I have been to Ireland a year ago but mostly the south & west I really liked Connemara Area & clifden) Would like to go to contu Antrim next as my grandfather is from Balleymoney. Any suggestions what to see and where to stay?Will be there in May probably. Thanks in advance

Hi Sheila:<BR>Im surprised you haven't had any responses to this question yet as it's a beautifful county.<BR>Head out from Ballymoney to Carrickfergus visit the castle; follow the Antrim coast road for a beautiful drive. Stop at some of the fishing villages along the way; head to Ballycastle for some nice B&B's to overnight. Visit the rope bridge at Garick a rede (sp?), after this travel along the tiny but scenic coastal road to villages such Ballantoy then past it to Dunluce Castle. Bushmills distillery for a taste (or two) of some Irish whiskey, then you can stay over in Portrush. (had my first taste of real? Irish coffee here yummmmm) Take all the back roads you can after leaving Portrush back to Ballymoney. Scenic valleys and little villages! awesome. Tara crystal factory is just north of Ballymena. <BR>My husbands family is also from County Antrim (Temple Patrick and Ballynahinch areas) so we enjoy this area. Found lots of family too.<BR>Enjoy!<BR>Regards,<BR>Lynn

Sheila: Lynn has given you a good idea of what to see. If you are coming up from the Dublin area, as you approach Carrickfergus Castle (dates from 1180, huge, wonderfully restored), look for the Andrew Jackson Heritage Center. The very modest family home has been preserved here. It is authentically furnished. A video tells about the family and Ulster. No less than seven American Presidents' families came from this area. <BR><BR>The Antrim Coast is made up of nine Glens. Hence, the Glens of Antrim. I prefer to drive the A2 which provides easy access into the Glens, actually massive recesses from the Coast into the Mountains. You still see the sea from A2, but the road is not as narrow or winding. Ideally, take the A2 one way and the coast road back. At the top end of the Antrim Coast, look for signs to the Giant Causeway. A novelty to be sure, but interesting and a good excuse for a bit of a hike. Don't miss the Bushmill Tour (Monday through Friday). Some of the buildings were built in 1609 and the process has been in existence at least that long. Very interesting tour and the "taste" isn't bad either. Portrush is a bit honky tonk but lots of fun and great people watching. It's a great area. You'll love it. The people, as in all of Ireland, are phenominally friendly.

Sheila... be sure to check out the Glenariff Forest Park's waterfall path. Stay nearby at the Meadow's B&B in Cushendall, Anne Cary won the best B&B in N. Ireland a few years ago. Have a grand time!

You've already received some good advice (BTW, it's Carrick-a-Rede bridge--although my spelling may be a bit off, too).<BR><BR>Don't miss Belfast. It's a great little city. I also love the Mourne Mountains. They're gorgeous, and a great spot for hiking (head for Newcastle).<BR><BR>Downpatrick in County Down (south of Antrim) is where St. Patrick is buried (there is some controversary over this), and there are several villages worth visiting in Down: Hillsborough, Portaferry, Killyleagh (mainly for the castle and a drink at the Dufferin).