Winter weekends at the beach

Feb 14
09:18

2012

Colin McDonald

Colin McDonald

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A bit of time off is really important in today's increasingly hectic world. Most of us probably work too hard, get too stressed, and don't relax enough. So a weekend away is a really good idea.

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 Especially in the winter,Winter weekends at the beach Articles when, let's face it everything seems a bit cold, dark, and bleak! It is easy to see the beach as somewhere for summer – long, lazy days, swimming, building sandcastles, eating ice-cream. The beach in winter is unexpectedly exhilarating! There are plenty of cosy cottages, comfortable Bed and Breakfasts or hotels that you can book for a few days. There are also some very good out of season deals. Pack a supply of warm jumpers, socks, waterproof coats, hats and gloves, and sturdy boots and venture out into the sea air. There is something about the salt tang, and the wind, and the ozone that lifts the spirits, and refreshes the soul. Go for long walks, take your dogs if you have them; they will love it. Children will love it too; take them exploring rock pools, looking for crabs and shellfish. Go beach-combing for 'treasure', you never know what you might find! The rough sea throws all sorts of things up on the beach. You may not find that sea chest full of bullion. You will find drift-wood, which great for a fire, either back at your cottage, or out on the beach. Use it to warm chilly hands, toast marsh-mallows, and light the early dusk. Look out for shells, interesting bits of sea-worn wood, and fragments of 'sea glass', washed smooth by the sand and the waves to resemble faded jewels.

Back indoors you could try your hand at crafting things with your finds, or simply keep them to display in a bowl at home. It is worth having a good guide to the local birds and wild-life, and try to identify the different kinds of sea-weed you will find along the shore. You could try kite flying, ball games, fishing, and just being a child again! Take a picnic, walk for miles, and fill your lungs with fresh sea air.

Many coastal holiday areas have winter activities, and attractions that are open all year round. Amusements and rides that are crammed to bursting in the summer, may be much more fun in winter. There is a special atmosphere in a summer holiday place in winter. Snuggle up in a steamy café for soup or hot chocolate, explore bookshops, craft shops, and art shops. Enjoy the slower pace, and the totally lack of urgency. A weekend break on the beach in winter is probably the best 'pick-me-up' you can take!


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