England. A country that I love deeply and dream of daily.

In April of 2022, Brian and I embarked on our dream road trip through the south of England. This country has become such a special place for us both. We talk frequently about packing it all up and moving across the pond to a quiet English village. We planned this trip after the years that Covid-19 kept all of us grounded. In those few years that we were not able to travel, I realized how important it is for my mental health. After we returned home from our two-week road trip through the English countryside, I described it as the trip my soul needed. And it all started with the beauty in Dorset.

We arrived in London on a freezing cold morning in April. It felt so amazing to be back in a city we love so much. Nothing had changed and yet everything had changed. We stayed at the Hoxton in Southwark for the location. The proximity to Waterloo Station made it the best jumping off place for our adventure. We took a morning train down to Parkstone where we picked up our rental car. From there we made the half hour drive to our hotel in Swanage.

The Pig on the Beach is an idyllic hotel situated amongst the rolling hills of the countryside and the steep white cliffs that jut out of the blue water below. The scenery is breathtaking and puts you at ease the moment you arrive. We were treated to a room with the most incredible view of The Old Harry Rocks which are just a short walk from the hotel grounds. After a day spent on trains and in the car, a walk to the cliffs were just what we needed.

I cannot describe how wonderful it felt to be out in nature with no one else in sight. Only the occasional local keeping a watchful eye as we passed by. There were early signs of spring everywhere. Enchanted woods with emerging wild garlic that filled the air with the most intoxicating scent.

We spent the next three days exploring what is known as The Jurassic Coast. This area is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is as ancient as it is beautiful. The highlights were the hikes at Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. These routes are not for the faint of heart but are well worth the effort. It’s easy to stop and take in the beauty that surrounds you. The view from the highest point is something I will never forget.

Each night we enjoyed dinner at the restaurant in the hotel. The food is seasonal and fresh from the kitchen garden and local farms. Every dish was delicious. I highly recommend a visit even if you are not staying in the hotel.

As we made our way to Somerset for the next portion of our trip, we stopped at Duncliffe Wood for one last magical Dorset walk. If you time your trip right, you will be treated with a carpet of wildflowers beneath the trees. This hidden spot ended up being a highlight for both of us. Not to mention, a great way to stretch your legs on a road trip through the countryside. XO Bryn