A full day ahead….
Today was going to be, and ended up being a full day of great riding and absolutely breathtaking scenery.
We took the highway to get out of Dublin to get a few miles under our belts and got north of Belfast and on to the very picturesque coastal road where we would spend the rest of the day. The traffic disappeared, the sun was shining and we were riding along arguably one of the worlds most scenic coastal roads – how could things get any better. Having grown up near the ocean, I am always happy to have the sea next to me on a ride!
A quick and tasty lunch stop had us on the bikes in no time and taking in more of the twisty coastal roads and views before we took a short detour inland through some farmlands and along the small farm roads that Ireland is so well known for.
Heading in to the hills and farmlands offered more stunning views of the ragged and wild coastline that we had just ridden along. Of course, the smaller roads were very steep, narrow and twisty which made for exciting riding but keeps everyone on their toes! Throw in a sheep dog and a few sheep along the way and it makes for an even more exciting ride!
An hours stop at the Giants Causeway was a welcome break from the bikes and the perfect amount of time to walk around and explore this fascinating and beautiful part of the coastline. The hexagonal basalt columns, all 40,000 of them, are the result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption and make for a very picturesque geological wonder!
Unfortunately, the Bushmills Distillery had already closed by the time we go there but we were able to stop and take a quick picture before sneaking another quick picture of Dunluce Castle on our way to Londonderry where we will spend the next two nights!
A full day of riding and sightseeing wrapped up with a wonderful dinner at a small local restaurant tucked away in a quiet part of town made for the perfect end to an amazing first day in Ireland.
Leave A Comment