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

I’m wanting to get advice on what wood so I can look at inspiration then show them the look we want. They will then commence work the day after we have access.

There’s no nail holes so it’s a floating floor of some type. Impossible to tell if it’s engineered wood or bamboo or vinyl. Take the picture to your local flooring shop and they’ll be able to show you something similar.