If you are in Ireland and a trip to the Giant's Causeway is possible-- DO IT! I have no idea what the admission fee is, as my visit was included in a 12-day guided bus tour of the United Kingdom, but I can affirm that of all the places I visited, all the natural beauty I observed, this was hands down my favorite.
If you are able, give yourself at least half a day here, though you could easily spend the entire day. My tour guide gave us a little less than 3 hours, and it simply wasn't enough. Here's how I spent it, and what I'd do differently next time -- and yes, it was so incredible that I want to plan a next time.
This visit:
We arrived and our tour guide handled the ticket process. We each showed ours as we entered the museum/Visitor's Center. We were given an audio player that's pre-programmed with stories and info about views along the trail. There's a well-known Irish tale of a Giant that goes along with the hike. There are little plaques along the route that tell you which number to type in to the player. My only beef with these little players is that you have to hold them to your ear like a telephone. I despise holding things to my ear (avid AirPod user here). Luckily, I wore a baseball hat and was easily able to slide the speaker next to my ear for a hands-free experience.
The Causeway is a series of cliffs and valleys at the water's edge. You initially walk down, then back up. It is a steep climb down ways, but there is a smooth sidewalk and the admission includes an optional bus ride, both down and back-up. I walked both ways, my Mom and Aunt used the bus. This was a good choice as Mom is nearing 70 and her knee was bothering her. In using the bus, she didn't quite get the full experience or the stories along the way, but she got to experience the splendor at the bottom of the hill, and that's well worth it, even if that's all you are able to physically explore.
Beyond where the bus stops, there's a rock wall with an opening that continues the walking trail. There are more signage plaques along the way. I'm not sure how far it goes. Because of time constraints, I could only walk a hundred yards or so before needing to turn around. The walk back up the hill took me maybe 20 minutes. Keep in mind I am in fairly good condition and a fast walker. I stopped about halfway up to take some more pictures, but was booking it so I could climb the steps atop the Visitor Center to explore the Cliff to the right. (I recommend doing this, if you have time. It offers another incredible view. Just be very careful if you venture near the Cliff's edge. It would have been easy to fall if I'd not been mindful as I approached the edge).
Inside the Visitor's Center there is a gift shop, bathrooms, a video screen and an ice cream vendor. I was disappointed with the selection of magnets, so I didn't buy one, but there were some decent post cards. There's also a post box right outside the Center, leading into the parking lot. I really appreciated that. (In Ireland, they are green -- go figure). All in all, it was one of my favorite experiences on my holiday across the UK, even with the short amount of time. I walked fast to squeeze in as many views as I could. Given the choice, I'd have been there beyond sunset. It was simply perfect.
Next time:
There's a little hotel or B&B, not sure which, literally right next door. It's situated next to an open pasture atop one of the cliffs, next to a walking path that offers picnic tables and even more incredible views. It looks like the guest rooms have small outdoor patios. I took a photo and texted my girlfriend that we must stay here next time.
I'd love to see the Cliffs, and walk the trail at dusk and dawn. Aside from staying the night, that's what I'd do differently, I'd give myself an entire day to hike, sit and marvel at the beauty of the Cliffs, the water, the sound and smell. I have no idea how far the trail goes, but I'd love to pack some snacks and make it an all day excursion. Honestly, it's one of the most perfect places on earth I've ever visited. I can't think of anything more beautiful, peaceful, relaxing or bare I say, romantic. I will do everything I can to make it back, bringing my beloved with me this time. read more