The best of Northern Ireland

When my boyfriend and I decided to visit Ireland, we were not thinking on going to Northern Ireland. Since there is a conflict still existing between the republic and the United Kingdom, we thought it would not be safe. Later on, as I was scrolling through Instagram, I saw a picture of a beautiful coastline surrounded by clear blue water. I was so surprise when I found out it was a picture of Northern Ireland. Of course, as a sucker for coastlines, Northern Ireland was immediately added to our itinerary. So we discovered many magnificent places with unique landscape.Here are the best places of Northern Ireland you need to visit.

Dunluce Castle: This now-ruined castle is a jewel of history. It dates back in 13th century, when a powerful Irish noble, Richard de Burgo, built the first castle. It then went into possession of the McQuillanfamily, whom left after the kitchen fell into the sea (at least, that is what the legend says). Even though its long lineage is impressive, what will impress you the most is definitely the endless coasts surrounding the ruins.

Giant's Causeway: One of the most impressive work of Mother Nature is located in Northern Ireland, Antrim County. This world heritage site is unique and full of mystery. I remember my grand-mother telling me stories on how Finn McCool forged this rock formation on the Atlantic coast. In a more realistic story, 60 million years ago, a volcanic eruption in contact with the sea caused the formation of hexagonal Basalt columns that we are lucky enough to admire to this day!

Old Bushmills Distillery: Not all people were made to love whiskey. Fortunately for me, I am a whiskey lover. But for those who dislikethe liquor; taking a tour of the oldest distillery in Ireland (400 years old!) is still amazing. Getting to know the process of making one of the world's oldest Whiskey and visiting the facilities is quite interesting. And if you stay until the end, you will be rewarded by a lovely glass of Bushmills' finest liquor. Cheers!

Carrick-a-rede: This 350 years-old rope bridge first use was for the local fishermen to access to the Atlantic salmon. Fast-forward to now and you have a wonderful walk near the coastline and a jaw-dropping experience on a small island surrounded by clear blue water in the middle of the Atlantic.

Dark Hedges: "Winter is coming!" Well, the HBO Game of Thrones' crew were not the first to be amazed by the beech tree avenue. It was meant for Stuart's family guests to be impressed when they approached the mansion’s entrance. The Dark Hedges is now a beautifully terrifying natural phenomenon of Bregagh Road with its dark branches filtering the sun through the small path.

Northern Ireland is a must see when visiting the Green Éire. It will only take you a day by car to have a lifetime's wonderful memories.

Enjoy,

The little traveller's boots
Xox