It’s all plain sailing when you visit Dorset for the sailing events

If you love sailing, then Weymouth and Portland in Dorset should be your first port of call

There can be a few slight impracticalities with holding sailing events in Central London, but thankfully, Weymouth and Portland in Dorset is going to be the home of the sailing for the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Interestingly, this site for the Summer Games was the first to be finished. Due to the fact that it was completed ahead of schedule, this meant that elite sailors and the general public have the opportunity to benefit from Olympic-standard facilities before the games as well as after. For example, the National Sailing Academy have already been affiliated with a number of different sailing events, such as the RS:X class World Championships in 2009. During 2011, as Olympics mania begins to take hold, the Paralympic World Championships are also going to take place – allowing spectators to get an idea of what’s to come.

Weymouth and Portland wasn’t chosen as the venue for the sailing by chance, however. This location was hand-picked as ideal for this discipline because of how the venue has exposure to wind from all directions, but isn’t susceptible to large waves and currents that can interfere with performance.

What to expect when visiting Dorset to watch the sailing

There is going to be a dedicated area for avid fans of the sailing to watch the events unfold live. Although there aren’t any seats for spectators, large screens are going to enhance the visibility of competitors during each race, and the atmosphere is going to be electric.

Great Britain has been the dominating force in the sailing for the past three Summer Olympics, so it is going to be fascinating to see whether they can maintain the momentum when performing on home turf. At Weymouth Bay and Portland Harbour, 10 gripping events look set to take place over a two-year period for 10 medals. The competition is going to be fierce as an estimated 380 athletes get ready to race against one another.

It’s worthwhile to look around for accommodation quickly, not least because of sailing’s popularity around the world. Over 2.5 million people have been estimated to participate in the sport on a regular basis. Formerly known as ‘yachting’, the name of the sport was officially changed to sailing effective from the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney.

Best summer 2012 holiday accommodation

What attractions are on offer for visitors to Dorset?

Some of the best attractions that Dorset has to offer can be found on the coast, and just down the road from Weymouth. For example, the Abbotsbury Swanery is a beautiful swan sanctuary that’s open seven days a week.

In addition to theme parks for the kids, and the beach, there are also some venues to visit if you want a romantic getaway with a loved one. The Athelhampton House and Gardens is the perfect place for lunch or afternoon tea in an idyllic setting, with a gorgeous afternoon stroll admiring the local horticulture.

Eating out in Dorset

When finding a restaurant in Dorset, you’re spoiled for choice. If you want an eatery with a stunning view, there are dozens of potential choices that serve cuisine from around the world. For example, the Gurkha Inn is based near Dorchester West station, and offers an oriental buffet for its guests. There’s nothing better than a Chinese meal, and the fusion of flavours at this restaurant are hard to beat.

By train or by boat, transport’s easy in Dorset

Thanks to the impressive National Rail network in Dorset, staying in accommodation in the towns and villages that surround Weymouth Bay isn’t a problem. Booking in advance can be worthwhile, particularly as Dorset county is already a sought-after venue during the summer months.

Despite the notable lack of a motorway due to Dorset’s rural roots, two main train lines run through the region. South West Trains connect Weymouth with London Waterloo, Exeter and Bristol, with trains to all of these destinations at least once an hour, seven days a week. If you are looking to enjoy some of the flagship sports taking place at the Olympic Park in Newham, Dorset is well-placed to take you there.

By air, there are airports in Bournemouth for short-haul flights, and London Gatwick for long-haul flights. There are also local bus services available for transportation between different towns in the county. Perfect for a summer getaway, exceed your expectations for your 2012 holiday by visiting Dorset.