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IN France, romance isn’t just an idea – it’s a way of life. So, this Valentine’s season, Irish Ferries is inviting couples to get onboard, lean into love and sail straight into the heart of French amour, with its expert’s pick of some of the most romantic towns in the world.
Whether you’re planning a proposal, an intimate getaway, or a romantic culinary adventure the journey begins as soon as you board the W.B. Yeats ship from Dublin, where couples can relax with a glass of bubbles and some fine fare, soak up the sea views and enjoy their first night at sea in a Deluxe or Premium suite cabin. Once ashore in Cherbourg, France unfolds as the ultimate destination for love in all its forms, from charming towns and fairytale châteaux to indulgent cuisine that is synonymous with love.
Nora Costello of Irish Ferries (and a regular visitor to France) shares her top Valentine’s picks close to Cherbourg – and there’s lots more travel and food inspiration in Irish Ferries’ newly launched Romantic France Guide available www.irishferries.com/Destinations-A-Deux
Honfleur – Timeless Romance by the Harbour
A small coastal town in Normandy, Honfleur charms with cobbled streets, pastel buildings and fresh sea air. Couples can stroll along the Vieux Bassin harbour, enjoy a quiet seafood dinner with oysters or scallops and a glass of champagne as the lights reflect on the water, or take in panoramic views from the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Grâce. Art lovers will enjoy the galleries inspired by Boudin and Monet. Honfleur is just over a two-hour drive from Cherbourg port.
Chantilly – Chic Château
Around four and a half hours from Cherbourg, and just 30 minutes north of Paris, Chantilly blends fairytale elegance with tranquil charm. The Château de Chantilly, set amid 115 acres of gardens, provides a romantic backdrop for strolls or lakeside relaxation, while the Forêt de Chantilly, local markets and candlelit restaurants offer leisurely experiences for couples. Don’t miss the town’s famous Chantilly cream, first served at a 17th-century banquet or a visit to the nearby medieval town of Senlis.
Angers & the Loire Valley – History & Wine
Nestled beside the Maine River, Angers combines medieval history and Loire Valley romance. Couples can explore the Château d’Angers with its 14th-century Apocalypse Tapestry, wander the old town, or enjoy the Jardin des Plantes and Arboretum Gaston-Allard for quiet sunset picnics. Wine lovers can visit nearby vineyards for tastings and scenic views across rolling vines. Angers is around four hours’ drive from Cherbourg.
Or choose from these quintessentially romantic towns
Mont-Saint-Michel: A dramatic UNESCO World Heritage Site rising from the tidal flats, unforgettable at sunrise or sunset and a dream backdrop for proposals. Approximately 2 hours 25 minutes’ drive from Cherbourg.
Saint-Malo, Dinard & Dinan: From coastal ramparts and Belle Époque glamour to medieval streets, this Breton trio delivers classic French romance. Around 2.5–3 hours’ drive from Cherbourg.
Deauville & Trouville: Elegant seaside towns known for long beach walks, oyster bars and champagne by the sea. Just over a two-hour drive from Cherbourg.
French Food for the Heart
Romance in France is inseparable from food. Couples can indulge in classic French favourites long associated with romance, including oysters, foie gras, figs, dark chocolate, honey and champagne, best enjoyed slowly and together. With Irish Ferries, the journey becomes part of the romance. Couples can bring their car, avoid baggage limits and explore France at their own pace. Onboard the W.B. Yeats, they can relax in spacious lounges, savour fine fare, browse tax-free shopping, enjoy the onboard cinemas, or upgrade to Club Class for priority boarding and complimentary refreshments.
Fares start from €301 one way from Dublin to Cherbourg for a car and two adults with an inside cabin.
Book now at www.irishferries.com Tel: 0818 300 400 info@irishferries.com
The 'Travel' Life of Brian 