We’ve got a list of UK doppelgänger destinations that you can visit without breaking the bank or dealing with the inconvenience of international travel, perfect for the sunny months ahead
If you’re the kind of person who loves travelling, but more often than not are brought back to reality by the soaring costs and inconvenience of international travel, this is your lucky day.
Why, you ask?
Because there’s a solution to your travel woes. Gone are the days where you have to spend thousands of pounds to reach that one remote island off the coast of Italy. Those stunning vistas — or at least really close copies — can now be explored right here at your doorstep in the UK.
Yep, we’ve got a list of UK doppelgänger destinations you can visit without breaking the bank or going through all the hassle.
READ MORE: 1,000 experts name European hidden island gem world’s best beachREAD MORE: You can boat through France’s ‘Wild West’ where wild horses, black bulls and flamingos roam free
Iceland vs The Isle of Skye in Scotland
While Iceland may have an unmatched dramatic mountainous landscape bedecked with over 10,000 waterfalls — Scotland’s very own Isle of Skye is not one to be left behind. Boasting striking landscapes dominated by waterfalls, volcanic terrain, and dramatic coastlines, Isle of Skye is the answer to your Icelandic prayers.
Skye’s famed Fairy Pools are an eye-catching stand-in for Iceland’s Godafoss waterfall, as can clearly be seen in the pictures above. Skye’s Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing feel almost otherworldly, much like Iceland’s iconic
Vatnajökull National Park and the Golden Circle. Both destinations offer a charm deeply submerged in local legend and fantastical folklore, except one is much, much closer to home.
Mont-Saint-Michel in France vs Saint Michael’s Mount in Cornwall
While both are iconic tidal islands that are dedicated to St Michael and have a shared history, a trip to one will (figuratively) make you go for broke, whereas visiting the other will still leave some funds leftover for groceries.
Crowned as one of ‘France’s most stunning sites’ by the local tourist board, Mont-Saint-Michel attracts thousands of tourists every year, whereas its UK counterpart offers a quieter, more tranquil experience, making it the perfect alternative for those wanting to experience the stunning sight without the crowds.
The two spots are often confused for one another, however Normandy’s Mont-Saint-Michel was built between the 11th and 16th century, whereas the construction of the Cornish wonder began in 1135.
Amalfi Coast Italy vs St Ives Cornwall
While most of us may be familiar with Italy’s famous Amalfi Coast, not too many others might know about UK’s very own St Ives in Cornwall. The two spots share an alluring similarity that’s hard to miss.
Both are sun-soaked coastal towns which have pastel-coloured buildings perched on scenic cliffs that overlook azure waters. Boats (luxury and otherwise) can always be found dotting the harbours of both the Italian and British locales.
Portugal’s Albandeira Arch
Dorset’s very own natural wonder, Durdle Door, so closely resembles Portugal’s Algarve that it’s almost eerie. The Algarve, known for its rugged cliffs and picturesque quaint sandy coves, has an almost exact replica in Dorset’s natural limestone arch.
The two spots share a breathtaking similarity that can clearly be seen in their dramatic rock formations and the crystal-clear blue waters surrounding them. While Algarve offers a decidedly gorgeous Mediterranean feel, Durdle Door — where the waters of the English Channel meet the dramatic cliffs of Dorset — puts forth a distinctly British charm in a similarly exquisite landscape.
Norway’s Fjords vs Loch Torridon in Scotland
Loch Torridon in the Scottish Highlands mirrors the awe-inspiring fjords of Norway — without putting you out of pocket. The dramatic cliffs surrounding the Scottish lake reflect the same majestic, rugged beauty seen in famous Norwegian fjords like Geirangerfjord or Nærøyfjord.
Both locations are a haven for nature lovers, with Loch Torridon home to a bounty of marine life including seals, dolphins, and even whales (if you’re lucky). Abundant wildlife, incredible opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and exploring, along with a sense of serenity and remoteness make the two spots outrageously similar.
