Description
Carrick a Rede, Ballintoy, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
This unique & famous rope bridge is the only one of its kind in all Ireland. Connecting the mainland to Carrick a Rede Island, this 20-meter long rope bridge was erected 350 years ago years ago to guide the local fishermen to their boats. Carrick a Rede island was once an active salmon fishery for over 400 years until relatively recent times. An old fisherman’s bothy(cottage), old ropes & nets are still visibly scattered across this island echoing its once bustling fishery past.
Nowadays it’s a major National Trust NI tourist attraction offering an exhilarating coastal path & rope bridge experience from the cliffs to the rocky island. Stunning views of Rathlin Island & the Scottish Isles can be seen from here on a clear day. All whilst standing next to a noisy seabird colony amongst the flora & unique geology of this small island which was once actually the centre of an ancient volcano millions of years ago! Now just let that one sink in for a moment…… Isn’t it amazing how much nature changes our landscape over time.
