Begin your romantic chapter by traveling to O'Hare International Airport to board your flight toward the lush landscapes of Ireland. Ensure that special ring is safely secured in your carry-on as you prepare to cross the Atlantic Ocean and leave the familiar sights of Illinois behind.
Take a moment to relax in the comfort of the United Club lounge, toasted with a pre-flight glass of sparkling wine to celebrate the journey ahead. Once on board, settle into your seat and gaze out at the sprawling views of the Great Lakes as you begin the first leg of your transatlantic voyage.
As darkness falls, enjoy a complimentary dinner service within the Aer Lingus cabin while following your progress across the North Atlantic air corridor on the flight tracker. Settle in for a few hours of rest as you soar high above the icy expanse of Greenland, dreaming of the lush Emerald Isle awaiting you at sunrise.
Upon landing at Dublin Airport, navigate through arrivals to collect the keys for your rental car which will serve as your chariot through the Emerald Isle. Ease into the local pace by driving toward the city for a refreshing stroll through the serene paths of the [National Botanic Gardens](https://www.google.com/search?q=National+Botanic+Gardens+I+want+to+plan+a+trip+to+Ireland+that+will+start+in+Dublin+and+go+south+and+west+along+the+coast%2C+hitting+some+famous+spots+along+the+way%2C+leaving+Illinois+on+Friday%2C+4%2F24%2F26+and+returning+on+Sunday%2C+5%2F3%2F26.+I+would+like+to+rent+a+car+for+the+trip%2C+and+stay+at+some+nice+and+quaint+B%26Bs+or+AirB%26Bs.+Make+sure+to+stop+by+The+Glen+of+the+Downs+on+Sunday%2C+4%2F26+for+a+proposal%21++official+site) to stretch your legs and breathe in the fresh Irish air after your transatlantic crossing.
Check into your charming local guesthouse before taking a romantic stroll through the Victorian pathways and past the swan-filled ponds of St. Stephen's Green. Continue your immersion into Irish history at Trinity College Dublin, where you can gaze up at the ancient manuscripts within the Old Library before walking the cobblestone paths toward the boutique shops of Grafton Street.
As the sun sets, wander hand-in-hand across the iconic Ha'penny Bridge to capture a classic photo of the city lights reflecting off the River Liffey. Indulge in an intimate pre-proposal dinner at The Winding Stair before cozying up for a nightcap and live traditional music at the timeless The Stag's Head pub.
Wake up before dawn to drive south from Dublin for a life-changing sunrise at the Glen of the Downs Nature Reserve. Follow the winding, wood-lined trails to a panoramic overlook of the majestic Great Sugarloaf Mountain, where you will find a picturesque, secluded spot to drop to one knee and propose. Afterward, celebrate your engagement while watching the light dance across the distant waters of the Irish Sea before heading south into the heart of the Wicklow Mountains.
Following your celebratory morning, drive south through the verdant landscape of County Carlow to explore the sprawling Gothic ruins and walled gardens of [Duckett's Grove](https://www.google.com/search?q=Duckett%27s+Grove+I+want+to+plan+a+trip+to+Ireland+that+will+start+in+Dublin+and+go+south+and+west+along+the+coast%2C+hitting+some+famous+spots+along+the+way%2C+leaving+Illinois+on+Friday%2C+4%2F24%2F26+and+returning+on+Sunday%2C+5%2F3%2F26.+I+would+like+to+rent+a+car+for+the+trip%2C+and+stay+at+some+nice+and+quaint+B%26Bs+or+AirB%26Bs.+Make+sure+to+stop+by+The+Glen+of+the+Downs+on+Sunday%2C+4%2F26+for+a+proposal%21++official+site). Continue to the historic city of Kilkenny to wander the narrow slips of the Medieval Mile and admire the formidable stone facade of [Kilkenny Castle](https://kilkennycastle.ie/tickets/) before checking into your quaint local B&B.
Celebrate your engagement with an intimate candlelit dinner at the award-winning [Rinuccini Restaurant](https://rinuccini.com/), renowned for its romantic atmosphere and exquisite Italian-Irish cuisine. Afterward, toast to your future together with a pint and live traditional music at the historic [Kyteler's Inn](https://kytelersinn.com/) before a peaceful moonlit stroll along the banks of the River Nore.
Begin your morning in Kilkenny by climbing the 9th-century tower at [St. Canice's Cathedral and Round Tower](https://www.google.com/search?q=St.+Canice%27s+Cathedral+and+Round+Tower+I+want+to+plan+a+trip+to+Ireland+that+will+start+in+Dublin+and+go+south+and+west+along+the+coast%2C+hitting+some+famous+spots+along+the+way%2C+leaving+Illinois+on+Friday%2C+4%2F24%2F26+and+returning+on+Sunday%2C+5%2F3%2F26.+I+would+like+to+rent+a+car+for+the+trip%2C+and+stay+at+some+nice+and+quaint+B%26Bs+or+AirB%26Bs.+Make+sure+to+stop+by+The+Glen+of+the+Downs+on+Sunday%2C+4%2F26+for+a+proposal%21++official+site) for a final, sweeping view of the city's medieval rooftops. Afterward, drive south to wander through the evocative ruins of [Jerpoint Abbey](https://heritageireland.ie/visit/places-to-visit/jerpoint-abbey/), a Cistercian monastery famous for its detailed stone carvings, before stopping for a quick artisan coffee at Cakeface Pastry.
Depart the city for the historic [House of Waterford Crystal](https://www.google.com/search?q=House+of+Waterford+Crystal+I+want+to+plan+a+trip+to+Ireland+that+will+start+in+Dublin+and+go+south+and+west+along+the+coast%2C+hitting+some+famous+spots+along+the+way%2C+leaving+Illinois+on+Friday%2C+4%2F24%2F26+and+returning+on+Sunday%2C+5%2F3%2F26.+I+would+like+to+rent+a+car+for+the+trip%2C+and+stay+at+some+nice+and+quaint+B%26Bs+or+AirB%26Bs.+Make+sure+to+stop+by+The+Glen+of+the+Downs+on+Sunday%2C+4%2F26+for+a+proposal%21++official+site) to see master blowers at work before stepping back in time within the Viking Triangle at [Reginald's Tower](https://heritageireland.ie/visit/places-to-visit/reginalds-tower/). Continue your coastal adventure along the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark, where you can pull over at Bunmahon Beach to marvel at the towering sea stacks and dramatic geological formations.
As dusk settles over the coast, head into the bustling town of Dungarvan to enjoy a gourmet dinner at [The Tannery](https://tannery.ie/), known for its seasonal local menus. Afterward, take a leisurely twilight walk around the scenic Dungarvan Harbour before retreating to your cozy coastal B&B to unwind after your drive along the Atlantic.
Begin your morning with a scenic drive along the cork coast to the massive, 17th-century [Charles Fort](https://heritageireland.ie/visit/places-to-visit/charles-fort-national-monument/), where you can explore the well-preserved star-shaped ramparts overlooking the sparkling Kinsale Harbour. Afterward, head into the heart of the town to enjoy a locally sourced breakfast at [The Bulman](https://www.thebulman.ie/) before wandering through the vibrant, multicolored streets of the Kinsale Viking Quarter.
Leave the colorful town behind for a scenic drive to the Old Head of Kinsale, where you can take in the breathtaking panorama of the Atlantic from the rugged cliffside trails. Afterward, continue west to explore the atmospheric 13th-century ruins of the Timoleague Franciscan Friary before stopping in the vibrant town of Clonakilty to browse through its charming artisan shops.
Settle in for an elegant evening meal at [The Black Pig](https://www.google.com/search?q=The+Black+Pig+I+want+to+plan+a+trip+to+Ireland+that+will+start+in+Dublin+and+go+south+and+west+along+the+coast%2C+hitting+some+famous+spots+along+the+way%2C+leaving+Illinois+on+Friday%2C+4%2F24%2F26+and+returning+on+Sunday%2C+5%2F3%2F26.+I+would+like+to+rent+a+car+for+the+trip%2C+and+stay+at+some+nice+and+quaint+B%26Bs+or+AirB%26Bs.+Make+sure+to+stop+by+The+Glen+of+the+Downs+on+Sunday%2C+4%2F26+for+a+proposal%21++official+site), an intimate wine bar and kitchen known for its locally sourced West Cork produce and exceptional atmosphere. Later, take a peaceful stroll along the Scilly Walk to catch the golden sunset reflecting off the harbor before retiring to your quaint local guesthouse.
Begin your morning by driving toward the shores of Bantry Bay to explore the stately [Bantry House and Garden](https://www.bantryhouse.com/), where you can climb the hundred steps for a magnificent view of the water and surrounding hills. Afterward, continue to the lush village of Glengarriff to board a ferry out to Garnish Island, an exotic garden paradise of rare plants and Italianate architecture tucked away in the sheltered microclimate of the bay.
Drive across the spectacular Caha Pass, winding through the hand-hewn tunnels that mark the border between County Cork and County Kerry while enjoying panoramic views of the rugged mountain landscape. Stop at the [Bonane Heritage Park](https://www.google.com/search?q=Bonane+Heritage+Park+I+want+to+plan+a+trip+to+Ireland+that+will+start+in+Dublin+and+go+south+and+west+along+the+coast%2C+hitting+some+famous+spots+along+the+way%2C+leaving+Illinois+on+Friday%2C+4%2F24%2F26+and+returning+on+Sunday%2C+5%2F3%2F26.+I+would+like+to+rent+a+car+for+the+trip%2C+and+stay+at+some+nice+and+quaint+B%26Bs+or+AirB%26Bs.+Make+sure+to+stop+by+The+Glen+of+the+Downs+on+Sunday%2C+4%2F26+for+a+proposal%21++official+site) to explore its prehistoric monuments and ancient ringforts before arriving in the heritage town of Kenmare to visit the mystical Kenmare Stone Circle, one of the largest and most intact in Ireland.
Spend a delightful evening at [The Lime Tree Restaurant](https://limetreerestaurant.com/), where you can savor local Kerry lamb or fresh seafood in a beautifully restored 18th-century landmark. Afterward, enjoy a pint and traditional Irish tunes at Crowley's Bar or soak in the tranquil twilight views with a stroll down to Kenmare Pier before returning to your quaint B&B in the heart of the town.
Kick off your morning by departing Kenmare for the world-renowned Ring of Kerry drive, stopping first to stroll through the vibrant, multi-colored village of Sneem with its quaint local shops and riverside vistas. Head further west to explore the ancient dry-stone masonry of Staigue Stone Fort, then enjoy a coastal walk near [Derrynane House](https://heritageireland.ie/visit/places-to-visit/derrynane-house/), the historic home of Daniel O'Connell, nestled within its own breathtaking national park.
Continue your journey through the coastal village of Waterville and ascend the winding roads to Coomakista Pass for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Skellig Islands in the distance. As you loop back toward Killarney, navigate the mountain passes to reach Moll's Gap and pause at Ladies View to admire the dramatic scenery of Killarney National Park as the shimmering lakes finally come into view.
Wind down your day with an elegant meal at [Treyvaud's Restaurant](https://treyvaudsrestaurant.com/) or Stonechat Restaurant, both celebrated for their intimate atmosphere and fine Irish ingredients. Afterward, immerse yourself in the local culture with a traditional music session at The Danny Mann Pub or O'Connor's Traditional Irish Pub, before taking a final twilight stroll along the serene paths of Killarney House and Gardens.
Start your morning with a scenic drive toward the Dingle Peninsula, stopping to walk along the vast golden sands and dunes of Inch Beach as the Atlantic waves crash along the shore. Afterward, explore the vibrant streets of Dingle town and treat yourself to a world-famous sea-salt cone from [Murphy's Ice Cream](https://murphysicecream.ie/) while watching the trawlers go by at Dingle Harbour.
Navigate the breathtaking Slea Head Drive, stopping to explore the ancient stone Beehive Huts and capturing photos of the rugged Blasket Islands from the cliffs of Dunmore Head. Afterward, feel the refreshing sea spray at the cinematic Coumeenoole Beach before marveling at the dry-stone engineering of the 1,200-year-old [Gallarus Oratory](https://www.gallarusoratory.com/).
Savor a sophisticated evening meal at [The Chart House](https://thecharthousedingle.com/), where the cozy atmosphere and locally sourced Kerry ingredients provide a refined dining experience. Afterward, step into the historic Dick Mack's to enjoy a craft ale or fine whiskey during a lively traditional music session, soaking in the authentic charm of one of Ireland's most famous Victorian-style pubs.
Begin your morning by crossing the River Shannon via the Shannon Ferry from Tarbert to Killimer, a scenic shortcut that saves driving time while offering peaceful estuary views. Head straight to the iconic Cliffs of Moher to witness the sheer limestone drops and crashing Atlantic waves from the panoramic heights of O'Brien's Tower before the midday crowds arrive.
Drive through the otherworldly limestone landscape of The Burren National Park to witness the ancient Poulnabrone Dolmen before heading east toward the center of the country. Stop to explore the sprawling monastic ruins of [Clonmacnoise](https://heritageireland.ie/visit/places-to-visit/clonmacnoise/) on the banks of the River Shannon, then continue to the historic town of Athlone to settle into your final quaint B&B of the trip.
Spend a celebratory final night in the heart of Ireland enjoying a gourmet dinner at [Thyme Restaurant](https://www.thymerestaurant.ie/), which features exceptional local ingredients in a cozy atmosphere. Afterward, raise a glass to your upcoming marriage at [Sean's Bar](https://www.seansbar.ie/), the oldest pub in Ireland, before taking a peaceful twilight walk across the Athlone Town Bridge to admire the stone walls of Athlone Castle reflecting in the water.
On your final morning in Ireland, enjoy one last hearty breakfast in Athlone before an easy drive east along the M6 motorway to return your rental car at Dublin Airport. Take time to browse the Irish craft shops in Terminal 2 or enjoy a peaceful coffee at The Garden Terrace as you reflect on your incredible journey and engagement before boarding your flight home to Illinois.
Settle into your seat for the long-haul flight and watch the green fields vanish beneath the clouds as you cross over the North Atlantic Ocean. Reflect on your unforgettable engagement journey while scrolling through memories of the Dingle Peninsula and the Cliffs of Moher. Finally, prepare for your descent into O'Hare International Airport, carrying home a lifetime of stories and a promise for the future.
Settle back home near the shores of Lake Michigan and share the joyous details of your engagement at the Glen of the Downs Nature Reserve with family and friends. Relive the magic of your road trip by scrolling through photos of Kinsale Harbour and Dun Laoghaire Pier over a celebratory dinner. Finally, drift off to sleep while dreaming of your next adventure together after a life-changing ten days exploring the Wild Atlantic Way.