My 12 year old & I will be saying in Leenane, Galway for 3 Days during a 12 day stay in Ireland. My grandfather was from Balleymoney in Antrim County. Is it feasible to drive up there for the day? How long would it take? I'll be in Ireland August 30 to September 8th. How will the weather be at that time? <BR>Thanks so much for any advise <BR>

Shelia, <BR>It is too far to drive from Galway to antrim in one day, distances are deceptive on maps and the road network in the Republic is not as good as in Northern ireland where Antrim is. I would suggest driving up early one day, exploring and staying the night and finishing the exploring process the next day before driving back. Weatherwise in Ireland at present it is cool esp at night with sunny spells and rainy showers - some heavy. Hope this helps, post if you have any more questions, <BR> <BR>Cathy

I agree with Cathy. Even though the distance may not be long, it will be a long, tiring drive. Last time I drove from Galway to County Down (the county just south of Antrim), it was around 5 hours, I think. And remember, those aren't 5 highway hours--much of that time is spent on small winding roads, sometimes crawling behind a tractor, other times being passed by cars traveling 90 miles an hour. Don't attempt to do it one day. And County Antrim is so beautiful (the Antrim Coast Road, the Glens of Antrim, Bushmills Distillery!), I'd definitely suggest staying the night and having a look around. <BR> <BR>Where do you fly into? Dublin is closer to Antrim than Galway.

I thought someone had warned against renting a car in the Republic and driving into Northern Ireland? It had to do with insurance as I recall. Anyone know for sure?

Kam, <BR>I recommend that you check with your insurance company regarding taking a Republic registered car into the North. It is best to park the car and walk or take taxis in Belfast rather than drive around the city. <BR> <BR> <BR>Cathy

Hi Sheila, <BR> <BR>When we drove from Galway to near Belfast, it took about 6 hours. Of course the part from Enniskillen to Belfast was much quicker than from Galway to Sligo!