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Among Northern Ireland's North Coast Tourist attractions, there is also the
Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge which is one of the most loved by visitors.
The name translates to 'Rock In The Road', the rock being Carrick-a-Rede
island and the road being the route by which the salmon migrate back to their native waters.
Have A Swinging Time On Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge
When visiting Northern Ireland during the months of March through October one has the
opportunity of viewing and walking on the Carrick A Rede rope bridge. This suspension bridge allows one to visit
the Carrick Island, which is full of places to explore, including large caves. Prior to the reduction in salmon it
was a popular place to fish.
It is very easy to reach the bridge via a short footpath with many places to stop and enjoy the scenery. This is
especially beautiful in the early morning hours when the sun is rising on the horizon. In addition to the many
spectacular views, the sight of birds such as fulmars, kittiwakes, razorbill and others is readily apparent.
Birdwatchers have found the exceptional opportunity to study them and make recordings in their bird watching
records.
The original bridge was built hundreds of years ago, roughly constructed of vines and rough boards with a single
rail. Over the years it has been rebuilt many times and, as late as the 1970's, only had wide slats with a single
rope rail. In 2008 the bridge was rebuilt using wire rope and fir wood, with two rails. Today it is considered a
very safe way to get to the island although one might still be subject to the bridge swinging from the prevailing
winds.
 The bridge is very high, covering an 80-foot deep chasm, and gives one a beautiful
view of nearby Scotland and Rathlin Island. While crossing the bridge one has the advantage of a beautiful
view of the entire countryside as well as a clear view of the ocean. At times people who reach the island
refuse to return over the swinging bridge and have to be transported off by other means.
Carrick island is full of unusual geological formations as well as plants and animals. This accommodates those who
are just interested in unusual sights as well as those who can find formations and other things that cannot be seen
anywhere else in the world. For conservationists and those just interested in exploring unusual places it is an
ideal location.
The island itself is very rocky and the large caves on the island are steeped with history of boat builders and
storm occupants making them interesting to explore. The geologic formations present a fascinating study and depict
the formation of the island from its beginning. This feature has drawn scientists from throughout the world to
study the various structures, which evolved over a vast period of time.
Many features have been added, around the site, to accommodate visitors. In the car parking
area it is possible to take advantage of their excellent tea rooms for refreshments and there is a child discovery
trail for children ages 8 to 14. While enjoying tea and scones or other appealing dishes one will find conversing
with employees, who have the beautiful Irish brogue, a delightful experience. This is often a first time experience
for visitors from other countries.
The path to the bridge itself is very well laid out with many places where one can take pictures or just enjoy the
view. Other amenities of the area are guided tours, disability access and facilities for families. The area is
suitable for picnics should one like to just sit back and enjoy the atmosphere. A trip to the Carrick-a-rede Rope
bridge should be on the list of anyone who is visiting in the area.
The area is fortunate to have experienced guides to lead one on a tour while explaining all the unusual formations
and sights of the area that ordinarily would be overlooked. These native Irish guides can answer any questions one
wishes to ask regarding the bridge, early inhabitants and other information desired.
To really experience the land, having one of these guides is the answer. Not only are they familiar with the area
but with the entire country and its history. Knowing just who occupied the caves on the island and learning about
the old fort that was built in the 800's will keep one's attention while receiving information on the history of
the area that will not be found in any printed material.
Experienced travellers like to find out all they can about the area they are visiting. Just walking about one can
enjoy the sights but to get a real feel of the events, which previously prevailed in the region, it is important to
have someone who is knowledgeable and can easily relate to those happenings. That is what one can have when
visiting the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
This attraction is not really for those individuals who are afraid of heights, although completely
safe. The bridge none the less, stretches a length of rocks, 30 metres deep and 30 metres wide, which was
originally built for fishermen hauling salmon during the spring and summer months of the year. Whilst the
bridge in its current state has been made more stable with two handrails, the original only had one handrail. Even
though there has never been any records of anyone ever falling off the bride and injuring themselves, many people
have only had the nerves to get over, but not make it back, thus meaning they had to get taken by boat.
The bridge has sensibly been upgraded, strengthened and improved upon, and in the year 2000 The
National Trust installed a new caged structure as a further safety measure increasing stability.
For those people who are nervous, the walk across the bridge is well worth it, as getting across to
the small island overs a great sense of tranquility, offering views of the Scottish Islands. Lying on that island
on a sunny day, with the breeze, the view and the natural scenery of the North Antrim Coast would be a shame to
miss by anyone's standards.
Everything on Antrim Coast
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