Surrounded by tropical islands, Australian bays and the Blue Lagoon, four British beaches have been listed as part of the world’s 100 best beaches. Lonely Planet has published its annual list of the world’s top coastal destinations, and he includes two destinations within a four-hour drive from Birmingham.
As reported by the Mirror, this year’s guide features the most beautiful bays, picturesque pebble sites and stunning sandy beaches from around the world. Beach lovers will not be surprised to learn that the exotic coasts of Hawaii, the Caribbean and the Seychelles made the list, but he also has two beaches in the UK, one in Wales and one in Scotland. One beach is listed.
Lonely Planet travel writers scoured the world for hidden paradises, sunny hotspots and underrated coastlines for our 2024 book. Shoppers can pre-order from Amazon for a discounted price of £23.59. See below for his four best beaches in the UK, according to experts.
read more: A tranquil beach drive from Birmingham, a ‘little gem’ with a cozy pub
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Rhossili Bay, Wales
Rossili Bay is located at the western end of the popular holiday area of the Gower Peninsula, a 3.5-hour drive from Birmingham via the M4. This impressive bay offers dramatic panoramic views of the Welsh coast, great surfing conditions and a great place for walks along cliff-top paths.
Three miles of sandy beach surrounding Worm’s Head, one of Gower’s most famous landmarks. The fine, golden sand is perfect for playing in the sand, and the swells of the Atlantic Ocean create ideal conditions for water sports. Visitors have also spotted harbour seals and dolphins in the waters of Rhossili.
Lonely Planet said of the bay: “Part of the Gower area, a 73 square mile (188 square kilometer) area of outstanding natural beauty, this wonderfully secluded pocket of Wales is home to a special collection of sand dunes and Rhossili. It retains a soul-stirring energy.” Heather-scented slopes of down. ”
Durdle Door (Dorset)
A jewel on the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast in southern Dorset, Durdle Door is perhaps the least surprising of the UK beaches to feature in a Lonely Planet guide, thanks to its popularity. Britain’s iconic beach is located approximately 40 miles outside Bournemouth and is world-famous for its stone arches.
This limestone arch is said to have been formed 10,000 years ago, and its pebble-covered shoreline attracts photographers year-round. The beach is accessed via a steep descent of 140 steps, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
It can get very crowded during peak summer months, so visit between September and May to avoid the crowds.
westbeach, scotland
Judges described West Beach at Burnelray as a “remote gem” in the Outer Hebrides. Although it’s the only spot in Scotland to make the 100 best list, visitors often compare its pristine landscapes and turquoise waters to beautiful locations overseas.
This three-mile stretch is a paradise for beachgoers, birdwatchers, and hikers alike, and is rich in wildflowers.
Lonely Planet says, “The powdery, silvery sand may feel more Southeast Asian than the North Atlantic, but the cool blue waves, dramatic wind-swept setting, and adjacent beautiful green machea (grazing land)… The Outer Hebrides in their purest splendor.”
Kynance Cove, Cornwall
Kynance Cove’s white sand, turquoise water, and serpentine rocks deserve a spot on the world’s top 100 list. Its stunning scenery is often compared to a tropical island, and the sea off the beach is one of the warmest in Britain.
When the tide goes out, hidden caves and rock pools are revealed. Dogs can also enjoy the famous sandy beach from September to June.
A travel writer for Lonely Planet said of Kynance Cove: “Near the southernmost tip of mainland England, this is one of the country’s most dreamy beaches, with rugged serpentine outcrops, rock formations… A pristine cove with carved arches and grassy green headlands, on a clear, blue-sky day, Kynance rivals any beach in the Caribbean. ”