food hotspots across the county. We’ll let you decide where to take the night but let us inspire you here.

Adventurous Hearts

There are plenty of magical places for an adventure in Laois no matter the season. From mountain biking on the Slieve Bloom to kayaking on our lakes and rivers there is an adventure for everyone. Push your comfort zones while having fun and spending time with your special someone on a romantic date in Laois.