South West beach is like a fairytale and people travel thousands of miles just to see it

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-Credit: (Image: Getty Images)


For those seeking a beach that seems to have leapt from the pages of a fairy tale, Durdle Door in Dorset is an absolute must-visit as summer draws to a close.

Renowned as one of the UK's most snapped beaches, Durdle Door's allure is undeniable. This exquisite cove, nestled along the Jurassic Coast, holds such significant geological value that it became England's inaugural UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001, placing it in the esteemed company of natural wonders like the Grand Canyon and the Great Barrier Reef.

In 2022, Durdle Door was also celebrated as one of the top 100 beaches worldwide by Beach Atlas, ranking alongside exotic destinations such as Bora Bora, Copacabana, and Turtle Beach.

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The beach's standout feature is its awe-inspiring limestone arch that emerges from the shore and stretches into the sea. This natural marvel, sculpted by the ocean's waves over millions of years, bestows an almost supernatural ambiance upon the beach, reports the Mirror.

The name 'Durdle' originates from the ancient English word 'thirl', meaning to pierce or drill. With a 4.5-star rating on TripAdvisor, Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove attract globetrotters eager to witness this iconic sight.

A visitor from the U. S. exclaimed: "We traveled from the U.S. and thought the scenery was breathtaking." Meanwhile, a tourist from Mumbai, India, shared: "The views were amazing, took many photos and videos. All family members enjoyed."

Durdle Door, renowned for its beauty and popularity, can get quite crowded, particularly during the peak season. However, it tends to be less busy during off-peak times.

Regardless of when you visit, access to the beach is only possible on foot via a path and steps. The journey takes about 15 minutes and suitable footwear such as trainers or walking boots is recommended due to the steep and challenging nature of the path.

Upon reaching the base of the cliffs, you'll notice several sea-carved caves. However, these are unstable and prone to cliff falls, so entering them is strongly discouraged.