For a picturesque and family-friendly retreat with stunning coastal vistas, a touch of history, and abundant charm, consider visiting the unique ‘tied island’ of Portland in Dorset. Our family, including our 11-month-old cockapoo, had a delightful time exploring this captivating destination.
The rugged coastline of Dorset exudes a wild and captivating beauty, showcasing dramatic cliffs cascading down to secluded coves and intriguing footpaths waiting to be discovered. While we typically opt for getaways in Cornwall, the change of scenery in Portland was a refreshing experience for our children.
Our accommodation at Clifftops within the Pennsylvania Castle Estate offered a blend of contemporary luxury and a deep connection to the ancient surroundings. Perched on the cliff edge, Clifftops comprises stylish lodges with unparalleled sea views. Our stay in the exquisite two-bedroom apartment, Clifftops Blue, exceeded our expectations with its immaculate and chic design, featuring an open-plan layout, a well-equipped kitchen, and a state-of-the-art outdoor kitchen and barbecue area for al fresco dining. Every aspect of the apartment exuded sophistication and comfort.
The floor-to-ceiling windows allowed us to enjoy the mesmerizing sea views from every corner of the apartment, whether we were relaxing on the sofa or savoring a drink on the terrace, which our dog quickly made his favorite sunbathing spot.
The accommodation was pet-friendly, providing our pooch with a welcome pack containing treats and toiletries, while we were greeted with a tray of local Portland gin, tonics, and snacks.
Portland offers a mix of natural wonders and historical sites to explore. We began our adventures at the iconic Portland Bill Lighthouse, ascending the steep spiral staircase to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the top. The attentive staff at Clifftops kindly took care of our dog during our climb.
We also visited the enchanting ruins of Rufus Castle, overlooking Church Ope Cove, a picturesque pebble beach where we collected seashells and passed by the renowned ‘pirate grave’.
For a unique experience, we ventured to Tout Quarry Sculpture Park, where the kids enthusiastically searched for hidden stone carvings along the winding paths. Additionally, exploring Portland Castle, a 16th-century coastal fortress, provided us with a vivid glimpse into the region’s maritime heritage.
A short drive to Weymouth offers classic seaside entertainment. We enjoyed a day of traditional beach activities and a visit to the Sea Life Adventure Park, which pleasantly surprised us with its water play area. The aquarium boasts interactive exhibits, making it a fantastic family outing to complement beach days.
No coastal trip is complete without indulging in fish and chips, so we savored a takeaway from King Edwards, relishing our meal on a bench overlooking the sea.
Starting at £546 for three nights, Clifftops’ luxury lodges provide an exceptional retreat. Keep an eye out for midweek promotions offering an additional night for free.
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