Merthyr Mawr Sand Dunes facts for kids
The Merthyr Mawr Sand Dunes are a huge area of sand dunes located in Bridgend, south Wales. They are a very special place, protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. This means the area is important for its wildlife and natural features. The small village of Merthyr Mawr is very close by.
One of the most famous dunes here is called The Big Dipper. It's super tall, reaching about 200 feet (61 m) high! This makes it the biggest sand dune in Wales and the second-largest in all of Europe.
About Merthyr Mawr Dunes
The Merthyr Mawr Sand Dunes cover a large area of about 840 acres (340 ha). This is in the County of Bridgend, about five kilometres (3.1 mi) southwest of Bridgend town. The dunes are a mix of sandy hills and wet, marshy areas between them.
In the past, these dunes were connected to another big dune system called Kenfig Burrows. However, over time, a path, some farms, and two golf courses were built. These now separate the two dune areas. Both Merthyr Mawr and Kenfig Burrows are important places. They are protected as national nature reserves. They are also Special Areas of Conservation under rules set by the European Union. This helps to protect their unique plants and animals.
History of the Dunes
Long ago, the Merthyr Mawr dunes were part of an even bigger stretch of sand. This sandy area reached all the way from the River Ogmore estuary to the Gower Peninsula. Over many years, the landscape changed.
Sand dunes are a very important habitat, but they are also quite fragile. In 2018, the local council in Bridgend started a special plan to help protect the dunes. They said that sand dunes are "one of the habitats most at risk in Europe." This project aimed to keep the dunes healthy for the future.
The Big Dipper and Other Features
The largest dune at Merthyr Mawr is known as The Big Dipper. It's the tallest sand dune in Wales. It stands about 200 feet (61 m) high. This makes it the second-largest dune in Europe, only smaller than the famous Dune of Pilat in France.
On the edge of the dunes, you can find the old ruins of Candleston Castle. It's a cool historical spot right next to the natural beauty of the dunes.
