They call it the most dramatic walk in Europe, and for those who dare, The Gobbins will offer an exhilarating cliff-top and below-sea-level experience along a two-mile stretch of Northern Ireland’s spectacular Causeway Coast.
Formed along sheer cliffs directly over the Irish Sea, the rugged coastline path follows a dramatic route that takes walkers across tubular and suspension bridges, up stone-carved staircases, through caves and down into under-sea tunnels.
Only accessible as part of a guided tour which lasts two to three hours, the adventure begins at a state-of-the-art visitor centre that tells the story of the original Edwardian Gobbins path which opened in 1902.
Considered a visionary feat of engineering at the time, the original path was masterminded by the Irish railway engineer, Berkley Dean Wise as an incredible tourist attraction. It was abandoned in the 1960s but was reimagined and reborn in 2014.
The visitor centre also highlights the rich geology and biodiversity around The Gobbins, which has been designated an area of special scientific interest.
From there a short bus ride takes walkers to the path where they will brave 23 metal bridges and water-splashed gantries installed along the cliff faces.
As well as breath-taking views, the tour provides the opportunity to glimpse colourful puffins and diving cormorants, learn about one of the most geologically diverse landscapes on Earth and hear tales of the daring of local smugglers.
With many steps and steep gradients, The Gobbins is strictly for those who can handle an energetic outdoor experience, but the effort required is rewarded with stunning vistas and a unique walking experience.
For those unable to do the walk, local boat trips are available in Islandmagee, which follow the Gobbins route, enabling everyone to enjoy this dramatic coastline.
The Gobbins Cliff Path is open from April to October and is a must-see stop along the famous Causeway Coastal Route, which, along with Belfast, was voted the number one region in the world for travellers in 2018.
Other popular stops along the memorable coastline are the Glens of Antrim, Old Bushmills Distillery, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and the world-renowned Giant's Causeway.
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www.thegobbinscliffpath.com