Chloe finally ticked the Giant’s Causeway off the bucket list (Image: Chloe Phillips)
The Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland has been on my wishlist of places to visit for so long, with promises of rugged landscapes, eye-catching rock formations and just ridiculously pretty places all along the way. So when I finally got the chance to go and explore I was a little wary that it may not live up to my expectations.
However, it turned out to be everything I had hoped for and more. Of course no trip would have been complete without visiting the ‘Jewel of the Coastal Causeway’, which attracts around one million visitors every year.
The Giant’s Causeway is often hailed as the must-see landmark in Northern Ireland, and within seconds it was clear why there’s so much hype around it.
Offering incredible views out to the Atlantic Ocean, dramatic cliffs and iconic hexagonal basalt columns, it turned out to be the perfect way to spend an afternoon getting a taste of the breathtaking landscapes.
The Giant’s Causeway attracts millions of tourists annually (Image: Getty)
Just a short drive from the gateway town of Bushmills, tucked into County Antrim’s scenic, rugged coast, the Unesco World Heritage Site has plenty to offer for guests.
I visited just outside of the school holiday dates on a sunny weekday afternoon, but it was still busy with guided tours, families and road trippers. However, it didn’t feel crowded; all afternoon, I never felt like I had to fight for space to explore the views.
The Giant’s Causeway is famed for its famous stones, and I let my inner child come out as I hopped from rock-to-rock. With a backdrop boasting headlands and spectacular cliffs, it felt like something out of a storybook.
It’s hard to escape the magic and myth of the Giant’s Causeway. If the stories available on the audio guides weren’t enough, there were facts about the Irish giant Finn McCool etched into posts and benches all over the place.
The myth goes that Finn was challenged to a fight by a massive Scottish giant named Benandonner. To cross the sea, Finn tore up chunks of the coastline and formed the causeway. In actual fact, the unique landscape of Giant’s Causeway was the result of volcanic activity. But whether you choose to believe it or not, it still makes an interesting story for young minds. The site is a wonderful place for children to explore and learn.
But it’s not just the promise of legends that are a big draw for nature lovers and tourists. I was pleased to find that the National Trust site offers many different trails, all featuring various difficulty levels, and with all abilities taken into consideration.
I was also delighted with how accessible the site was. A bus between the visitors’ centre to the stones runs frequently, so there is no need to worry about the climb back up the hill. There were also many staff members on hand to assist visitors, who were easily recognisable with National Trust emblazoned clothing.
The coastal road leading to the Giant’s Causeway (Image: Getty Images)
I’d half expected the Giant’s Causeway to be a quick stop off for a handful of photos, but this was far from a ‘one snap and you can be on your way’ type of place. Instead, it was somewhere you can easily spend a good few hours to explore.
For those who want to learn a bit more, the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre offers exhibitions and storytelling tours, as well as an on-site cafe if you want to stop for a quick snack.
Meanwhile, a short walk away lies The Boat House Gallery. The small studio is home to four local artists, each with their own unique crafts. It’s a place which may not be on every traveller’s radar, but definitely should be. Handmade glass ornaments, stunning photography prints taken in the local area, and unique art sketches were all on offer to passers-by. It was clear to see that the artists embrace their surroundings with most pieces giving a nod to the coast and sea.
The Giant’s Causeway is full of whimsical charm. With incredible views, stories of legends, wildlife, and great facilities, a visit to the site on the coast of Country Antrim leaves you in a feel-good mood and wanting to discover more. Ever since I came come, I haven’t stopped recommending it to anyone who will listen. Far more than just a tourist attraction, it’s a beautiful stop that will definitely be worth your while.
Book the holiday
For more information visit Ireland.com/northernireland. Ireland is part of the common travel area, meaning there are no travel restrictions for British travellers to visit Ireland.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
