Hi eddie6trey if you're after a traditional look in flooring you can't beat floorboards, either in solid timber or an engineered wood floating floor. Solid timber is more expensive than engineered wood but has the advantage of being able to be refinished several times back to its original appearance. Both types come in a large variety of board widths and lengths but solid timber in wider boards runs the risk of cupping if there's exposure to high humidity. Both types come in a wide range of colours but mid to dark tones generally create a more traditional look.

You can install real timber either direct stick to concrete or 'planks on ply'. Perhaps get a reputable timber flooring company to come out and advise. You don't necessarily have to get engineered or laminate

No matter what flooring you choose, it will still require regular cleaning from sand, pebbles, dirt, etc, but I do get your point. We have polished concrete floors throughout and our very long drive is topped with graduated sizes of stone, with the large area immediately in front of and surrounding the entrance having the smallest stones. They are always tracked into the house; the removal of shoes is not always a worthwhile option, which is why we chose concrete for its durability and easy maintenance. Sand would probably irritate me more, but I think that comes with the territory. From the bit you have described, Annie, your house sounds like it will be spectacular and in an enviable location. Cheers!

If you want to continue with the wood look maybe something like a parquetry, this way it's a pattern defining the area but still blending with the floorboards