Ireland Honeymoon Tips from a Real Couple: Dublin & the Wild Atlantic Way

Following Reagan Toal and Jake Ballenger’s destination wedding at a 17th-century castle in Ireland planned by Gina Myers Weddings and Events, the newlyweds had a romantic, cultural, and enriching honeymoon on the Emerald Isle.

Destination: Galway & Connemara

Following their nuptials in Northwestern Ireland, Reagan and Jake were transported by a private driver via Pro Bus & Car Luxury Touring to the g Hotel & Spa in Galway for two nights. The “architecturally striking” hotel offering stunning bay views from their top-floor suites provided a home base as they experienced the West Coast city’s vibrant cultural scene and gorgeous vistas, walked the charming narrow streets to visit shops and local seafood establishments, as well as taking a day trip to the picturesque Connemara region.

Photos courtesy of the g Hotel & Spa

The couple worked with Celebrated Experiences, discovered through Wendy Perrin, to craft their “beautiful and culturally immersive” itinerary, but they also highlight the importance of being flexible and taking local recommendations.

Photo courtesy of Reagan & Jake Ballenger

“Trust your private driver (if using one) for food and music recommendations – the local pub scene is incredible!” affirms Reagan, adding that their private driver Pat “was truly the heart of the trip and absolutely indispensable!” she confirms. “From landmarks that amass crowds each year to tucked- away pubs and artisan studios, we saw (and ate!) sides of Ireland we would’ve completely missed on our own.”

Traveling north by the Wild Atlantic Way to Connemara, known for its historical sites and remarkable scenery, they visited the impressive Kylemore Abbey and later had a private sheepdog and lambing demonstration at a local farm – witnessing the birth of two lambs and even having the opportunity to feed them, which was an unforgettable start to their honeymoon.

Photo courtesy of Reagan & Jake Ballenger

The next day, they visited the rugged Cliffs of Moher on their way through Burren, where they created custom fragrances at a family-owned perfumery set in a 19th-century farmhouse. “Seeing the Cliffs of Moher was a cool experience, but the rest of the day was equally fabulous!” remembers Reagan of their journey from Galway through Burren to their next stop, Killarney.

Highlights of Galway & Connemara

Exploring Galway. “We loved wandering through Galway’s charming shops and grabbing local seafood.”

Witnessing the birth of two lambs. “We did a private sheepdog demonstration at a nearby farm – timed perfectly to witness two lambs being born!”

Creating lasting memories. “We visited The Burren Perfumery, where we selected signature scents to remember our honeymoon.”

Photo courtesy of Reagan & Jake Ballenger

Destination: Killarney & Dingle Peninsula

When they arrived in Southwestern Ireland, they checked into Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa for two nights. “The views are breathtaking, the staff attentive, and the hotel restaurant exceeded all expectations,” declares Reagan of the quiet retreat they loved. “Don’t be afraid to get a hotel off the beaten path! Taxis into Killarney were easy to arrange, even though it’s slightly out of town.”

Photos by Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa

Favorite spots in the charming County Kerry town included The Porterhouse, a family-run steakhouse, as well as O’Donoghue Public House, steeped in tradition with live music every night. “You wouldn’t have to pay me much to move anywhere in Ireland, but I’d move to Killarney for free,” Jake confirms.

Excursions included a romantic horse-and-buggy ride through the Gap of Dunloe on the famous Ring of Kerry scenic drive, as well as exploring the Dingle Peninsula. “Don’t miss it!” urges Reagan. “It’s a quieter, artisan-rich area with unbeatable views and incredible local fare.” The couple returned with handmade Dingle Crystal, a custom Ogham bracelet with their wedding details from a local Celtic jewelry shop, and nature-inspired pottery from Louis Mulcahy.

Photo courtesy of Reagan & Jake Ballenger

“Every area we visited felt unique and individual, despite all being on one ‘small island,’” describes Reagan of their journey. “We loved so much about each of them, but felt a particular connection to Killarney and the Dingle Peninsula.”

Highlights of Killarney & Dingle Peninsula

Riding by horse and buggy. “Our driver arranged a peaceful and fun horse-and-buggy ride through the mountains of Kerry via the Gap of Dunloe when we were too tired for a long touring day, and it ended up being one of our favorite experiences.”

Enjoying Irish ice cream. “Murphy’s is a must-try. Their uniquely Irish flavors are incredible!”

Taking scenic drives. “We explored ancient dwellings and took scenic drives with panoramic views. Some of Star Wars was filmed here, so my husband and I nerded out a little!”

Photo courtesy of Reagan & Jake Ballenger

Destination: Dublin

Since Reagan and Jake wanted to end their trip with a bit of city life before flying out of DUB, they stayed at The Alex Hotel for two nights. En route from Killarney, they stopped to see medieval ruins at the Rock of Cashel, as well as Cork’s Blarney Castle, home to the legendary Blarney Stone said to bestow the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it – “yes, we kissed the stone!” Reagan adds.

Photos courtesy of The Alex Hotel

Once in Dublin, they enjoyed a four-hour guided tour blending history with pub stops, including The Church Café Bar and Grogan’s. “For couples who want to mix culture with relaxation, don’t skip the chance to pair history with a pint!” Reagan says. As a literary fiend, she also loved visiting Trinity College Library.

While they appreciated their itinerary, their most exciting times were “the tailor-made moments, often at the judgement call of our wonderful driver or local guides – meeting artisans, last-minute detours to great views, and historical tours with a pint in hand,” muses Reagan. They would absolutely love to return. “There are so many other parts of Ireland to explore and knowing how each region felt distinct, we want to see them all!” she smiles.

Photo courtesy of Reagan & Jake Ballenger

Highlights of Dublin

Touring Dublin. “We had a guided city tour in Dublin with a local expert that balanced historical storytelling with pub stops, including the church-turned-pub where Arthur Guinness was married.”

Witnessing a 9th-century treasure. “Getting to see the Book of Kells at Trinity College was absolutely magical, and the library is a dream!”

Photo courtesy of Reagan & Jake Ballenger

Ireland Honeymoon Tips from Reagan & Jake:

“Spring brings green landscapes and fewer crowds. We were told it might be rainy in April, but it was sunny!”

“Pack layers given the unpredictability of the weather, but may luck be on your side! Bring comfortable shoes; walking is required to see the best of the country.”

“Embrace the Irish senses of hospitality and flexibility; plans can and should change if a good opportunity is presented!”

“Do splurge on a knowledgeable driver or guide – it changes everything about your experience and makes navigating tricky, windy roads a non-issue!”

This story was originally published as a Travel Diaries feature in the Fall 2025 issue of Inside Weddings magazine. To order a copy of the Fall 2025 issue, visit our library of Inside Weddings back issues available for purchase.