Self-guided holidays : Single centre self-guided walking holidays
Dorset’s World Heritage Coast
Self-guided Walking Holidays
The landscape of Dorset really does have something to please walkers of all tastes; a spectacular ‘Jurassic’ coastline (recently favoured with World Heritage status) with some splendid sea-sculpted offshore rock formations; long downland ridges with magnificent views over both sea and countryside; delightful little combes sheltering idyllic thatched villages and isolated farmsteads set in the fold of the hills.
One of the great joys of walking in Dorset is the fantastic contrast between the coast and its rural hinterland, and our programme of walks is designed to exploit this contrast to the full. As well as enjoying some superb walking along the switch-back coast around Kimmeridge and the ‘Isle of Purbeck’ peninsula you will walk across the exhilarating downland which rises just inland from the cliffs. The itinerary will vary depending upon the grade and duration of the tour, but should include visits to the charming Victorian seaside resort with its historic town centre and attractive harbour; the stone-built village of Corfe Castle with its picturesque cottages and iconic castle, the airy ridges of Nine Barrow Down, Ballard Down and Knowle Hill, which provide a hunting ground for numerous birds of prey and support a stunning variety of wild flowers and butterflies; the Studland National Nature Reserve with its unspoilt Dorset heath; and Old Harry Rocks. If you want to find out what flora and fauna you are likely to see at different times of year visit the excellent website maintained by Durlston Country Park (outskirts of Swanage) where the staff publish a daily wildlife diary throughout the year.
Bed & Breakfast option
For your holiday on the Dorset Coast you can choose a comfortable family-run guest house in either the charming Victorian seaside resort of Swanage, or the picturesque village of Corfe Castle. Your room will have ensuite facilities (private bathroom) and you will have a choice of continental or full English breakfast. Swanage has a wide range of inns and restaurants serving meals in the evening, whilst Corfe Castle has several inns, hotel restaurants and tearooms.
Dinner, Bed & Breakfast option
Your holiday on the Dorset Coast will be based at Mortons House Hotel [ETC/AA***] in Corfe Castle, a beautiful 16th century Elizabethan manor house which is situated just off the central square. Built in 1590 in the shape of an 'E' to honour Queen Elizabeth I, the house has been sympathetically converted and furnished to provide individual character rooms, all extremely well-appointed with ensuite facilities. Mortons House Hotel was named as the winner of 'Small Hotel of the Year' category in the 2005/2006 South West of England Excellence in Tourism Awards whilst the dining room, which specialises in using quality local produce, holds two sought-after AA rosettes for the quality of the cuisine and service.
Holiday options
Bed & Breakfast holiday options
| Code: DORSBE5 |
| Grade: Easy |
| Nights: 5 |
| Price: £420 |
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| Code: DORSBE7 |
| Grade: Easy |
| Nights: 7 |
| Price: £525 |
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online
| Code:DORSBM5 |
| Grade: Moderate |
| Nights: 5 |
| Price: £420 |
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book
online
| Code:DORSBM7 |
| Grade: Moderate |
| Nights: 7 |
| Price: £525 |
email us to check availability
book
online
- All of the above prices are per person, and based upon two guests sharing a double or twin-bedded room.
- Single traveller supplement; £40 per night (More about single supplement).
- Discounts available for parties of three or more guests.
Dinner, Bed & Breakfast holiday options
| Code: DORSHE5 |
| Grade: Easy |
| Nights: 5 |
| Price: £675 |
email us to check availability
book
online
| Code: DORSHE7 |
| Grade: Easy |
| Nights: 7 |
| Price: £880 |
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book
online
| Code: DORSHM5 |
| Grade: Moderate |
| Nights: 5 |
| Price: £675 |
email us to check availability
book
online
| Code: DORSHM7 |
| Grade: Moderate |
| Nights: 7 |
| Price: £880 |
email us to check availability
book
online
- All of the above prices are per person, and based upon two guests sharing a double or twin-bedded room.
- Single traveller supplement; £50 per night (More about single supplement).
- Discounts available for parties of three or more guests.
Currency Converter
All of our prices are in British pounds. To estimate the cost in another currency use our currency converter.
Travel information
Rail: Wareham
Onward travel: Public bus.