Everyone will tell you: the roads in Ireland are far from the best! Their condition often leaves much to be desired, and their holes, dents and other defects will sometimes leave you wondering. Although the main roads are in excellent condition, the smaller ones are as authentic as they are tortured, but let’s face it: a small, damaged road in a wild Irish corner can be quite charming! Without further ado, here’s a preview of what’s in store… in addition to driving on the left!
Let’s face it: Ireland has a road network that is currently being upgraded. So don’t worry when it comes to freeways, expressways and city roads: they’re just as impeccable as in France or anywhere else.
Where it really hurts is in Ireland’s backwater villages, where the Irish DDE doesn’t visit regularly. You’re likely to find yourself on narrow roads (wonder if they’re two-way!), sometimes bumpy, unmarked and delineated by the famous dry stone walls that the Irish love so much! But don’t panic: they’re all easy to negotiate, and can only be done at moderate speed to avoid any nasty surprises…
In any case, Irish roads (apart from the main arteries) are rarely saturated. So why not take your time and enjoy the scenery?
In Ireland, agriculture is sacred! That’s why you’ll soon find sheep grazing freely, unsupervised by their shepherd. And of course, it’s not uncommon to come across them on the side of the road, or in the middle of the road!
Whether the sheep is alone or in a flock, learn that sheep are not animals that disassemble or are frightened by cars – quite the contrary! Quietly, the sheep has the reputation of often delaying travelers, stuck in their cars, waiting patiently for the animal to make way.
So let’s face it: it’s the only thing to do! It’s advisable to drive slowly in the vicinity of a sheep, or to stop short when it’s in your path.
