We geared up for another busy day along the NI coast, and it did not disappoint! The weather was unbelievably gorgeous! When I was planning this trip many months ago, I was quite concerned that 99% of the itinerary was outdoors. And I had no backup plans. But, the universe was absolutely on our side, for 12 solid days, because the rainy spring Irish climate was nowhere to be seen. And I was so grateful!
We spent the morning at Carrick-a-Rede, the rope bridge in Ballycastle. One hundred feet above the sea, the sixty-foot bridge is made of planks strung between wires. It was created in 1755, so salmon fishermen could check on their salmon nets off the island of Carrick-a-Rede. It used to be only one handrope, which the fishermen crossed daily, while carrying their catch and equipment. Since the fishery only operated in the summer, the rope bridge was dismantled every winter.
We crossed the bridge and then enjoyed a snack on the island, before heading back!
Our afternoon was spent at Kinbane Castle. This place was A LOT of work, and terrifying at times, but I absolutely loved it! The night prior, my father-in-law said to me, “Tomorrow’s plan is not in my guide book.” “And that is exactly why we are going there!” I replied. Kinbane Castle was built in the 1540s and sits on a “narrow rock promontory accessed by a steep walk”. Well…that’s an understatement!
Despite there being very little remaining of Kinbane Castle, there was plenty to explore: all of which seemed to be one step from careening into the ocean. Good thing they have a dad, because moms aren’t always a fan of highly risky behavior! Eeek! But that’s the challenge, right? Finding the balance between protecting them and holding them back.
So, first you walk down 140 stairs to get closer to the sea, then you head back up a bunch of steps to reach what remains of the keep. Beyond the keep is a very narrow path, which takes you to the edge of the world, apparently. Me: “Sign back there said not to go past the keep.” Joe: “It will be fine.” Ooooppphhh. Guess we’re doin’ this!
So, off they went! Not sure why this was a good idea!
I walked about half way and then decided that the 30+lb toddler strapped to by body wasn’t going to help with mobility, agility, sure footedness, balance….or anything, for that matter. So I stayed back and just stressed out. You know, circled the drain about my favorite people standing on a sheer rock cliff above the Irish Sea.
They made it! And more importantly, they made it back!
These are the kind of places I really enjoy visiting. Off the beaten path, rarely another tourist on-site, free, engaging for the kids, and something you would never see in America!
Kinbane Castle was certainly one of my favorite NI destinations! I could just gush on forever! And after a combined 400+ stairs for the day, an afternoon glass of white wine and a game of Uno with my big kid never felt more deserved!
Use Your Accent 