A spectacular
headland on the north-west coast of Northern Ireland. Great views
of the Mull of Kintyre (19Km) and - on a clear day - Ailsa Craig
(60Km), Islay (49Km) and Jura (67Km) may be seen.
The cliffs
below the headland contain sections of metamorphic limestone and
psammite intrusions. This important geological feature is a
designated "Area of Special Scientific
Interest"(ASSI-233)
|
Directions: From Cushendun: Leave the
village heading north on B62. In 600m turn right SP "Torr Head
scenic route". At waypoint N55º11.113 W06º04.165 turn right, drive
800m...
From Ballycastle: Leave the town heading west on A2 to waypoint
N55º11.969 W6º11.177 turn left, continue for approx 8Km to waypoint
N55º11.495 W06º05.123 turn left, drive 800m...
... both routes, turn off the secondary road at waypoint
N55º11.513W6º04.427 and continue (with care) down this narrow
access road to the car park at N55º11.709 W6º03.920
|
|
|
|
The setting: The road to and past Torr Head has
for many years been used as a "Special Stage" - a timed test
section - on Irish motor rallies. The twisting, undulating road
remains a technical challenge to the very best drivers. In 2002,
Irish rally champion Andrew Nesbitt completed the distance in a
time of 7m 11s.
You will (I hope) take a bit longer, and appreciate the views of
this extraordinary landscape.
|
The map shows the final turnings and car park location. Don't
worry if you get lost, because the whole area is worth a visit,
anyway! The cache site is in the disused Coastguard station,
surrounded by a low wall. Its platforms provide good spots for
photography. Please take care as some steps and railings are in
poor repair.
The headland path crosses
land which is in regular use for grazing sheep and other animals.
Please do NOT take dogs to the cache site - even if they are on a
lead.
The cache: The cache is similar in size to
a 35mm film canister but narrower andhidden within the walls of the
coastguard station . Strong magnets are involved so be careful not
to nip your fingers.
Please replace exactly as
found.
Wildlifewriter would
like to thank Mr. James McNeill for giving permission to place the
cache on his land, and local residents Mr & Mrs P. McLyster for
their kind advice and
assistance.
