I’m long overdue on mentioned our day trip to the Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim, Northern Ireland way back in September.
Several fun things about this trip. First, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site (so, our second thus far in Ireland, I believe). Second, we had a guest with us—Teresa Fox! Third, we could see Scotland across the water. Fourth, the Giant’s Causeway is in Northern Ireland so you cross the border (such as it is). Starting with that, there’s very little marking this border except for a rusty old sign (no joke). Once there, google maps and the road signs switch back from kilometers to miles, which caused some brief confusion. Also, the taxis were in the style of old British taxis. Other than that, it felt very much like the Republic of Ireland. We did drive past Belfast (which I’ve learned is pronounced with the emphasis on the second syllable) but did not stop to check it out this time.
The Giant’s causeway is a very cool geologic feature that has many fantastical stories about it. In reality, it’s a beautiful coastal spot with striking views, big (Pacific-style, to me) waves, views of Scotland, and about 40,000 really neat hexagonal rock formations (basalt columns) that came about due to lava flows some 50+ million years ago.
Additional cool features included "The Organ" (looked like pipe organ in the cliff walls) and "The Giant's Boot" (boot-shaped rock).
Warning: there are 8000 photos because it was SO beautiful!
After our walk, we had lunch at the pub right there at the aptly named pub, The Nook, and sat outside with striking views. It was, however, very windy, making either Teresa’s choice of Shepherd's pie or our choice of seating a mistake, since the flaky pastry coated us all during the meal. Hilarity ensued, though I don't think it detracted from Teresa's enjoyment of her meal.
Then we walked further along the coast.
It was really fun having Teresa along. She was actually taking a flight to Scotland that very night, and it seemed a shame to have to drive her 2 hours back to the airport to wait for a flight when it felt so very close to where we were. Last but not least, Teresa taught me how to do a Dutch braid, and now Sally and I both rock them several days a week!
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