Living | Loving | Leaving

Returning to the Emerald Isle: A Journey through Ireland and Northern Ireland

Ireland has always had a certain appeal, often drawing me back to the people and the places. This recent trip, which spanned two and a half weeks, brought me back to the island’s charm, its autumn colours, and the beloved family and friends who make it feel like a second home. While my dear farmer stayed home and prepared for harvest in Australia (and fitted in a DACA motorbike ride), I journeyed through a place that’s as familiar as it is endlessly captivating.

Dublin: Revisiting Ireland’s Capital

I began in Dublin, staying two days at The Gresham Dublin to reorient myself in the city’s ever-vibrant energy. To shake off the jetlag, I booked two tours through Viator. One allowed me to explore the historic fishing village of Howth while the second whisked me out to the countryside through the Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, and Kilkenny. Between tours, I walked the streets of Dublin through its historic heart and some of the more recent developments around the river.

Despite having visited before, Kilkenny’s medieval charm and the serene beauty of Glendalough felt like a fresh experience under the autumn leaves. I thought I was in heaven. Each sight and setting carried a comfortable familiarity while still offering something new.

Returning to Monaghan and Reconnecting with Family

Leaving Dublin, I headed to Monaghan to reunite with my sister, her family and the numerous cousins who live in Ireland. With a car, it was easy to travel at my own pace, diving into both cherished spots and hidden gems. Monaghan and its surroundings offer that uniquely Irish blend of understated beauty and rich history that I’ve come to love.

Plans Shift on the Aran Islands

I had a tour planned to the Aran Islands, something I’d eagerly anticipated revisiting after previous travels to the west. Unfortunately, autumn weather had other ideas—a fierce storm was heading towards the west coast of Ireland, leading to a cancelled crossing. Although disappointed, I was grateful for the flexibility to explore the mainland’s rugged coastline, explore Galway and its beautiful historical city.

Connemara’s Vibrant Colours

Instead, I ventured up through Clifden, Roundstone, and Connemara. I’m often struck by the west of Ireland’s landscapes, but this time, it was the colours that held me in awe—the autumn leaves, the heathered hills, and the brightly painted villages, each one a testament to Ireland’s lively spirit. Every twist in the road offered a new, vivid view, and I couldn’t resist capturing each scene.

Connecting with Family Across the Border

Beyond the landscapes, one of the greatest joys of this trip was reconnecting with family on both sides of the border. I met cousins, both familiar and new, catching up on shared memories and learning more about the family history I’m piecing together with each visit. These connections breathe life into my trips, making each one feel richer and more meaningful.

Exploring History and Gathering Stories

Alongside my family time, I conducted interviews and engaged in conversations with locals, seeking to confirm or refute pieces of history and family lore I’d uncovered in my research. The knowledge and memories shared by these individuals brought a deeper understanding of the places I visited, adding new dimensions to both my heritage and the island’s history.

Final Thoughts

As I returned to a warm Australian summer, I felt fulfilled by this fourth journey to the Emerald Isle. Ireland continues to captivate me—its landscapes, people, and my ever-deepening connection to this place ensure I’ll always have a reason to return. With each visit, I uncover new layers, new stories, and new memories, leaving me with a persistent desire to come back again and again.