The Sanctuary holds a central position within the popular seaside resort of Bournemouth, set just a 300m walk from the sandy beach and less than a 5-minute stroll from the town centre which is home to a wide variety of well-known shops and excellent restaurants. For those travelling by train, Bournemouth Station is conveniently located less than a 10-minute drive away and there are always plenty of taxis available.
There are a huge number of family-friendly attractions in Bournemouth, on the seafront, younger visitors will enjoy a visit to the Oceanarium while any teenagers or adrenaline junkies will love RockReef Activity Centre with its thrilling zip line over the pier to shore! The whole family will enjoy a competitive round of crazy golf at Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf. Further afield, Paulton’s Park Peppa Pig World is a must-visit for those with smaller children and is less than a 40-minute drive away.
For those unlucky with the weather, the BH2 Leisure Park is less than a 10-minute walk away, featuring the fantastic Mr Mulligan’s indoor crazy golf and an Odeon cinema, there is still plenty to keep the whole family entertained. The centre is also home to several popular, big-name restaurants including Nandos, Five Guys, TGI Fridays, Miller & Carter, ASK Italian and The Real Greek, ideal for any fussy eaters.
For those wanting to explore the great outdoors, the iconic Jurassic Coastline, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is easily reachable from Bournemouth. Iconic sights such as Old Harry Rocks, Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove are all less than a 50-minute drive away. Closer to home, the National Trust-owned Brownsea Island makes a lovely spot for sunny strolls while enjoying the impressive views over the Purbeck Hills. Ferries to Brownsea Island run daily between March and October from Poole Quay.
The Region
Pack your bags and fasten your seatbelts, as Oliver's Travels is thrilled to present a dazzling array of luxury holiday properties in the enchanting land of Dorset! A captivating county where time seems to stand still, Mother Nature has outdone herself. Dorset, with the rolling hills of the Dorset Downs and the jaw-dropping Jurassic Coast, is a real-life tapestry of postcard-perfect landscapes, historic landmarks and villages oozing charm in lavish abundance.
The Jurassic Coast is not just a coastline, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Dorset's showstopping features. Stretching an impressive 95 miles from Orcombe Point in East Devon to Old Harry Rocks near Swanage, this coastline presents endless coastal wonders. Dramatic cliffs, hidden coves and beaches boasting ancient fossils, Charmouth and Lyme Regis are the treasure chests for fossil hunters and curious minds alike.
Dorset is also a playground for history buffs, with landmarks like Corfe Castle standing tall and proud. Perched on a hill, this fortress offers far-reaching, breathtaking views. The Cerne Abbas Giant is a colossal chalk figure etched into a hillside near the village of Cerne Abbas, Dorset's own friendly giant, captivating visitors for centuries.
Dorchester, the county town, is a delightful mishmash of Georgian architecture and markets that buzz with life. Thomas Hardy's Cottage, near Dorchester, gives you a peek into the life of the literary legend himself. Bridport, with its bohemian vibes and eclectic street markets, is like the cool kid in the market town crew. Meanwhile, Weymouth's golden sandy beach and bustling harbour are perfect for leisurely strolls and exploring historic Nothe Fort. For a touch of seaside nostalgia, Swanage brings the Victorian pier and a heritage steam railway into the mix.
The Isle of Purbeck is a haven of beauty, featuring Lulworth Cove's sheltered bay and crystal-clear waters. Just around the corner, Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch, sets the stage for coastal walks and views so stunning, they might bring a tear to your eye. For the adventurers among us, the Dorset Downs, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, are calling. Hiking trails such as the South West Coast Path and the Wessex Ridgeway offer a rollercoaster ride through diverse scenery, from cliffs to heathlands.
Dorset's culinary scene is a delightful fusion of tradition and modernity. You will savour local produce at farmers' markets, indulge in fresh seafood along the coast and let the county's pubs and tearooms be your warm and welcoming retreat for traditional cream teas or a sip of local ales.
Dorset is an experience that seamlessly blends history, natural beauty and that quintessential British charm. It promises an adventure that captures the very essence of England's southwest.
