Ireland Trip (Part3): Northern Ireland

Day 4 started with an early departure from Kilronan Castle due to the nearly 3 hour drive to the northern tip of the island into County Antrim. Our first stop along the Coastal Causeway Drive was at the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. This swinging bridge links the mainland to Rocky Island. It was originally built in 1755 by fisherman but now it’s a way for tourist (like us) to get to the island. The bridge spans the 65 foot gap and sits some 100 feet above the crashing waves below. On a clear day visitors can see Rathlin Island and Scotland. It was very windy and cold while we were there but we had a great time plus the wind made the bridge rock wildly adding to our fun.

 

Our next stop was a short one. The Dunseverick Castle, or what’s left of it. There’s not a lot of history written on it; however, it is thought to have been a stronghold around 500BC. The original fort was said to be captured by Vikings in 871AD. It was also visited on a number of occasions by Irish hero Saint Patrick in the 5^th century. A small part of the Gate Lodge is all that remains.

 

Our third stop was our primary reason for our drive north, the Giant’s Causeway. This place was truly amazing. Scientist say that volcanic activity some 60 million years ago created this wonder. It’s estimated to have some 40,000 hexagonal basalt vertical columns running form the nearby cliffs into the sea with the largest standing close to 40 feet tall. The park has multiple trails ranging from an easy walk along a tar road to more challenging trails up and down the hillside. Unfortunately, due to recent landslides only about half of the stones are assessable to the general public.

 

 

 

Finally we made a stop by the Dunluce Castle, built in the 13^th century. It was once home to Randall McDonnell the 2^nd Earl of Antrim. Although the castle had already closed for the day, we were able to walk around the grounds and get some shots of the outer walls. This castle is quite large but the coolest part to me was Mermaid’s Cave which runs under it. It is said to have held Spanish treasures at one time. The cave is now officially off limits. With that said, check out my Facebook photo album for more from inside (lol).

 

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