Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge/Giants Causeway/Dark Hedges- Day 8

Again, the weather gods were smiling today. A break in the weather and we headed to the rope bridge. Carrick-A-Rede means the rock in the road. For over 350 years, fishermen have strung a rope bridge over 30 meters (over 97 feet) above the sea to allow them access to the best places to catch migrating salmon. We had a beautiful walk along the coast to reach the bridge. You had to climb down very steep metal stairs to get to the bridge. It was windy on the bridge, but we went across. Checked out the views from the little island and then back across and up the stairs. It was exciting and scenic experience. 





Down the road to Giant’s Causeway. The Causeway is made up of over 40,000 interlocking hexagons columns. This
was probably one of the most fascinating, geologic things I have ever seen. The hexagons and columns varied in size. Some held water which created a different pattern. We 
climbed all over the area. Truly amazing!!








A few miles away was Dark Hedges. This is a row of beech trees planted centuries ago. The huge trees intertwine to creat a mystical setting. The show “Games of Thrones” has filmed here.



Our intention was to visit Newgrange where a Neolithic tomb was found. We arrived too late to actually go out to see the tombs, but we were able to visit the interactive displays. These tomb mounds were built in 3000 bc- before the pyramids. Huge stones and tunnels were created and during the winter solstice, light illuminates the tunnels. This is the oldest solar observatory in the world
We returned the car at the airport and took a cab to our place.                                                                                     










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