Top 5 UK Staycation Destinations that will make you feel like you’re in Europe

From 18th May people will be able to staycation around the UK, with steps for other countries expected soon. Holiday homes, second homes, B&Bs and hotels will open up, and many have already seen a huge spike in bookings.

Did you know that the UK is actually home to some pretty exotic-looking places which you’d be forgiven for being overseas? We’ve looked far and wide to find some locations which are almost doppelgangers for European hotspots. Who needs to fly abroad to get that all important Instagram snap? 

Durdle Door, Dorset…

or is it Algarve, Portugal?

One of the more well-known in this list, Durdle Door is located on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, which sounds exotic just in the name. The arch formed out of natural limestone looks similar to the one you’d come across on the Portuguese beaches in the Algarve, making it the number one UK staycation destination.

The rocks which protrude out of  the sea are so beautiful it’s easy to forget you’re in England – as long as it’s a warm day! Just make sure to take social distancing precautions as it can get quite busy.

Portmeirion, Wales…

or Varenna, Italy?

Famed for its Italianate-style setting, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re in an Italian village while visiting this quaint Welsh town. Portmeirion was designed and built in the style of an Italian village between 1925 and 1975, and the results are astounding for all to see today. 

Full of quirky buildings which show its architectural heritage, gelaterias, and picturesque views, Portmeirion has a surprise in every corner. The Welsh Government is reopening the tourism sector from July 6.

Minack Theatre, Cornwall…

Or is it a Greek theatre?

More modern than a Greek amphitheatre, the Minack Theatre is just one of the unique gems of Cornwall, where many Brits are expected to head for their holidays this year. 

You’ll be hard-pressed to find the view overlooking the Atlantic ocean anything buut breathtaking. It’s a must-see to take in the crystal Cornish coast along with the beauty of the stone structure. Its planned 2020 season has been postponed to 2021, but they hope to reopen from July 4th with socially distanced performances.

St Michael’s Mount, Cornwall…

Or Mont Saint Michel, France?

Another Cornish jewel, St. Michael’s Mount is home to just 30 people, and looks closely similar to the island of Mont Saint Michel in France. 

Walk to the Cornish island on the causeway, or if the tide is high take a boat! The views on and off the island are spectacular, and you’ll feel like you’re visiting a fairytale castle. 

Northern Lights Isle of Skye Scotland…

Or is it Lapland?

With plenty of magical scenery around, the Isle of Skye is one of the best places in the UK to see the Northern Lights – however head there from October onwards.

There are 9 Dark Skye discovery sites on the isle, so you’ll be spoilt for choice to find the best spot to view the northern lights in Scotland.