Ireland Road Trip | County Clare

Jun 23

This was the first time I got brave enough to attempt driving in Ireland. After taking in a several leaves from the bushes along the left side of the road and panic at driving manual transmission, on a hill, where I had to join other traffic – I chose to return to the left side of the vehicle and my navigation duties.

Traveling north from Carrig House in County Kerry, we crossed the Shannon River on the ShannonFerry. The 20 minute ride took us into County Clare and the Loop Head Peninsula. At the tip of the Peninsula we were able to climb to the top of Loop Head Lighthouse for beautiful views of the Atlantic.

A short drive back up the Peninsula, we stopped at Keatings Bar in Kilbaha harbour for delicious seafood chowder, fish and chips. We were welcomed in for lunch served with free advice from the waitress on where to head to as we continued our journey. The owner Bernie, in his strong Irish brogue, was not only giving travel advice, but love advice as well. Can’t say enough about how much we enjoyed the Irish people – they are just a joy to be around.

Keating’s claims to be the “Nearest Bar to New York”

There was not a lot of traffic in the rural areas on the Peninsula, but occasional traffic stops did occur.

We were lucky to not have too many rainy days while in Ireland, but the rain shower followed by sun in County Clare gave us the perfect opportunity to chase a rainbow.

This was the only day we had gone on the road without plans for a place to spend the night. We just happened to spot a sign on the side of the road for Moy House, took a chance and turned up the long tree lined drive. As soon as we saw the welcoming front door of this beautiful home set on 15 acres overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, we knew we’d found a great place to stay. We were lucky it was a weeknight and got a great deal on a room.

Our room was lovely and comfortable with an amazing view of the ocean.

The resident lab, Ella, always ready to join guests for walks along the beach, especially if they’re willing to play fetch. We loved it here so much we really didn’t want to leave and if it hadn’t been so close to the end of our journey in Ireland, we would have stayed longer. Definitely a place we will keep in mind for a future trip to Ireland.