Today we left the shores of Scotland on a Stena Line ferry to cross the Irish Sea to Belfast. Initially the forecast was for calm seas but it was upgraded to moderate. We opted for the first class cabin so we have a choice of seating, continental brekkie, and morning tea. It is situated at the stern of the ship so I am looking back to the shores of Bonnie Scotland and reflecting on our trip so far.
Weather – We lucked the good weather on all but three days.
People – friendly, open and welcoming
Pubs – We tried a few!!!! Great atmosphere in them all. Jo liked the Tennants beer the best. I liked the wee drams of Highland single malt. We are adding to repertoire as whisky experts!!! eg – No peat waters.
Scenery: We covered north – south, east – west and each area provided a delightful array of scenery and experience – each unique and memorable. We now have new language describing land forms: Munroes, Kyles, Lochs, Rhinns, Craigs, Breas and Mulls.
Driving: Experts now on single lane roads but how we appreciate double lane roads and being able to see the approaching vehicles in good time without slamming on the brakes!!! Learnt to avoid, sheep, cows, campervans and on-coming buses. Road rule knowledge – climbers, clawlers, lay bys and passing places are embedded in our brains. Still coming to terms with manual car and the wipers, and signals on opposite sides from what we are used to.
Food – Tried the potato scone but not the haggis or the black pudding. Now know what Tatties and Neeps are.
A sandwich is always served with a side salad and chips come with everything.
Castles and ruins: We saw many a castle ruin and used our Historic Scotland pass with gay abandon. Seems to be ruined abbey in almost every town. Really enjoyed Castle of Mey.
Towns: Most of the towns we passed though were the traditional style with the High Street and neat rows of houses all close together. On Skye we were amazed by the fact that almost every house was painted white and many were very large.
I am writing this as we go and the swell is increasing.
Northern Ireland
After 3 hours we arrived in Belfast and collected our car. It is a Ford Fiesta – bit small in the boot for our luggage but quite sporty! We decided to drive out of Belfast and head to the Antrim Coast. We started out but instead of getting on the A2 we ended up in Falls Road. In the space of 2 minutes, we passed two heavily fortified police Land Rovers. We were going around in circles so went back to the Hire car place and they set us on the right road!!!
Our first stop was Carrickfergus, a town at the entrance to Belfast Lough. We visited the castle there. It is reputed to be the best castle in Ireland and was really well presented. It was begun around 1177 and has been added to and changed over the ages.
We then continued along the Antrim Coastal route to Carnlough where we have a room at the Londonderry Arms Hotel. It was once owned by Sir Winston Churchill. From here we are going to explore the 7 glens of Antrim.
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