Andalucia Winter Sun Walking Holidays Late Availability

Special Offer
Winter Sun Walking Holidays in Andalucia – Walk Andalucia still have some availability for their November 26th and December 10th departures.

Book now and pay £385 and NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT.

“I would like to let you know that Walk Andalucia is my best holiday I ever experienced. Dave and Gill are marvellous, kind, well informed and fantastic hosts. The walk was quite hard at the first day but I started to build up my energy and managed well at the end of the holiday. The accommodation is well equipped, just like being at home. I came back to London felt very fit and be ready to face the cold winter.”

Chularat Huszar, October 2009.

Find Out More at Inspiring Holidays

Walking in Andalucia – Spanish Walking Holidays. 
Share the love of walking and enjoy great company on our walking holidays in beautiful Andalucia – Spain’s southernmost region.

Our holidays are all about finding the hidden Spain and the fun and stimulation of walking with a group of like-minded people! Singles are particularly welcome. People who have been before have told us they enjoyed the activities and the relaxed atmosphere very much.

The walks are well organised and people like all the historical and local information that is provided. The wining and dining are superb. You stay in a lovely authentic village house and the accommodation is very comfortable.

Andalucia is a lovely walking area and we make sure that you take full advantage of that. For many of our guests, the best aspect of the holiday is the excellent company of the group members and in particular, the great company of Gill & Dave, the tour leaders, who always go out of their way to include everyone in the walking and social activities. A holiday you will always remember.

Day-by-day itinerary

(If you are a group of 6 or more, contact us for a tailor made itinerary)

Day 1: Welcome to Andalucia. We will meet you at Malaga Airport and transfer you to your house in Torrox Pueblo by private transport. After settling into your accommodation, you will join the other guests for a welcome lunch followed by an orientation tour and introduction to the history of village.

Day 2: Comares. Our first day’s walking takes us via an old mule track to the hill top village of Comares in the beautiful Axarquia region. Comares is the highest village in the Axarquia region and the walk takes us round the outskirts of the village with breathtaking sea and mountain views. The whole area is rich in fruit trees. Velez Malaga is a major centre for the growing and export of mangoes and avocados. During the walk, there will be a wide range of other trees including almonds, pomegranates, oranges and olives. Flowers in April to June are spectacular including a wide variety of orchids. Eagles, kites and Griffon Vultures have also been seen in this high terrain. The walk finishes with a tour through the village and the opportunity to purchase some of the local muscatel raisins, figs, honey and almonds depending upon season. Walking time: 5 hours • Height Gain: 2200 ft • Grade: moderate

Day 3: Casa de la Mina. We take a 20 min drive due north of Torrox and offer 2 alternative walks – the choice is yours. For those who want a more challenging walk, there is a steep climb up a track that then follows a dry river bed for about an hour. For those who prefer a more leisurely walk, we will drive you up the steeper part in our 4×4 drive. At the top end of the track there are wonderful views of the valley from a height of 980m. The walk is then on an excellent track, fairly flat, with stunning views across the Almijara. We walk for about 30 mins to the Casa de la Mina – a delightful stop for refreshments with beautiful views and good opportunities for taking photos. We then descend, at times quite steeply, towards the now disused Fabrica de la Luz where we meet the river. The descent takes about an hour to a wonderful picnic spot beside a waterfall. It may be necessary to cross the river a couple of times so weatherproof boots or spare socks are useful. Sticks would be useful for the ascent. • Walking time: 4½ hours • Distance: 12 km • Grade: moderate

Day 4: El Canuelo. This walk starts behind the village of Periana and involves a gradual ascecnt with stunning views of Lake Vinuela. It is a great walk for wild flowers and birds and in January and February beautiful almond blossom. At the start we walk upwards to an old railway track. It is an easy walk but you are rewarded with 360o views including that of Maroma, which is the highest mountain in Axarquia (2068 m). This is part of the Sierra Tejeda. We continue walking through to the Ventas de Zafarraya – a spectacular pass through the mountain chain. We then head down to the village of El Canuelo where we have a stop for refreshment. The restaurant also has a swimming pool and we can relax and enjoy the views of Lake Vinuela below. There is then a leisurely walk down mainly tarmac road back to the cars. Walking time: 5 hours • Distance: 12 km • Grade: easy.

Day 5: Rest day. Dave & Gill will be happy to provide information and help you to plan your own day out – others have enjoyed a trip to Nerja and its caves, or into the vibrant, historic city of Malaga, including the famous Picasso Museum. In the evening, BBQ / Meal at D&G\’s finca, a rural delight.

Day 6: Lost villages of Acebuchal. This is a circular walk along a shaded river bed for part of its length with a short steep climb up to a good track for the return journey. The villages of Acebuchal, Bajo and Arriba were deserted in the 1950s when the villages were cleared in post Civil War guerrilla fighting. Our guide for this walk is steeped in the history of the area and we promise an entertaining and lively day. The Junta de Andalucia are now financing the restoration of the villages to encourage rural tourism run by local people. We finish the day at the Cortijo of Maria and her friends where they prepare a 9 course meal comprising typical local home made dishes and wines. Situated on a hilltop with views down to Nerja and the mountains, there is a swimming pool for the use of guests (fabulous on hot days after a long walk). Walking time: 4 hours • Grade: easy

Day 7: Canillas de Albaida. This walk takes us up a river valley with a steep climb up a small goat track before returning back down along gentle quarry road. The walk starts from the now disused Fabrica de la Luz which used to provide electricity for the area before the Spanish National grid was formed. The walk takes us through many walnut groves and in the spring fields of bright red poppies delight the eye. We pass a huge cave which was once used by the local honey maker and is now home to a herd of goats and climb to a height of 3,500 feet with superb views over the magnificent Sierra Almijara. Walking time: 5 hours • Length: 12 km • Grade: moderate

Day 8: Adios! After breakfast we transfer you to Malaga Airport.

Travellers’ Tales
“A standard of excellence and enthusiasm from all the company from booking to return far above the usual package holidays we have experienced.”

The Costa del Sol weather is exactly what you would expect from the name \”Sunny Coast\”; sun, sun and more sun. It is one of the best, most reliable and healthiest climates in the world with more than 300 days of sunshine per year. In the winter months the climate is temperate with average daytime temperatures of about 16ºC. There can be some rainy days during this period – when tends to vary from year to year – but it seldom lasts more than a few days. It is a perfect climate during these months for walking.

Find Out More at Inspiring Holidays

German Christmas Market Holidays

There’s nothing like a proper Christmas Market to get you in the mood for the festive season.  And the best Christmas Markets of all can be found in Germany.  Travelsphere have a range of short breaks to German markets.

Telephone Travelsphere on 0845 358 2368 to find out more 

Berlin Christmas Markets -  4 days from £442
Departure Date: 29/11/2009 & 08/12/2009
Packed with culture, history and a surprising range of attractions, Berlin is an exciting destination at any time of year. It’s especially so during this advent period, when over 40 Christmas markets around the city offer a treasure trove of local arts and crafts which create a touch of ‘Winter Magic’. Sledging, skating and a colourful light display provide a festive backdrop to more than 100 stalls in Potsdamerplatz. You will find a delicious selection of seasonal food and drink in Alexanderplatz, while a life-sized nativity crib graces Schlossplatz. Soak up the ambience, while stocking up on great Christmas gifts.

Black Forest including Strasbourg Christmas Market – 6 days from £289
Departure Date: 05/12/2009
A warm welcome awaits you in a pretty German village in the northern Black Forest, a truly magical region.

Bavarian Christmas Markets – 6 days from £339
Departure Date: 05/12/2009
Experience delightful Bavarian medieval towns and a very comfortable countryside hotel, where a wonderful welcome awaits you.

Telephone Travelsphere on 0845 358 2368 to find out more 

Hamelin Christmas Market – 6 days from £339
Departure Date: 05/12/2009
This really is a fairy tale holiday visiting some of northern Germany’s most traditional and historic towns. It’s a real pre-Christmas shopping treat and a feast for the senses, with stalls offering the customary roasted chestnuts, gingerbread, mulled wine and super gift ideas. The fairy tale town of Hamelin is the main attraction, and there’s also the chance to visit the wonderful medieval town of Goslar.

Rüdesheim Christmas Market – Hotel Rose Upgrade Option – 4 days from £239
Departure Date: 08/12/2009
A rich history of wine production and scenic surroundings have made Rüdesheim one of Germany’s most popular destinations. The town is also home to one of the prettiest Christmas markets in the country, with over 120 stalls featuring a wealth of festive wares and local delicacies. Live music and entertainment and a wonderful nativity scene complete this unmissable festive setting. For a supplement of only £50 you will stay in Rüdesheim itself and really get to know the town.

Aachen Christmas Market & Valkenburg – 4 days from £239
Departure Date: 12/12/2009
Shop amid the sparkle and history of Aachen in Germany, and enjoy the many shops and attractions to be found in southern Holland’s popular resort of Valkenburg. 

Cologne Christmas Market – 4 days from £189
Departure Date: 12/12/2009
The magnificent backdrop of Cologne’s Gothic cathedral towering over the traditional market stalls and marvellous shops makes this popular Rhineland break a Christmas treat to remember.

Cologne Christmas Market – Central Cologne Hotel Option – 4 days from £214
Departure Date: 01/12/2009
The magnificent backdrop of Cologne’s Gothic Cathedral towering over the traditional market stalls and marvellous shops makes this popular Rhineland break a Christmas treat to remember.

Telephone Travelsphere on 0845 358 2368 to find out more 

African Rail Adventure

South African Rail Adventure Holiday with Page & Moy - 11 days from £5562

Combine the wonders of beautiful Cape Town, a journey across South Africa aboard the luxurious Pride of Africa train and a safari in the Kapama Game Reserve on this spectacular and unforgettable holiday. South Africa is renowned for its incredible scenery, and what better way could there be to see it than from the comfort of Rovos Rail’s wonderful train.

Call Page & Moy on 0845 358 2639 for more information

Journey highlights
 - Experience deluxe comfort in meticulously rebuilt coaches and gracious ‘old world’ service aboard the Pride of Africa
 - Indulge in five-star cuisine served in sumptuous surroundings
 - Enjoy amazing views of Cape Town and the African coastline from the top of Table Mountain
 - Spot the ‘big five’ on a game drive in the privately owned Kapama Game Reserve

What’s included
 - Rovos Rail representative and a local guide on excursions
 - Flight to Cape Town, returning from Johannesburg
 - 6 nights hotel accommodation (2 nights full board, 4 nights bed and breakfast and 2 lunches) and 2 nights full board on the train
 - Hotel porterage

Included excursions
 - Cape Town
 - Cape Peninsula including lunch
 - Winelands including lunch
 - Big Hole, Diamond Museum and train ride
 - Four game drives

Your Accommodation

CAPE TOWN
The Commodore Hotel (4-star), 4 nights bed & breakfast.
Conveniently located at the V&A Waterfront, this hotel is part of the Legacy Hotels group. Amenities include a bar, lounge and restaurant and fitness facilities, including a swimming pool. The elegant guest rooms all have private facilities, TV and telephone.

KAPAMA GAME RESERVE
Kapama River Lodge (4-star), 2 nights full board.
Enjoy a stay in the largest private game lodge in the Greater Kruger National Park region. The lodge has a tiered swimming pool, lounge, bar and shop. Guest rooms have fantastic views of the game reserve, private facilities, air-conditioning, minibar and tea and coffee making facilities.

Your Itinerary

DAYS 1 & 2 UK/Cape Town
Depart on your overnight flight to Cape Town. On arrival, transfer to your hotel for a four night stay. This afternoon we include a half-day tour to discover the city’s vibrant waterfront district followed by a ride on the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway to the summit of Cape Town’s signature landmark (weather permitting). From the top, you will enjoy spectacular views across the city and of the stunning coastline.

DAY 3 Cape Town
Today you are at leisure in Cape Town, which was founded in 1652 as a victualling station for ships of the Dutch East India Company. Today it is one of the world’s most beautiful cities. It enjoys an incomparable setting between the sparkling Atlantic Ocean and the majestic backdrop of Table Mountain, one of the world’s best known landmarks. Take the opportunity to do a little independent exploration, your hotel is just a short walk from the harbour area, shopping centre, aquarium and more.

DAY 4 Cape Town
Enjoy a second day in glorious Cape Town, and join our included full-day tour along the Cape Peninsula. This tour reveals the majestic scenery of the Cape Peninsula, as it takes us out past Sea Point and Camps Bay towards Hout Bay for a cruise to Seal Island. We continue to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve with its wonderful views of False Bay.

After an included lunch in Simon’s Town, why not walk or ride the funicular to the Cape Point viewpoint to admire the panoramic vista of the Atlantic and Indian oceans? Visit Boulders Beach with its famous colony of Jackass penguins before taking a stroll through the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, a charming end to a wonderful day.

DAY 5 Cape Town
Today we have an included Winelands excursion. You will travel through the heart of South Africa’s wine country to Stellenbosch, home to some of the most appealing Cape Dutch architecture, and Paarl, standing at the foot of the second largest granite outcrop in the world, where we’ll see the imposing Afrikaans Language Monument. Then toast the end of this wonderful tour with a wine tasting in one of the highly respected vineyards of Franschoek. Lunch will be included today.

DAY 6 The Pride of Africa Train
After a leisurely breakfast, we head to Cape Town Railway Station, where we board Rovos Rail’s luxurious Pride of Africa train for the start of our 48-hour adventure across South Africa to Pretoria. All meals, drinks and excursions are included during the course of the journey. To travel aboard the Pride of Africa really is a luxurious experience. With five-star cuisine, elegantly served in the spectacular dining car and picturesque views in all directions from the superb observation car, this really is the trip of a lifetime.

The sumptuous carriages, some of which date back to 1911, have been gathered from all corners of South Africa and carefully restored to a high level of luxury and comfort. Accommodation will be in either a Pullman or a Deluxe suite, both of which have private facilities and comfortable sofas that convert into either double or twin beds for the night time. Leaving Cape Town behind and heading inland, we travel via Worcester, De Dooms and Touws River to the perfectly preserved Victorian Village of Matjesfontein, where we enjoy a short stop.

DAY 7 The Pride of Africa Train
Our journey continues overnight, as we travel through Beaufort West and De Aar through the arid Karoo to Kimberley, where the train is scheduled to stop at 2.30pm. From Kimberley, we visit the Big Hole, the Diamond Museum before returning to the train for dinner on board.

DAY 8 The Pride of Africa Train
Our fantastic journey ends today at Isando Station, from where we transfer to Johannesburg airport for the flight to Hoedspruit. On arrival, we make the short journey to the Kapama Game Reserve, where we stay for the next two nights. The largest single-owner private game reserve in the region, Kapama was established in 1989.

Enjoy afternoon high tea after settling in to your room, followed by a late afternoon game drive. This will be your first chance to glimpse the range of wildlife that calls the reserve home. Keep an eye out for the ‘big five’ Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Elephant and Rhino, as well as the more than 35 other species of mammal and 350 species of bird.

DAY 9 Kapama Game Reserve
Head out into the reserve for an early morning game drive to spot some more spectacular wildlife. On returning to the lodge, take advantage of all the facilities as you relax in comfortable surroundings. A late afternoon game drive is also included today.

DAY 10 Hoedspruit/UK
Enjoy a final early morning game drive in the reserve before breakfast. Then it’s time to transfer to Hoedspruit airport for the short flight back to Johannesburg, where you board your return flight to the UK.

DAY 11 UK
Arrival in the UK.

Dates, Prices & Departure
holiday ref: EPLSA
15/03/10  £5562 
04/10/10  £5772
15/11/10  £5772 

Deposit £150 per person
Prices are based on two people sharing a twin or double room with private facilities.

Supplements
Single rooms £1222
Pride of Africa Deluxe Suite £999, Single Deluxe Suite £1699
Holiday Insurance

Travel Information
Flights are by scheduled services of South African Airways
Departing London Heathrow 2015h
Return arrival 0625h.
Regional connecting flights to London also available.

Call Page & Moy on 0845 358 2639 for more information

Himalayas Expeditions – Nov 09 Departures

Himalayas

The Adventure Company have late availability for the following expeditions in the Himalayas region.  All these expeditions are available in November 2009.  Call the Adventure Company on 0845 609 0837 for further details

Everest Base Camp – From £799 per person
11-day trek to base camp  | Stay in teahouses  | Superb views of Everest  | Explore Kathmandu
This is a classic Himalayan trek with incredible views and rewards.
18 days
Land only
Nepal Tour ref: EK
Strenuous
Max group 16
Walking & Trekking

Himalayan Explorer – From £1,599 per person
Kathmandu Valley & Pokhara  | Easy trek in the Annapurnas  | Chitwan National Park & wildlife
The perfect introduction to walking in Nepal
16 days
Flight inclusive
Nepal Tour ref: AA
Moderate
Max group 16
Walking & Trekking

Delhi to Kathmandu – From £1,749 per person
Wildlife & Himalayan foothills  | Taj Mahal  | Holy Varanasi & Colourful Kathmandu
An epic journey from the plains of India to the Kingdom of Nepal
16 days
Flight inclusive
India & Nepal Tour ref: IN
Moderate
Max group 16
Cultural Discovery

Himalaya Discovery – From £1,349 per person
Little-visited Bandipur  | Kathmandu & Pokhara  | Wildlife of Chitwan National Park
A non-trekking cultural journey discovering Nepal’s highlights
14 days
Flight inclusive
Nepal Tour ref: IA
Gentle
Max group 16
Cultural Discovery

Everest Gokyo Lakes Trek – From £1,629 per person
16-day challenging trek to the foot of Everest  | Cho La – Abode of the Yeti!  | Magnificent Gokyo Lakes
Feeling adventurous? The Gokyo Lakes itinerary offers a more challenging route to Everest Base Camp, with a longer, tougher trek.
21 days
Flight inclusive
Nepal Tour ref: EKG
Strenuous
Max group 16
Walking & Trekking

Langtang & Lakes – From £1,369 per person
Little trekked routes & valleys  | Holy Gosainkund lakes  | Beautiful spring flowers
A dramatic trekking experience in the quieter Langtang and Helambu valleys amongst Nepal’s typically beautiful scenery and friendly
23 days
Flight inclusive
Nepal Tour ref: LG
Strenuous
Max group 16
Walking & Trekking

Call the Adventure Company on 0845 609 0837 for further details

The Inca Trail – Book Early And Save £50

The Inca Trail

The Inca Trail with the Adventure Company.  Book Early and save £50

Machu Picchu and the journey to reach it along the ancient Inca Trail has lured travellers for years. The four day trek within the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary takes you through stunning mountain scenery and Inca ruins. The Trail is a key part of the Machu Picchu experience; the ruins you see en-route are symbolic buildings on the way to the spiritual centre of this ancient Inca province.

The Adventure Company have a number of exciting Inca Trail trips which combine the trek with other Peruvian ancient, colonial, natural or cultural highlights; from Arequipa to Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca to the Nazca Lines.

They’ve been running these trips with their local ground agent for over 10 years and many of their staff have done the trips, so call one of their Travel Consultants and they’ll answer any questions you have.

Book early on these trips and you could save £50.  Plus, it’s worth noting for every booking to Peru they will donate £5 to a children’s refuge in Lima.

Call now on 0845 609 0837 for more information

Holiday Cottages in Padstow Late Availability

The following holiday apartments and cottages near Padstow, Cornwall all have availability for the week commencing the 22nd August…

York Rose, Rosehill Apartments
Padstow & Wadebridge, North Cornwall
Apartment, Bedrooms 2, Sleeps 4
A charming cottage-style apartment in tranquil surroundings close to Padstow and ideally placed to explore the rugged North Cornwall coastline.
Price: £800

Harlyn, Bay Retreat Villas
Padstow & Wadebridge, North Cornwall
House, Bedrooms 2, Sleeps 5
A stylish property ideally situated to explore the dramatic North Cornwall coastline. Bay Retreat Villas are situated on the outskirts of the picturesque village of St. Merryn, just 3 miles from Padstow.
Price: £1,200

Trevone, Bay Retreat Villas
Padstow & Wadebridge, North Cornwall
House, Bedrooms 2, Sleeps 5,
A stylish property ideally situated to explore the dramatic North Cornwall coastline. Bay Retreat Villas are situated on the outskirts of the picturesque village of St. Merryn, just 3 miles from Padstow.
Price: £1,200

Peace Rose, Rosehill Apartments
Padstow & Wadebridge, North Cornwall
Apartment, Bedrooms 2, Sleeps 5
A charming cottage-style apartment in tranquil surroundings close to Padstow and ideally placed to explore the rugged North Cornwall coastline.
Price: £730

Hawker Cove, Bay Retreat Villas

Padstow & Wadebridge, North Cornwall
House, Bedrooms 2, Sleeps 5
A stylish property ideally situated to explore the dramatic North Cornwall coastline. Bay Retreat Villas are situated on the outskirts of the picturesque village of St. Merryn, just 3 miles from Padstow.
Price: £1,200

For more information click here

Holiday Cottages in Noss Mayo, South Devon

Noss Mayo

Noss Mayo & Newton Ferrers

Often described as the most beautiful villages in Devon, the twin communities of Noss Mayo & Newton Ferrers are a sanctuary of peace and quiet.

The two villages are situated on opposite sides of Newton Creek which forms part of the Yealm Estuary. Noss Mayo lies on the south side with Newton Ferrers to the north. Although situated close to the historic maritime city of Plymouth you are completely oblivious to the presence of this much larger neighbour.

The estuary, which forms part of the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is simply stunning, surrounded by rolling oak-wooded hillsides. The South West Coast Path is easily accessed for a variety of walks around the stunning coastline and further in land.

With easy access to the sea Noss & Newton provide safe, sheltered anchorages for yachts from may countries. In the summer the tidal waters are full of sailing boats of all sizes.

The summer months are when the villages really come alive as visitors flock to the award-winning pub, the Ship or simply soak up the idyllic views, and relaxed village atmosphere. However, the mild year-round climate ensures a holiday cottage break will be a real treat all year round.

To find your ideal holiday cottage in Noss Mayo & Newton Ferrers this summer visit www.noss-mayo-cottages.co.uk

Holiday Cottages on Dartmoor

Dartmoor

Wild, mysterious, beautiful, romantic, Dartmoor…

Anyone who has ever visited Dartmoor will know that it’s a very special place. The landscape can be in turns wild, haunting, sometimes bleak but always beautiful.

Dartmoor was designated a National Park by statute in 1951. It is 368 square miles in area so you don’t need to worry about crowds – there’s plenty of space for everyone. In fact, what Dartmoor really excels at is peace and quiet!

However, it’s not all wide open moors. The unique towns and villages in and around the moor will provide you with a host of things to do and see. There are farmers markets full of quality local produce. You’ll find wonderful holiday cottages, cosy pubs and cafes and restaurants serving some of the best food and drink in the country.

If you’re looking to get active there’s some amazing walking. You can discover letterboxing, explore Dartmoor’s myths and legends or have fun by cycling or horse riding.

If you want to hit the greens there are plenty of golfing options or how about a spot of fishing on the many rivers, resevoirs and lakes. Watersports are also in abundance, either canoeing on the moor or enjoy the many activities available at the nearby coast.

If you’re looking for a self-catering property to give you the freedom to explore Dartmoor then take a look at the many properties featured on this website.

View holiday cottages on Dartmoor

Holiday Cottages in other Areas

Looking for a cottage or apartment further afield? Try one of our other websites:

Dartmouth Holiday Cottages | Salcombe Holiday Cottages

Torquay Holiday Cottages | Brixham Holiday Cottages

Newquay Holiday Cottages | Provence Holiday Cottages

Romantic Valentines Holiday Cottage Breaks in Devon and Cornwall

Romantic Cottage

Romantic Holiday Cottage Breaks in Devon and Cornwall – Valentine’s treats that won’t break the bank!

Cliff top walks, sheltered coves, roaring log fires and sumptious cuisine.  What could be more romantic than a holiday in Devon & Cornwall.

With Valentine’s Day approaching fast why not sweep your beloved off for a romantic break in the West Country?

With prices from as little as £249 for up to 6 nights there has never been a better time to impress your loved one and book a romantic break!

Here are some wonderful locations to help seep your loved one off their feet…

Dartmouth, Devon
You can’t fail to be impressed by the beautiful harbour town of Dartmouth in South Devon.  With its narrow streets, half timbered houses and stunning riverside setting, Dartmouth has long attracted holiday visitors.  The deepwater natural harbour and the meandering River Dart have ensured the town is a focal point for all manner of water-based activity.

For a small town Dartmouth has some fairly big historical connections – The Pilgrim Fathers, Sir Walter Raleigh, Sir Humphrey Gilbert, Agatha Christie – All have featured in the story of this beautiful town.  Take advantage of the tranquil countryside, walk the breath-taking South West Coast path, enjoy the area’s numerous beaches and indulge yourself with award-winning cuisine.

Salcombe, Devon
Salcombe is the southernmost town in Devon and occupies an idyllic location in the centre of the lush South Hams countryside.  Famous as a sailing centre, the town has long enjoyed a reputation as one of the more exclusive holiday destinations in the South West of England.

Located at the heart of the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty a holiday in Salcombe presents you with a wealth of opportunities.  Take advantage of the tranquil countryside, walk the breath-taking South West Coast path, enjoy the area’s numerous beaches and indulge yourself with award-winning cuisine.

Brixham, Devon
Brixham, one of the three towns that make-up Torbay, is a popular resort where its rich maritime history is constantly on show.  In the lee of the imposing Berry Head and famous for its Napoleonic connections the town is more reminiscent of nearby harbours such as Datmouth or Salcombe than it’s near neighbours Paignton & Torquay.

Brixham is famous as a fishing port and this trade continues to flourish with catches being landed daily. In the 1800’s as many as 250 vessels fished out of Brixham, from large trawlers to inshore boats, employing over 1,500 people.  Within the town there are plenty of cafes and quirky shops to be discovered.  You’ll also find plenty of traditional pubs where you can sample some local ales and locally produced wine.

One of the best ways to experience Brixham is to take one of the many boat trips across the bay or around to Dartmouth. You’ll learn plenty about the rich heritage and history of the area.  Brixham is also blessed with some amazing coastal scenery.  Why not enjoy a coastal walk and venture inland through the lush Devon countryside.  No visit would be complete without a climb to the cliff-top nature reserve of Berry Head, past Breakwater Beach and Shoalstone seawater pool.

Torquay, Devon
Torquay has been one of the UK ’s top destinations for coastal holidays since Victorian Times. The town nestles among seven green hills, from where grand Victorian villas and terraces look out over Torbay.  This Devon town was the birthplace and home of internationally- renowned crime writer Agatha Christie, and is steeped in history, from the historic caves of Kents Cavern, to the World War II slipways at Beacon Quay.

Torquay’s waterfront is the natural focus for the town. The seafront gardens, palm-lined promenade and harbour with its marina conjure up images of the South of France.  There are plenty of pavement cafes, pubs, restaurants and nightlife in the town with good quality shops and a host of attractions to suit every interest.

Further afield there are 22 miles of coastline, cliffs, coves and beaches and some of the best walks in the South West of England. Opportunities abound for all manner of watersports -surfing, swimming, diving, sailing, angling and more.

The natural crescent shape of the bay ensure stunning views can be seen over the English Channel, along the 40 miles of Lyme Bay to Portland Bill or inland towards the Tors of Dartmoor.  Torquay is also an ideal base from which to visit Dartmouth , Totnes, Exeter and Plymouth.

Newquay, Cornwall
Newquay has firmly established itself as the centre of the UK surfing scene over recent years.  And if you’re looking for a beach holiday with the opportunity to catch some waves then Newquay should be your first choice of destination with a huge choice of holiday cottages and apartments available.

However, there’s also much more to the town and the surrounding area than surfboards, VWs and sand.  Some of the many activities locally include walking the stunning south west coastpath, cycling, golf, horse-riding, bowling, tennis, fishing and abseiling.  There’s also the almost obligatory ‘extreme sports’ – surfing, kite surfing, wakeboarding, diving, power kiting, windsurfing and more.

The coastline here represents an amazing mix of beautiful sandy beaches pounded by Atlantic breakers and rock pools teeming with marine life.  You’ll also find soaring cliffs with magnificent views, delightful gardens for tranquil strolls and plenty of indoor attractions to keep you busy.

Find your ideal romantic holiday cottage at one of the following websites:

Torquay Holiday Cottages | Brixham Holiday Cottages | Dartmouth Holiday Cottages | Newquay Holiday Cottages Provence Holiday Cottages

Torquay Harbour

Torquay has been one of the UK ’s top destinations for coastal holidays since Victorian Times.  The town nestles among seven green hills, from where grand Victorian villas and terraces look out over Torbay.  This Devon town was the birthplace and home of internationally- renowned crime writer Agatha Christie, and is steeped in history, from the historic caves of Kents Cavern, to the World War II slipways at Beacon Quay.

Torquay’s waterfront is the natural focus for the town. The seafront gardens, palm-lined promenade and harbour with its marina conjure up images of the South of France.  There are plenty of pavement cafes, pubs, restaurants and nightlife in the town with good quality shops and a host of attractions to suit every interest.

Further afield there are 22 miles of coastline, cliffs, coves and beaches and some of the best walks in the South West of England. Opportunities abound for all manner of watersports -surfing, swimming, diving, sailing, angling and more.  The natural crescent shape of the bay ensure stunning views can be seen over the English Channel, along the 40 miles of Lyme Bay to Portland Bill or inland towards the Tors of Dartmoor.

Torquay is also an ideal base from which to visit Dartmouth , Totnes, Exeter and Plymouth.

Here are some of the many attractions on offer in Torquay:

Living Coasts – Living Coasts offers visitors the chance to take a journey around the coastlines of the world without leaving Devon! With a fascinating variety of coastal creatures from penguins and seals to colourful puffins and sea ducks, Living Coasts gives you a chance to get close to some of the world’s most elusive creatures. Underwater viewing areas enable you to see seals and diving birds in their element.

Agatha Christie – It’s not just famous landmarks you can visit in Torquay. One of the town’s most famous residents, Agatha Christie is one of the most successful crime writers ever. Tours of locations that inspired this extraordinary woman are available throughout the year, including the Grand Hotel, Princess Gardens and the Pavillion. The tours are a wonderful way to transport yourself back to another era.

Torre Abbey – Torre Abbey is the oldest building in Torquay and has a history spanning over 800 years. Once the most important abbey of its kind in England, visitors can now explore the most ancient parts of the building and could even encounter the abbey’s most famous ghost, ‘The Spanish Lady’. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the abbey is a fascinating place to visit, particularly for history buffs.

Kents Cavern – Uncovered by Victorian archaeologists, Kents Cavern is the most important Stone Age cave in Britain. The two million-year-old caves offer visitors a chance to explore some of the most unique history about our ancient ancestors. Easily accessible (although some areas are not accessible for wheelchair users), the cavern is an underground adventure that will enthrall young and old visitors alike.

Bygones Victorian Museum – Bygones Museum gives visitors a glimpse into Victorian and Edwardian Britain, with a complete Victorian street scene and a working model railway charting the rise of British engineering and steam railways. There is also a WW1 trench and a WW2 Anderson Shelter, giving younger visitors a glimpse of wartime life for their grandparents and great-grandparents. The children’s ‘Fantasyland’ is also a stunning attraction for younger visitors.

Princess Theatre – The Princess Theatre is situated on the seafront, overlooking the marina. The theatre hosts a variety of shows all year round, from comedians and opera to ballet and West End musicals. The theatre’s superb café-bar has a panoramic views across the bay and offers a superb selection of meals, beverages and a fully licenced bar. A visit to the Princess Theatre is a perfect evening out, whatever the weather.

Quaywest Water Park – Located at Goodrington Sands, Quaywest Water Park is a wet and wild attraction for anyone who loves messing about in the water. The park is very child-friendly, with toddler play areas as well as more adventurous slides and water features for older children. Group bookings can be catered for and the park offers a great, fun day out for the entire family.

Torquay Museum -  Torquay Museum is one of the oldest museums in Devon, and runs exhibits that include both local history and history from around the world. Torquay has produced many explorers, and their journeys across the Antarctic to the Brazilian rainforests are charted in interactive exhibitions and displays.

Babbacombe Model Village – The world in miniature, Babbacombe Model Village gives visitors a unique perspective on their world. The village recreates thousands of miniature buildings, people and vehicles, showing Britain’s history in a new and exciting way. Perfect for children, the Village runs a wide variety of events and attractions throughout the year.

Brixham Belle Pleasure Cruises -  As the sea is such an important influence on this area, why not spend a day aboard the Torbay Belle, cruising the coast of the English Riviera? The Belle can cater for up to 250 people and runs day or evening trips along the stunning coastline of the bay. There are two spacious bars on board and the ship can even cater for wedding receptions. Torquay is regarded as one of the jewels of English coastal resorts.

The sheer range and variety of attractions and things to do and see in the region will keep even the most high-octane visitors amused and entertained.

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