Originally built in 1865, it offers mellow country house hospitality, exuding classic refinement with modern appeal. The water is clear with irridescent shades of green and blue it looks more like a Caribbean island than the UK coast. The Lodge at Ashford Castle sits within the magnificent 350 acre estate of Ashford Castle overlooking the magical Lough Corrib. Once over the bridge (my advice is hold on tight and don’t look down) you can still see a tiny fisherman’s cottage, near to where the salmon fishery was situated. They were after the abundant Atlantic salmon that swirled around these waters on their annual migration. Counties all across Ireland and Northern Ireland are home to breathtaking views. Following the arrival of the Normans in 1169 Earl Strongbow. Apparently they replace the bridge every 3 years, and it is certainly much more robust than the single handrope the 18th c fishermen first strung across the water. The island of Ireland is surrounded by over 1,450km (901mi) of coastline. This castle ruin stands on a rocky promontory over the sea, at the eastern side of the town. I must admit I wasn’t really keen to go across (vivid memories of my young son bouncing up and down on a rope bridge across an even bigger drop in New Zealand to make Mummy scream …) but had been persuaded by the encouraging National Trust attendant that it really was very safe. Its certainly in the warm and hospitable people you will meet along the way. Kinnitty and enjoy a tour of Leap Castle by its owner, a storyteller in the old Irish tradition. Perhaps it’s the mythical stories, shaped and inspired by the dramatic coastline. Visit the quaint coastal towns of Doolin and Lahinch. Maybe it’s the sheer breadth and beauty of its landscape. A narrow network of ropes stretches across a dizzying gulf from the mainland to the rocky outcrop known as Carrick-a-Rede. The rugged, raw elemental beauty of the Causeway Coastal Route truly captures the thrill of an adventure in Northern Ireland.
Not far from the Giant’s Causeway is Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.