Dorset is a coastal county in southwest England, renowned for its spectacular Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site stretching for 95 miles (150 km). Famous for its imposing rock formations such as Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove, Dorset is the ideal destination for nature lovers, hikers, and geological history enthusiasts. Its elegant coastal towns, such as Poole and Weymouth, also offer a wide selection of luxury accommodations and historic hotels.

What to See and Do according to our local experts: Nature, Fossils, and Seas

• Jurassic Coast – A walk along this coast is a journey through time. The geological formations, such as the limestone arch of Durdle Door, are unmissable. We recommend visiting at sunrise or sunset for the best photographs.
• Lulworth Cove – A horseshoe-shaped bay, perfect for swimming and hiking.
• Corfe Castle – The dramatic ruins of a thousand-year-old castle dominating a picturesque village of the same name.
• Isle of Portland – A limestone island connected to the mainland by a strip of land, known for its lighthouse and stone quarry.

Gastronomy and Typical Products: Flavours of the Southwest

• Dorset Apple Cake – A traditional county cake, made with apples and spices.
• Blue Vinny Cheese – A local blue cheese with a century-old history, excellent paired with a craft cider.
• Fudge and Cream Tea – In coastal towns, there are plenty of shops offering artisan fudge and the inevitable Cream Tea ritual.

Excursions and Seaside Resorts: The Coastal Experience

• Walks and Hiking – The South West Coast Path offers unparalleled views along the cliffs. The experience of finding a fossil at Lyme Regis is a must for enthusiasts.
• Bournemouth and Weymouth – Towns with wide and popular sandy beaches (seaside resorts), ideal for an English seaside holiday.

Institutional Links

• Official Dorset Tourism Website
• Official Jurassic Coast UNESCO Website

Top 5 Recommended Accommodation by our travel designers

• The Priory Hotel (Wareham) – Luxury property on the banks of the River Frome, with an award-winning restaurant.
• The Limestone Hotel (West Lulworth) – Charming boutique hotel strategically located near Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door.
• Summer Lodge Country House Hotel, Restaurant & Spa (Evershot) – Luxurious country house for a totally relaxing stay.
• The Eastbury Hotel & Spa (Sherborne) – Elegant Georgian hotel with a spa.
• Plumber Manor (Sturminster Newton) – Historic family-run hotel with a unique atmosphere.

Top 3 Recommended Restaurants

• Brassica Restaurant (Beaminster) – Modern cuisine with French influences and local ingredients.
• The Crab House Café (Weymouth) – Famous for its very fresh seafood, straight from their tanks.
• Neptune Restaurant (Priory Hotel, Wareham) – Refined cuisine in an idyllic setting.