Day 37. Sunday, August 3 – Larne to Belfast, Northern Ireland
Sunday 3 August 2014
With a short ride today, we were in no hurry to rush out into the pouring rain. Sleeping in and another luxurious leisurely breakfast allowed the rain to clear before our departure. A couple of photos of Larne
as we pedaled out of town and along the Larne Harbour.
The dramatic cliffs and hills of yesterday mellowed to lush green fields.
We focused on the tiny patch of blue 
in a sky filled with dark clouds, hoping we could ride without the rain today. As we crested our climb, 
we had marvelous views 
of the Irish Sea 
and the City of Belfast in the distance.
A change in the wind and velocity and we knew it was only a matter of time before the rain in the distance was going to reach us. A five minute downpour reached us, before we could hide in a coffee shop. With extra time before we could check in, we stopped in Carrickfergus 
for a cappuccino. A ten mile leisurely ride through a park
and along a bike path, where we rescued a couple of locals from a flat tire.
The bike path 
took us all the way the into the city of Belfast,
avoiding busy streets. A quick shower and out to discover the city. Two block from our hotel, we stumbled upon a wonderful market
filled with art, music, food
and sense of whimsy.
The Titanic was built in Belfast and as they will quickly point out, “it was floating when it left.” Our touring was cut short by rain, but a quick duck into the oldest bar in Belfast, 
a perfect stop
filled incredible detail…..and Guinness beer.
We tried for more sightseeing,
like the City Hall,
but the rain was going to get the better of us, so we found a place for dinner. The Northern Whig House had a story to tell, too. Three communist revolutionary statues within the restaurant,
were purchased from the former Czechoslovakia. A quick stroll back to our hotel,
before the next downpour. Hopefully, the rain will finish up before we ride tomorrow.
.
Bobby Says:
I think you are getting wetter on this trip than if you went down with the Titanic.
Ken Says:
The “Crown” looks really cool! Looks like your weather tomorrow is looking good with only a 20% chance of rain. Don’t get used to it, ’cause it goes back to 50% after that. You’re just down the road from Holywood, which is Rory McIlroy’s hometown. He just won today’s tournament in the US as well as the British Open on July 20th and is favored to win this week’s PGA tournament. Tiger messed up his back again today and will probably be out of commission for a while. Have fun on your way to Dublin!
Catherine & Nicolas Says:
Hello Lorri & Jerry,
Returned yesterday from Scotland … and already the wish to go to Ireland after the view of your photos!
It was always a pleasure to encounter cyclists like you. Keep going!!
Best regards
Nicolas & Catherine
Pat and M.E. Says:
I would have stayed in the indoor market longer! Or at least until I finished a piece of that cake…
Pat and M.E. Says:
Oh and I can’t believe you’re in Week 6!!! WOW-WEE!
Robyn Says:
Wow must be the rainy season….the duckies are probably enjoying this ride. Pedal on!
travis Says:
Lot’s of interesting pix in your narrative, as well as the un-captioned ones. Good to see Jerry is getting some practice in the rescue and “paying it forward” dept. Nice going MR. PUMP IT UP.
D&G Cowan Says:
You guys really should get out more….. 🙂
You’ve taken some awesome pictures and seem to be having a wonderful time. Good for you! Enjoy and be safe!
Jerry and Lori Says:
Thanks! Indeed, great time but hard work, rewarded by food and wine.