Purbeck is replete with contradictions. For one although often referred to as an Island it is in fact a peninsular. Its most famous export Purbeck Marble is not marble at all - its polishable limestone and perhaps most surprisingly, for an area that boasts scenery that is breathtaking, towns rich with history, a seaside resort, places designated of Special Scientific Interest and Nature Reserves you'd expect it to be over-run with tourists. Yet its not.

Tucked away in the south eastern corner of Dorset, Purbeck is some 60 sq. miles of land that is bounded on three sides by water and on its fourth side by a line of hills and although not an Island in the strict meaning of the word, it does convey a feeling that is particularly apt.

Its unspoiled coastline and natural inland beauty make Purbeck the perfect destination for ramblers, watersport enthusiasts, naturalists, rock climbers and ornithologist. In fact anyone who appreciates the great outdoors. If your fancy is solitude and a peaceful rustic retreat there are plenty of typically picturesque village dotted all over the Island.

And for those who want a traditional family seaside resort, Purbeck offers Swanage. Seaside resorts don't come much better. Set in a large sandy bay with safe swimming, this is a town that has something for all the family. It has its own steam Railway Company, there are golf courses nearby, some fine eateries and, naturally, Swanage offers an abundance of watersports, great fishing and the opportunity to take many sea excursions. Why not take a trip to Brownsea Island or Poole.

Standing right in the heart of Purbeck is the picturesque town of Corfe with its dramatic ruins of a mediaeval Castle. Now run by the National Trust the castle, once the most fortified in all England, was systematically destroyed after the Civil War. From this vantage point, you can enjoy stunning views across the Purbeck landscape to the sea. If you want to see the Castle in all its former glory, you must check out Corfe Castle Model Village.

The other main town in Purbeck is Wareham. This was once a major port during the Middleages. Almost every side turning in the town reveals a new visual delight and the quaint quayside area is a perfect place to sit relax, have a meal and then take a peaceful river journey down the river Frome towards Poole Harbour.

Being surrounded on three sides by water, coastal Purbeck boasts some of the best seaviews and spectacular scenery along the whole of the south coast.

Just look at Lulworth Cove, this almost perfectly circular bay has got to be one of the southcoast's natural wonders. If the cove itself isn't enough to take you there, the delightful village of Lulworth will have you enthralled. This pretty little seaside village offers all the attractions that the modern traveller demands. With a stream meandering through, there's ample carparking, cafes, souvenir shops and pubs to cater for all your needs.

Of course there's safe swimming here in the protection of the cove, and why not take the coastal path westward, after a short while you'll soon be regaled by another natural wonder. Durdle Door is 40ft high natural rock arch that juts out into the sea. You'll be amazed - just how did the elements and sea conspire to form this odd outcrop.

If you take the coastal path the other way you come across Kimmeridge Bay, it's also accessible via a toll road just south of Kimmeridge, offers untouched countryside, clifftop parking , Clavell Tower and the famous rocky ledges that appear at low tide.

In fact all along the Purbeck coast are secluded bays with steep cliffs that make exploration an exciting journey into the unknown. And if you keep your eyes open you might just come across some fossils.

The whole stretch of English Coastline from Lyme Regis, eastward to Swanage is world renowned for its abundance of easily extracted fossils. In fact, it was here that the science of paleontology was born and the first dinosaur was discovered. This has got to be a must do for budding beachcombers and scientists alike! Please however remember to respect this beautiful environment and don't contribute to the erosion of the cliff face. Many fossils, in particular ammonites and bellamites can very easily be found on the beach or amongst the fallen rocks at the foot of the cliffs without having to resort to chiseling away at the rocks in situ.

Inland between Lulworth Cove and Kimmeridge Bay is the little village of Tyneham. Evacuated during the second world war, to be used as a part of a firing range by the military, the village now stands as a time capsule. Here you can get a flavour of what life was like in an English rural village in the 1930's and 40's. A most interesting and educational day out for all the family. Access to Tyneham is limited as it is situated within the Army ranges.

West of Swanage and abutting Poole Harbour is Studland. This area is a nature reserve and of outstanding natural beauty. Here is an excellent unspoilt beach, great for sunbathing . The area is also full of rare fauna and is therefore of interest to botanists. From Shell Bay the most easterly of the Studland beaches you can leave the Isle of Purbeck by a short journey on a car ferry to Poole.

As you can see Purbeck has much to offer the tourist in terms of attractions and natural beauty. This is an ideal place for all the family, all year round.

Use the map of Purbeck below to zoom in or out to view directions or click the satellite button for an aerial view. For a larger version of this Purbeck map Click Here.

Purbeck is at the eastern end of Dorset and East Devon's Jurassic Coast a UNESCO World Heritage Site this short presentation shows just what this spectacular 80 miles of coastline has to offer.