Ballintoy

Ballintoy is a small village and civil parish in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. It is situated on the north coast of the island, about five miles (8 km) west of Ballycastle and ten miles (16 km) east of Bushmills.

Geography:

Ballintoy is known for its picturesque harbor, Ballintoy Harbour, also known as Ballintoy Bay. The harbor is a small, natural inlet accessed by a steep, winding road. The surrounding landscape is characterized by dramatic cliffs, rocky shores, and small sandy beaches. The area falls within the Causeway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

History:

The history of Ballintoy stretches back centuries. The area has evidence of early human settlement, and its coastal location made it important for fishing and small-scale trading. The nearby Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, historically used by salmon fishermen, is a significant tourist attraction and demonstrates the area's historic ties to the sea.

Tourism:

Ballintoy has become a popular tourist destination, largely due to its scenic beauty and its use as a filming location for the HBO television series Game of Thrones. Ballintoy Harbour served as the fictional port of Lordsport in the Iron Islands. The area attracts visitors interested in coastal walks, photography, and exploring the natural beauty of the Antrim coastline.

Governance:

Ballintoy is within the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area. The local economy relies primarily on tourism and agriculture.