If you are planning a couples’ weekend away — anniversary, proposal, just-because — here is roughly how we would plan it for you at the Derrynane.

Book a sea-view room

The view does the work. A deluxe king with the Atlantic out the window means you can wake up and lie in bed for an hour before you do anything else. Worth every extra euro.

Arrive a little late

There is a small magic to walking into the bar at 5 pm, getting a cocktail in your hand, and watching the sun touch the horizon — a much better arrival than checking in at 2 pm and feeling you have to do something.

Dinner facing the bay

Ask reception to put you on a window table. The kitchen does small, elegant tasting plates if you tell them ahead; otherwise the seafood pasta and the slow-cooked Kerry lamb are house favourites.

Late stargazing if the weather plays

A short walk down to Carroll’s Cove or out onto the lawn after dinner. We are in the Gold Tier Dark Sky Reserve; you may never see this many stars at home.

Morning two — slow

Long breakfast. Stroll to Derrynane Beach at low tide. Spa appointment in the late morning (book the seaweed bath together — there is a couples’ room). Lazy late lunch, possibly on the deck.

Or — go all in

For special anniversaries we can lay out the deck privately for two, with a candlelit table, a tasting menu and wine pairings. Have a chat with the front desk; we love putting these things together.

A small detail

Mention you are celebrating something when you book. We are quiet about it but a card and a small turn-down gesture will appear in your room without comment.