Holiday Homes in Dorset
Find Your Extraordinary
Dorset Holiday Home
Home to some of the best coastal gems in South West England, Dorset, UK is perfect for outdoor lovers. Rugged coastlines, sweeping sandy beaches and picturesque towns and villages make Dorset a must-see holiday destination that, on a scorching summer’s day, feels like it could belong somewhere far more further afield.
Popular with families, couples, and groups, our Dorset holiday cottages have it all. Whether you’re seeking to do some walking and hiking in the region or looking for a romantic escape, the region is bursting with exciting possibilities. Step outside of your beachfront cottage and be immediately greeted by an unforgettable view. You’ll find your perfect escape in Dorset.
Why stay with us?
Discover the Oliver’s Travels way, where style and character define every handpicked rental in Dorset. Our destination experts curate unique homes in beautiful locations that are perfect for families and guaranteed to ‘wow’.
Once you book a holiday, the service doesn’t stop there. Our Concierge Service means you’ll be in good hands to arrange in-house chefs, fridge stocking, housekeeping, and so much more, to make your stay truly extraordinary.
Why visit Dorset?
- The Jurassic Coast makes for some incredible opportunities for exploration and an impressive amount of adventure activities.
- Perfect for families, Dorset is the ultimate child-friendly getaway. Choose from swimming, hiking, kayaking, cycling, and allow your little ones to experiences the great outdoors.
- The region is rich in culture, popular with fossil hunters and eager historians, with loads of museums to pick from too.
Dorset is one of the hottest holiday destinations in the UK, and for good reason. The Jurassic Coast is home to some of the most interesting rock formations and spectacular beaches in the country, making activities such as surfing, paddleboarding, and coasteering fantastic choices for an outdoor adventure in the region. Family holidays in Dorset are popular too – grab the little ones and explore the various coastal walks and epic clifftop hikes. Foodies will also love the range of fresh seafood the county boasts. Relax on the beach, enjoying glorious sea views and waves of sunshine, from your Dorset holiday cottage.
Bring Your Pet
Wildflower Country HouseFood and drink in Dorset
There’s more to Dorset than fish and chips – though of course we recommend this classic! The region is home to some of the freshest seafood in the country, and there’s even an annual Dorset Seafood Festival. Lesser known delicacies include the Dorset Apple Cake (as delicious as it sounds), a pungent cheese called the Dorset Blue Vinney, and for meat lovers, there’s the Dorset Horn or Jugged Steak.
Best beaches in Dorset
If you’re looking for unforgettable beaches, Dorset certainly does not disappoint. The Jurassic Coast boasts a plethora of stunning beaches that are great for exploring, either by land or sea.
Grab your swimsuit and take a dip in the idyllic blue waters – the various coves in the area are perfect for a relaxing swim or gentle paddle. Those seeking a more adrenaline fuelled experience can take advantage of the coasteering options in the area, or even rent kayaks or jet skis to witness the epic coast from the water.
Our Dorset beach cottages mean you won’t have to travel far to enjoy the coastal delights, with many of the homes being just a stone’s throw away from the sand. When the sea is glistening under the glorious sun, you’d be forgiven for thinking that you are, in fact, somewhere far more exotic. Who needs to hop on a plane when beaches like this are right on your doorstep?
Silverlake Resort, Dorset
The award-winning Silverlake Resort is the perfect setting for a family-friendly escape in the heart of Dorset. Surrounded by stunning lakes and breathtaking natural beauty, it offers a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation. Spend your days paddleboarding on the water, cycling scenic trails, relaxing in the spa or simply unwinding in a stylish lakefront home.
Located near the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll be close to iconic spots like Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove and RSPB Arne.
Top Tips
Highland Cows in Dorset
Avoid disappointment and make your bar/restaurant reservations in advance. Dorset is a UK holiday hot-spot, especially during the peak summer months.
Visit a local market to experience a slice of coastal living and pick up some homegrown treats. We recommend Bridport, a charming town with a welcoming atmosphere.
Don’t leave without trying Black Cow Vodka – the world’s only pure milk vodka! A unique beverage that is made entirely from the milk of grass grazed cows.
Things to do in Dorset
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape or seeking slightly more adventurous activities, Dorset is home to a host of unique experience.
The ITV crime drama Broadchurch is actually filmed in Dorset, specifically West Bay in Bridport. The dramatic cliffs will be instantly recognisable to any fans of the show.
Explore the seas or stay closer to land – the location of Dorset allows for a varied and exciting holiday. History buffs and culture lovers will enjoy the rich stories this area of England offers, with castles and historic walks dotted across the land.
What Oliver loves
It’s so easy to explore the region by bike or foot. Dorset is home to some of the best coastal and countryside walking paths – this really is the ultimate way to experience the county. Stumble across hidden gems and secluded spots as your discover more about the Jurassic Coast along the famed South West Coastal Path. Many of our Dorset holiday cottages are near these popular walking and hiking trails.
Old Harry Rocks
South West Coast Path
The South West Coast Path is the UK’s longest National Trail, spanning a huge 630 miles.
The path starts (or finishes) in Studland, Dorset, making the region a popular place for avid walkers.
There are various walks that encompass the Dorset section of the South West Coast Path. One popuar route takes hikers from Durdle Door to White Nothe (around seven miles), guiding you through Lulworth Cove and offering fantastic views of the famous ‘door’.
For those just wanting a taste of the trail, try walking around Hive Beach (1.9 miles). Take in Burton Cliff, a dramatic tower of Bridport Sands.
Dorset Travel: Getting there and around
Whether you’re driving down from London, or looking to explore the area via bike, Dorset is actually surprisingly easy to reach and navigate. The chocolate-box villages are connected by winding country roads, and the famed South West Coastal Path means you can tick off some bucket list items in just a single day. Much nicer than tackling airport crowds, that’s for sure!
By car
Dorset is most easily reachable by car, with straightforward routes from London and Manchester. Though long, the drive is simple to navigate, and once you arrive in your holiday you’ll be rewarded with fantastic scenery.
By train
You can reach Dorset from London by train in just a few hours, with popular stations including Weymouth, Bournemouth, Wareham, Wool, and Poole. It’s also easy to travel to these destinations from Bristol and Bath, and Plymouth and Exeter too.
By boat
Take a boat trip to explore Dorset and its spectacular coast. See impressive rock formations, secluded coves, and enjoy the gentle waves while you sail along the idyllic blue sea.
By bicycle
Rent a bike and explore Dorset on two wheels. The region is full of cycling routes that will take you all around the county and many of its most famous natural attractions, offering impressive views. Many of our Dorset cottages are located within walking distance of popular cycle paths, too.
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