Outside The Perimeter

Eek! The alarm went off at 4:30am this morning so that we could catch our early flight to Derry, a small town on the coast of Northern Ireland. When we arrived, we picked up our wee little Ford Fiesta and began to experience life on the left side of the road, including the manual transmission with all of the gears on the opposite side as well. There were only moments when we turned a corner that I had to remind Marshall to get on the other side of the road. There were even more moments when I tried to get in the passenger side, only to realize it was the driver’s side.

First impression of Northern Ireland- absolutely breathtaking! Everything was so green and plush, beautiful weather with blue skies and white clouds. We were surrounded by cliffs, beaches, and lots of sheep. (I was a little obsessed with taking pictures of sheep and their little lambs). Our early arrival to Northern Ireland allowed us a full day of sightseeing with one added perk, we were able to get to some of the sites before they even opened, so they were free! We drove the Coastal Causeway, and visited the sites as we came upon them including: the Mussenden Temple, Bishop’s Gate, Downhill Demesne, and Castlerock Beach.

We made our way to Portstewart to check into our Bed and Breakfast, the Strandeen. By far, the best B&B that I have ever stayed in! The awesome place was matched by the most welcoming hosts ever, Debbie, her husband, Gary, and their sweet boxer, Georgie. Given that it was only about 9am, Debbie offered us a traditional Irish breakfast- eggs, sausages, bacon, tomatoes, fruit – pure paleo goodness for all of our Crossfit friends! You know me and Marshall and our pickiness, we weren’t daring enough to try the haggis:). Still don’t really even know what it is….

Back on the Coastal Causeway, we saw beach after beach and golf course after course. I guess that is why I’m not surprised that Rory McIlroy won the the US Open! Probably most notable on our drive was the Giant’s Causeway. The geological site is composed of thousands and thousands of hexagonal columns packed closely together forming a “stepping stone” pathway stretching out into the sea. The rocks were formed as a result of molten lava from a volcanic eruption over 60 milion years ago. After our steep hikes around the Giant’s Causeway, we crossed the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, originally a bridge that allowed fishermen to access to the best salmon fishing. Lastly, we toured Bushmill’s Distillery where they have been making Irish Whiskey since 1608, and also Dunlace Castle. From two of our Northern Irish friends in Atlanta, we had been given great recommendations on where to have dinner and drinks- thanks Chris and Philip!

It was a perfect day all around!