Bridging the Gaps Along Ireland's Coast

Carrick-a-Rede…say what? I believe it's Irish for scare the tourist, or terrifying rope bridge. Still, one must brave the 66 ft length of rope strung 98 ft above the rocks and sea because…well…it's incredibly alluring. Throngs of people have crossed it, thousands have been photographed on it, and Olympic torches have been carried over it (pictured left). It's a traveler's opiate!
The Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge links the mainland to the tiny island of Carrickarede (from Irish: Carraig a' Ráid, meaning "rock of the casting"). Originally a salmon fisherman's paradise (thus the original bridge), the huge rock is now more commonly known for its spectacular views.
According to Wikipedia, "Although no one has fallen off the bridge, there have been many instances where visitors, unable to face the walk back across the bridge, have had to be taken off the island by boat." Well, that must have been embarrassing. Either that, or it was a great ruse to gain a boat ride around these spectacular cliffs. You can always take a picture and say you've been there. (Shhh…No one has to know you didn't cross.)
From the pictures (above and below), it's clear there have been some improvements to the bridge over the years. I'd cross it in a heartbeat (I think), after all, I've stood on the very top of the Golden Gate Bridge. I've climbed a glacier in New Zealand. I've stood in a clear glass box hanging on the side of one of the tallest buildings in the world. This is a mere 66 ft, right? Truth is: it looks a little imposing. Hey, those of you who snicker, the Golden Gate Bridge is solid and glaciers move really slowly. Maybe we could find out when it was last inspected and ask everyone else to wait their turn. OK, now I'm ready. Wait, how many people will it hold?
I would seriously love to cross it, but, in all honesty, I would be a little nervous. What can I say, travel and adventure are my opiates, and, sometimes, "simply amazing" involves a little fear.

Ireland's Causeway Coast

Walk in the footsteps of giants…

Our spectacular train ride from Derry along Ireland's northern coast has taken us the short 45 minutes to Coleraine. (see previous post). Coleraine is considered an ideal location for the lover of outdoors and, from here, you can use your integrated Translink bus and rail ticket to visit attractions, small towns and villages of The Causeway Coast and, as they say, walk in the footsteps of giants. The Causeway Coast is one of the most scenic regions and is home to some of Northern Ireland’s best known attractions including: Bushmills Distillery, Dunluce Castle, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Giant’s Causeway. The Causeway is a World Heritage Site and an area of outstanding natural beauty. The Giant's Causeway is an area of approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption, but legend has it built by a 54 foot tall giant called Finn McCool. Regardless of whether you prefer science or legend, it's a remarkable area to explore. Besides, Giant's Causeway sounds so much better than Interlocking Basalt Columns site. A kid, or a kid at heart, could spend days exploring imagination…or just hoping around.

Discover Northern Ireland's Most Beautiful Coast by Rail

I could have easily posted this image and left it at that. After all, the photograph undoubtedly triggers romantic notions, even for the non-traveler…but then you wouldn't have seen the train coming out the other side. Yep, that's right, the tracks run along the beach then through the cliff. I believe, whether it's from experience, a book, or a movie, nearly every one has fantasized about Ireland; imagined standing on the edge of such a cliff surveying the ocean, or wandering through the sea of green fields as often pictured. Nothing short of breathtaking can describe the scenery. Throw in a train ride, and a ruin or two, and it has all the elements of a fantastic story. What could be better?
My daughter says, at the ripe old age of fifteen, it's disappointing that in her lifetime there aren't enough years for her to read all the good books (gotta love her). My reply, books are wonderful, fanciful, comforting, and inspiring, but you have to write your own incredible story! Create a life equally as impressive as anything you've ever read, so close the book, turn off the movie, and let's hop another train.

Our journey begins along the Heritage Trial in the vibrant walled 16th century city of Derry, officially Londonderry, the fourth largest city in Ireland and the only completely walled city. Life here resonates centuries of culture mingled with modern vices and amenities. It certainly is a worthy launch point for another adventure. First order of business, a walk along the ancient city wall, followed by a pint at Peadar O'Donnells, before boarding for our short, spectacular journey. At Peadar O'Donnells they play traditional Irish music every day, all day.

Upon departure, our train will follow the River Foyle and head into the lush green countryside. Before long we'll arrive at Benone Strand where magnificent mountains and cliffs meet golden sands - miles of clean, firm, golden sands and no rocks. Perfect for a walk or a picnic, a great place to linger for a few hours or stay for a week.
If the notion of staying on the beach suits you, this is the place. Stay at the Downhill Beachhouse & Hostel. Unlike any hostel I've ever stayed in, Downhill looks utterly charming (more like a B&B). It's perfectly situated overlooking the longest beach in Northern Ireland with direct beach access. It neighbors the Downhill Demense National Trust with the famous Mussenden Temple monument and the ruins of Downhill House which sit above on the cliff our train passes through. Mussenden Temple monument was built as a library in 1785. Now there's a good place to read a book, that is if you can keep your eyes on the pages.

Under the cliff & over the river…

We'll pass by and through the maritime cliffs of Downhill where the raged coast appears like the ripped edge of a velvety green fabric swirling 120 feet above the blue sea - a seemingly endless romantic landscape. The station of Castlerock, dating from 1875, is the stop for exploring this paradise. From here you can shop, dine, hike, picnic beachside, or catch a ride to Downhill Hostel. If wildlife viewing is your preference, there's an abundance in the area. Powerful and fast-flying Perigrin Falcons, among other birds, call this area home. 

On the last segment of our short journey, the rails turn inland for 4 miles as our train runs through the scenic valley of the River Bann, on it's way into Coleraine. Our “great railway journey” has taken just 45 minutes (without stops), but the impression it leaves will last a lifetime.