The Giant's Causeway, located on the coast of County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Ireland's most remarkable natural wonders. Comprising over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the causeway is a geological marvel formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. According to local legend, the columns were the remnants of a causeway built by the Irish giant Finn MacCool to reach Scotland.

Visitors to the Giant's Causeway can explore the unique formations, walk along the rugged coastline, and marvel at the stunning views of the North Atlantic Ocean. The Visitor Centre provides informative exhibits on the geology and folklore of the area, enhancing the visitor experience. Guided tours and audio guides are available to learn about the site's history and scientific significance.

The Giant's Causeway is also surrounded by spectacular coastal landscapes, including dramatic cliffs and scenic walking trails, such as the Causeway Coast Way. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot various bird species and marine life in the area.

With its mystical beauty and intriguing geological heritage, the Giant's Causeway offers a truly captivating experience for tourists and nature lovers alike.

Giant's Causeway Legend

According to Irish folklore, the Giant's Causeway has a legendary origin tied to the mythical tale of the giant Finn MacCool. The story goes that Finn, a renowned giant from Ireland, built the causeway to challenge his rival giant from Scotland, Benandonner.

As the folklore goes, Finn built the causeway across the North Channel to confront Benandonner. However, upon reaching Scotland, Finn discovered that Benandonner was even bigger and stronger than he had imagined. Fearing for his safety, Finn hurried back to Ireland.

To protect Finn, his clever wife, Oonagh, devised a plan. She disguised Finn as a baby and placed him in a cradle. When Benandonner arrived in Ireland and saw the gigantic "baby," he grew terrified, believing that if the baby was that huge, Finn must be enormous. Benandonner hastily fled back to Scotland, destroying the causeway behind him so that Finn could not follow.

Giant's Causeway Admission.

If you’re visiting the Giant’s Causeway independently, the first important thing to understand is that you can actually go to the site for free – even though there is also a paid option.

The paid option is called the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Experience. Firstly, you get free parking at a more convenient location. You then get access to the Visitor Centre to see the exhibition about the site, which covers lots of information. And you get a free guided tour (or optional audioguide), that will lead you along the stones and share lots more stories.

How to get there

To get to the Giant's Causeway by public transport, catch the train from Belfast or Londonderry to Coleraine and then get the bus Ulsterbus Service 172.