Detailed review by digital_explorer
digital_explorer
Belfast, United Kingdom99%
Carrick-a-rede is a hanging rope bridge that attracts more than 220,000 visitors locally and abroad every year. In the past, over 350 years ago, the rope bridge was used by fishermen to provide access in catching migrating salmon. The swinging bridge today is quite a challenge for everyone who wants to enjoy the beauty of Carrick Island (on the other side of the bridge) which also a breeding ground for birds and being closed in the certain time of the year to allow birds to build their nets, and then lay and hatch their eggs.
And because of the diversity of flora and fauna, including the uniqueness of the geological characteristics, the site and its surrounding area are now considered as Area of Specific Scientific Interest (ASSI) - is a nature conservation protected area in Northern Ireland (equivalent designation to the Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) in the rest of the United Kingdom). The hanging bridge is a perfect day-out for stunning rugged coastline with exceptional view of Rathlin Island ( a place for birdwatchers) and Scotland. Rathlin Island is the only one inhabited offshore island in the north of Irish region which serves as the home to tens of thousands of seabirds, including kittiwakes, razorbills and puffins.
For my second visit to the site, I have noticed that the National Trust (a British charity organisation) is now maintaining the area - with safe, clean and well-fenced one-km pathway towards the bridge, including provisions for car parking, toilets, tearoom, and view decks. There is a minimal fee to cross the rope bridge, however there are certain times during the winter season that the bridge is closed.
A public transport is available to reach this attraction ,either by train or bus. A number of tourist or travel agents that arrange daily trips from Belfast City to the bridge at a minimal fees, including a side trip to UNESCO's heritage site, Giant's Causeway. The Tourist Information Centre at the city centre of Belfast is the best place to get additional information about the daily tours.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge10
