One of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world, the Giant’s Causeway is known around the world. Comprising of over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, there are countless myths and legends surrounding the Causeway – but what is the real Giant’s Causeway story?
Here at the Giant’s Causeway Tour, we are ready to separate fact from fiction and help you learn more about the fascinating history that surrounds this striking landscape. So, read on to discover everything you never knew you wanted to know about the Giant’s Causeway!
The Myth
As legend has it, Northern Ireland was once home to a giant named Finn McCool (also called Fionn Mac Cumhaill). When another giant – Benandonner, across the Irish Sea in Scotland – threatened Ireland, Finn retaliated by tearing up great chunks of the Antrim coastline and hurling them into the sea. The newly-created path – the Giant’s Causeway – paved a route over the sea for Finn to reach Benandonner.
However, this turns out to be a bad idea as Benandonner is a massive giant, much bigger than Finn! In order to save himself, Finn retreats to Ireland and is disguised as a baby by his quick-thinking wife. When Benandonner arrives, he sees Finn disguised as a baby and realises that if a mere baby is that big, the father must be far larger than Benandonner himself!
Following this realisation, Benandonner rushes back to Scotland, tearing away as much of the Causeway as he can in his haste to put as much distance between Ireland and himself as possible. And thus, the myth of the Giant’s Causeway was born.
The Scientific Explanation
Perhaps a less interesting explanation, the scientific approach dictates that the Giant’s Causeway was first formed over 60 million years ago. The science says that the Causeway was created following a period of volcanic activity, where the lava cooled and formed these incredible interlocking basalt columns. Each column is near-perfectly hexagonal in shape; a lasting reminder of the power of the world’s natural beauty.
No matter which explanation you choose to believe, it’s undeniable that the Giant’s Causeway is a truly awe-inspiring natural wonder of the world.
If we’ve piqued your interest, you can get up-close and personal, exploring the Causeway for yourself on one of our unforgettable Giant’s Causeway tours. Departing every day from Belfast at 9.15am sharp, you will enjoy a fun-filled day touring the very best that the Antrim Coast has to offer. From the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, Bushmills Distillery and Carrickfergus Castle to the Giant’s Causeway itself, there are plenty of wonderful sights to see on our tour.
