Short breaks in Dorset start well before you reach your destination. With no motorways in the entire county, your journey will take you through some incredibly pretty countryside, helping you to relax and unwind even before you’ve stepped out of the car.
You don’t have to be here long to know that short breaks in Dorset are the ideal way to relax, whether you’re after a romantic weekend, a few days of family fun, or simply a breather from the rat race. With over half of the county designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this is ecotherapy at its best – but there’s also plenty to do if you want to get out and about.
Don’t miss the stunning Jurassic coast where you can while away a day rock pooling, fossil hunting, walking along the cliff tops or simply paddling in the sea. Many of the beaches are dog friendly, so your favourite pet is welcome too. Fans of TV’s Broadchurch will particularly enjoy sunbathing under the dramatic cliffs at West Bay that were so central to the popular drama. Or for more holiday photo opportunities, head to pretty Lulworth Cove, the rocky bridge of Durdle Door or the chalky stacks and stumps of Old Harry Rocks.
If you fancy something a bit more active on your short breaks in Dorset, port towns like Poole, Portland and Weymouth are great places to try out an afternoon of sailing, windsurfing, kayaking or even diving. Inland, horse riding, cycling and of course walking are popular ways to spend the day.
A number of Cartwheel Holiday’s members offer weekend accommodation and other short breaks in Dorset. Bed and breakfasts – with their delicious home cooked food – are available all year round, while self-catering sites are the ideal choice out of season, from around late October or November until March. There are several options for big groups too, from large manor houses where everyone can holiday together under one roof, to groups of cottages where you can enjoy your own space.