Torquay

Torquay one of Britain’s most famous resorts situated at the heart of a magnificent coastline. Fashionable since Victorian times and often referred to as the ‘English Riviera’ Torquay is blessed with a mild climate, sparkling blue waters, blue flag beaches and beautiful gardens for that relaxing stroll. The resort has a distinct Mediterranean feel created by its palm tree lined promenade, hotels and villas perched high on the surrounding hillsides, waterfront boutiques and cafes. Whichever date and hotel you decide on you are certain to have a wonderful break in Torquay.

A morning departure and travel down to the Devonshire coast, arriving in Torquay for 5 nights dinner and breakfast.

Excursion to cathedral city of Exeter, thought to be the most haunted in England, with time for shopping and optional lunch. We return along the coast via Dawlish and Teignmouth to Babbacombe for some free time to perhaps visit to the famous Model Village or the Bygones just a few minutes’ walk from the model village.

After breakfast we will make our way to Kents Cavern

 

Kents Cavern, prehistoric cave, home of ancient humans, award winning visitor attraction in Torquay - with tours, shop, cafe and visitor center. Go back to a time when the cave was home to ancient humans, sheltering from weather, making fires, shaping tools and hunting Ice Age animals. As you explore the labyrinth of caverns, you'll be surrounded by 400-million-year-old rocks, stalagmites and stalactites.

 

People have been venturing into Kents Cavern (or Kent's Hole as it was called before 1865) for over 2,000 years. Scientific recordings of archaeology and geology has taken place for 200 years.

 

Over 50,000 artefacts have been recovered from the caves and the secret to such a rich treasure trove of archaeology is down to the calcite or stalagmite that formed underground, creating thick floors concealing animal and human occupation, preserving a history of Ice Age life underneath.

 

Stalagmite forms during warm interglacial periods.  Each Ice Ages cycle leaves an occupational layer in the caves as life seeks shelter from the cold underground.  This becomes perfectly protected by the stalagmite floors accumulating over the top. The upper floor is about 12,500 years old and the second 400,000. A third floor from the end of a much earlier Ice Age has yet to be discovered.

 

After our guided tour we will stay here for refreshments (not included in the price) before heading off for a river cruise on the River Exe with Stuart Line Cruises.

 

The tranquil waters of the River Exe allow us to cruise through the winter months to see this constantly changing landscape from the ever-calm waters of the river.

 

This award-winning stretch of water is home to a wide range of wildlife and migrating birds that make for magnificent viewing in the autumn and winter seasons.

 

Departing from Exmouth Marina, these circular cruises travel along the peaceful waters of the river towards Powderham Castle and along to where the river ends on Exmouth’s traditional seafront.

 

Indoor heated lower decks have large windows for great viewing and outside upper decks with plenty of fresh air and blankets.

 

A complimentary hot cup of tea or coffee is included on our Winter River Exe Cruises!

Today we will embark on a visit to the Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth.

From humble beginnings as a UK rescue mission 50 years ago, The Donkey Sanctuary has grown into one of the world’s largest welfare charities.

 

Explore everything that the sanctuary has to offer, from award – winning gardens and scenic coast path walks, to engaging exhibits and, of course, meeting hundreds of adorable donkeys.

Take an interactive journey through the global work of The Donkey Sanctuary in the Exhibition Barn, discover all things donkey in the Understanding Donkey Zone, take a walk in the woods or lose yourself in the maze.

 

We can stop for a while at the award – winning restaurant and enjoy fresh, local seasonal produce while soaking in the unparalleled coast and country views.

Or simply enjoy a cream tea with a delicious scone and fresh Devonshire cream.

(Lunch not included in price)

 

We will return to the hotel early afternoon so you can have more leisure time to enjoy the hotel or take a walk down to the beach front or harbor.

Explore Torquay with it's iconic palm trees, busy harbour, international marina and wonderful array of continental style cafes, restaurants and cocktail bars.

There are some excellent shops and art galleries around Torquay’s attractive harbour area and the Torquay Museum has some really fascinating exhibits; notably a permanent Agatha Christie Gallery.  A must-visit is 800-year-old Torre Abbey on the seafront with its galleries and gardens including a medieval children’s garden, tropical glasshouses and a full year-round events programme

Finaly, after breakfast we load up the coach and say goodbye to the beautiful English Riviera.