Palm trees, sandy beaches and sunny blue skies… That’s what most of us picture when we think of the Riviera, and a visit to Torbay will not disappoint. The delightful towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham make up this region and each have plenty to offer in their own right. Our tour celebrates the best of this area with its breathtaking views and fresh local food. We have put together an itinerary of what we believe are some must-see destinations, although with so much on offer, this is not an exhaustive list. As always, we can tailor the day around your interests.

Tour Highlights:

• Coleton Fishacre - owned by the National Trust, it was the 1920’s country retreat of the D’Orly Carte family, owners of London’s Savoy Hotel. Its RHS-accredited gardens include exotic plants and slope down to the coast, offering breathtaking views across the water

• Brixham - home to the world-famous fish market. For any seafood lovers, this would be a great place to enjoy a spot of lunch

• Broadsands beach - from here we can take a stroll to the secluded beach of Elberry Cove. Why not bring your swimsuit and we can enjoy a picnic

• Cockington - this Anglo-Saxon village with its thatched cottages and miles of countryside walks is quintessentially English - so why not make this your cream tea spot?

• Promenade of Torquay - we can amble along the shoreline, past the pier and stunning harbour to Beacon Quay, where one of the first women-only bathing beaches can be found

• Site of the Gleneagles Hotel - for Fawlty Towers lovers out there. Take your picture next to the blue plaque. On certain days, there is a designated Fawlty Towers tour, run by English Riviera Walking Tours

• Babbacombe Cliff Railway - this funicular railway transports you to the red sandy beach of Oddicombe. Fun and educational Kayaking tours are available from here

With so much choice, you might wish to consider extending your day or even turning it into two days.

Diet be Damned!

Dartmouth offers plenty of choice, from the Royal Castle overlooking the water, to the hole-in-the-wall Crab Shell, serving freshly made sandwiches to take away and share with the seagulls! The Berry Head Hotel, perched on the edge of Brixham, with long-reaching sea views, offers a full menu. Perhaps you might enjoy a dip in Shoalstone seawater pool beforehand! You cannot get much closer to the sea than the Cary Arms, and if you're lucky, you might spot a seal or two.

That Riviera Touch!

Mix it Up!

• Paignton Heritage Station on the Dartmouth Steam Railway to Kingswear - this 7-mile route passes alongside Broadsands beach with its colourful beach huts before arriving in the pretty town of Kingswear

• Dartmouth - from Kingswear by ferry, visit this picturesque town packed full of independent shops and cafes

• Greenway - a stunning Georgian mansion perched above the River Dart - owned by the National Trust and the holiday home of Agatha Christie

• Kent's Cavern - a fascinating labyrinth of caves with rocks dating back 400 million years