In the early hours of Tuesday 14th July, I pulled into a lay-by 20 miles off the port of Cairnryan for a quick nap before my ferry to Larne (N. Ireland). Parking up in the dead of night, I had no idea what view would greet me when I awoke at 06:00. I was very pleasantly surprised.
Sunrise view out over Ailsa Craig in the outer Firth of Clyde
After drinking in the view with a fresh cup of coffee, I jumped behind the wheel and completed the final leg to Cairnryan . It was a stunning drive. The forest and seascapes were spectacular in the morning sun. I made a promise to revisit this coastline and do it justice in the future.
On arrival at Cairnryan, I checked in, made another coffee in the back of the van and eventually boarded. It was a pleasant crossing, with the sun out and a comfy chair looking straight across the Irish Sea.
Forward facing view out over the Irish Sea
Swiftly disembarking in Larne, the van immediately bolted north. I was heading straight towards one of Northern Ireland’s most popular attractions. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Giant’s Causeway.
Parking was easy and paid for as part of the entry fee: £11.50 (as a non-National Trust Member). The price also included an outdoor audio tour and pocket guide.
On entry, I had high expectations and, it’s safe to say, I wasn’t disappointed. Giant’s Causeway truly is a geological wonder. Forged by intense volcanic activity with over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the views are spectacular. With perfect weather, light crowds, and a surprisingly engaging audio tour – this certainly was one of the highlights of the Stage…
Views out over Portnaboe
Views over Giant’s Causeway and The Stookans last
Aird Snout and the Causeway