English Riviera
TORQUAY, PAIGNTON & BRIXHAM – THE ENGLISH RIVIERA
Nestled proudly in a sheltered bay on the rugged south west coast and surrounded by Devon’s magnificent countryside, The English Riviera has been one of Europe’s most popular destinations since the late 18th century. At that time, visitors remarked on the 22 miles of breathtaking coastal landscape and beautiful beaches, attributes which continue to attract discerning holidaymakers to the area today.
Famed for its palm trees and lush vegetation, the area is blessed with its very own micro-climate which means that visitors can be assured of agreeable weather throughout the year. Short, mild winters give way to long, balmy summers, allowing the area’s sub-tropical plant life to flourish.
Three resort towns, each with a unique identity, make up the glamorous international holiday destination that is the English Riviera. There’s Torquay, the busy cosmopolitan resort and a favourite amongst affluent jet set and the fun-loving traveller alike. The stylish Harbourside area has developed into a real Riviera café culture, that is complimented by a glitzy marina, lively nightlife and specialist shopping opportunities.
Then there’s Paignton, the perfect family holiday town boasting unrivalled stretches of sandy beaches and endless activities for the young and young at heart. Finally, Brixham offers a more sedate option and generations have fallen in love with this quaint attractive port and working harbour, with it’s colourful fishing cottages and quaint winding streets.
There are plenty of activities in the area to pack endless days, should you be able to drag yourselves away from the 18 stunning beaches for a few hours. Torbay has an exciting reputation as a world-class water sports destination, while families will enjoy getting wet and going wild at our waterslide park and indoor leisure complex, complete with a wave pool..
Children won’t want to miss the brand-new pirate-themed crazy golf course or indeed an afternoon of ten-pin bowling followed by an evening at multiplex cinema. Visitors of all ages will be enthralled by the award-winning Kent’s Cavern and Babbacombe Model Village, while Living Coasts and Occombe Farm join Paignton Zoo as must-sees for animal lovers. Variety is also very much alive on the English Riviera and our six theatres offer something to suit every palate of the entertainment spectrum.
From the rich harvest of the sea to local sourced farm produce, the area enjoys a rich gastronomic heritage. Whether you want to enjoy open-wrapped fish and chips on the Harbourside or a Michelin starred restaurant, your appetite will be satisfied. Of course, no visit to the English Riviera would be complete without a traditional Devonshire Cream Tea, which are naturally low-calorie (honest…).
The more romantic may like to drift back into the style and opulence of the jazz age, as you follow in the footsteps of the Queen Of Crime along the Agatha Christie Mile. Torquay’s most famous former resident remains the world’s most published novelists and amateur sleuths will enjoy unravelling the inspirations behind her unrivalled success.
Breathtaking coastal walks are a perfect way to discover the Bay’s natural beauty and hidden treasures. Just a short amble will reveal flaura and fauna in over 2,000 acres of country parks and gardens, including 11 sites of special scientific interest. There’s even an under-water nature reserve.
The English Riviera makes a great year-round destination and one you are sure to fall in love with. Send for your English Riviera Guide at www.englishriviera.co.uk and we hope to see you soon.
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