From the untamed ruggedness of Scotland and the idyllic harbour towns of Cornwall to the southern Welsh shores, we’re dreaming of heavenly coastal holidays where we can mingle with nature and lose ourselves in the hypnotic motion of the sea. Discover the best shorelines in the UK as we guide you towards some of the most tranquil spots overflowing with breathtaking beauty…
Walk the North Highland Way
There are few places that possess the intrigue and mystery of Scotland’s northern coastline. Known for its Viking heritage, the Orkney Islands will sweep you into a fascinating land of folklore as you explore its beating Neolithic heart at ancient UNESCO sites. Swathed in mile upon mile of coastline where waves pummel soft sandy beaches overlooked by rugged cliffs, this is a place where you can escape and reconnect with nature.
Prepare to surrender to Scotland’s charms as you Walk the North Highland Way looking for local wildlife such as puffins, red deer, golden eagles and other spectacular species of bird. And don’t forget the local food and drink, of course. Imagine the freshest, hand-dived scallops you’ve ever tasted or tucking into an Orcadian patty supper at a traditional pub where the sound of a crackling fire lulls you into a dreamlike state.
Walking in Cornwall
There’s so much more to Cornwall than its world-famous pasties and melt-in-the-mouth scones with clotted cream and freshly made jam – although they are undeniably delicious and will leave you with the most wonderful taste on your lips.
The Cornish coast has an intrinsic ability to lull you into total relaxation with its deep blue waters, idyllic fishing villages and incredible wildlife. Walking in Cornwall is one of the best ways to explore as it gives you the opportunity to soak up the oceanic views and spot peregrine falcons and lizards along the coastal path. You’ll also be introduced to the history of the Cornish Saints’ Way, a 27 -mile pilgrimage trail, as you walk to the pretty village of Golant and the Fowey Estuary.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan, which can be found close to the fishing village of Mevagissey, are completely mesmerising and will sweep you into a magical world where 80 acres of grounds are filled with tropical plants and enchanting woodland walks. And what better way to complete the day than with lunch at Mevagissey where you can savour the locally caught fish such as seabass, John Dory or mackerel.
Walking the Gower Peninsula
If you dream of legends, golden beaches and inspiring landscapes, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty will leave you reeling with excitement. Walking the Gower Peninsula takes you on a captivating journey along the southwest coastline where you’ll amble across the silky sands of Three Cliffs Bay and among the fascinating nature reserves en route. At Whiteford Burrows Nature Reserve you can look for rare flora and fantastical birds such as oystercatchers, waders and turnstones.
Originating from the Norse word meaning “dragon” or “serpent”, Worm’s Head is steeped in legend and is the most westerly point on the Gower Peninsula that you’ll visit. Owing to the shape of the headland, and as folklore goes, Vikings believed that Worm’s Head was a sleeping dragon. You can’t deny, there’s something utterly beguiling about the Gower Peninsula that takes you out of normality.
If these trips have you dreaming about a coastal getaway in the UK or further abroad this summer, why not browse our full collection of coastal holidays by clicking here.
