To the Ends of the Earth
All good things must come to an end. Sometimes, those things include land. But instead of getting in a right old flap about whether we’ll reach the outer limits before dropping off into nothingness, remember this: the world is round. So sit back and enjoy the sweeping vistas that expand far out beyond the horizon, as we take a trip to the very ends of the earth.
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Cape Cod, Massachusetts, USA
Take a scenic drive south out of Boston and explore the peninsula of Cape Cod on the USA’s east coast. Although it once tried to hide its shark population, ‘Jaws tourism’ has attracted large numbers of shark spotters to the area. Drive to the very end of the peninsula for a vast, untouched expanse of sandy beach, with a chance to spot the resident seals swimming by. Alternatively, stop off in Provincetown to buy a (very large) fossilised Megalodon shark tooth for a unique holiday souvenir.
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Noirmoutier-en-l’Île, Pays de la Loire, France
This small commune is situated in the North of the island of Noirmoutier, just off the west coast of France. Accessible from the mainland by an ancient causeway and a bridge, the island itself boasts over 25 miles of beautiful sandy beaches, Mediterranean style white washed homes, turquoise waters and excellent local cuisine. The scenic drive around the island, the Route de Ile, visits all of the islands attractions and takes you through local villages.
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Cape Finisterre, Galicia, Spain
This archaeological site in County Meath is one of Ireland’s historic treasures. In ancient Irish mythlogy, Tara was revered as a dwelling of the gods and an entrance to the Otherworld. St Patrick is said to have come here in A.D. 433 to confront the Pagans.
More than 30 monuments are still visible, some dating back to 3,500 B.C. Visitors can take guided tours of the site, and on a clear day, see stunning views across Ireland from the top of the hill. -
Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Peninsula, Mexico
The key to seeing the beauty of Cabo San Lucas lies in driving south along Baja’s Transpeninsular Highway. At 700 miles long, it’s the second-longest peninsula in the world and encompasses stunning scenic views from mountain roads, passes through colonial outposts and brings you to Cabo San Lucas itself. As well as a lively town boasting some extravagant nightclubs, Cabo is also the home of El Arco – the arch – the famous craggy tip of the peninsula, which is home to some of Mexico’s most enthralling marine life, including breaching grey whales in spring and winter.
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Santa Maria di Leuca, Lecce, Southern Italy
Santa Maria di Leuca (or informally, just Leuca) is a town situated in the south east ‘heel’ of Italy. The ancient port and nearby town houses 19th century architecture, castles, crypts and churches; including the Basilica of Santa Maria De Finibus Terrae (Sanctuary at the Ends of the Earth). Just offshore regular boat trips allow you to explore the rich blue waters and grottos that line the most south easterly edge of the country.
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Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, India
The most southerly point of India has remained relatively untouched by tourism, despite being a pilgrimage point for travellers looking for the continent’s answer to Land’s End. Popular for its spectacular red sunsets and places of worship, there are stunning temples and churches along the shoreline. A Ghandi mandapa, where his ashes were kept before being thrown into the sea, has a unique design which allows sun to shine on the spot where the ashes were kept every year on October 2nd; the date of Ghandi’s birthday.
