Birch Eco Cottage

As I mentioned in an earlier post, we had the chance to escape to the country a few weeks ago. And thankfully it was on a weekend when the sun shone pretty much the whole time ! I thought I would share some pictures of the beautiful place we stayed in – Birch Eco Cottage. It’s an off grid self catering cottage located on an organic smallholding  near the Mourne Mountains in County Down. The town of Castlewellan is about 6 miles away.

On arrival

After an hour’s drive from Belfast, we arrived at the cottage late on a Friday afternoon. We were greeted by a stunning view across the fields to the Mourne Mountains in the distance.

After quickly unpacking, we stepped outside to explore our immediate surroundings. We were located in beautiful countryside, filled with peace and quiet. The only sounds were of birdsong from the hedgerows and from the horses softly whinnying in the field next to the cottage.

Exploring the next day

 Next morning, I woke early, around 6:30 am or so,  eager to take a few pictures as the sun came up. I made myself some coffee. And then I opened the cottage door to say good morning to the horses and take in the beautiful views again. It was a cool, crisp morning. The grass was covered in a light frosting, a haze resting over the Mournes. It was heavenly.

After breakfast we set out to explore the local birch woodland. It’s just a short walk away. And its the source of wood fuel for heating both Birch Eco Cottage. It also fuels the owner’s home which is next door. Their woodland is part of an ethos of living sustainably and lightly on the land. The site generates all its own electricity and has a vegetable garden. It’s also home to some lively chickens, as well as a dog and two cats.

The vegetable garden

Later that day we took a drive into Newcastle for lunch. With the sun shining, the town was packed with daytrippers and after a while,  I was eager to return to the cottage to enjoy the peace and quiet and take a closer look at the vegetable garden.

The cat

I sat outside on the grass to enjoy a glass of wine and read my book. I was quickly joined by one of the cats, who was quite happy to get a tummy rub and pose for some photographs.

Willow Class

While the cat and I were enjoying the sun’s rays on a gorgeous Saturday afternoon, a willow class was taking place next door. All the participants were outside learning how to make willow obelisks. It looked like good fun and a chance to learn a new skill.

The cottage

The cottage is finished using natural, locally sourced materials and is kept warm by the power of the sun. In the cooler months, the heating needs a little boost from the wood burning stove and as the sun went down, we retired indoors where hubby lit the fire. The cottage is comfortable and cosy. And we whiled away the evening listening to the radio (there is no TV) and enjoying a few glasses of wine.

In summary

All in all, it was a truly wonderful and inspiring experience, filled with fresh air, sunshine and beautiful scenery. It offered a real chance to unwind, relax and recharge after the long winter months. I could not recommend this place highly enough !

For more information, you can visit the lovely Birch Cottage website which gives you more details about the cottage and things to do in the local area.

Take care,

Paula

Useful Links

Other posts from Typewriter Girl to enjoy:-

‘The Cook’s Quarters’ Coleraine: a charming cottage stay

Geaglum Cottage

A weekend escape at Killeavy Castle

A short break in Carlingford

A morning at Ballylagan Organic Farm

Newforge House