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GIANT’S CAUSEWAY
Bushmills, Northern Ireland 2023
From Belfast, along the Antrim Coast, to several scenic landmarks and back – this was supposedly the itinerary for the bus tour I booked weeks before. However, when I reflected on the weather conditions and the available daylight to see Northern Ireland’s most treasured landmark, I decided to book a hotel in the town of Bushmills instead of returning to the capital.
Daylight broke at quarter to eight after spending the night at the Causeway Hotel. November was a mild winter with a temperature of around 8°C. The hotel was situated near an elevated slope that faced the wild Atlantic Ocean, where the morning breeze was strong but pleasant. Guests can take a shuttle service via an electric minibus from the Visitor Centre near the hotel or enjoy a scenic 20-minute walk to the coast where science and legends walk hand in hand – the Giant’s Causeway.
An exposure of over 40,000 primarily hexagonal, interlocking basalt columns, the Giant’s Causeway is a stunning natural wonder that is a testimony to Earth’s significant development millions of years ago. Today, the Giant’s Causeway is known to be the only UNESCO Heritage Site in Northern Ireland and draws an immense number of visitors every year. Even with that in mind, I still wanted to see the causeway sans the crowd, so I thought a morning visit through winter was my best chance.
Visiting this geologic landmark off-season gave it an ethereal atmosphere and made me think about the myths surrounding it.
Local legends tell a tale of a giant named Finn McCool who built a causeway to get across the Irish Sea and face his rival, the Scottish giant named Benandonner. After their fierce encounter, Benandonner destroyed the land bridge while fleeing back to Scotland, leaving remnants of the supposed causeway as we see it today. Alternatively, another version of the story suggests that Finn fell in love with a Scottish maiden. Unable to reach her, Finn eventually devised a plan to build a causeway to see his beloved.
For a long time, the Giant’s Causeway not only ignited scientific debates but also inspired artists and captured the imaginations of locals and tourists alike.
Access to the causeway is free of charge and is open from dawn until dusk. However, it’s important to note that the area can be hazardous due to strong winds and slippery steps, so an assigned staff regularly monitors the safety conditions. It’s best to be cautious and follow the safety guidelines to avoid any accidents that can potentially land you a visit to the A & E.
In addition to the renowned stone formations, there are other attractions to explore, including the Visitor Centre. This sustainable building offers various visitor services, including an interactive exhibition, a shopping area, and a café. Admission to the Visitor Centre is free for National Trust members, while non-members would have to pay 15 GBP during peak seasons. Being a guest at the Causeway Hotel gave me free admission. I purchased several souvenir items and returned to the hotel as it was raining heavily then.
I eventually checked out from the hotel, and although a bus stop was conveniently situated just outside, the schedule was late at night, so I decided to book a taxi to Coleraine Station, where I hailed a bus back to Belfast. I reminisce about the causeway during my 2-hour journey back to the capital. May it be a consequence of science or folklore, the Giant’s Causeway doesn’t fail to imprint fond memories for those who have seen it.
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