After a little later start than planned (someone overslept), we left Belfast in route to Londonderry. We drove north again toward the Atlantic and again enjoyed the beautiful scenery. Several stops along the way to take quick pictures of the coast, including our planned stop Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge in Ballintoy. First erected by fisherman in 1755, the rope bridge connects the cliffs of the mainland to the Carrick-a-rede island. It’s name means the “rock in the road”, because the island served to block the path of the migrating salmon in the Atlantic.
We purchased tickets in advance which was well worth it, as the later you arrive the later your timed ticket will be. Our tickets were for 10:30am, which seemed to be right before the rush. The weather gods were smiling on us, again, as we enjoyed the unseasonably warm temperatures. The hike to the bridge is a little less than 1 mile. The path is an easy walk, however the areas with steps are a little steep. The hike is more than repaid in magnificent views. The bridge swings approximately 100 feet above sea level it is well cared for and very sturdy. Even the scaredy cat Sean made it across with just a little anxiety.
After the trek back to the car, and a quick snack in the gift shop, we were back on the road again. We did two quick stops on the way to Londonderry. First was the Old Bushmills Distillery, the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world. We didn’t have time for the tour so we did a quick tasting and of course a visit to the gift shop. The second stop was at the Royal Portrush Golf Club, home of The 148th Open Championship. The views from the course are amazing and we even snuck on to the putting green for a few quick pictures! We dropped a few pounds (literally) in the gift shop and back on the road again.
Our final stop for today found us in Londonderry, or Derry for you Irish Nationalists. Here we met up with Keiran, from Derry City Walking Tours. Our tour began in the Bogside area where we learned about “Bloody Sunday”. Bloody Sunday began as a civil rights protest in January 1972 but ended in the deaths of 13 with many more wounded. It was one of the most significant events during The Troubles. As in Belfast, the city has many murals throughout depicting the history of the strife and eventual peace resolution.
We then journeyed to the top of the city walls; Derry is the only remaining completely intact walled city in Ireland. Built in the early 1600’s, it provided the city protection from attacks, in fact has never been breached. The history from these 400 year old walls is truly amazing. Keiran shared personal stories throughout our walk of the difficult times his family personally experienced, but more importantly the confidence and hope that the 20 plus years of peace will continue. Our one hour walk found us back at City Hall and to our ever patient driver, Donal, ready to retrieve us.
We checked into our rooms at Bishops Gate Hotel, and then ventured back out for an early dinner. We decided on Browns in Town and were all delighted with the choice. The food was delicious and since we were dining early we got to take advantage of the early bird menu £21 for two courses. We couldn’t retire without experiencing a little night life, so we walked to Peadar O’Donnells and all enjoyed an adult beverage. This was an authentic Irish pub, with great atmosphere and nightly music. We were a little early for the music but enjoyed the drinks anyway! Back to the hotel for a final nightcap in the posh hotel bar before turning in to rest up for tomorrow’s adventures.
