By William Jackson
The Best Ways to Travel Ireland
Considering a trip to Ireland? Numerous options exist when it comes to traveling this small island nation. Whether it's a train ride from Dublin to Waterford, a bus from Limerick to Cork, or a trek from the Atlantic Ocean to the Irish Sea, Ireland's geographic compactness and well-maintained transportation system should make your trip easy and enjoyable.
By Train
If your cup of tea when it comes to travel is being able to simply sit back and enjoy the view, train travel may be the best option for you in Ireland. The country's extensive railway system will get you from most any Irish city to most any other Irish city--and quite a bit faster than a car. Even the longest train trips should last no more than three hours or so. Most trains run every one or two hours, making it easy for you to be flexible with your own schedule. Consider the journey from Dublin, Ireland's capital city, to the country's cultural center, Galway (which also happens to be Ireland's third-largest metropolis). The trip will take you from the Saint George Channel on the east coast to the Atlantic Ocean on the west coast--a full traverse of Ireland.
By Car
If time isn't an issue--and you like being in firm control of your own schedule--then car travel may be your best bet in Ireland. Car travel affords you the opportunity to stop whenever your please--to snap a photo, enjoy a picnic lunch or explore some small hamlet. Many rental car companies operate in Ireland, in the country's cities as well as its airports. One consideration, though: In Ireland, one drives on the left--so be prepared if the right is what you're used to. Ireland's vast network of roads (often small, narrow, windy, or otherwise challenging to navigate) will allow you free rein when traveling anywhere in the country.
On Foot
Ireland is a great place to travel the old-fashioned way: on foot. Most of the roads are safe and walkable, and places to sleep--inns, hotels, bed-and-breakfasts--are plentiful throughout the country. A little planning and some extra time, and walking across Ireland becomes a fantastic option for the more adventurous traveler. Consider a trek from Dublin into the Wicklow Mountains, through hilly southwest Wicklow and into the peaks--taking about a week to walk 85 miles. Or perhaps try walking from Killarney National Park, past the curiously-named MacGillacuddy Reeks mountains, and along the coast to Derrynane (about 110 miles).
About the Author:
William Jackson has written, reported and edited professionally for more than 10 years. His work has been published in newspapers, magazines, scholarly journals, high-level government reports, books and online. He holds a master's degree in humanities from Pennsylvania State University.
Photo Credits:
Photo by B. Cleary.
