The Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Are you looking for an interesting destination in Northern Ireland? The Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim has to be seen to be believed! Located on the north coast, the natural wonder is made up of a spectacular array of hexagonal basalt columns that were formed millions of years ago by a volcanic eruption. In this blog, we will give you some interesting facts about the Giant’s Causeway, helpful information about how to get there and our top tips for planning your trip.

Interesting Facts About The Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim

1. The Giant’s Causeway is made up of over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns which were formed by intense volcanic activity more than 60 million years ago.

2. The area is home to numerous species of plants and animals, including marsh fritillary butterflies, peregrine falcons, and choughs.

3. Legend has it that the causeway was created by the Irish legendary giant warrior, Fin MacCumhail, in order to cross over to Scotland and challenge a rival giant.

4. The Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was declared the fourth natural wonder of the United Kingdom in 2016 after polling from members of the public.

5. The Giant’s Causeway is a popular tourist attraction, attracting visitors from all over the world. In 2018 it had almost 1.5 million visitors.

6. The Giant’s Causeway lies at the end of a winding causeway, hence the name. The causeway winds down a steep cliff and is lined with hundreds of dramatic and perfectly rectangular basalt columns.

7. The Giant’s Causeway is composed of nearly 37,000 interlocking basalt columns of various heights, ranging from a meter to over 12 meters in height.

8. There are also some interesting shapes along the causeway including the renowned Chickens, the Boot and Organ Pipes formations.

9. In 1987 an area of 8 kilometres was declared the Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coast World Heritage Site.

10. The rocks that make up the causeway were transported here by large glaciers during the last ice age over 11,000 years ago.

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History & Information About The Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim

The Giant’s Causeway is a Unesco World Heritage Site located on the north-eastern coast of Northern Ireland in County Antrim. The site is made up of 40,000 basalt columns, many of which interlock with the surrounding column structures resembling stepping stones. The columns were formed due to the intense pressure from the ancient volcanism making up the Antrim Plateau.

The area has long been a source of myth and legend in Ireland. It is said to be the result of a battle between an Irish giant, Fionn mac Cumhaill and a Scottish giant, Benandonner. According to the legend, Fionn created a corridor of stepping stones so that he could cross the North Channel to Scotland and fight his rival. When Benandonner saw Fionn approaching he became terrified and instead of facing him, he quickly fled back to Scotland, destroying the causeway behind him in the process.

Today, the Giant’s Causeway is a popular tourist attraction, drawing more than 1.4 million visitors annually. Attractions include a visitor centre, brand new interactive exhibition, nature trails, and its rich heritage and cultural history. The area is also known for its remarkable geology and the nearby Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.

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Travel Guide For Visiting The Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim

When visiting the Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, there are some wonderful experiences to be had. From awe-inspiring landscapes to fascinating cultural sites, there are plenty of reasons to explore this impressive corner of the UK. Follow these tips for the best experience.

Getting There:
The Giant’s Causeway is located on the scenic north coast of Northern Ireland, about two hours away from Belfast. The best way to get there is to rent a car from Belfast and take the scenic coastal route from Carrick-a-Rede to watch the crashing waves of the Northern Irish sea.

What to Do Once You Are There:
Once at the Causeway, the most famous activity is to explore the 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, which legend says were created by the giant Finn McCool. There are also easy walking trails and viewpoints from which to take in the fascinating geological formations. Make sure to bring a camera!

Other Sites:
For travelers who want to explore further, the Causeway Coastal route offers a variety of cultural, historical and natural attractions. From the iconic Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge to the walled gardens of Dunluce Castle, there are plenty of things to do and see in this part of the world.

Accommodation:
The area is home to a wide range of accommodation options, including luxurious resorts, down-to-earth inns and stunning camping spots. No matter what your budget is, you are sure to find something that suits your style.

Finally:
Don’t forget to check out some of the fantastic restaurants and bars in the area. With a mix of popular local spots, seaside cafes and world-class dining, it is the perfect way to end a day exploring one of the most spectacular landscapes in the United Kingdom.

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Frequently Asked Questions About The Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim

1. Q: Where is The Giant’s Causeway located?
A: The Giant’s Causeway is located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.

2. Q: What is The Giant’s Causeway?
A: The Giant’s Causeway is a natural phenomenon consisting of over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns which were formed by ancient volcanic activity.

3. Q: How can I access The Giant’s Causeway?
A: You can access the Giant’s Causeway by car, train or bus.

4. Q: Is there a fee for visiting The Giant’s Causeway?
A: Yes, an admission fee is charged for visiting The Giant’s Causeway.

5. Q: What type of wildlife can be found at The Giant’s Causeway?
A: The Giant’s Causeway is home to a wide variety of wildlife including birds, mammals, and marine life.

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