All four of us were off today and we decided to take a day trip to Rathlin Island – a place we had never been before. Rathlin is a boot shaped island with around 100 residents, situated just off Ballycastle, on the North Coast of Northern Ireland. A ferry service bridges the 6 miles of water between the two places. Our journey out was on the slow ferry (40 minutes). This vessel is equipped to carry vehicles as well as passengers, though with one lorry load of tar on board there was no room for any other vehicles. There are a few options for places to eat close to the little harbour: we sat on an outside table with food that ranged from tuna sandwiches through sausages, beans and chips!
The big attraction of the island at this time of the year is the annual visit of puffins who spend four months on the rugged cliffs, along with thousands of other birds. It’s over 4 miles from the harbour to the RSPB lookout situated beneath one of the island’s three lighthouses. It’s possible to walk or hire a bike. We opted for the minibus ride. It was a good choice. For one thing the hilly terrain would have made a tough cycle, but rather than being a simple point to point shuttle service, it’s a guided tour. Our driver was called Bertie and he proved to be a great source of local information. The drive was slow – steep climbs and narrow tracks oblige – including stopping along the way for Bertie to share some information.
The views back across to the north coast were superb – all the way to Donegal.
Recommended as a day out. The weather helps (we got a great day) and probably bets to go when the puffins are in town.
