Antrim Coast, Northern Ireland
Giant’s Causeway Ireland
Giants Causeway Northern Ireland
The Giant’s Causeway, a stunning geological formation, is a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site perched on the north coast of County Antrim, Northern Ireland. This iconic site is known for its ~40,000 interlocking, dramatic hexagonal basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity, creating stepping stones into the sea and inspiring myths of Irish giants like Finn McCool.
It’s located near Bushmills, a popular stop on the scenic Causeway Coastal Route, offering stunning natural beauty, geological wonder, Irish folklore, breath-taking views, walking trails and rich biodiversity for visitors.
5 Facts Before You Tour The Giant’s Causeway in Ireland
- This site is of volcanic origin having formed 50-60 million years ago by rapidly cooling lava flows during the Paleogene Period.
- Lava contracting as it cooled created fissures, leading to the unique polygonal (columnar) shapes with 4 to 8 sides.
- Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn McCool), the Irish giant, supposedly built the causeway to fight a Scottish giant, creating stepping stones across the sea, with similar basalt columns being found on the Isle of Staffa in Scotland.
- The columns vary in size, with some reaching 39 ft high and cliffs over 90 ft thick.
- The Giant’s Causeway is Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, designated in 1986.
“Northern Ireland’s unique treasure, an “8th Wonder of the World”.
Polygonal Basalt Columns
The Causeway Coastal Route
Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge
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