Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

It wasn’t until I took the first step onto the swaying ropes of the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge that I truly understood why people rave about it. Perched on the north coast of County Antrim, this narrow, thrilling passage offers far more than just a connection between the mainland and a tiny island.  It's a journey into the heart of Northern Ireland's rugged beauty, filled with history, adventure, and striking vistas.

The bridge has been a staple of local life since salmon fishermen began using it back in 1755. The current iteration is a testament to its evolving functionality, only now with fewer gaps and considerably more safety.

Despite these modern upgrades, crossing it retains its adrenaline-pumping aura - especially if you have a bit of a fear of heights like me!  Before stepping onto the bridge, I remember pausing to take in the spectacle—a 20-meter drop to the swirling blue waters below, framed by dramatic cliffs and birdlife in abundance.

The Walk to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Getting to the bridge was as much an experience as crossing it. The walk is a stunning mile-long coastal trail offering views to rival any part of the world. Rugged landscapes meet the wide stretch of the ocean, overlooking the distinct basalt formations and lush greenery.

As I strolled the pathway with my son, we enjoyed flora springing from crevices in the rock, the cries of seabirds circling over the choppy waters, and that invigorating, salty air filling each breath.  Fellow travelers we met on the path shared stories of their travels, creating a camaraderie fueled by shared excitement as we approached one of the area’s peak attractions.

Reaching the bridge was pretty awe-inspiring. It’s easy to see why fishermen originally chose Carrick-a-Rede as their base. The island provided an excellent vantage point and ready access to the prolific salmon runs. Now, with the fish no longer appearing in significant numbers, it’s the beauty and thrill that draw visitors from around the globe.

Traffic across the bridge was carefully controlled by a live human who ensured only a certain number of us would cross at a time.  When our moment arrived, stepping onto the bridge was both thrilling and a little intimidating. Feeling the subtle swaying beneath my feet as I progressed slowly across was a visceral reminder of nature's power.  I had to remind myself to look around - and for goodness sake don't drop my precious iPhone!

Pausing midway, I did find the courage to take in the scenery.  It's a view I will never forget: dramatic cliffs, endless sky, and turbulent waters below. Each direction offered a postcard moment, rewarding the traveler for their bravery in making the crossing.

Once on the island, a whole new set of explorations began. Carrick-a-Rede Island is small but packs in a wealth of interest. The walkways invite further discovery, offering different angles from which to marvel at the craftsmanship of the bridge and the coastline. It’s also a great spot for picnicking or simply reflecting on nature’s raw beauty and humankind's place within it.

If you have read my bio, you know I've made the crossing of Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge many times.  I have made a tradition of bringing each of my sons to Ireland, with the Bridge being one of the central experiences of the trip.  We take a picture together on the far side of the bridge, looking back. So far, three of the four have had that experience.  One to go!

Each time I make the trip I learn something new.  The last time there was a trail attendant on the island side of the bridge, sitting on a bench, looking bored.  So I decided to strike up a conversation.  I pointed to a distant land mass in the ocean (it was a very clear day) and asked her "What am I looking at out there?"  She looked at me suspiciously as if I were trying to trick her, then simply said "that's Scotland."

All those trips, and somehow I had always missed that little fact!  Oh well ... 15th time's a charm :-)

10 Things to Know About Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

1. History in the Making: The bridge was originally built by salmon fishermen back in 1755 and was reportedly quite hazardous with just a single handrail and gaping slats between boards [Source: National Trust].
2. A Creator in Nature: The term 'Carrick-a-Rede' means 'the rock in the road' and refers to the small rocky island linked to the mainland [Source: Discover Ireland].
3. Salmon Fishing Tradition: The bridge’s existence was mainly due to the flourishing salmon fishing industry, with fishermen using the bridge to check their salmon nets [Source: National Trust].
4. Banking on Adventure: Despite its daunting appearance, the current bridge is constructed with advanced safety features, while still offering the traditional thrill of crossing [Source: National Trust].
5. Birding Paradise: The surrounding area is wreathed with birdlife, from fulmars to guillemots, who find sanctuary on the cliffs and islands along the coast [Source: British Birdwatching Guide].
6. Game of Thrones Fame: The nearby areas have featured prominently in the popular TV series 'Game of Thrones,' drawing fans from around the globe to explore its mythic allure [Source: Discover Northern Ireland].
7. Geological Gem: The Giant’s Causeway, famed for its geometric basalt columns, is just a short drive away, offering yet another landmark of Northern Ireland’s storied heritage [Source: UNESCO World Heritage Site].
8. Visibility across the sea: On clear days, it’s possible to see the coast of Scotland from the famed bridge, showcasing the tightly knit geography of the British Isles [Source: Lonely Planet].
9. National Trust Ownership: The National Trust now owns and maintains the site, ensuring both the preservation of its natural beauty and safe access for all visitors [Source: National Trust].
10. Ecological Balance: The region supports diverse habitats ranging from grassland to coastal marine ecosystems, showcasing Northern Ireland’s ecological variety [Source: Northern Ireland Environment Link].

What's Next?

I hope you enjoyed this account of crossing the Carrick a Rede Rope Bridge, one of our favorite things to do on the Emerald Isle.  For more fascinating stopes on our virtual tour, be sure to visit our main page on sightseeing in Ireland, here!

More Fun With Irish Expressions

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