Dorset - lovely day out, very windy

We opted for a day out in Dorset yesterday, planned with an early start and particular initial destinations in mind. A longer drive than expected due to

traffic jams on M27 causing us to detour onto the A27 and hence a longer journey time than expected.

Finally, we arrived at Lulworth Cove and parked. Our initial explore showed that tide and sun positions were not suitable for the intended photos. We headed off to Durdle Door, resolving to return to Lulworth later, especially as they combine car parking and you can travel freely between them and pay once at the end of the day.

A sea fog meant that Durdle Door was just too hazy at this time, so we changed our plans and headed for Weymouth and Portland.

As we drove there, the clouds cleared and the sun made a very welcome (and forecast) appearance. We didn't actually stop off in Weymouth, just enjoying the town as we drove, and eventually reached Portland having crossed the narrow strip of land that has Portland Harbour on one side and Chesil Beach on the other.

Driving through Fortune's Well saw us going up hill as we headed for Portland Bill. At the top of the hill there was a suitable parking spot to take in the view looking back over the route we had just driven.

It was an amazing view from up there, though it was extremely windy, and definitely a highlight of the journey.

After this short stop, we continued down to Portland Bill (where the lighthouse stands). Nice easy parking, very expensive snacks and drinks at the cafe, and extremely windy. We chose to pay for only half hour for parking and I took a few photos.

One reason for the short visit, apart from the wind, was our desire to stop off at Chesil Beach on the return journey before heading back to Lulworth.

If we thought the other places were windy, Chesil had a very draughty surprise for us. We parked and then walked across the shingle and up to the ridge of the beach to take in the view. The wind there was so strong, it really felt like it could blow us back to the car park.

Then it was back to the car and to Lulworth Cove. Luckily, this time the sun and tide were suitable for the plans that I had.

That was about it for the day, some nice scenery and plenty of very fresh air - turbocharged at times !!!!! I think Weymouth looked like a worthwhile stop for next time we are down that way.

A decent drive home most of the way, tired though at the end of the way.