Ireland: Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Along the Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland, there is a rope bridge suspended 98 feet above the turquoise sea. This bridge connects mainland Ireland to a small cliff top island called Carrick-a-Rede (meaning "rock of the casting"). On Day 3 of our Ireland adventure, D and I experienced the Northern coast and an exhilarating walk across this swinging rope bridge. For those bold enough to walk the half-mile shoreline footpath, climb down the steep stairwell, and carefully step across the rope bridge…they're rewarded with some spectacular views, breathtaking cliffside vistas, and another quick peek at the Southernmost tip of Scotland. Back in the day, this bridge was used by fishermen coming to catch salmon off the shores of Carrick-a-Rede island. Today, it's used to give tourists an adrenaline rush, as well as some unforgettable sights along the imposing Irish coastline. This bridge reminded me a lot of the swinging rope bridge at Grandfather Mountain back home in North Carolina…only less steep and much shorter. While definitely not for the faint of heart, D and I crossed that thing like champs…and if they'd let me stay there all day, I would have! I still can't get over the gorgeousness of Ireland. If you find yourself on the Antrim Coast near Ballintoy, make a quick stop for a lovely seaside stroll and blood-pumping walk across the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. The natural beauty is beyond comparison. Just don't look down! ;)

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Visitor Info

Admission fee: £5.60 per person--£14.00 for families

Opening times for rope bridge: 9:30am-7:30pm (weather permitting)