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Embark on our Giant’s Causeway Tour to explore Northern Ireland’s breathtaking natural wonder. Legend and geology merge at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its unique basalt columns. Join us for an unforgettable journey from Belfast, discovering the myths, scenery, and history of the Causeway Coast.
Described by National Geographic as showcasing Northern Ireland “at its rugged best,” our tour along the North Antrim Coastal route offers more than just a visit to the Giant’s Causeway. From the picturesque harbour towns to the majestic waterfalls, the route is a feast for the eyes. With stops that afford panoramic views from Co Donegal to the west and Scotland to the east, you’ll capture memories that last a lifetime. For the fans of the Game of Thrones, we delight in pointing out the filming locations that dot our coastal journey, making your tour an epic narrative of its own.
A highlight of our tour is the thrilling Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, suspended 30 metres above the Atlantic’s swirling waters. With over 350 years of history, this bridge challenges you to step across to the island of Carrick-a-Rede, offering unparalleled views and an adrenaline rush like no other, all under the careful preservation of the National Trust.
Our tours from Belfast to the Giant’s Causeway are designed to fit your schedule, offering half-day and multi-day trips that ensure a comprehensive exploration of the Causeway Coast’s enchantments. Rated highly on TripAdvisor, our Giant’s Causeway tour from Belfast is a testament to our commitment to excellence and adventure. From Cushendall to Ballymena, each stop is a chapter in Northern Ireland’s storied landscape, waiting for you to discover.
Nestled on the rugged North Antrim coast, the Giant’s Causeway is not just a natural wonder but a storied landmark woven into the fabric of local mythology and geological history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, consisting of approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, is the result of intense volcanic activity over 60 million years ago. However, the Causeway is equally famed for its place in Irish folklore, most notably the tales of the giant Finn McCool.
Geological Marvel
The story of the Giant’s Causeway begins with its formation during the Paleocene epoch when molten lava erupted through the chalk beds to form a lava plateau. As the lava cooled rapidly, contraction occurred. This cooling process resulted in the fracturing of the plateau into the mostly hexagonal columns seen today, creating a unique pattern that stretches towards the sea, disappearing beneath the waves.
Folklore and Legends
According to legend, Finn McCool, an Irish giant, constructed the Causeway to bridge the North Channel so he could meet and battle Benandonner, a Scottish giant. The folklore varies, with one tale suggesting Finn disguised himself as a baby to frighten his rival, who, seeing the size of the ‘infant,’ fled back to Scotland, destroying the causeway behind him to prevent pursuit. Pieces of the Causeway are said to exist in Scotland at Fingal’s Cave on the island of Staffa, suggesting a connection between the two sites.
Historical Significance
Beyond its geological and mythological origins, the Giant’s Causeway has held a place of curiosity and reverence throughout history. It was the subject of debate among early geologists in the 18th and 19th centuries, contributing to the development of the science of geology. The site’s unique beauty and scientific interest have attracted visitors for centuries, from the Victorian era to the present day, making it a symbol of Northern Ireland’s natural heritage and a significant draw for tourists worldwide.
Cultural Impact
The Giant’s Causeway has also left a substantial mark on cultural expressions, inspiring artists, poets, and musicians with its otherworldly appearance and mythical background. It represents a physical and imaginative landscape where nature’s power and cultural narratives intertwine, offering a source of national pride and a continuous inspiration for creativity.
In exploring the Giant’s Causeway, visitors engage with a site that is as rich in stories as it is in scenic beauty. Whether marveling at its geological formations or immersing in its legends, the Causeway stands as a testament to the intriguing blend of natural history and folklore that defines much of Ireland’s landscape.
