Portland is an island in Dorset tied by the expansive Chesil Beach and sits next to my hometown Weymouth. For the first time in almost two years, I came back to Dorset for a couple weeks in October to spend time with my family.

Miraculously, the variable British weather was on our side. With very few gloomy days and most above 15 degrees, we were able to spend our time together outside, enjoying the gorgeous coastline and rolling green hills.

This was my countless visit to Portland but my first time (or at least I think?) visiting the Tout Quarry Nature Reserve and Sculpture Park. For decades, this old quarry has seen artists bring unique stone sculptures that can be found in sprawling trails.

It’s easy to get lost meandering around the various trails searching for sculptures. Towards the end of our walk, I landed on my favourite one called The Crouching Man. I love the smooth curves of the stone and the strong sense of vulnerability projected from the pose.

Being just a few km wide and long, you can easily visit all the sights of Portland in a day. It features several military areas, Portland Bill (a classic red and white striped lighthouse), a rugged coastal path and it’s renowned for sailing.

It’s a stony, emerald gem in the middle of the beautiful Jurassic Coast.