Formation of the Glens
The geology of the Antrim Coast and Glens was formed by massive lava flows between 55-60 million years ago. This area is also characterised by a series of deep glens running eastwards to the North Channel, known as the ‘Nine Glens of Antrim’. These are the product of glaciation and were formed during the last Ice Age as the ice melted, retreating to the seas, gorging out the glens as we see them today. The melting waters from the glaciers distributed vast quantities of well-drained sands and gravel as it flowed rapidly in channels under the ice, gushing out when it reached the melting edge. The rock-walled gorges of Altiffirnan and Altahullin Glens are the remnants of glacial drainage channels into Glenshesk.
Glenshesk is the only one of the Nine Glens which faces directly North, and many would say that this stunning Glen offers one of the best views of any glen, with a perfect textbook v-shaped glen looking down to the ocean with Rathlin perfectly framed
The Nine Glens of Antrim
Glenshesk – The Glen of the Sedge (reeds)
Glentaisie – Named after Princess Taisie who was the daughter of the King of Rathlin Island
Glendun – The brown Glen
Glencorp – The Glen of the Dead or Glen of the bodies
Glenaan – The Glen of the little Ford
Glenballyemon – The Glen of Eamon
Glenarm – The Glen of the Army
Glencloy – The Glen of the Dykes
Glenariff – The Glen of the Plough
CLICK on this Green Button, which leads you to interesting link about the geology of the valley of Glenshesk. The summary report states: “The valley and surrounding area is of internationally renowned scenic value, with a diverse natural and cultural heritage.”