A Guide to Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
Giant’s Causeway is an incredible attraction located along the coast of County Antrim in Northern Ireland. Although the creation of the natural formation is surrounded by myth and lore, it is the only designated UNESCO World Heritage Site in all of Northern Ireland. Known as Clochán na bhFomhórach in Irish, the Giant’s Causeway is made up of forty-thousand basalt columns made from hardened lava. Most columns are hexagonal, but many more have a different number of sides. As the most popular attraction in all of Northern Ireland, visitors should be sure to visit Giant’s Causeway while on holiday in the area. Use this guide to learn more about the legends and history of the formation, visitor’s information and nearby accommodations and attractions.
A nice photo of Giant’s Causeway / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Sean Lucas
History of Giant’s Causeway
Scientific study proves that the impressive formation known as Giant’s Causeway is a result of volcanic activity during the Paleogene period. Due to the large amount of volcanic activity in the region, the area had a lava plateau which eventually cooled and contracted. In the instances of rapid contraction, columns shot up from the ground. These columns are what make up the Giant’s Causeway.
Legends and Myths
Although today we know the scientific explanation for the creation of Giant’s Causeway, citizens and explorers of the past made up legends to explain the formation. The most popular of these legends is one involving the Irish warrior Fionn mac Cumhaill. The myth claims that he was set to battle his Scottish rival Benandonner. When the time came for them to fight, Fionn mac Cumhaill had fallen asleep. His wife covered him with a giant blanket as he slept and told Benandonner that it was their infant son. Upon seeing the size of the baby, Benandonner fled and ripped up the rocks in his escape. This is said to be what created Giant’s Causeway.
A classic view of a typical rock formation at the Giant’s Causeway / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by code poet
Visitor’s Information
For years the area has been without a visitor’s center, but in 2012 a center will be completed and feature exhibits about the formation of the Giant’s Causeway as well as some of the most popular legend surrounding it. Most people enjoy simply walking around the formation and taking pictures of the incredible landscape. There are some buses to the area but most visitors arrive by car as there is ample parking available. While there is no admission fee to tour the Giant’s Causeway, there is a parking fee of £6 per vehicle. Keep in mind that the attraction opens at dawn and closes promptly at sunset throughout the year.
Other Regional Attractions
The town nearest to Giant’s Causeway is Antrim. This town is full of historical landmarks, exciting attractions and plenty of culture. Head to the town’s shoreline of Lough Neagh in order to experience traditional Irish coastline. Although it is often too cold for swimming, there is still plenty of exciting recreation to be had there. Other popular attractions in the region include the Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge. This is a fun and exciting attraction costing £4 per person. The bridge might feel unsteady, but it is very safe and is regularly checked as a precaution. Children in particular love the excitement of the swinging bridge.
Nearby Accommodation Options
There is an abundance of accommodation options available in the area surrounding Giant’s Causeway. As one of the more popular destinations for European holidays, local hotels and guesthouses are prepared for larger numbers of travellers, especially in the summer months. If you would rather stay in a city, look for apartments in Northern Ireland rather than inns and small hotels. Private apartments for rent are available in nearby cities like Belfast and Lisburn.
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Category: Nature Reserves, Nature Reserves
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