Anna Lussier is a student at the University of New Hampshire and an ISA Featured Blogger. She studied abroad with ISA in Galway, Ireland.
My bike ride around the Aran Islands was by far my favorite adventure in Ireland thus far. The islands are only about a thirty minute bus ride and then a twenty minute ferry ride from Galway. The Islands are home to around 1,300 friendly natives. The best part about this day trip was the fact that we were able to ride bikes around the entire island and stop wherever we pleased to take pictures and really enjoy our surroundings.
Gloomy Forecast to Picture Perfect Weather
I am sure that the Aran Islands would have been beautiful no matter what the weather was like, but our day on the island was the best day we’ve had yet. We were all very nervous because the forecast showed a cold, rainy and very windy day, but instead we got a warm, extremely sunny, and slightly windy day. The perfect weather made the long bike ride much more enjoyable.
As we hopped off of the ferry, I stood on the dock admiring the beautiful, quant and cozy-looking island surrounded by the bright blue ocean. Once we took off on our bikes, which I barely remembered how to ride, I could not help but smile because I realized how lucky I am to have the opportunity to spend the day biking around this beautiful island in Ireland.
What Do You Think of When You Think about the Aran Islands?
Before arriving I already knew that the islands were famous for their sweaters, so no matter what the price, I knew that I would just have to suck it up and purchase a sweater that I could wear and cherish forever. What I did not know was that the Aran Islands also have amazing food. Although there were only a couple local cafes to choose from, I had the best salad that I have ever eaten! I know that salad seems like a pretty boring choice, but everything was clearly local and it was topped with Aran Island goat cheese. I have never had sweeter or fresher goat cheese in my life!
I really did not know what to expect when we started our journey around the island, but I quickly realized how spectacular it would be. The narrow and hilly roads made for a little bit of a workout, which I did not mind because working out has not exactly been a top priority of mine since arriving in Ireland. I also felt so connected to the land, and I was amazed by the beauty that awaited around every corner. I was truly sad when the journey came to an end, but I can’t wait to go back when my family comes to visit!
The world awaits…discover it.
Reblogged this on Working Holiday Ireland.