The National Geographic list that highlights unmissable global beaches includes as varied references as Seychelles or Australia. However, among the recommendations is also a beach in southern the United Kingdom that reminiscent of Portugal for the English. The selection was made based on natural and landscape characteristics and the highlight did not fail to surprise some of the readers of the publication.
Durdle Door, located in the Dorset region, is the only British representative in the compilation of the American magazine. According to National Geographic, it is a beach “it is worth traveling”, not only for its coastal extension but also for the rock formation that gives it its name.
An arc with millions of years
The main visual element of the landscape is a natural limestone arc, carved by marine erosion over millions of years. The internationally known formation is part of the so -called Jurassic Costa, a coastal section with high geological value.
According to the same source, this natural phenomenon became one of the most photographed points on the southern coast of England. Every year, about half a million people visit the beach, attracted to the grandeur of the bow and the clear tones of the water.
Comparisons with other continents
In the last summers, the beach has been recurrently compared to destinations outside the UK. Writes The Sun newspaper that some users of the TripAdvisor site refer similarities to the Portuguese coast, namely with the Algarve, and with certain Zones of California.
One of the visitors said: “Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door reminded me of the Algarve in Portugal.” Another commented: “It doesn’t look like we’re in the United Kingdom. It looks more like Portugal or California,” says the British publication. Comparisons arise not only by the appearance of rock formations, but also for the clarity of water during the hottest months of the year.
Scenario of series and movies
The site photogeny did not go unnoticed to the entertainment industry. The Sun states that various television and cinematic productions have used Durdle Door as a scenario.
Among the examples are episodes of Doctor Whothe series The Sandman (whose second season was partially filmed in the area) and adaptations of Far From the Madding Crowd. Also the saga Pirates of the Caribbean He turned to the beach as a backdrop for some scenes.
‘Quiet’ paths next to the cliff
Despite the growing popularity, some coastal routes remain relatively isolated. Journalist Sophie Swietochowski, who visited the region, reported the experience in The Sun. According to the reporter, the walk with the top of the cliff may be surprisingly peaceful.
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“I barely passed another soul during a Sunday walk along the rugged coastal path above Durdle Door,” he wrote, adding that the only meeting was with a flock of cows at the top of the slope.
Nearest village
West Lulworth’s town is the closest settlement to the beach. Explains the British newspaper that the village is known for the houses of straw and flower boxes, maintaining traditional traits of English rural architecture.
The short distance between the village and the beach facilitates access, being possible to explore both in the same visit. During the summer months, visitors travel between the two points, taking advantage of the views along the way.
Lulworth Cove and the Turquoise Waters
Another attraction in the area is Lulworth Cove, a horseshoe -shaped cove just minutes from Durdle Door. As described by the journalist, the waters in this bay are of a turquoise shade, comparable to those of the Caribbean.
The zone is composed of pebbles and forms a visual contrast with the white limestone of neighboring cliffs. The publication adds that because it is more affordable, Lulworth Cove tends to have a higher concentration of visitors during periods of higher influx.
A beach between tourism and conservation
Durdle Door’s growing notoriety also raises questions about environmental preservation. Despite being a much visited beach, local authorities have sought to implement measures to limit the impact of excessive tourism.
Inclusion in the National Geographic list could further increase the flow of visitors. However, according to the same source, the landscape appeal of the Jurassic coast continues to be compatible with moments of tranquility, especially outside the high season.
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