Looking for ideas for an unforgettable wedding proposal? How does this sound: jet to the Emerald Isle for a luxurious stay in your very own castle, where the resident owl, Dingle, will help you pop the question. He’ll wear the engagement ring on a string around his neck! Dating from 1228, Ashford Castle is nestled on the shores of Lough Corrib and the River Cong, set on 350 acres of County Mayo. The former estate of the Guinness family, the castle-hotel served as the setting for Pierce Brosnan’s nuptials (so if you decide to get hitched here, you’ll be following in the footsteps of 007).
The hotel has, in fact, put together an entire “Proposal Package” to take the weight off your shoulders as you prepare for the special moment. Valid through December 22, 2012 and based on two people sharing, the package is priced from €1,450 (approximately US$1,940) and includes the following: Three nights' bed & breakfast, a bottle of Champagne in-room upon arrival with strawberries and chocolates, a couples massage, a candlelit dinner in the George V Dining Room on one evening of choice, rose petal turndown service, a Champagne breakfast in-bed on one morning, a one-hour romantic boat ride, and a falconry lesson, finished off with a special visit from Dingle the owl.