Tucked away in the Antrim hills near Garron Point, the abandoned village of Galboly offers a fascinating and somewhat eerie journey back in time. This hidden gem, once a thriving rural community, now stands in ruins, whispering tales of a bygone era.
The walk to Galboly is an adventure in itself. The path winds through lush greenery, offering glimpses of the stunning Antrim coastline. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by the skeletal remains of stone cottages, their empty windows staring blankly at the surrounding landscape.
Exploring the village is like stepping onto a forgotten movie set. The remnants of daily life are still visible - crumbling walls, overgrown gardens, and the faint echoes of laughter and conversation. Each building tells a silent story, sparking the imagination and painting a vivid picture of what life was like here.
Galboly wasn't without its dark side, however. Rumors abound of its reputation as a "robber's village," where unsuspecting travelers were relieved of their belongings. This adds an extra layer of intrigue to the already captivating atmosphere.
While the village is undeniably beautiful, there's a sense of melancholy that lingers in the air. It's a poignant reminder of the fragility of communities and the inexorable march of time.
Despite its somber undertones, Galboly is a must-visit for history buffs, photographers, and anyone seeking a unique and thought-provoking experience. It's a place where the past and present intertwine, offering a glimpse into a way of life that has all but vanished.
Visiting Galboly is a journey of discovery, a chance to connect with Ireland's rich rural heritage. It's a place that will stay with you long after you've left, leaving you pondering the stories of those who once called this forgotten...
Read moreLand owners here have a terrible attitude towards people checking the place out. Can understand warning tourists of if something is getting filmed but I’ve been here during filming and the people seemed interested in meeting locals and providing information on their project Where as the land owners threaten you of the land
Just think it’s pretty sad because they don’t have a issue with foreigners to conjestomg the road parking during the summers
Also found it sad because the crew worker I was talking to was genuinely interested in talking about the local area and told me they wer working on how to train a dragon. Midway into our conversation a man shouted abuse at me which I couldn’t hear as bad hearing and the wind blocking his voice so we continued our conversation. Next thing he shoved me from behind saying he told me to get the f of his property. I was pretty shocked so I just tryed to shake the gentleman’s hand I had spoken too and say it was nice to meet him and leave but he would not even allow that so I just left
Don’t know who it was i was talking too but set workers seemed alright to answer a few questions and send us on our way
Their was no need for aggressive behaviour from the farmer / land owner / whoever he was
Would recommend here if u can get away with it but from all my encounters on this land they don’t want people here 🤷🏻♀️
Also I could probably of done same to this guy shocked or not but I just do not...
Read moreGalboly isn't a polished tourist destination, but that's what makes it special. It's a place to step off the beaten path and delve into a forgotten piece of Northern Irish history. Just be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring your sense of adventure!
My journey began in the quaint village of Carnlough. Following a trail map (highly recommend!), I embarked on a moderate hike that offered stunning views of the Antrim Coast. The anticipation built as I rounded a bend and came face-to-face with the first stone walls of Galboly.
The village itself is a collection of ruins, remnants of a once-thriving rural community. Crumbling stone cottages with the ghosts of thatched roofs hinted at a simpler life. While the silence was serene, it also sparked my imagination. Information boards scattered throughout the site shared the story of Galboly's past, both its role as a self-sufficient community living off the land and the sea, and the whispers of its nickname, the "robber's village."
The highlight of my visit was the climb to the top of the hillocks behind the village. A bit of a scramble, but the panoramic vista was breathtaking. Looking down on the ruins of Galboly with the wild coastline stretching out before me, I felt a connection to the people who built this village and the resilience it must have taken...
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