Page "County Antrim" Paragraph 8

A large portion of Antrim is hilly, especially in the east, where the highest elevations are attained.

The range runs north and south, and, following this direction the highest points are Knocklayd, Slieveanorra, Trostan, Slemish, Agnew's Hill and Divis.

The inland slope is gradual, but on the northern shore the range terminates in abrupt and almost perpendicular declivities, and here, consequently, some of the finest coast scenery in the world is found, widely differing, with its unbroken lines of cliffs, from the indented coast-line of the west.

The most remarkable cliffs are those formed of perpendicular basaltic columns, extending for many miles, and most strikingly displayed in Fair Head and the celebrated Giant's Causeway.

From the eastern coast the hills rise instantly but less abruptly, and the indentations are wider and deeper.

On both coasts there are several resort towns, including Portrush ( with well-known golf links ), Portballintrae and Ballycastle ; on the east Cushendun, Cushendall and Waterfoot on Red Bay, Carnlough and Glenarm, Larne on the Sea of Moyle, and Whitehead on Belfast Lough.

All are somewhat exposed to the easterly winds prevalent in spring.

The only island of size is the L-shaped Rathlin Island, off Ballycastle, in total length by maximum breadth, from the coast, and of similar basaltic and limestone formation to that of the mainland.

It is partially arable, and supports a small population.

Islandmagee is in fact a peninsula separating Larne Lough from the North Channel.