Belfast

Irishlover · Member

Belfast

wckc · Guru

Inch Abbey is well worth the visit. It is off of A7 about 3/4 mi from Downpatrick. We saw it last year on a miserably cold, rainy day, but have some wonderful pictures none the less.

Michele Erdvig · Host

Nancy,

There is just so much to see it is hard to tell you what to do and what to skip. Most of the B&Bs I would recommend have upstairs bedrooms (see my Lodgings page). If you are overnighting in Belfast you will be better off with a hotel with a lift (elevator). Look at Premier Inns.

There are scenic routes through the Mountains of Mourne and also along the coast skirting the mountains. I love the little village of Hillsborough, which is about 12 miles south of Belfast. It is so cute and historic. Of course, north of Belfast is the gorgeous Antrim coast and the Giant's Causeway. There is a bus down to the causeway so that would be fine for you but do not attempt Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge or Dunluce Castle.

Wherever you find yourselves ask your hosts, concerige or at the local tourist office and they will direct you to interesting things to see and do.

Michele

Irishlover · Member

Michele, thank you for your expert advice.

Out of coureosity, how many times have you been? Are you planning on going back soon?

Michele, all I can say is a HUGE thank you. This site is fantastic, and I appreciate all your help.

I can't help but get a little upset that I unfortunately, will miss out on a lot because of chronic pain issues, but believe me, I have a lot of fight in me. I think the worse part of it all is, "I don't want to hold my husband back from seeing and doing things that the "norm" can do".

I am interested in ordering your book however I do have concerns about giving credit card info over the Internet. Is it safe? Are there any other forms of payment?

Cheers.

Michele Erdvig · Host

Nancy,

I'm glad you are getting good info here for your trip to Ireland. It is my pleasure to help.

Since you are leaving so soon I don't think there is time now to get my book. But wherever you are, just ask locally or pop into the tourist office for info, brochures and maps.

I completed my 47th trip to Ireland in April/May and will be going again this year.

A lot of the most beautiful things in Ireland are along scenic drives. You can easily see them from the window of your car. I specifically mentioned Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle because both have hiking and lots of steps. They wouldn't suit you at all. You can see glimpses of both from the road and parking lots. If you don't mind waiting for your husband at the cafe (at many sightseeing venues) he could perhaps do some exploring while you enjoy a pot of tea and chat with the locals.

If you do get to the Antrim Coast and have the time take Torr Road for some beautiful off-the-beaten-path scenery.

Michele

Irishlover · Member

Michele, you a sweetie!

Yes, I would love to stop for a tea and let my husband explore, and it will make me feel so much better knowing that he is seeing "everything".

Thanks again Michele.

I will let you know how things go upon my return.

Cheers

Michele Erdvig · Host

Nancy,

There are always solutions to problems. wink

You can enjoy your tea or coffee and perhaps a craft shop while your husband does some sightseeing. If the weather is nice you can even get a lunch packed for a picnic. There is no need for anyone to feel deprived. Just a bit of give and take will make for a very nice trip.

Michele