Hidden Haven of Coral Beach in Plockton

On my first stopover on my Scottish Grand Tour I found Coral Beach – a real hidden gem – thanks to a tip from fellow travellers whom I got chatting to in picturesque Plockton on the west coast of Bonnie Scotland.
I was staying in a lovely B&B on the shore near Roinn An Fhaing (on the map below) and decided to take the hike up the hill over the peninsula, through the gorse-lined prepared path and finally across a few rocks and slithery stones. I hoped I could make it there and back, take photos – of course – and maybe have a wee paddle in the water too before the forecast rain came. And I did, almost:-)

© WalkHighlands I highly recommend them if you are visiting Scotland and looking for walks, hikes and more.
Locals having a siesta
Path with view of Loch Kishorn and mountains
Coral is not coral

“The beach is not actually made of coral but of minute pieces of calcified algae known as maerl. Living maerl is a pink and purple seaweed that covers the sea floor with broad beds of spiky carpets. Maerl is a coralline type of algae, which means that it deposits lime on its cell walls as it grows.” (Thanks to “British Express” for the information.)

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Picturesque Plockton at Dusk: A Trip of a Lifetime

I’d beem dreaming of doing the Scottish Grand Tour for long time, and researched and booked the accommodation months before.

The weather forecast a couple of days beforehand was incredibly bad, and I even considered cutting my losses and cancelling. But I’m so pleased that I didn’t. It was a trip of a lifetime in so many ways.

At the end of May I set off on the rail tour from Edinburgh via Perth, Dunkeld and Inverness to picturesque Plockton on the west coast of Scotland. When I arrived after an amazing train journey there was a torrential rainfall so I relaxed in my cozy B&B and read a book. By the evening Mother Nature played along and gave me stunning dusk moments and these amazing reflections.

The last rays of the setting sun lit up the picturesque shore at Plockton and the waters of the Loch Carron estuary. I had to fight off the pesky midges on this calm evening but this view was well worth it.

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Peaceful Hebridean Dawn

The first rays of dawn cast a warm glow over the serene waters off the Tarbert coast, revealing the barren hillsides, tiny islets and rugged rocks that dot the remote shoreline, and adding to the mystique of this Hebridean paradise.

I’d booked a bed and breakfast right on the shore near the picturesque harbour town of Tarbert which is nestled in the heart of the Outer Hebrides. It promised sea views from our bedroom window and we were not dissapointed. I set the alarm for just before dawn and enjoyed stunning views, nothing short of majestic masterpieces by Mother Nature.

I often dream of this special memory many years later and am so thrilled that someone bought it today to hang on their wall.

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Rugged Algarve Coast

It is well worth travelling to the breathtaking, wild west coast of the Algarve, driving down the winding cliff roads to the stunning shores, which are the perfect destination for beach lovers of all kinds.

Enjoy captivating views of Castelejo beach where striking cliffs and rugged coastline meet the glittering Atlantic Ocean, creating a mystical sea mist that adds to its allure.

To the north is the Pedra da Laje, a rock formation which extends into the sea and is popular with anglers because of its abundance of fish.

The strong waves along these shores provide prime surfing and bodyboarding conditions. While the sandy beach and calm waters behind the rocks invite you to take a dip in the cool ocean.

Praia de Castelejo, Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina Natural Park, Algarve, Portugal

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Waterfront Bliss in Key Biscayne

I drove over the impressive Rickenbacker Causway from Miami on the Florida coast to explore the barrier island of Key Biscayne (Spanish: Cayo Vizcaíno) with its beautiful beaches, secluded private moorings and luxury villas.

I could well imagine sitting back on the deck or in the gazebo of my waterfront home, with my yacht moored out front and my golf cart parked alongside my limousine in the garage, enjoying the view across the turquoise waters of Hurricane Harbor Bay. Far beyond this idyllic, peaceful scene, the contrasting skyscrapers and skyline of Downtown Miami are just visible on the horizon. It is a lifestyle I could get used to.

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Chrysi Island Paradise

I’m in love with Crete and its fascinating history and culture. The people are so welcoming and generous. The food is often simple yet healthy and delicious. And my photographer’s eye has so much to feast on too:-)

If you visit and have time to travel to the south east, take a boat trip from Ierapetra across to the uninhabited Chrissi Island, in the Libyan Sea just south of Crete. You’ll be knocked out by its untouched beauty, rugged lava coast, golden sandy beaches and stunning turquoise waters. This hidden gem is a Mediterranean paradise just waiting to be explored.

Chrysi, Chrissi or Chrisi from Greek Χρυσή

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In the Blue Lagoon

On a visit to the fascinating island of Malta I set off for the day on a boat’s tour from Valletta to explore the neighbouring isles of Gozo and Comino.

The Blue Lagoon on Comino island is famous not only for its amazing turquoise waters but also because scenes from the film of the same name were recorded here. It most definitely lives up to its name.
Perfect for swimming or simply chilling with a cocktail on the beach, especially late in the day when most tourists have left.

Of course, as well as taking lots of fab photos, I couldn’t resist bathing in the crystal clear waters too:-)
Isle of Comino, Republic of Malta.

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Magnificent West Sands

I stepped down onto the untamed West Sands Beach and breathed in the salty sea air. It was perfect weather for a stroll as the waves washed against the Scottish North Sea coast. The cloud-kissed horizon and the pristine shoreline made it an unforgettable experience.

St Andrews, with its university and historic old town, is the perfect destination for a day trip or holiday. Take time to enjoy the stunning beaches and explore the fascinating town, castle and abbey ruins and picturesque harbour. Maybe even sign up for a round of golf on the famous golf course. Or take along your bucket and spade and build sandcastles.

St Andrews, Kingdom of Fife, Scotland.

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Beautiful Bunnahabhain Beach

Well worth taking a stroll along the beautiful beach at Bunnahabhain (Tràigh Bun na h-Abhainne) for the stunning views across the Sound of Islay before popping in for a visit to the distillery of the same name nearby to sample the delicious golden amber.

Bunnahabhain, Isle of Islay, Argyll & Bute, Scotland, UK.

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Chania, here we come!

Your plane banks to land and your long-awaited, relaxing holiday is about to begin! Maybe you’ll stay in Chania or travel up the coast to Kissamos or elsewhere. Crete, Greece.

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Breathe in that Invigorating Hebridean Air

If you visit the Outer Hebrides, don’t just do the typical tours: if can, travel off the beaten track and take life as it comes. That is not only the Mediterrean but also the Hebridean way of life.

Drive up north from Stornoway and take a walk on the 2 miles of fine, golden sands Tràigh Mhòr beach with views across the Minch and the Atlantic, and you are likely to have it all to yourself.

Breathtaking view from the cliffs tops, north of Tolsta on the Isle of Lewis / Eilean Leòdhais, Outer Hebrides, Scotland.

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Dawn Light on the Baltic Sea

Every day different light and views. Even storm clouds have their appeal when viewed like this. The beach was very narrow due to the high tide. I was right up against the sand dunes and got my feet wet taking this one. But it was worth it.

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