Sunshine that feels as though the world is telling you to live. Bright green fields and farms that you can’t get away from. And Helen, who has been by my side since day one, venturing into alleyways and trying to decipher Gaelic messages. Small town pubs where locals sit and watch the football game or talk about their families. The smell of Guinness and stew is thick, as Helen and I sit down to have lunch with the rest of our delegation.
It’s the first day. The first day where I visit the place I plan to retire to. It’s loud, partly because of 38 teenagers, but also because of local men watching the World Cup. Helen’s busy watching the game and becoming heated just like the old men, but me, I am gazing out of the window into the most beautiful drop-off. A drop-off that leads to one of the most amazing rides in my life.
A two hour boat ride accompanied by a two hour carriage ride that leaves you kind of smelly but more alive. Down the gap that reveals divine natural lakes and cottage homes with yards filled with sheep. A place where I could be alone and it wouldn’t bother me because I was surrounded by all of these beautiful views. Under the mountains, across the river, and up the hill where I fell into a sticker bush, lies the Gap of Dunloe.
QUARTER-FINALIST 2015 FTF TEEN TRAVEL WRITING SCHOLARSHIP
Dark clouds, misty rain, wind chills, and fog: things that aren’t associated with good days…but to me they are. A place where loneliness doesn’t matter, nor bothers you. Somewhere that feels more like home than living with your own parents. Looking down into that giant blue pool whose depth is unknown, I felt utter peace, enough peace that I thought if I jumped, something would catch me. Hills that stretch far below and high above and covered with piercing green shrubbery. Cliffs with jagged edges and abrupt endings that are so painstakingly beautiful that you pause and take a deep breath to try and absorb everything around you, from the crimson red wildflowers to the old rock-based Viking’s boathouse that’s across the other cliff.
I inhaled the salty ocean air as we made our way across the two mile gap that took us to our destination. At first it was a bit blurry to see, but as we become closer and closer, it becomes bigger and longer. And finally, we arrived at it’s mouth and I become a bit nervous. Because at 66 feet long and 98 feet above the ground, I had to muster up all my strength just to cross it. A rope bridge. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge to be exact.
I was so scared but excited at the same time, I hate heights, but Helen was behind me and she would have never let me live it down if I hadn’t of crossed this bridge. As the front of our group starts to move I felt all my courage melt away. I took one step onto the platform as the guys in front of me started to rock the bridge and the skies gave way to rain. I took another step onto the bridge a discovered that it wasn’t as bad as I thought is was going to be. I looked down and see the clearest, blue water I’ll ever see in my life. I was in awe. As I stepped onto the other platform, the rain stops and I realized that I made it to the other side without the bridge collapsing. I turned around and gave Helen a thumbs up and followed the guide to the top of the hill where the view was even better than back on the mainland. I felt so serene.
I was just standing there on top of this huge cliff in the middle of the ocean where Vikings and Celts had inhabited thousands of years before. I became so aware of everything, like the cliffs in distant fog and the never ending ocean horizon. I had made it, to a little place called Antrim where I’m almost certain my life lies.
Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.
0 Replies to “Éire”
Comment on this article
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
This enthusiastic blog provides a huge list of 51 varied and exciting summer vacation ideas for families, offering options from theme parks to national parks both near and far.
Absolutely love the insights you’ve shared in this blog!
Hi there, just became aware of your blog through Google, and found that it’s truly informative.
I am gonna watch out for brussels. I’ll be grateful if you continue this in future.
A lot of people will be benefited from your writing.
Cheers!
Lovely just what I was looking for.Thanks to the author for taking his clock time on this one.
wow
Great read! I really appreciated the insights you shared—especially the way you broke things down in a clear and relatable way. Looking forward to more content like this. Keep up the great work!
Traveling to Aruba promises an unforgettable escape. From white-sand beaches to clear turquoise waters, this Caribbean gem invites you to create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t forget your sunscreen and sense of adventure!
Thanks very nice blog!
Way cool! Some extremely valid points! I appreciate you penning this write-up plus the rest of the site is very good.
This article was very informative thank you!
For the people that are planning to go to Aruba, I would also suggest this website: https://canitravel.net/countries/aruba . I used it last month when I went to Aruba and it always had up-to-date travel restrictions. I hope this helps 🙂
Nice post!
Hey There. I found your blog using msn. This is a really well written article.
I’ll make sure to bookmark it and return to read more of your useful information. Thanks
for the post. I will definitely comeback.
This is such helpful information! Traveling with minors can get complicated, and having all the required documents ready makes the process so much smoother. Thanks for breaking it down so clearly!
Great blog! I really enjoyed reading it. The way you explained everything in such simple and clear words made it easy to follow. Sometimes blogs can get too technical or confusing, but this one was straight to the point and very helpful.
I got good info from your blog
Keep working ,great job!
I haven’t checked in here for a while as I thought it was getting boring, but the last few posts are great quality so I guess I’ll add you back to my daily bloglist. You deserve it my friend 🙂
I had the chance to experience Denmark during the Christmas season, and it’s something I’ll always hold close to my heart. Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen felt like stepping into a storybook. The way the entire park was dressed in soft, glowing lights, handmade decorations, and the comforting scent of mulled wine in the air made every moment feel special.
There’s a unique warmth about this place that isn’t just from the cocoa or winter drinks, but from the people, the laughter, and the little traditions scattered around every corner. Watching families gather, children’s faces light up at the sight of the reindeer, and the simple joy of wandering through beautifully decorated stalls reminded me how lovely the holiday season can be.
It’s not just about the decorations or the rides — it’s the feeling of togetherness, the calm, and the way time seems to slow down so you can really take in the small, meaningful moments. I left with a heart full of good memories and a deep appreciation for the charm and kindness of Danish traditions.
If you ever get the chance to visit, I promise it’s a place that will stay with you long after you’ve left.
The article is full of information , thanks for such a good knowledge.
This article is incredibly informative and well-structured. It offers clear, practical guidance on a topic many travelers often overlook—traveling with minors. The detailed breakdown of required documents and the emphasis on consent letters provide much-needed clarity for parents and guardians planning a trip. A must-read for anyone traveling with children!
Great article! I completely agree with your points.
Keep up the good work
Excellent post however I was wanting to know if you could write a litte more on this topic?
I’d be very thankful if you could elaborate a little bit further.
Thanks!
Hi, yes this post is genuinely nice and I have learned lot of things from it concerning blogging. thanks.
Excellent post! I found your analysis both engaging and informative. Well done.
I have been absent for some time, but now I remember why I used to love this web site. Thanks, I will try and check back more often. How frequently you update your web site?
Very interesting information!Perfect just what I was searching for!
Youre so cool! I dont suppose Ive read anything like this before. So good to search out anyone with some unique thoughts on this subject. realy thanks for starting this up. this website is one thing that’s needed on the internet, someone with a bit originality. helpful job for bringing one thing new to the internet!
Thank you for such praise, I am glad I could present the material in a way that made you want to see and experience St. Augustine’s Black history for yourself.
Of course, this beach town has lots more to offer but if you are willing to walk the lanes and dig a little bit, the history of the first Blacks and how much they contributed to protecting the colony is fascinating.
Hope you get there and enjoy your trip.
Your trip sounds absolutely incredible! Lisbon is truly a magical city, and your experience during the EuroCup must have made it even more special. If anyone reading this is planning a trip to Lisbon, I highly recommend taking a free walking tour to explore the city’s rich history, charming streets, and hidden gems with a local guide. You can check out this great option: https://www.guruwalk.com/lisbon. It’s a fantastic way to get an insider’s perspective on the city!
It’s iin reality a great and helpful piece oof info.
I’m satisfied that you shared this helpful information with us.
Please keep us informed like this. Thank you for sharing
Great content for cruise lovers !! One of the most advantage of cruising is you do not have to pick your luggages every day , and every day you discover a new country. Although one day is not enough to see everything it gives an idea about a country ! With my experience since 2007, 99,9% of my guest said that Kusadasi/Turkey is their favorite port among all the other ports. Because we have a lot of options for every traveler. The most popular places , if your ship is docking at Kusadasi, is Ephesus ancient city which is only 25 min. drive away. Ephesus was the 4th largest ancient city of the world in 2 c AD.Most of the ruins are reconstructed and gives an idea about Roman’ glorious times. If you ever visit Ephesus, I suggest you to see Terrace Houses , where the rich were living and houses are decorated with beautiful mosaics and frescoes from 3rd c AD.If you want to add a spiritual break , thats House of Virgin Mary is there. It is believed that she was taken by St. John the apostle to there.Another place you must see Ephesus Museum.. Forget all that boring museums you have seen . While guiding , I explain the most interesting artifacts , including original staue of Artemis. BTW. did you know that one of seven wonders of ancient world was located there? Well… not so much left , but it is still worth to be seen. If you ever visit Kusadasi,and want to have private tour, please feel free to contact with me ! I am very happy to answer your questions and customize your trip to Ephesus. Please visit my website,not only for Ephesus trip but also to get an idea about my beloved country Turkey/Turkiye. You can see different types of tours that I organize. Archaeological , culinary or lets customize your tour to Turkey together!! luxurytoursofturkey.com/