Stay near some of Britain’s lesser-known attractions that will make for an extra-special getaway
1 Achemelvich Beach, Sutherland
STAY AT Shore Caravan Site, 106 Achmelvich, Lochinver, Sutherland IV27 4JB
☎ 01571 844393 shorecaravansite.co.uk 29 March – 30 September
Stunning is an overused word, but there’s simply no other way to describe this gorgeous, white sandy bay in the Highlands. On a warm, sunny day, you really could imagine that you’ve somehow ended up in the Caribbean, rather than a remote corner of Scotland’s northwest coast.
This is truly one of Scotland’s best kept secrets. Achmelvich itself is little more than a smattering of homes, three miles along narrow, winding roads from the nearest town, Lochinver. But it is an idyllic spot and certainly worth the lengthy drive to get here.
Just a stone’s throw from the beach, Shore Caravan Site is an informal affair with unallocated grass pitches and 20 electric hook-ups. There are toilets, showers, a shop and fish and chip takeaway on site. Note that the site does not accept dogs.
2 Blue Pool Bay, Swansea
STAY AT Kennexstone Camping & Touring Park, Kennexstone Farm, Llangennith, Swansea SA3 1HS ☎ 01792 386790 gowercamping.co.uk 29 March – 29 September
The Blue Pool is on the northwest tip of Gower Peninsula in Wales. At 15 feet wide and eight feet deep, it is a large, circular rock pool surrounded by cliffs that is considered one of the best wild swimming spots in the UK.
Because it is so remote and access is so difficult, this is a true hidden gem, but it is well worth seeking out on a visit to the Gower, especially if you want to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
Along the coast from the pool is a series of sea arches called the Three Chimneys, as well as some small caves.
Parking to walk and access the Blue Pool is available at Broughton Caravan Park, but the closest touring park is at Kennexstone Farm, two and a half miles away. There are grass and hardstanding pitches with electric, plus a shop, café and takeaway.
3 Tyneham Ghost Village,Dorset
STAY AT Ulwell Holiday Park, Ulwell, Swanage, Dorset BH19 3DG
☎ 01929 422823 ullwellholidaypark.co.uk 1 March – 7 January
Time has stood still in the south Dorset village of Tyneham since it was permanently
