Beaches and Nature

A 10-minute drive from The Cherryhill Lodge, on the County Down coast lies the Murlough National Nature Reserve. The fragile 6000-year-old sand dune system with heathland and woodland surrounded by estuary and sea

Murlough National Nature is owned by the National Trust and is managed as Ireland’s first Nature Reserve since 1967 and is a shining example of dune heath within Ireland. Murlough is home to one of 22 butterfly species, the Marsh Fritillary, which is of European importance. The reserve is internationally important for wintering wildfowl and waders, as well as a haul-out site for Common and Grey seals.

Murlough is an excellent area for beach goers, walkers, and bird watchers alike due to its spectacular location at the edge of Dundrum Bay with panoramic views of the Mountains of Mourne which sweep down to the sea, and access to one of County Downs finest beach’s. With self-guided nature walks and additional guided walks why not take some time out and explore this area of natural beauty.