I put up all the road signs on the Wild Atlantic Way 13 years ago. Watching this was a bit of a nostalgia trip of me as a younger man. It truly is wild, glad you enjoyed it and hope I pointed you the right way! 😅
@@ivanhughes8699 "Every adversity has the seed of a greater benefit". I hope you reaped the benefit, Ivan. Wishing you all the best in everything else you do. 👍😊💚
There are no sign post on the Ocean around the Irish coast, it is the Real Wild Atlantic Way. A good compass & navigation chart works well. The wind in the sail is the way to go, noise and pollution free.
I love when tourists come to Ireland and make the effort to see the country rather than just staying in Dublin. So glad you both enjoyed your time here and you are always welcome back.
As an Irish person watching this video, you have really captured the beauty of my country. It makes me want to go visit the west and the other beauty spots again. Your video shows we take our country for granted but the weather will get to you after years of it 😅
@@mickryan4921sometimes we have to remember to separate the state from the country and the people. Awful government and civil service doesn't mean awful country.
Well living in listowel and it's fine, originally from moyvane a village in the district of listowel and even though I moved to a town it has become cheaper and easier to get work, cost of living atm would be tight but it has been easing off as of late as for the weather I gave up caring about two decades ago as I was being more involved in sailing and if there's one thing I've learnt from that is a windy rainy shitty day is perfect for sailing, a perfect storm no pun intended is what I would expect and since then have always prepared myself for the worst and Ireland can suprise you literally out of the blue with the worst down pour and a minute later complete peace
I'm a Polish biker living in Kerry, Ireland, and i can say it's a great video to watch, found your material very acurate, fun and relatable. This year however was extraordinary modest with good weather conditions and Wild Atlantic Way with a little bit of sun is a whole new and unforgetable experience.I hope in the future, when you're back here, the sun will be less shy and will have a lot of dry and sunny spells.
Well in listowel the weather is practically four seasons although we did have a pretty good summer this year, load's of sunshine and perfect for the Greenway, cycled it twice and what views you get out there, it's something you will never experience on a motorcycle unless you are willing to cycle instead, these Greenways are interconnected with all the the other country Greenways so there's hundreds of miles of trails that you can only access on foot or bicycle
Great video. Glad you're feeling better. Stress and depression are terrible. As for the Irish people, I remember getting into Dublin late one evening with my wife and 3 young kids. We ended up walking along the street trying to find our accommodation. A man walking along in a suit and carrying a brief case (obviously just left work), stopped and asked is if we were ok. He turned around and ended up walking us to our accommodation. They are the friendliest, warmest peoplei have ever met. Love then and love Ireland.
your last point about the friendliness of the Irish is sooo true. I've been there 7 years ago and I have experienced the same not only once. The most impressive thing was, when I couldn't find our cottage at the day of arrival. It was 2or 3 AM in the morning!!! I didn't have any address which would have been useless anyway, but by mistake of the travel agency I also had a wrong road description. So I asked a local where I can find this cottage, but she also didn't know exactly where it was. She called a friend which described her the way and instead of giving me a description where to go she GOT IN HER CAR AND LED US THERE!!! I like living in Austria but this kind of helpfulness is something you could never expect of any stranger here.
I lived in Ireland’s west for 21 years as a German and I loved your video. You’ve captured Ireland beautifully and accurately!! I totally relate to what you’re saying and I miss the Irish mentality, friendliness and banter here in northern Germany dearly!!
This is so different to your usual videos... I love this! I have a memory of watching one of your videos and you were describing your depression (if I remember correctly!) So happy to see a video like this from you. I'm only 5 minutes in, but you seem so happy
As you mentioned, hedgerows are one of the last refuges for wildlife in this country. It's illegal to cut hedges in Ireland from March to September unless there is a clear safety hazard. It's not so much that we're prioritising nature, it's that nature has been so depleted by intensive agriculture, commercial forestry, etc. so hedgerows really are one of the last remaining areas where biodiversity can survive. Great video and hope you get the chance to return sometime.
Hedgerows and towns I was driving up my local town about 11.30am one morning early September quite busy and a fox comes our of a housing block and crosses the road infront of me cheeky as you like and goes under a gate the other side of the road just beside the local garda station so that's probably why he felt so safe doing it.
First time visitor to the channel and now a subscriber 😊. As an irish biker i am delighted to hear that despite our 'interesting' style of country road with all the blind corners and questionable surfaces at times alongside our crappy expensive air, that the genuine and warm irish welcome has you wanting to come back for another "cead mile failte". 🏍🇮🇪
Hi Schaaf, you captured the spirit of Ireland well in this film. It's the place i call home, and i love it. The 'slippery doom' you refer to is caused by the heat of the sun melting the tarmac causing the chippings(stones) on the surface to sink below the surface leaving a polished area on top which is indeed very slippery when wet. It's not too bad when dry, but as you've found out, it's wet here fairly often. The surface is treated occasionally with a new layer of chippings every so often, but it melts again when the temperatures rise in Summer. It's a cheaper option, i guess, than resurfacing and along with liberal coatings of cow sh!te on the roads it keeps motorcyclists here on their toes. Sure it's all part of the craic. 😎👍🏼
It boils down to economics. The total road network in the country is about 100,000km, 80% of which is "other roads" or the smaller roads that you found exhausting. That is a lot of roads for a relatively small and highly dispersed population. The cost of surface dressing ("tar and chips") is a tiny percentage of the cost of machine-laid asphalt and so that's what ends up on the vast majority of the smaller roads. The "fatting-up" that you described is an unfortunate side effect of slightly too much tar (bitumen) in places that rises to the surface as described by the poster above. For us locals it's just something else to deal with on our normal journeys, more so obviously for cyclists and motorcyclists, but I imagine its a shock for someone who lives in a country without such roads.
You nailed it - the beauty, the madness. Wild Atlantic Way is like the Whacky Races, tens of thousands of characters all on different missions exchanging stories over friendly pints. Its overcoming the adversity and savouring each unforgettable experience. Ireland has more culture and beauty per square mile than anywhere in the world. Thanks again for great vid!
I live in Ireland, and I’m glad my country welcomed you with open arms, and you enjoyed your time here so much, that you want to return. As a fellow biker, blind corners are just normal here, so we don’t give them a second thought. Ireland is a slower pace of life, and it’s amazing how many Germans and Austrians can get frustrated, but then adjust to loving the slower lifestyle. An old Irish saying is, “tomorrow is another day” meaning don’t worry if you didn’t get something done today, you can try tomorrow.
I'm Irish, im not a rider but I was recommended this video. Thank you so much for it, it was really beautiful ❤ You took fantastic footage. We certainly take it for granted. You're welcome back anytime
Thank you for taking us on this amazing personal journey! My wife and rode our bicycles on the West Coast of Ireland for our honemoon more than a decade ago and, like you we faced rain and weather conditions that we really really challenging, but the beauty of Ireland and especially her people, ESPECIALLY her people, were incomprable. We've traveling many places, but Ireland stands above them all! Also, I am really moved by your evolving iewpoint on motorcycle travel!!
As an Irish Biker its great to see someone comment about the blind spots. Doing 2500km in Ireland on the WAW way is one of the hardest things a biker can do. I do have USA based friends who scoff at me saying so when they can do 3000 mile trips with ease. The blind spots and heighten sense of awareness takes its toll and I'm glad you covered that. As for the roads, local councils look after their local area, so the more off the beaten track you get, the worse the roads. They also just tar and chip the roads here, instead of tar, chip and then roll the road. This means that cars are tasked with rolling the fresh stone ships into the road, this causes mounds of stone which then wash away and leave those bar tar sections. Not a bother to any other road user aside from bikers. Great video, really enjoyed it and a new sub from me.
This is one of the best travel videos I have seen. You really captured the spirit of my country and everything you said was exactly correct. It really made me proud to be Irish to see what a positive experience you had here (except for that piece about the air, which is probably the most annoying aspect of life in Ireland for anyone with a pneumatic-tyred vehicle! It annoys me so much that I bought a portable air compressor so that I will NEVER pay money for air!). Well done, Schaaf, this was amazing. I hope you can manage to come back to Ireland soon, and often!
I've been to Ireland several times and hope to go again, and you know why, for the same reason as you. I literally fell in love with this country and its people on my very first visit. Partly because Ireland reminds me of Brittany where I live, but it's deeper than that, it's like an inexplicable bond, as if this country were capable of making our roots vibrate from wherever they are. In short, I understand your feeling and I wish you the happiness of returning there. Thank you for amazing video. Ride safe.
New Zealand is very similar to Ireland in terms of the constant blind corners. Our training here accommodates for it so most of us are very use to it. However, when it does open up and you can see through the corners it does become infinitely more fun.
Hab bis zum Ende geschaut. Und ja man merkt wirklich dass du mit Herz und Seele dahinter steckst. Vielen lieben Dank für diesen großartigen Einblick von Irland. 😊
"It's a great country, if only we could put a roof over it!" as my Irish father in law used to say. Your video was so truthful about the people, the weather, the roads, the scenery and the cost of everything. Someone once described the roads as "a collection of potholes randomly interspersed with a few patches of tarmac" very true! I was born, lived and worked in London all my life and my wife is Irish but like me was born and lived in London, and every Christmas we used to go to a tiny little village in County Kilkenny to visit her parents and on my very first visit I fell in love with the place, the people, the scenery and the atmosphere (but not the weather!) We were very fortunate enough a few years ago to move from London to Kilkenny and after four years here I cannot imagine living anywhere else. I will always want to travel around but its great knowing I have my home here to come back to. So glad you got to experience what Ireland is like and hopefully you will return again one day.
Thank you for the video, i loved it ❤️, thank you for being so kind to our country , and there is always a place here in Ireland for both of you, take care and safe travels ❤👍🏻🙏
Just went to Ireland for a couple of weeks this spring around St. Patrick's Day! Absolutely loved the country, its people, the food, and the culture and general atmosphere. From astounding natural beauty to medieval ruins to whiskey libraries, Ireland was grand! 🤩
My wife and I moved to Northern Ireland 5 years ago... we used to ride a lot in India before we moved here, and riding in Ireland is actually similar to riding in India (quality of roads, blind curves, weird speed limits). Holidaying in Ireland vs India is also quite different in terms of quality of accomodation, sometimes quality of food, weather, scenery and cost... but I agree, motorbike travel in Ireland is amazing! Watched the video with my wife and we both completely agree with your experience!
Thanks Kristopher! I hopefully get to experience Indian roads as well one day ;)
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Thanks for sharing your visit! As an Irish person, let me say that I had a lovely time when I visited Vienna and felt very welcomed by the people. My choir was invited to visit by a few Austrians who joined us for one year during their Erasmus stay, and then suggested we come over to Vienna afterwards. They were just as wonderful ambassadors for Austria as the lovely Irish people you mentioned here. Happy for the cultural exchange! I would love to return to Vienna sometime, and I hope you have the opportunity to return to Ireland too, if you so choose.
Thank you for the video. I really enjoyed it. Us Irish are extremely proud of our little island. Some people don’t get it, but you do. I’ve been to lots of beautiful countries and each time thought “I want to move here”😂. But then I drive 30 mins from my house in any direction here in Ireland and get that feeling of intense appreciation and pride that I always think “Why would you want to move away from this”. You’ve met us, so you know we are genuine when we say “Cead mile failte” . 🇮🇪 ☮️
Absolutely great video. Made me stop and appreciate Ireland in a way I've forgotten recently, so a sincere thank you! As a daily motorbike rider in Ireland, I can attest to the contrast of cloistered nervous driving with the distraction of some of the most inspiring views. It definitely makes journeys through the countryside take twice as long as expected, but maybe that's one of the factors that inspires our relaxed view on life. Personally I think the warmth and hospitality you received on your travels here says as much about your character as it does of that of the Irish people. We can be quite cynical, especially in private 😅, but when presented with a genuine and enthusiastic person our best side comes out. We'd love to have you back again. 🖐
My dear friend, I've been following you since the very early days with Little Honda. I have to say that I am really happy that your life took some good turns and is at this point now. I am genuinely happy for you and your beautiful girlfriend 😊 Also, this video is one of the best of yours if not The best.
As a Irish man of 64 years and a biker for 48 of those years I have loved watching you and your girlfriend travel the Country I call home! What a wonderful trip and experience you have had in Ireland. You have summed up a lot of experiences along the way and the people and scenery are second to none. While you have experienced Eire there is an entire different country and experience in Northen Ireland. Perhaps on you next trip you could give it a try as it’s every bit of an experience and way better roads! Regards Jim P.S. Totally agree weather is terrible this year worsted I’ve ever experienced, 10 seasons in one day is not normal it’s usually only 4 😂
I never look at motor cycle videos but I thoroughly enjoyed watching your travels, and you have great story telling skills which I found very moving. The quality of the video editing was fab, and I think your style and humour is very engaging. Best wishes for your future plans.
I award you 10/10 for pronunciation of Irish place names! Brilliant, balanced 'review' of my country. Motorbiking here is frustrating and rewarding, and you captured that superbly. Thank you.
I can understand every single word you said at the end of the video, I felt the coldness of people sometimes and still do, but I found a medicine for myself: I try to relate with strangers in the way I would like them to relate with me, and 99% it works and almost everybody seems to feel good then! If we all think about that maybe the world could be even a better place. Greetings from Italy and...always speed safe of course!
Love your fast riding, but this one hit different, you can feel the pure joy and enthusiasm on both of you in so many clips ! Thanks for stepping outside your box , and giving us this little gem
Very impressed with this video Schaaf, well done! I'm Dutch and I've been living in Ireland since 1996 and biking here never gets old. I even got used to the blind corners. I hope you make it back someday on the bike.
Stumbled upon your video and have to say what a story. I understand all the equipment you bring along with you on your travels but the end result is so worth it. Couldn't agree more with your experiences with the motherland between the weather, high costs, road conditions etc but as alot of us say on a sunny day this place is hard to beat but also makes you appreciate those good times so much more. Thank you for capturing the essence of biking in Ireland and so happy to hear in return it helped you within. Safe travels and see you next time you visit Ireland!
My family live in Northern England and we regularly go to the Moray region of Scotland on our holidays. Your experience of Ireland is like a mirror for me. Do you get all 4 seasons in one day? Pretty much!! Do you get blind corners on bumpy and narrow roads? They're pretty much everywhere!! Is the scenery gorgeous and the people welcoming?? 100%!! We in the UK and Ireland hope to see you soon X
I’m Irish. Live in Ireland and drive a GS 1200 in any weather 😂. Those damn air machines requiring you to have a 1€ coin and 20/20 eyesight in the dark… they have taken over the country only in the past 10 years or so! Thanks for your positive impressions of us folk. We genuinely appreciate it.
What an amazing video, I can tell you genuinely love the place! I do also, only ever been to Dublin, but the Irish people are an incredible breed. This is without a doubt the best motovlog I have seen, you seem like a great, loving and humble person, we all have some kind of insecurities so you’re not alone there! But how you present yourself is truly wonderful. Well done for this video, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Really good capture of Ireland in all its glory. Well done sir.
During the video I already wanted to say ‘my man, you have really put your heart and soul in this video!’. And in the end you said it yourself. Thank you for this heartwarming video, we really enjoyed it!
The amount of work you've put in this one Schaaf is just amazing. I'm really thankful that I could be a little part of your high quality mini movie you've made.
Danke für diesen wahnsinnig persönlichen und intimen Einblick in eure Reise. Was die Unsicherheiten und die mentalen Probleme angeht, kann ich leider vieles nachvollziehen. Meine Anti-Depressions-Therapiereise war letztes Jahr 4 Wochen rund um den Balkan. Leider allein. Deswegen finde ich es absolut klasse, dass du eine tolle Freundin dabei hattest, um die Augenblicke gemeinsam zu genießen. Und wenn es nur ein kurzes Zunicken ist und ein "ist geil hier, oder?". Das sind die Momente, die bleiben. Ich wünsche dir/euch, dass ihr sowas noch oft zusammen erlebt. Und auch, wenn Irland für mich nicht so wirklich auf der Liste steht, hat mich durch das Video die Reiselust gepackt. Ich kann nur sehr grob nachvollziehen, welche Arbeit und Anstrengung das Filmen, Schneiden und letztendliche Veröffentlichen des Videos mit sich gebracht haben. Danke, dass du das alles auf dich genommen hast und das zum Schluss einer der persönlichsten Reiseberichte wurde, die ich hier auf YT gesehen habe. Danke!
I'm so pleased that you enjoyed your motorcycle road trip in Ireland. You showcased our beautiful country wonderfully well, and I'm glad you felt so comfortable in talking to the Irish people you met along the way. 🇮🇪☘️🇦🇹
Just wow Schaaf! Thank you for sharing your experience. It was an absolute delight to watch and Ireland seems to be even more astounding than I imagined. One can really tell you put your heart into this 🙌. I wish you all the best, safe riding und schöne Grüße aus der Linzer Gegend 👋😄.
I am 30 years old, and I've been traveling by motorcycle since 2019. I've realized for some time now that travel is not just about the roads traveled but also about hearing stories, talking to locals, tasting food, and having experiences. Last week, I was in Southern Italy, and I spoke with people affected by the terrible earthquake in Amatrice. It was truly moving. I really enjoyed this video.
Glad you had a lovely time in my country. You were nearly turning into an Irish person there with all your chat about the weather. I’d be nervous on the right side of the road especially at roundabouts 😱. I do think that we take our friendliness for granted and it’s only when we go to some other countries and don’t see the same smiles or nods that we realise that we’re lucky here. Our problem is usually not not talking to strangers but knowing when to stop 😂 The people in the countryside are on another level compared to us here in Dublin but we can still have the craic (meaning - fun). I think it’s ridiculous to pay for air too so got myself a small air compressor on amazon that I use at home. Regarding the roads, slowing down here is a good thing we have too many fatalities as it is, and you have to stop and smell the roses in life and enjoy the journey.
An Irish guy here just back from a fantastic 7 days riding in Spain. Loved this video. I've been lucky to have spent a few sunny days on the WAW but didn't take the time out to enjoy the trip to the extent you have. Thank you for this video. Excellent job. Safe biking.
Entertaining, visually captivating and informative from start to finish. I can only imagine the many hours of editing this must have taken to put together. I think you've inspired quite a few more riders (including myself) to make the journey, as well as to slow down to smell the shamrocks every once in a while.
As an Irish person and a bike rider I have to say congrats. Great video and I’m sure the Irish tourist board should pay you for such a generous and genuine portrayal of our country. 👏👏👏👏
Thank you for sharing this Herr Schaaf! I think I can safely say that this is one of the best motovlogs I have watched on TH-cam for a long time. It filled me with joy... and has made we want to travel Ireland on my motorbike. 😁
Thank so much for your honesty Schaff - I have similar issues surrounding social anxiety and striking up conversations with strangers (even at motorcycle events!), despite the fact that meeting new people is something I do all the time in my day job! I don't know if I can be brave enough to expose some of my personal hang-ups in the way you have, kudos to you! Loved the video, cheers 👍
Thanks Rikky! Interestingly enough, to me it was always easier to open up on the Internet. After all, basically it's like a stage where I choose what to share and what not and I feel surprisingly comfy with sharing A LOT on here. Especially mental health related stuff. Talking about it should be the most normal thing.
Wow Schaaf that was quite simply one of the best videos I've seen on TH-cam ever - brilliantly filmed, edited, narrated and put together....thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it - great work mate!
Oh, what a lovely surprise!! Thanks a lot! I have to admit I'm fairly satisfied with this one myself so it feels extra nice to receive comments like yours! Best wishes from Austria to the UK!!
I now watch your videos through my smart-tv for the best experience, but that means commenting is now an extra step I rarely take. But today I just want to say thank you for the great video and lovely visuals. I always love your edits and you are absolutely right about everything you said. I learned all of this stuff myself through a few years of travelling alone, then with my girlfriend, and now with my young daughter as well. Especially with my young daughter. With her constant long travels aren't a great option anymore so I only have a few roadtrip kind of days. Instead it's often just a sightseeing trip in the morning followed by some relaxing in the afternoon while she takes a nap. I never thought I would enjoy basically doing nothing, or just hanging out in a playground when she's awake. But it was quite nice to actually truly relax during a holiday. It's like you said: it's good to try something different and 'new', but we often need others like our girlfriends (or for me my kid) to actually get us to try these different things.
That was a woderful Austrian perspective of us Irish and our frustratingly beautiful country..... Hope to get to yours some dsy soon. I ride a humble NC750X with my wife as pillion, both in our 60's!! 😂😂 Best of Luck in life man 😊
As an Irishman and a biker, I've yet to do the west coast properly. It's a loose plan in the next few weeks however as I've some time off work. Also it was lovely to see Lough Tay and Glenmacnass at 11:46, I was there only this morning! The road between them is one of my favourites in Wicklow and features on most of my rideouts!
On the topic of our roads, most are managed by a county council. In Wicklow, for instance, road "repairs" are carried out by filling holes or covering a road with loose chippings held down loosely by bitchumen. These are fine for cars, but lethal for motorcyclists. There just aren't enough of us to be considered by the roads authourities. Blind corners are another thing we've just become used to. Same experience though, on a road with blind bends I'll come home much more tense than on a wide open "mountain" (not compared to your usual mountains!) road. I loved seeing your pics from here, and wished I was around at the time to try and meet you on the road, even on that three wheeler you took up my local roads!
This was an excellent video Schaff, end to end. You had me tearing up with pride at my lovely country and it's occupants, and cringing in shame at our pain points (Mostly the crappy air machines! They're not all paid, but more than not these days!). You've genuinely inspired me to go on a west-coast trip!
Friend. As a Kerryman I want to say thank you. Your video and story are inspiring. You will always be welcome in Ireland. And your right. Paying for air is the worst. I look forward to visiting Austria but I'll have to put quiet cans on the bike due to noise. Thanks again and keep up the good work.
Dear Schaaf, what a great video this is. It makes me hungry to visit this obviously fantastic and interesting country. That is the best advertising clip for Ireland that I can imagine. The Irish authorities should invite you for a free vacation to thank you ! Thanks again & ride safe, Alf
Probably one of the best motorcycle TH-cam videos I've ever seen and I've seen most of them. The picture quality, information, the way you presented yourself, your honesty . You are incredibly humble and likeable and your English is perfect 👌 I'm Irish and I couldn't agree with your description of Ireland more. Fantastic video.
Hi, I really enjoyed the video and can confirm as an Irish bike rider, that you have been bang on with the information provided. I love nothing more than getting out on my bike and enjoying the beautiful scenery, food and great people on each trip and you have highlighted these wonderful things about Ireland very very well 👌 Glad you guys enjoyed it and wish you the best for your future adventures.
Not a biker, just an Irish person that stumbled upon you on You-Tube, but loved your entire video. Everything you say is honest and true, even the bit about having to pay for air!!! When I was young it was free. Now it just annoys me, so bought my own mini-compressor that runs off the lighter socket in the car. Great that you had a good time and went home with so many unforgettable and positive memories. Slainte.
Brilliant video of my country, well done! You are very honest and correct. The roads are shite, the food expensive and the weather is unreliable but then on the plus side, if the weather was like the Canaries we'd have thousands clogging up our shite roads! I thought your comment on our blind corners so funny because I am so used to them, you roll off the throttle and prepare to meet anything from a cow to a parked car! If you are back again, look me up in Connemara and I'll show you some really shite roads but incredible scenery!
This is the best travel relation I've seen in a while. I mean, not the best motorcycle travel relation, but travel relation in general. I love the videography, I love the storytelling, I love the honesty. I'd love to get even more of how it was to travel as a couple. Was it joy all day long? Did you have moments of frustration?
None, basically! We're at our best when we travel and especially Olesia is incredibly tough. As long as we get delicious food in-between we rarely ever feel any sort of frustrations :)
What a great video and amazing trip! Love the way you shared your experience with us and how you pictured your love for Ireland too. Hope you will share more and more journeys like this one. Take care and ride safe. V
What a wonderful movie Schaaf, excellent production! Thank you for the wonderful views and your advice. I struggle with similar issues, so it really helps to hear such tips from you. I'm already looking forward to motorcycle season next year. I wish you the best of luck and love with your girlfriend and hope you continue to make your wonderful wideos for time to come!
I rode in Ireland and Scotland and intend to go back. I find myself drawn to these places despite the patchy weather, or perhaps, because of it. You made a valid point, contrast adds spice to the experience.
I was the number 2002 who pressed the ”like” button , and I give you my comment here that will be number 599 : It was a very good v-log here about your roadtrip with your girlfriend in Ireland. You are most welcome to do more of this kind of stuff ! Greetings from Malmö / Sweden 🇸🇪
FINALLY!!!! Someone who knows how to make a motorcycle travel video!! OUTSTANDING!! Since discovering "Long Way Round" and "Long way Down" (Lets just pretend that Long Way UP never happened) I have scoured the internet and motorcycle video racks for good motorcycle travel videos. I have found so few that are able to hold ones attention and interest that I have almost given up. I have been saving for my next bike trip since 2015 and am tempted to send you some of it to hasten your next video. But sorry, only tempted. Australia is calling. But please make more like this one.
What an excellent production!!!. As an Irish biker who has biked all over Europe I do agree our roads are much more different, and in some conditions much more technically challenging. The slippy stiff you experienced is either diesel or bovine excrement. As our air is so good we charge for premium air at gas stations.
Thanks for sharing this GEM with us, brother! 40 minutes of my life very, very, very well spent. IRELAND + Whales + the Scotland's NC500 are definitely on my Bucket-list ( as soon as the kids move out of the parent's house, that is... LOL ) When time comes, I'll enjoy it smoothly and calmly... like a marvellous GUINNESS should be savoured. GOOD THINGS COME TO THOSE WHO WAIT, right? Glad your faith in mankind grew a little bigger after interacting with the green elves up' north; And glad I'm a part of that "small elite" that actually CARES! It's not (never is) all about BIKES ... in balance and variety lays the salt&pepper of LIFE. Stay safe, take care, have fun... and many thanks to Alessia for allowing you to share such personal contents in this forum. HOPE it all works out for the best, for you both. Best regards from PORTUGAL mate, and thks for liking our Biking Paradise too... See you around! Luís Ribeiro >
As an expatriate Irish biker in Australia, I loved this. I did a similar road trip in 2019, unfortunately in a very ordinary hire car not a bike, but with my wonderful daughter. Best holiday I have ever had. I connected with my homeland after not being back in 40 plus years. I need to return. Thank you for your fantastic video!
As a CB500 rider, found your site many years ago. This was your best video to date. Brings perspectives to motorcycle holidays, countries, cost, weather etc. Food for thought, even for a rider of 47 years. Best wishes from the U.K.
As an Irish person, l loved your video of our beautiful country and you my friend are one lovely gentleman. I wish you a happy and healthy life and yes, do return. God bless .
Danke Schaaf für dieses großartige Video. Ich als Ire der in Deutschland aufgewachsen ist, kann Deine Faszination für Irland so sehr nachvollziehen. Irland wird immer einen ganz besonderen Platz in meinem Herz haben und das liegt nicht nur daran, dass es mitunter Heimat ist, sondern an der Herzlichkeit der Menschen, das besondere Flair und die Entschleunigung dieser Insel. Ich war viel unterwegs, aber kein Land hat mich so erwischt wie dieses. Du hast das in Deinem Video wirklich gut rüber gebracht und man sieht, dass Ihr eine tolle Zeit hattet.
Irish biker here. Love this video. Really honest. Hope you'll come back. Yep. Riding in Ireland is tiring in all honesty. Its different. Every bend in the road could yield literally any hazard.. lots of concentration needed.
Ah, Schaaf! With your adventures, you are a true inspiration and delight for us, fellow motorcyclists, to keep visiting your TH-cam channel. Your journey, captured through the lens of a GoPro or DSLR, brings up a mix of emotions and aspirations, not only for a wide audience but also for someone like me, with my own set of unique characteristics. It's fascinating how you manage to capture the preparations, sometimes the changes due to unpredictable weather, and your personal victories so vividly. It resonates with us, the viewers. It shows that motorcycling is much more than just going from A to B; it's a journey of discovery, not just through the breathtaking environments you ride through but also through the depths of your own soul. The way you talk about the intimate connection with the landscape, the freedom, the flexibility, and how all this acts as a catalyst for personal growth deeply resonates with me. It reminds me that, despite the challenges that my HSP, ADD, and ASD-like character traits bring, there are always paths to self-discovery and growth. Motorcycling, with all its freedoms and flexibilities, offers us a unique way to explore ourselves and the world around us. Your videos are more than just entertainment; they are a source of inspiration. They encourage us to embrace the beauty of nature, all from the saddle of our beloved motorcycles. For someone like me, who sometimes struggles with the overwhelming stimuli of the world, your adventures and my own experiences offer a moment of peace and reflection. So here's a digital toast to you, Schaaf, from a fellow adventurer of age (55 years young on a Triumph Speedmaster). May your journeys continue to inspire us to explore our own paths. And who knows, maybe one day you'll see me through your lens ;) Keep riding, keep exploring, and above all, keep sharing that wonderful energy and life lessons. Greetings from the Netherlands -- Ah, Schaaf! Mit deinen Abenteuern bist du eine wahre Inspiration und Freude für uns, Mitmotorradfahrer, deinen TH-cam-Kanal weiter zu besuchen. Deine Reise, eingefangen durch das Objektiv einer GoPro oder DSLR, weckt eine Mischung aus Emotionen und Bestrebungen, nicht nur für ein breites Publikum, sondern auch für jemanden wie mich, mit meinem eigenen Satz von besonderen Eigenschaften. Es ist faszinierend, wie du die Vorbereitungen, manchmal die Änderungen durch das unvorhersehbare Wetter und deine persönlichen Siege so lebhaft festhältst. Es berührt uns, die Zuschauer. Es zeigt, dass Motorradfahren viel mehr ist als nur von A nach B zu kommen; es ist eine Entdeckungsreise, nicht nur durch die atemberaubenden Umgebungen, durch die du fährst, sondern auch durch die Tiefen deiner eigenen Seele. Die Art, wie du über die intime Verbindung mit der Landschaft, die Freiheit, die Flexibilität sprichst und wie all dies als Katalysator für persönliches Wachstum dient, resoniert tief mit mir. Es erinnert mich daran, dass trotz der Herausforderungen, die meine HSP, ADD und ASD-ähnlichen Charakterzüge mit sich bringen, immer Wege zur Selbstentdeckung und Wachstum gibt. Motorradfahren bietet uns mit all seiner Freiheit und Flexibilität einen einzigartigen Weg, uns selbst und die Welt um uns herum zu erkunden. Deine Videos sind mehr als nur Unterhaltung; sie sind eine Quelle der Inspiration. Sie ermutigen uns, die Schönheit der Natur zu umarmen, alles vom Sattel unserer geliebten Motorräder aus. Für jemanden wie mich, der manchmal mit den überwältigenden Reizen der Welt kämpft, bieten deine Abenteuer und meine eigenen Erfahrungen einen Moment des Friedens und der Reflexion. Also hier ist ein digitaler Toast auf dich, Schaaf, von einem Mitabenteurer im Alter (55 Jahre jung auf einer Triumph Speedmaster). Mögen deine Reisen uns weiterhin inspirieren, unsere eigenen Pfade zu erkunden. Und wer weiß, vielleicht siehst du mich eines Tages durch dein Objektiv ;) Weiter fahren, weiter erkunden und vor allem, diese wunderbare Energie und Lebenslektionen teilen. Grüße aus den Niederlanden
This is such a great video. As a Brit who has not yet ridden in Ireland, this looks such an amazing trip. Left IS right as far as riding on roads 😉 As a motorcycle riding couple on our channel, we are so pleased for you just to be happy. We can only dream of getting close to the film making quality of this video, and we can definitely appreciate the hours crafting this by a computer. Those horrible air pumps are also here as are patches of tar on the road where the chippings haven't stuck (because of wet, cold or wear) Thank you for creating and uploading 🙏
Servus, thank you for you being you and sharing your story with all of us. It takes great courage to show your weakness, but seeing you overcoming yours, inspires overcoming ours.
This is great! So very well edited and narrated. I'm so glad that you enjoyed your time here and that the "up sides" outweighed the "down sides" for you. Thank you for all the €€€ you off-loaded here on your trip!. Here's a B&B tip for the next visit: Stirabout Lane B&B in Rathdrum, Wicklow. No donkeys, but super people, top quality accommodation and priceless hospitality, a hidden gem!
A girlfriend, a motorcycle, a great country! You know how to live! ;)
5 weeks a year (amount of vacation I have) I definitely do ;)
We were knocked out of the World Cup last night, you and your video have made me smile, thank you 😊
@@SchaafMore to Irish beer than Guinness.
I think you might like the Dublin and Wicklow mountains.
I put up all the road signs on the Wild Atlantic Way 13 years ago. Watching this was a bit of a nostalgia trip of me as a younger man. It truly is wild, glad you enjoyed it and hope I pointed you the right way! 😅
Wow! You did your job very well as the route is so very well sign-posted. 👍👍👍
@helenaville5939 thanks. EXT was the name of our company. Went wallop with the recession.
@@ivanhughes8699 "Every adversity has the seed of a greater benefit". I hope you reaped the benefit, Ivan. Wishing you all the best in everything else you do. 👍😊💚
Quite a legacy!! You must be very proud!
There are no sign post on the Ocean around the Irish coast, it is the Real Wild Atlantic Way.
A good compass & navigation chart works well. The wind in the sail is the way to go, noise and pollution free.
You mention that the Irish people were warm and welcoming , what struck me watching this is what nice warm people you and your girlfriend are too !
Thanks a lot!
I love when tourists come to Ireland and make the effort to see the country rather than just staying in Dublin. So glad you both enjoyed your time here and you are always welcome back.
Thanks! That's just what I did back then but that little trip to Dalkey hill was enough to made me realize that there's probably much more to see ;)
As an Irish person watching this video, you have really captured the beauty of my country. It makes me want to go visit the west and the other beauty spots again. Your video shows we take our country for granted but the weather will get to you after years of it 😅
As another Irish man....ya we do take our country for granted at times.
Irish here too, lucky enough to live on the west coast, and I take every advantage! Cmon over! No such things as bad weather, just bad clothing!
@@mickryan4921sometimes we have to remember to separate the state from the country and the people. Awful government and civil service doesn't mean awful country.
Well living in listowel and it's fine, originally from moyvane a village in the district of listowel and even though I moved to a town it has become cheaper and easier to get work, cost of living atm would be tight but it has been easing off as of late as for the weather I gave up caring about two decades ago as I was being more involved in sailing and if there's one thing I've learnt from that is a windy rainy shitty day is perfect for sailing, a perfect storm no pun intended is what I would expect and since then have always prepared myself for the worst and Ireland can suprise you literally out of the blue with the worst down pour and a minute later complete peace
Nice video
I'm a Polish biker living in Kerry, Ireland, and i can say it's a great video to watch, found your material very acurate, fun and relatable. This year however was extraordinary modest with good weather conditions and Wild Atlantic Way with a little bit of sun is a whole new and unforgetable experience.I hope in the future, when you're back here, the sun will be less shy and will have a lot of dry and sunny spells.
Kerry Polka? Sorry 👀 😂
Well in listowel the weather is practically four seasons although we did have a pretty good summer this year, load's of sunshine and perfect for the Greenway, cycled it twice and what views you get out there, it's something you will never experience on a motorcycle unless you are willing to cycle instead, these Greenways are interconnected with all the the other country Greenways so there's hundreds of miles of trails that you can only access on foot or bicycle
This summer was so good i almost didnt mind riding from dublin to dingle on a bike with the seat ergonomics of a thin pole
@@tomtexas4897 you at least went through Conner pass I mean surly you got to experience that insanity
Thanks Adamek!!
Great video. Glad you're feeling better. Stress and depression are terrible. As for the Irish people, I remember getting into Dublin late one evening with my wife and 3 young kids. We ended up walking along the street trying to find our accommodation. A man walking along in a suit and carrying a brief case (obviously just left work), stopped and asked is if we were ok. He turned around and ended up walking us to our accommodation. They are the friendliest, warmest peoplei have ever met. Love then and love Ireland.
this is pretty normal in Ireland!
Thank you, Drago!
your last point about the friendliness of the Irish is sooo true. I've been there 7 years ago and I have experienced the same not only once. The most impressive thing was, when I couldn't find our cottage at the day of arrival. It was 2or 3 AM in the morning!!! I didn't have any address which would have been useless anyway, but by mistake of the travel agency I also had a wrong road description. So I asked a local where I can find this cottage, but she also didn't know exactly where it was. She called a friend which described her the way and instead of giving me a description where to go she GOT IN HER CAR AND LED US THERE!!! I like living in Austria but this kind of helpfulness is something you could never expect of any stranger here.
That sounds like a proper Irish experience indeed :)
@@Schaaf it's normal here
I lived in Ireland’s west for 21 years as a German and I loved your video. You’ve captured Ireland beautifully and accurately!! I totally relate to what you’re saying and I miss the Irish mentality, friendliness and banter here in northern Germany dearly!!
Thanks a lot!!
This is so different to your usual videos... I love this! I have a memory of watching one of your videos and you were describing your depression (if I remember correctly!) So happy to see a video like this from you. I'm only 5 minutes in, but you seem so happy
Thanks! Mental health issues still going strong but it's easier to forget about them on the back of a bike in Ireland ;)
As you mentioned, hedgerows are one of the last refuges for wildlife in this country. It's illegal to cut hedges in Ireland from March to September unless there is a clear safety hazard. It's not so much that we're prioritising nature, it's that nature has been so depleted by intensive agriculture, commercial forestry, etc. so hedgerows really are one of the last remaining areas where biodiversity can survive. Great video and hope you get the chance to return sometime.
Ireland is the least biodiverse country in europe...
I’m waiting for my snotty letter from Kerry county council to cut all my hedges.
@@anabolic8097 True, and consistent with our reputation of being Europe's laggards.
We need to get sheep out of mountain and rough hill grazing next
Hedgerows and towns I was driving up my local town about 11.30am one morning early September quite busy and a fox comes our of a housing block and crosses the road infront of me cheeky as you like and goes under a gate the other side of the road just beside the local garda station so that's probably why he felt so safe doing it.
First time visitor to the channel and now a subscriber 😊.
As an irish biker i am delighted to hear that despite our 'interesting' style of country road with all the blind corners and questionable surfaces at times alongside our crappy expensive air, that the genuine and warm irish welcome has you wanting to come back for another "cead mile failte".
🏍🇮🇪
Thank you!!
Hi Schaaf, you captured the spirit of Ireland well in this film. It's the place i call home, and i love it.
The 'slippery doom' you refer to is caused by the heat of the sun melting the tarmac causing the chippings(stones) on the surface to sink below the surface leaving a polished area on top which is indeed very slippery when wet. It's not too bad when dry, but as you've found out, it's wet here fairly often. The surface is treated occasionally with a new layer of chippings every so often, but it melts again when the temperatures rise in Summer. It's a cheaper option, i guess, than resurfacing and along with liberal coatings of cow sh!te on the roads it keeps motorcyclists here on their toes.
Sure it's all part of the craic. 😎👍🏼
It sure does! Thanks for the lovely comment and the great explanation! :)
It boils down to economics. The total road network in the country is about 100,000km, 80% of which is "other roads" or the smaller roads that you found exhausting. That is a lot of roads for a relatively small and highly dispersed population. The cost of surface dressing ("tar and chips") is a tiny percentage of the cost of machine-laid asphalt and so that's what ends up on the vast majority of the smaller roads. The "fatting-up" that you described is an unfortunate side effect of slightly too much tar (bitumen) in places that rises to the surface as described by the poster above. For us locals it's just something else to deal with on our normal journeys, more so obviously for cyclists and motorcyclists, but I imagine its a shock for someone who lives in a country without such roads.
You nailed it - the beauty, the madness. Wild Atlantic Way is like the Whacky Races, tens of thousands of characters all on different missions exchanging stories over friendly pints. Its overcoming the adversity and savouring each unforgettable experience. Ireland has more culture and beauty per square mile than anywhere in the world. Thanks again for great vid!
Thanks Derek!
I live in Ireland, and I’m glad my country welcomed you with open arms, and you enjoyed your time here so much, that you want to return.
As a fellow biker, blind corners are just normal here, so we don’t give them a second thought. Ireland is a slower pace of life, and it’s amazing how many Germans and Austrians can get frustrated, but then adjust to loving the slower lifestyle. An old Irish saying is, “tomorrow is another day” meaning don’t worry if you didn’t get something done today, you can try tomorrow.
Lovely saying! Thank you!!
I'm Irish, im not a rider but I was recommended this video. Thank you so much for it, it was really beautiful ❤ You took fantastic footage. We certainly take it for granted. You're welcome back anytime
Thank you very much! Great to hear that also non-riders are able to appreciate my video!!
Thank you for taking us on this amazing personal journey! My wife and rode our bicycles on the West Coast of Ireland for our honemoon more than a decade ago and, like you we faced rain and weather conditions that we really really challenging, but the beauty of Ireland and especially her people, ESPECIALLY her people, were incomprable. We've traveling many places, but Ireland stands above them all! Also, I am really moved by your evolving iewpoint on motorcycle travel!!
That sounds absolutely wonderful! Thank you!
As an Irish Biker its great to see someone comment about the blind spots. Doing 2500km in Ireland on the WAW way is one of the hardest things a biker can do. I do have USA based friends who scoff at me saying so when they can do 3000 mile trips with ease. The blind spots and heighten sense of awareness takes its toll and I'm glad you covered that. As for the roads, local councils look after their local area, so the more off the beaten track you get, the worse the roads. They also just tar and chip the roads here, instead of tar, chip and then roll the road. This means that cars are tasked with rolling the fresh stone ships into the road, this causes mounds of stone which then wash away and leave those bar tar sections. Not a bother to any other road user aside from bikers. Great video, really enjoyed it and a new sub from me.
Very informative!! Thanks mate! Ride safe!
This is one of the best travel videos I have seen. You really captured the spirit of my country and everything you said was exactly correct. It really made me proud to be Irish to see what a positive experience you had here (except for that piece about the air, which is probably the most annoying aspect of life in Ireland for anyone with a pneumatic-tyred vehicle! It annoys me so much that I bought a portable air compressor so that I will NEVER pay money for air!). Well done, Schaaf, this was amazing. I hope you can manage to come back to Ireland soon, and often!
Thank you very much, Keith!!
I've been to Ireland several times and hope to go again, and you know why, for the same reason as you. I literally fell in love with this country and its people on my very first visit. Partly because Ireland reminds me of Brittany where I live, but it's deeper than that, it's like an inexplicable bond, as if this country were capable of making our roots vibrate from wherever they are. In short, I understand your feeling and I wish you the happiness of returning there. Thank you for amazing video. Ride safe.
You've said that nicely!! Thank you!!
@@Schaaf You're welcome. It's the least I can do for such a nice video.
Your long forgotten Celtic ancestry is awakened when you visit Ireland.Many say they felt they were returning home.
New Zealand is very similar to Ireland in terms of the constant blind corners. Our training here accommodates for it so most of us are very use to it. However, when it does open up and you can see through the corners it does become infinitely more fun.
Oh man, NZ would take me more than a couple of years of saving hehehe
@@Schaaf Well worth it eventually.
Hab bis zum Ende geschaut. Und ja man merkt wirklich dass du mit Herz und Seele dahinter steckst. Vielen lieben Dank für diesen großartigen Einblick von Irland. 😊
Das freut mich sehr!! Vielen Dank!!
I had a 10 day riding holiday in Ireland last year, and it changed me! I need to get back there asap!!!
Nice!!
Everyone in Ireland hates those air/water/vacuum machines as well. Lovely photography and video, glad you enjoyed your visit.
A nice change from the RAW videos, I wouldn’t mind watching more of this format. Good to see your experience of Ireland 🇮🇪
Thanks Joey!
"It's a great country, if only we could put a roof over it!" as my Irish father in law used to say.
Your video was so truthful about the people, the weather, the roads, the scenery and the cost of everything. Someone once described the roads as "a collection of potholes randomly interspersed with a few patches of tarmac" very true!
I was born, lived and worked in London all my life and my wife is Irish but like me was born and lived in London, and every Christmas we used to go to a tiny little village in County Kilkenny to visit her parents and on my very first visit I fell in love with the place, the people, the scenery and the atmosphere (but not the weather!)
We were very fortunate enough a few years ago to move from London to Kilkenny and after four years here I cannot imagine living anywhere else. I will always want to travel around but its great knowing I have my home here to come back to.
So glad you got to experience what Ireland is like and hopefully you will return again one day.
I hope so too! Glad you were able to permanently move to this magical place!! Thank you!!
Thank you for the video, i loved it ❤️, thank you for being so kind to our country , and there is always a place here in Ireland for both of you, take care and safe travels ❤👍🏻🙏
Thanks Robbie!
Just went to Ireland for a couple of weeks this spring around St. Patrick's Day! Absolutely loved the country, its people, the food, and the culture and general atmosphere. From astounding natural beauty to medieval ruins to whiskey libraries, Ireland was grand! 🤩
Awesome!
My wife and I moved to Northern Ireland 5 years ago... we used to ride a lot in India before we moved here, and riding in Ireland is actually similar to riding in India (quality of roads, blind curves, weird speed limits). Holidaying in Ireland vs India is also quite different in terms of quality of accomodation, sometimes quality of food, weather, scenery and cost... but I agree, motorbike travel in Ireland is amazing! Watched the video with my wife and we both completely agree with your experience!
Thanks Kristopher! I hopefully get to experience Indian roads as well one day ;)
Thanks for sharing your visit! As an Irish person, let me say that I had a lovely time when I visited Vienna and felt very welcomed by the people. My choir was invited to visit by a few Austrians who joined us for one year during their Erasmus stay, and then suggested we come over to Vienna afterwards. They were just as wonderful ambassadors for Austria as the lovely Irish people you mentioned here. Happy for the cultural exchange! I would love to return to Vienna sometime, and I hope you have the opportunity to return to Ireland too, if you so choose.
Thanks a lot Siobhan! Happy to hear Vienna treated you well!
I'm so glad you enjoyed your time here in Ireland. It's always nice to see your country through fresh eyes. More of these long format videos please.
Thanks Brian, I'm glad you liked the vid!
Great wee film on a genuine take of riding / culture of the wonderful Ireland ....Thanks for sharing your “Adventure” ....🥃🏴
Thank you for the video. I really enjoyed it. Us Irish are extremely proud of our little island. Some people don’t get it, but you do. I’ve been to lots of beautiful countries and each time thought “I want to move here”😂. But then I drive 30 mins from my house in any direction here in Ireland and get that feeling of intense appreciation and pride that I always think “Why would you want to move away from this”. You’ve met us, so you know we are genuine when we say “Cead mile failte” . 🇮🇪 ☮️
yes, why would I ever move away from Ireland?!!!
Thank YOU for commenting and watching! :)
Absolutely great video. Made me stop and appreciate Ireland in a way I've forgotten recently, so a sincere thank you!
As a daily motorbike rider in Ireland, I can attest to the contrast of cloistered nervous driving with the distraction of some of the most inspiring views. It definitely makes journeys through the countryside take twice as long as expected, but maybe that's one of the factors that inspires our relaxed view on life.
Personally I think the warmth and hospitality you received on your travels here says as much about your character as it does of that of the Irish people. We can be quite cynical, especially in private 😅, but when presented with a genuine and enthusiastic person our best side comes out.
We'd love to have you back again. 🖐
Thanks a lot, Aaron!!
My dear friend, I've been following you since the very early days with Little Honda. I have to say that I am really happy that your life took some good turns and is at this point now. I am genuinely happy for you and your beautiful girlfriend 😊
Also, this video is one of the best of yours if not The best.
Thanks a lot mate! Thank you for sticking around for so long :)
As a Irish man of 64 years and a biker for 48 of those years I have loved watching you and your girlfriend travel the Country I call home!
What a wonderful trip and experience you have had in Ireland.
You have summed up a lot of experiences along the way and the people and scenery are second to none. While you have experienced Eire there is an entire different country and experience in Northen Ireland.
Perhaps on you next trip you could give it a try as it’s every bit of an experience and way better roads!
Regards
Jim
P.S. Totally agree weather is terrible this year worsted I’ve ever experienced, 10 seasons in one day is not normal it’s usually only 4 😂
hahaha thanks Jim
I never look at motor cycle videos but I thoroughly enjoyed watching your travels, and you have great story telling skills which I found very moving. The quality of the video editing was fab, and I think your style and humour is very engaging. Best wishes for your future plans.
Thank you, Nugent!
I award you 10/10 for pronunciation of Irish place names! Brilliant, balanced 'review' of my country. Motorbiking here is frustrating and rewarding, and you captured that superbly. Thank you.
Thanks for that!
Fantastic work, Schaaf! You are giving the biker community so much! Thanks for everything & never stop! Cheers Sandro from Switzerland
Thank you Sandro!
I can understand every single word you said at the end of the video, I felt the coldness of people sometimes and still do, but I found a medicine for myself: I try to relate with strangers in the way I would like them to relate with me, and 99% it works and almost everybody seems to feel good then! If we all think about that maybe the world could be even a better place.
Greetings from Italy and...always speed safe of course!
Grazie mille
@@Schaaf bitte! 😊
Love your fast riding, but this one hit different, you can feel the pure joy and enthusiasm on both of you in so many clips ! Thanks for stepping outside your box , and giving us this little gem
Thanks Diogo
Very impressed with this video Schaaf, well done! I'm Dutch and I've been living in Ireland since 1996 and biking here never gets old. I even got used to the blind corners. I hope you make it back someday on the bike.
Dank je wel!
Stumbled upon your video and have to say what a story. I understand all the equipment you bring along with you on your travels but the end result is so worth it. Couldn't agree more with your experiences with the motherland between the weather, high costs, road conditions etc but as alot of us say on a sunny day this place is hard to beat but also makes you appreciate those good times so much more. Thank you for capturing the essence of biking in Ireland and so happy to hear in return it helped you within. Safe travels and see you next time you visit Ireland!
Thanks a lot!!
I watched this. I'm Irish. Superb film. I cycletour and never ride motorbikes. Your pronounciation of placenames was correct right through.
Thanks a lot!!
My family live in Northern England and we regularly go to the Moray region of Scotland on our holidays. Your experience of Ireland is like a mirror for me. Do you get all 4 seasons in one day? Pretty much!! Do you get blind corners on bumpy and narrow roads? They're pretty much everywhere!! Is the scenery gorgeous and the people welcoming?? 100%!! We in the UK and Ireland hope to see you soon X
Thanks a lot for the lovely comment :)
I’m Irish. Live in Ireland and drive a GS 1200 in any weather 😂.
Those damn air machines requiring you to have a 1€ coin and 20/20 eyesight in the dark… they have taken over the country only in the past 10 years or so!
Thanks for your positive impressions of us folk. We genuinely appreciate it.
Thanks Mike!
What an amazing video, I can tell you genuinely love the place! I do also, only ever been to Dublin, but the Irish people are an incredible breed. This is without a doubt the best motovlog I have seen, you seem like a great, loving and humble person, we all have some kind of insecurities so you’re not alone there! But how you present yourself is truly wonderful. Well done for this video, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Really good capture of Ireland in all its glory. Well done sir.
Thank you very much for your kind comment!!
During the video I already wanted to say ‘my man, you have really put your heart and soul in this video!’. And in the end you said it yourself. Thank you for this heartwarming video, we really enjoyed it!
Awesome!! Thanks a lot mate
The amount of work you've put in this one Schaaf is just amazing. I'm really thankful that I could be a little part of your high quality mini movie you've made.
thank you Andi!
Danke für diesen wahnsinnig persönlichen und intimen Einblick in eure Reise. Was die Unsicherheiten und die mentalen Probleme angeht, kann ich leider vieles nachvollziehen. Meine Anti-Depressions-Therapiereise war letztes Jahr 4 Wochen rund um den Balkan. Leider allein.
Deswegen finde ich es absolut klasse, dass du eine tolle Freundin dabei hattest, um die Augenblicke gemeinsam zu genießen. Und wenn es nur ein kurzes Zunicken ist und ein "ist geil hier, oder?". Das sind die Momente, die bleiben. Ich wünsche dir/euch, dass ihr sowas noch oft zusammen erlebt. Und auch, wenn Irland für mich nicht so wirklich auf der Liste steht, hat mich durch das Video die Reiselust gepackt.
Ich kann nur sehr grob nachvollziehen, welche Arbeit und Anstrengung das Filmen, Schneiden und letztendliche Veröffentlichen des Videos mit sich gebracht haben. Danke, dass du das alles auf dich genommen hast und das zum Schluss einer der persönlichsten Reiseberichte wurde, die ich hier auf YT gesehen habe.
Danke!
Vielen herzlichen Dank für deinen ausführlichen und netten Kommentar, ElGreco :)
I'm so pleased that you enjoyed your motorcycle road trip in Ireland. You showcased our beautiful country wonderfully well, and I'm glad you felt so comfortable in talking to the Irish people you met along the way. 🇮🇪☘️🇦🇹
Thank you!!
Thank you for your kind comments on the Irish people. By and large we are a nice nation. I with you on the compressed air thing . Love from Ireland
Thanks Owen!
Just wow Schaaf! Thank you for sharing your experience. It was an absolute delight to watch and Ireland seems to be even more astounding than I imagined. One can really tell you put your heart into this 🙌. I wish you all the best, safe riding und schöne Grüße aus der Linzer Gegend 👋😄.
You must visit here Daniel.
Danke, Daniel!!
I am 30 years old, and I've been traveling by motorcycle since 2019. I've realized for some time now that travel is not just about the roads traveled but also about hearing stories, talking to locals, tasting food, and having experiences.
Last week, I was in Southern Italy, and I spoke with people affected by the terrible earthquake in Amatrice. It was truly moving.
I really enjoyed this video.
Sounds moving indeed! Thanks!
Glad you had a lovely time in my country. You were nearly turning into an Irish person there with all your chat about the weather. I’d be nervous on the right side of the road especially at roundabouts 😱. I do think that we take our friendliness for granted and it’s only when we go to some other countries and don’t see the same smiles or nods that we realise that we’re lucky here. Our problem is usually not not talking to strangers but knowing when to stop 😂 The people in the countryside are on another level compared to us here in Dublin but we can still have the craic (meaning - fun). I think it’s ridiculous to pay for air too so got myself a small air compressor on amazon that I use at home. Regarding the roads, slowing down here is a good thing we have too many fatalities as it is, and you have to stop and smell the roses in life and enjoy the journey.
hahaha thank you for your wonderful comment :)
An Irish guy here just back from a fantastic 7 days riding in Spain. Loved this video. I've been lucky to have spent a few sunny days on the WAW but didn't take the time out to enjoy the trip to the extent you have. Thank you for this video. Excellent job. Safe biking.
Thanks a lot!!
Entertaining, visually captivating and informative from start to finish. I can only imagine the many hours of editing this must have taken to put together. I think you've inspired quite a few more riders (including myself) to make the journey, as well as to slow down to smell the shamrocks every once in a while.
Thank you!!!
As an Irish person and a bike rider I have to say congrats. Great video and I’m sure the Irish tourist board should pay you for such a generous and genuine portrayal of our country. 👏👏👏👏
Thank you for sharing this Herr Schaaf! I think I can safely say that this is one of the best motovlogs I have watched on TH-cam for a long time. It filled me with joy... and has made we want to travel Ireland on my motorbike. 😁
Dooo iitt! Thanks Heroblob!
Thank so much for your honesty Schaff - I have similar issues surrounding social anxiety and striking up conversations with strangers (even at motorcycle events!), despite the fact that meeting new people is something I do all the time in my day job! I don't know if I can be brave enough to expose some of my personal hang-ups in the way you have, kudos to you! Loved the video, cheers 👍
Thanks Rikky! Interestingly enough, to me it was always easier to open up on the Internet. After all, basically it's like a stage where I choose what to share and what not and I feel surprisingly comfy with sharing A LOT on here. Especially mental health related stuff. Talking about it should be the most normal thing.
Wow Schaaf that was quite simply one of the best videos I've seen on TH-cam ever - brilliantly filmed, edited, narrated and put together....thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it - great work mate!
Oh, what a lovely surprise!! Thanks a lot! I have to admit I'm fairly satisfied with this one myself so it feels extra nice to receive comments like yours! Best wishes from Austria to the UK!!
I now watch your videos through my smart-tv for the best experience, but that means commenting is now an extra step I rarely take. But today I just want to say thank you for the great video and lovely visuals. I always love your edits and you are absolutely right about everything you said. I learned all of this stuff myself through a few years of travelling alone, then with my girlfriend, and now with my young daughter as well. Especially with my young daughter. With her constant long travels aren't a great option anymore so I only have a few roadtrip kind of days. Instead it's often just a sightseeing trip in the morning followed by some relaxing in the afternoon while she takes a nap. I never thought I would enjoy basically doing nothing, or just hanging out in a playground when she's awake. But it was quite nice to actually truly relax during a holiday. It's like you said: it's good to try something different and 'new', but we often need others like our girlfriends (or for me my kid) to actually get us to try these different things.
Thanks a lot for taking the extra step :)
That was a woderful Austrian perspective of us Irish and our frustratingly beautiful country.....
Hope to get to yours some dsy soon. I ride a humble NC750X with my wife as pillion, both in our 60's!! 😂😂
Best of Luck in life man 😊
Awesome! Best of luck for your travel plans!!
As an Irishman and a biker, I've yet to do the west coast properly. It's a loose plan in the next few weeks however as I've some time off work. Also it was lovely to see Lough Tay and Glenmacnass at 11:46, I was there only this morning! The road between them is one of my favourites in Wicklow and features on most of my rideouts!
Wicklow is absolutely amazing! We spent 2 days there but with the 3 wheeler. That's why it's not part of this video ;) Thanks for commenting!
On the topic of our roads, most are managed by a county council. In Wicklow, for instance, road "repairs" are carried out by filling holes or covering a road with loose chippings held down loosely by bitchumen. These are fine for cars, but lethal for motorcyclists. There just aren't enough of us to be considered by the roads authourities.
Blind corners are another thing we've just become used to. Same experience though, on a road with blind bends I'll come home much more tense than on a wide open "mountain" (not compared to your usual mountains!) road.
I loved seeing your pics from here, and wished I was around at the time to try and meet you on the road, even on that three wheeler you took up my local roads!
This was an excellent video Schaff, end to end. You had me tearing up with pride at my lovely country and it's occupants, and cringing in shame at our pain points (Mostly the crappy air machines! They're not all paid, but more than not these days!). You've genuinely inspired me to go on a west-coast trip!
Friend. As a Kerryman I want to say thank you. Your video and story are inspiring. You will always be welcome in Ireland. And your right. Paying for air is the worst. I look forward to visiting Austria but I'll have to put quiet cans on the bike due to noise. Thanks again and keep up the good work.
Thanks a lot! That is correct, Austrians don't like loud pipes ;)
@@Schaaf 'Loud pipes save lives' as the saying goes Schaaf. I shared your video with some friends. Great comments back.
Dear Schaaf, what a great video this is. It makes me hungry to visit this obviously fantastic and interesting country. That is the best advertising clip for Ireland that I can imagine. The Irish authorities should invite you for a free vacation to thank you ! Thanks again & ride safe, Alf
That would be great indeed ;) Thanks a lot!
Probably one of the best motorcycle TH-cam videos I've ever seen and I've seen most of them.
The picture quality, information, the way you presented yourself, your honesty .
You are incredibly humble and likeable and your English is perfect 👌
I'm Irish and I couldn't agree with your description of Ireland more.
Fantastic video.
Thanks a lot for the nice words, Mike!
Hi, I really enjoyed the video and can confirm as an Irish bike rider, that you have been bang on with the information provided. I love nothing more than getting out on my bike and enjoying the beautiful scenery, food and great people on each trip and you have highlighted these wonderful things about Ireland very very well 👌 Glad you guys enjoyed it and wish you the best for your future adventures.
Thanks, David!
Not a biker, just an Irish person that stumbled upon you on You-Tube, but loved your entire video. Everything you say is honest and true, even the bit about having to pay for air!!! When I was young it was free. Now it just annoys me, so bought my own mini-compressor that runs off the lighter socket in the car.
Great that you had a good time and went home with so many unforgettable and positive memories. Slainte.
I'm very glad to hear that you were able to enjoy my video, even as a non-motorcyclist! Thank you!
Dude great storytelling. I love the heart you put into this video. And I totally want to go and see Ireland now too.
Nice! Thanks!!
Brilliant video of my country, well done! You are very honest and correct. The roads are shite, the food expensive and the weather is unreliable but then on the plus side, if the weather was like the Canaries we'd have thousands clogging up our shite roads! I thought your comment on our blind corners so funny because I am so used to them, you roll off the throttle and prepare to meet anything from a cow to a parked car! If you are back again, look me up in Connemara and I'll show you some really shite roads but incredible scenery!
This is the best travel relation I've seen in a while. I mean, not the best motorcycle travel relation, but travel relation in general. I love the videography, I love the storytelling, I love the honesty. I'd love to get even more of how it was to travel as a couple. Was it joy all day long? Did you have moments of frustration?
None, basically! We're at our best when we travel and especially Olesia is incredibly tough. As long as we get delicious food in-between we rarely ever feel any sort of frustrations :)
Just put Ireland on my bucket list "bike riding" thank you so much 🤟💯💚.
Greatings from Portugal
Excellent idea! Thank you!
What a great video and amazing trip! Love the way you shared your experience with us and how you pictured your love for Ireland too. Hope you will share more and more journeys like this one. Take care and ride safe. V
Thanks Patrick!
From one biker to another…Glad you enjoyed my country ☘️
Thank you!
What a wonderful movie Schaaf, excellent production! Thank you for the wonderful views and your advice. I struggle with similar issues, so it really helps to hear such tips from you. I'm already looking forward to motorcycle season next year. I wish you the best of luck and love with your girlfriend and hope you continue to make your wonderful wideos for time to come!
Thanks Kevin! I'm glad when I can help a little bit :)
I rode in Ireland and Scotland and intend to go back. I find myself drawn to these places despite the patchy weather, or perhaps, because of it. You made a valid point, contrast adds spice to the experience.
Thanks! Indeed I think the tricky conditions make it extra special!
Ireland has changed from my youth when I was growing up service station had a person who filled fuel topped up your air free of charge
Oh wow
I was the number 2002 who pressed the ”like” button , and I give you my comment here that will be number 599 :
It was a very good v-log here about your roadtrip with your girlfriend in Ireland.
You are most welcome to do more of this kind of stuff !
Greetings from Malmö / Sweden 🇸🇪
FINALLY!!!! Someone who knows how to make a motorcycle travel video!! OUTSTANDING!! Since discovering "Long Way Round" and "Long way Down" (Lets just pretend that Long Way UP never happened) I have scoured the internet and motorcycle video racks for good motorcycle travel videos. I have found so few that are able to hold ones attention and interest that I have almost given up. I have been saving for my next bike trip since 2015 and am tempted to send you some of it to hasten your next video. But sorry, only tempted. Australia is calling. But please make more like this one.
What an excellent production!!!. As an Irish biker who has biked all over Europe I do agree our roads are much more different, and in some conditions much more technically challenging. The slippy stiff you experienced is either diesel or bovine excrement. As our air is so good we charge for premium air at gas stations.
😂😂😂
You should be working for bord failte (irish tourist board) best advertisement for ireland I've ever seen. Excellent video!
39:46
I did the same trip in 1994, and I never left :-). Great video, it reminded me of the reasons I appreciate living here so much.
Thanks for sharing this GEM with us, brother!
40 minutes of my life very, very, very well spent.
IRELAND + Whales + the Scotland's NC500 are definitely on my Bucket-list ( as soon as the kids move out of the parent's house, that is... LOL )
When time comes, I'll enjoy it smoothly and calmly... like a marvellous GUINNESS should be savoured. GOOD THINGS COME TO THOSE WHO WAIT, right?
Glad your faith in mankind grew a little bigger after interacting with the green elves up' north; And glad I'm a part of that "small elite" that actually CARES!
It's not (never is) all about BIKES ... in balance and variety lays the salt&pepper of LIFE.
Stay safe, take care, have fun... and many thanks to Alessia for allowing you to share such personal contents in this forum.
HOPE it all works out for the best, for you both.
Best regards from PORTUGAL mate, and thks for liking our Biking Paradise too... See you around!
Luís Ribeiro
>
Thanks a lot Luís!! It's definitely worth the wait. Hope you don't have to wait too long though ;)
As an expatriate Irish biker in Australia, I loved this. I did a similar road trip in 2019, unfortunately in a very ordinary hire car not a bike, but with my wonderful daughter. Best holiday I have ever had. I connected with my homeland after not being back in 40 plus years. I need to return. Thank you for your fantastic video!
That sounds fantastic! Thank you!
You are a great ambassador for our little country, you and herself are welcome back anytime, keep safe .
As a CB500 rider, found your site many years ago. This was your best video to date. Brings perspectives to motorcycle holidays, countries, cost, weather etc. Food for thought, even for a rider of 47 years. Best wishes from the U.K.
Thanks a lot! For once I myself feel quite proud when looking at the final result. I wish I had the time to do more :)
The west coast of Ireland is a special place. Im so happy to see you enjoyed it as much as we do.
As an Irish person, l loved your video of our beautiful country and you my friend are one lovely gentleman. I wish you a happy and healthy life and yes, do return. God bless .
Thanks a lot Austin
Danke Schaaf für dieses großartige Video. Ich als Ire der in Deutschland aufgewachsen ist, kann Deine Faszination für Irland so sehr nachvollziehen. Irland wird immer einen ganz besonderen Platz in meinem Herz haben und das liegt nicht nur daran, dass es mitunter Heimat ist, sondern an der Herzlichkeit der Menschen, das besondere Flair und die Entschleunigung dieser Insel. Ich war viel unterwegs, aber kein Land hat mich so erwischt wie dieses.
Du hast das in Deinem Video wirklich gut rüber gebracht und man sieht, dass Ihr eine tolle Zeit hattet.
Vielen Dank, Florian!
11:45 The cliff is majestic. The route is really beautiful. I love it. A fun trip with friends…
thank you!
Delighted you enjoyed our little country and our wonderful people.
Irish biker here. Love this video. Really honest. Hope you'll come back. Yep. Riding in Ireland is tiring in all honesty. Its different. Every bend in the road could yield literally any hazard.. lots of concentration needed.
Thanks!!
Ah, Schaaf! With your adventures, you are a true inspiration and delight for us, fellow motorcyclists, to keep visiting your TH-cam channel. Your journey, captured through the lens of a GoPro or DSLR, brings up a mix of emotions and aspirations, not only for a wide audience but also for someone like me, with my own set of unique characteristics.
It's fascinating how you manage to capture the preparations, sometimes the changes due to unpredictable weather, and your personal victories so vividly. It resonates with us, the viewers. It shows that motorcycling is much more than just going from A to B; it's a journey of discovery, not just through the breathtaking environments you ride through but also through the depths of your own soul.
The way you talk about the intimate connection with the landscape, the freedom, the flexibility, and how all this acts as a catalyst for personal growth deeply resonates with me. It reminds me that, despite the challenges that my HSP, ADD, and ASD-like character traits bring, there are always paths to self-discovery and growth. Motorcycling, with all its freedoms and flexibilities, offers us a unique way to explore ourselves and the world around us.
Your videos are more than just entertainment; they are a source of inspiration. They encourage us to embrace the beauty of nature, all from the saddle of our beloved motorcycles. For someone like me, who sometimes struggles with the overwhelming stimuli of the world, your adventures and my own experiences offer a moment of peace and reflection.
So here's a digital toast to you, Schaaf, from a fellow adventurer of age (55 years young on a Triumph Speedmaster). May your journeys continue to inspire us to explore our own paths. And who knows, maybe one day you'll see me through your lens ;) Keep riding, keep exploring, and above all, keep sharing that wonderful energy and life lessons.
Greetings from the Netherlands
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Ah, Schaaf! Mit deinen Abenteuern bist du eine wahre Inspiration und Freude für uns, Mitmotorradfahrer, deinen TH-cam-Kanal weiter zu besuchen. Deine Reise, eingefangen durch das Objektiv einer GoPro oder DSLR, weckt eine Mischung aus Emotionen und Bestrebungen, nicht nur für ein breites Publikum, sondern auch für jemanden wie mich, mit meinem eigenen Satz von besonderen Eigenschaften.
Es ist faszinierend, wie du die Vorbereitungen, manchmal die Änderungen durch das unvorhersehbare Wetter und deine persönlichen Siege so lebhaft festhältst. Es berührt uns, die Zuschauer. Es zeigt, dass Motorradfahren viel mehr ist als nur von A nach B zu kommen; es ist eine Entdeckungsreise, nicht nur durch die atemberaubenden Umgebungen, durch die du fährst, sondern auch durch die Tiefen deiner eigenen Seele.
Die Art, wie du über die intime Verbindung mit der Landschaft, die Freiheit, die Flexibilität sprichst und wie all dies als Katalysator für persönliches Wachstum dient, resoniert tief mit mir. Es erinnert mich daran, dass trotz der Herausforderungen, die meine HSP, ADD und ASD-ähnlichen Charakterzüge mit sich bringen, immer Wege zur Selbstentdeckung und Wachstum gibt. Motorradfahren bietet uns mit all seiner Freiheit und Flexibilität einen einzigartigen Weg, uns selbst und die Welt um uns herum zu erkunden.
Deine Videos sind mehr als nur Unterhaltung; sie sind eine Quelle der Inspiration. Sie ermutigen uns, die Schönheit der Natur zu umarmen, alles vom Sattel unserer geliebten Motorräder aus. Für jemanden wie mich, der manchmal mit den überwältigenden Reizen der Welt kämpft, bieten deine Abenteuer und meine eigenen Erfahrungen einen Moment des Friedens und der Reflexion.
Also hier ist ein digitaler Toast auf dich, Schaaf, von einem Mitabenteurer im Alter (55 Jahre jung auf einer Triumph Speedmaster). Mögen deine Reisen uns weiterhin inspirieren, unsere eigenen Pfade zu erkunden. Und wer weiß, vielleicht siehst du mich eines Tages durch dein Objektiv ;) Weiter fahren, weiter erkunden und vor allem, diese wunderbare Energie und Lebenslektionen teilen.
Grüße aus den Niederlanden
Thank you very much for taking the time to write such an elaborate and nice comment!!! Best wishes to the Netherlands!
This is such a great video. As a Brit who has not yet ridden in Ireland, this looks such an amazing trip.
Left IS right as far as riding on roads 😉
As a motorcycle riding couple on our channel, we are so pleased for you just to be happy.
We can only dream of getting close to the film making quality of this video, and we can definitely appreciate the hours crafting this by a computer.
Those horrible air pumps are also here as are patches of tar on the road where the chippings haven't stuck (because of wet, cold or wear)
Thank you for creating and uploading 🙏
Thanks for your nice comment, Bandit :)
I loved every bit of that video. Well done!
Servus, thank you for you being you and sharing your story with all of us. It takes great courage to show your weakness, but seeing you overcoming yours, inspires overcoming ours.
Thanks a lot!!
You're one of the most sincere and true reporters on TH-cam. Thank you for that. I enjoyed it.
Thank you Michel
Great upload, thank you, love and hugs from Ireland x
Thanks a lot Kate!
No trouble liking this video at all. What a wonderful experience you shared here! Enjoyed every minute
Thanks a lot!
This is great! So very well edited and narrated. I'm so glad that you enjoyed your time here and that the "up sides" outweighed the "down sides" for you. Thank you for all the €€€ you off-loaded here on your trip!. Here's a B&B tip for the next visit: Stirabout Lane B&B in Rathdrum, Wicklow. No donkeys, but super people, top quality accommodation and priceless hospitality, a hidden gem!