Carrick-A-Rede

Carrick-a-Rede is an area in Northern Ireland that contains a famous rope bridge. The bridge serves as a link between the mainland and a small island, which goes by the name Carrickarede. The rope bridge is about 20 meters long and about 30 feet above the ocean waters. From the main parking lot, you can take a stunning coastal trek along the edges of the cliff. This coastal walk leads you to the rope bridge. The views of the crystal clear water, towering cliffs and islands littered in the distance are spectacular. The views are so vast that Scotland is visible on clear days.

It is believed that a bridge was first constructed in this location by local salmon fishermen in the 1970s. In the early 2000s, salmon fishing in the area reached an all time low and the fishermen were forced to search other areas to reach their yields. As a result, the National Trust of Ireland decided to open up the area for tourists to experience the scenic beauty of Northern Ireland (there is a small fee to cross the rope bridge).

The area is an example of what is called a "volcanic plug." An active volcano was once very prevalent in this area approximately 60 million years ago. Erosion by the water and other natural elements throughout the years has exposed the neck of this volcano. The small island that seems to jut out from the sea was formed as a result of the various combinations of soluble and insoluble rock. The island is made mainly of insoluble rock, which is why it still stands while the rest of the surrounding rock eroded away.