Few people know that there's a small village just off Weymouth where you're not allowed to say the word 'rabbit'.

That applies even when talking about , The Curse of the Were-Rabbit, with film-makers agreeing to use the word 'bunny' instead.

Locals on the Isle of Portland in Dorset much prefer 'underground mutton' or 'those furry things'. Why? The island, which sits across a spit just west of Weymouth, has been extensively quarried and miners have long blamed rabbits and their warrens for causing dangerous collapses. Hence the unlucky charm.

The rocky isle - St Paul's Cathedral in London was built using Portland limestone - marks the southern-most point of the Jurassic coast, and is joined to the mainland by the .

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Sweeping views of natural beauty abound, from towering waves crashing on the rocks at the foot of the , to the calmer waters that lap at the coast below the historic on Church Ope Cove.

We stayed in the estate's which features an enormous balcony to catch the sunrise on - nicely complimented by the locally produced Fountain Coffee or a dash of Fordington Gin for later in the day.

There's plenty to do on the island itself, including a visit to the afore mentioned Portland Bill lighthouse or the welcoming . Reminiscent of a New England coastal eatery, it serves a highly-rated portion of fish and chips along with an amazing view.

Across the spit and onto the mainland, Weymouth is the jewel of the adventure. Often likened to the French Riviera or Italy’s Bay of Naples, it’s teeming with colourful Victorian architecture, cosy pubs and a perfect golden sandy cove.

Dog friendly from October to April - and year round on non-restricted sections - my cavapoo was in his element as he joined the other dogs for a romp in the gentle waves.

Food and drink-wise, there's no shortage or unique and independent pubs and eateries that invite you in. We ate at , which overlooks the harbour, and offers everything you could want from a traditional chippy experience.

Founded in 1989, the fish is the real deal - thick, succulent cod fillets encased in the lightest batter. The buttermilk fried chicken also comes highly recommended, and despite my reticence, I tried - and am now a convert to - deep fried Cadbury Cream Eggs.

Contrary to my preconceived ideas, it doesn't taste like batter at all, more like a delicious mix of sugary crispiness.

The town is an attractive mix of fairy-lit laneways and historic pubs that open out onto the harbour. Lined with boats , colourful cottages and vintage shops, it's packed with English seaside charm.

We enjoyed a half or three of Badger Ale in which sits right next to the water.

Further into town, there's also the which describes itself as a food-led cafe bar, that's child and dog-friendly. The menu is vast, with gluten-free and vegan options.

I had the chipotle beef brisket burrito while another member in my group tried to Korean fried chicken burger - both were sensational.

Proving itself to be a versatile all-rounder, we visited in January and found there was plenty to do with the kids. There are - the Heritage, Mural and Arts Trails.

There's a for the little ones, which involves finding 10 super-powered dino creatures hidden in eggs around the town.

We visited for a close-up encounter with sharks, penguins, otters, seals and everything in between. The Ocean Tunnel was especially captivating, and our three-year-old loved watching the giant turtles swim overhead. There are feeding times for the animals spread throughout the day, with the otter session being particularly popular as it is the only time they actually wake up.

From the park, it's just a short walk to the three-mile stretch of sand that constitutes Weymouth's award winning beach. If you've got the time, a casual stroll along the prom makes for the perfect end to an action-packed day.

Booking thecosts from £780 for a three-night minimum.

Visitor info can be found at .