Staying indoors for a long period of time during the lockdown has been difficult for most of us, I know it has for me! This extended time under quarantine has not only been monotonous but also worrying to see all the disruptions Covid-19 has caused across the world.
BUT, cities around the world are finally on their way to recovery, and it’s important for us to rejuvenate ourselves in a similar manner!
One thing that has kept me going through this uncertain time is daydreaming about the first few places that I’d like to visit as soon as the lockdown is over and Spain’s borders open up once more.
Of course, I don’t mean to be reckless about it and will be sure to take every possible precaution there is – for instance, my boyfriend and I intend on taking some road trips throughout Spain and around Europe so that we can enjoy the summer from the safe confines of our own car. That way we can continue to maintain a safe social distance wherever possible!
Driving across the Irish Islands has been a long-standing dream of mine. Not only does it seem easily accessible and super convenient to drive through but it is also reassuring to know that these pristine islands have managed to basically escape the ravages of Covid-19.
So, while researching road trips around Europe and daydreaming of traveling once more, I compiled a list of islands that are a must-visit for everyone. I thought I’d share my research along with my tried and tested tips for people like myself who love taking road trips!
Ireland, as we know, is the second-largest island of the British Isles and the third-largest in all of Europe. What’s better – the island is surrounded by many lovely smaller islands. Up until this point, I’ve only visited the Irish mainland, and for St. Patrick’s Day of all things, but there are nearly 80 surrounding islands that have also piqued my interest. Actually, 10 of them have particularly made my road trip bucket list.
The Aran Islands in County Galway
Starting with the West of Ireland, perched on the roaring River Corrib, we can find, Galway which overlooks the fierce Atlantic Ocean. I visited Galway back in 2014 for my birthday with my friend Meagan. We had so much fun exploring this area and getting a feel for the real rural Irish lifestyle. The pubs with live music were a blast, and we were completely blown away by the Cliffs of Moher.
Still, our trip was short, and we didn’t get to fully explore all that the area had to offer. I can’t wait to get back one day and explore the serene Aran Islands.
Starting from Lahinch, I’d love to drive north to Doolin and make my way to the picturesque harbor. That’s where I’ll park my car and catch the ferry over to the Aran Islands and spend an entire day exploring their dramatic landscapes of limestone rock.
Inishmore
This is the largest of the Aran Islands and I would love to spend my morning here soaking in some more of that rural Irish culture that I got a taste of in Galway. One site that I know I have to visit here is Dún Aonghasa, which is often described as “the most magnificent barbaric monument in Europe.” Take a look for yourself ⬇️
Inishmaan
From there I would make my way to Inishmaan or the ‘middle island.’ I’m not usually one for exploring historical landmarks, but I would still definitely look forward to visiting the ancient forts – Dún Chonchúir and Dún Fearbhaidh.
Inisheer
My last stop in the Aran Islands, probably late afternoon at this point, would be Inisheer, the smallest of the Aran Islands. There may not be tons of things to do on Inisheer, but it’s still worth a visit to see O’Brien’s Castle and St. Caomhan’s Church.
County Antrim
Having never personally been to Antrim, I’ve just started looking into this area. From the mythical nine glens to the area’s geological wonders, castles, and small surf towns, County Antrim seems to be bursting with life and the opportunity for some exceptional experiences!
Rathlin Island
Ballycastle, in County Antrim, is just over an hour’s drive from Belfast and also from Derry. It’s about three hours driving from Dublin. If you happen to be driving from Belfast, take the M2 north, turning off onto the A26 and then eventually turning right onto the A44, through Armoy and on to Ballycastle.
Once in Ballycastle, you can drive down to the seafront, past the marina and on to the ferry terminal building. The ferry service here operates up to 10 sailings in each direction during the summer and up to five during the winter.
The place that I’d really like to visit here is the unique upside-down lighthouse which is built into a cliff face. From there I’ve heard that it’s great to walk across the seabird colony and try to spot some seals!
County Cork
Located in the South-West of Ireland, Cork is a city that I’d absolutely love to visit. I admire that the city is modern, but also has many remnants of an old medieval town.
Bere Island
Bere Island, located on the Beara Peninsula in West Cork, is around 75 miles west of Cork City. It is around a 2-hour drive from Cork. You can take Murphy’s Ferry from here to get to the Island, which leaves The Pontoon and is 18 miles from Glengarriff.
Fun fact: Bere Island has been actually been voted Ireland’s “tidiest island” for the past five years.
Bere Island seems to offer such an interesting heritage and I’d love to visit the archaeological sites dating from the bronze age through to medieval times.
As you must have guessed, I love driving across scenic places and the beautiful weather outside here in Spain has only further fuelled my desire to get out on the road as soon as possible. From my research, it seems that there is no better way to witness these Irish islands than to rent a car and drive over. Renting a car has recently become a must for me during my travels as it allows me the freedom to explore on my own terms and without the strict timetables of public transport.
Here are some things to be mindful of while driving in Ireland:
#1 A must-do when renting a car abroad is to look into and choose the right insurance cover, for example from this Irish Auto Insurance Company before you leave for your adventures. I usually select to have insurance cover along with roadside assistance with 24/7 emergency help.
Personally, this provides me with much-needed peace of mind and the comfort of knowing that I am secure and in good hands, with nothing to worry about.
#2 In Ireland, you must drive on the left! In Ireland, like in the rest of the UK, you drive on the left side of the road. This can seem very unnatural to someone who’s used to driving on the right side of the street, and so you may want to practice a bit before committing to a full road trip!
#3 Beware of narrow country roads. When leaving the bigger Irish cities and main motorways, the roads get narrower gradually. Especially visiting these smaller, more remote areas and islands, there will be parts of the route where the roads are so narrow you have to back up so that the oncoming traffic can pass. Driving around on those winding country roads is definitely refreshing and beautiful, but if you’re not used to driving on roads like these, make sure to take it slow.
#4 When renting in Europe, consider getting a smaller rental car. For the very reasons I mentioned above, it may very well make sense to get a smaller rental car. I usually travel light and pack only what I need so my luggage, and that of my friends, can easily fit into a hatchback. I’ve realized there are many advantages of doing this – not only will you save on gas and have more options for parking spots, but the winding country roads will be a lot less intimidating.
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