The roads

The smallest roads are often called 'Boreens'.

These will typically have grass growing up the centre and be punctuated by chickens, sheep, cows and other livestock. In places the tarmac will give way to mud or large holes!

If you are brave, you can venture along these roads, however, there are odd places where four-wheel drive would be advisable.

The simple rule on these roads is - give way to everything unless they give way to you first!

You will need a good map and good map reading skills - there will be very few signposts.

'N' roads are the 'main roads. In many places there is a 'hard shoulder' on each side. It is courteous and sensible to pull in and let others pass if you can. But remember - in many areas there are still pedestrians on the road (and possibly animals). The hard shoulders are also intermittent on many roads and can have pot holes and ruts so be careful!

Motorways appeared in the 1990's in Ireland. There are not many but they certainly improve journey times. The motorways generally have two lanes and and the 'keep left' rule applies unless you are overtaking.

It's worth noting that if you are a tourist you will miss a lot of the old towns and villages by taking the motorway, so pull off from time to time.

'R' roads form the bulk of the 'inter village ' roads when you venture off the main tourist routes. These roads are fine once you get used to them, they are reasonably well signposted.

Finally, roads in towns vary from good surfaces to rough gravel or potholes. The main roads through towns are usually OK but keep your eyes open ...