Binevenagh AONB

Date of designation: 2006 Area: 14100 ha.

It covers the area between the Roe Estuary and Magilligan, the cliffs of Binevenagh, the Bann Estuary and Portstewart sand dunes.

The Sperrins end in the north with a zone of cliffs overlooking the north Atlantic, serving as a final reminder of the area's turbulent volcanic past. The severe skyline of the cliffs at Binevenagh make a breathtaking contrast with the outstanding expanse of Magilligan Strand. This is one of the finest beaches in the Province and stretches for 8 km, from Downhill to the narrows of Lough Foyle. The steep, round-topped grassland hills and the sandy shoreline are the dominant features, separated from the rocky shore of Donegal by just one kilometre of sea.

Further information on the AONB can be obtained from the Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust on www.ccght.org