The wonderful English County of Dorset is home to some of the prettiest villages in the world. Beautiful old thatched cottages line the pebbled streets and country lanes, with beautiful gardens brimming with roses and separated by little white picket fences. It doesn’t get any more quintessentially English than this!
There is something about this part of the world that instantly makes you take a step back and put your busy stressful lives into perspective. Here, nobody is rushing. Mornings are spent walking along the Jurassic Coastline or rambling through green countryside. Long lazy lunches are spent in old Smugglers inns, either al fresco, or by a huge roaring fire, and afternoons are spent fossil hunting or relaxing on golden sandy beaches. Suppers can be spent dining in some of the country’s finest restaurants since many a top chef has chosen this particular part of the world for their restaurant openings.
The best way to really soak up peaceful country life is by renting a cosy country cottage. Choose a quiet spot deep in the countryside, or perhaps a clifftop or harbour side location. Think charming characterful cottage with beautiful views, huge inglenook fire and big snoozy leather armchairs!
Amble through one of the many food markets, which Dorset has become famous for and then take your fine ingredients back to your cottage to cook up a storm, or why not take a fishing boat trip and catch your own fish ready to take back and throw on the BBQ.
There is definitely something for everyone in Dorset. It is just as perfect for those wishing to completely relax and rejuvenate, wanting nothing more than long dog walks and cream teas, as it is for those wanting some crazy adrenaline fuelled fun in the form of coasteering, kayaking or climbing.
The cool market towns of Bridport and Dorchester offer more in the way of culture with art galleries, boutique shops and Michelin starred restaurants but if you really want to get away from it all, simply staying in a charming country village, with a traditional thatched pub on your doorstep and always just a stone’s throw from some of the most beautiful secluded beaches you will ever see, is just perfect. Take some walking shoes and a good book and stock up on wine and cheese from a local farmers market. These are the trappings of a perfect countryside retreat. Nip to the harbour for some fresh cockles, roll up your trousers and walk through the gently shelving waters. Keep your eyes peeled for old dinosaur fossils as you go!
