New Year’s Eve is coming up and there are plenty of exciting things to explore in Europe.  I love watching the fireworks throughout the city of Stockholm for example.  But it’s also the middle of winter, and sometimes it is nice to remember that beyond the dark and the cold, summer is out there.  Somewhere.

That’s why it’s time to take a trip to the Aran Islands off the coast of Ireland.  Ireland isn’t always known for its sunny disposition, but I got lucky.  And when looking back at pictures, that shining sun sure makes the memories a little bit sweeter.

We took a beautiful ferry ride out to Inishmore, one of the three Aran Islands (no cars are allowed to make the trip).  The islands rely heavily on tourism now, and upon arrival we were overwhelmed by choices in transportation. There were horse drawn buggies, bicycles, even vans, all offering to take us around the island.  With my grandfather’s bad hip, we opted for a van and a leisurely tour of the island.  It was well worth it.  The little titbits from our tour guide (like the town gossip about who was recently pulled over by the police and the newcomer from Boston) and the love and respect for the island made for an unforgettable trip.

Not only that, but along the way we were able to tour Teampull Bheanáin, a Celtic church from the 11^th century so small that my wingspan was large enough to touch both walls.  The highlight though may have been Dún Aonghasa, an Iron Age ring fort that sits high atop a hill on Inishmore and looks out over the water.  It is an impressive display of power and history.

The Aran Islands are known in knitting circles for the Aran Island sweater, their walls, and the fact that Irish is still the main language used.  In fact, many people head to the islands to learn Irish.  But it was not these that attracted me, it was the history and the ruins that still stand today.  With winter creeping by, it’s time to start planning for those European destinations.  Make sure the Aran Islands make your list.