Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge
Have you ever heard of the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge? Neither had I fully until this year. I remembered seeing pictures of the famous bridge before, but I never imagined that I would actually go there and walk across it for myself.
It lies in Northern Ireland (technically part of the UK). However, if you come to visit from Ireland there's no need to bring your passport - you can seamlessly travel from Ireland and Northern Ireland without any problems.
I got there as part of a tour group. I don't normally like tour groups because I rather like the freedom of being able to choose exactly where I want to go and how long I want to spend at places.
However, when researching this particular tour group, Paddywagon Tour Group, I realized that for a mere $10-15 more I could learn from an educated tour guide and be shuttled along to several different locations that I wouldn't have been able to visit by train or otherwise, including the Dark Hedges and Giant's Causeway.
So, when my tour group arrived at the parking lot for the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, I knew that I had to make the most of my time. It does cost seven pounds (around eight euros) to walk across the bridge. I was hesitant to pay because I figured that I could get a picture of the bridge without paying.
I was wrong. It takes around 20 minutes to walk from the entrance over to the bridge itself. Along the way you walk down several stairs - so be prepared to walk back up them on your way back.
Ultimately, I'm so glad that I did make the decision to pay the fee. For one, the fee goes to a charity taken care by the National Trust. And - the bridge walk itself was exhilarating.
Several people in front of me were very nervous getting across. I understood why as I made my way across. It's extremely windy between the two land masses.
Once I got to the other side I explored the tiny island. Be careful - there aren't railings along the entire island. It does make for some incredible views, though.
After I finished exploring the island, I made my way back in line to walk across the bridge again and get back to my tour group. I only had an hour an a half total to spend here, but I wish that I had more. I would absolutely love to make a return trip here on my terms in order to spend as long as I'd like. If you're up in the air about visiting here, do yourself a favor and go. You won't regret it.
