Glen of the Downs, Protected natural valley in County Wicklow, Ireland
Glen of the Downs is a wooded glacial valley with steep slopes in County Wicklow. The site extends across several kilometers and serves as a nature reserve with walking trails that pass through native broadleaf forests.
The valley was documented during the Victorian era when it gained importance as a protected site. The La Touche family, who arrived as Huguenot refugees, settled at Bellevue House and influenced the area's development.
The Three Trouts River flows through this valley connecting mountains to the coast at Greystones. For local people, the place offers a natural corridor where woodland and water create a living landscape they visit to spend time outdoors.
The site is accessible via the N11 national road and has parking areas for visitors. Walking trails guide you through the nature reserve and allow exploration of different parts of the valley.
The valley holds one of Ireland's most important ancient woodlands with native broadleaf trees such as oak, cherry, rowan, and ash. These old forests are uncommon and make this place significant for nature conservation.
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