About Torquay

Torquay is often referred to as the 'Queen of the Riviera' and it is here the Riviera ideal really comes to life. A popular destination for coastal holidays since Victorian times, Torquay is steeped in history such as the awe-inspiring caves of Kents Cavern. With so much culture, history and an amazing nine beaches to choose from, Torquay really is the place to relax on holiday.

Torquay is noted for its situation among seven hills, from where grand Victorian villas and terraces gaze out to sea. Palm lined promenades lead to the lively harbour-side and marina, where pavement cafes and boutique shops abound in addition to a range of restaurants.

In the shape of a horseshoe and framing the beautiful body of water known as Torbay, the English Riviera and her towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham face the south-east, thus making it a perfect sun trap.

The micro-climate which the English Riviera is famous for is explained by the heights of Dartmoor, framing the area immediately to the North West, protecting the resort from the prevailing winds and combining with the Gulf Stream, which bring the warm waters to our doorstep. The end result is a climate that is much milder than the rest of the UK. The winters are mild and short, giving way to the flower filled warmth of an early spring. Summer really does seem to linger, with October and November very often mild enough to enjoy outdoor activities.

Photos

Torquay is probably best described in pictures. Below we have included some popular sights - click on any image to take a closer look.

  • Town dock
  • Babbacombe
  • Deck chairs
  • Pavillion
  • Abbey sands
  • Millennium bridge
  • Deck chairs
  • Deck chairs
  • Deck chairs

Comments

Here are some of the recent comments we have received from guests who have mentioned Torquay and the surrounding area. To read more, or to write you own comment please take a look at our guest comments page.

We stayed at the Vomero Holiday Apartments, Torquay. Excellent!!!

16 August 2009

We have just returned home from a weeks stay at the Vomero Holiday apartments in beautiful Torquay, Devon. The apartment was outstanding, it was so clean, and comfortable, and had everything you could need.

The whole Villa really had the "WOW" factor, as soon as we walked through the door, over the highly polished brass door step you could tell the owners were very caring. With flowers in the hall, and even upstairs. It is so grand yet with a homely atmosphere. There is a wonderful huge staircase, and you could just imagine all the important people who must have walked down those stairs in the past. You have just got to see it to believe it.

John and Angela are the owners, they live in the property, so if you need anything or want to know anything they are on hand to help. They are really lovely people, and welcome you as soon as you get there. John showed us to our room, but first telling us where everything was ie Dvds, pool table, picnic chairs to borrow etc. Toys etc for children. Also a computer to use anytime. Then he showed us to our apartment and the view was brilliant. We were both very taken aback.

So our first visit to Torquay started off and carried on the same way all week, It was fantastic. We went to Paignton, Brixham, Babbacombe, Cockington and loads of other places too and loved them all. We cannot wait to go again next year, and my husband says he is getting a fishing rod to go beach casting, while I sun bathe. There is so much to see and do for all ages. We have really fell in love with Torquay and the surrounding areas. I hope this review will help others to find the English Riviera alot quicker than we did, its only took us 36 years before finding it. Now you will not keep us away.

Labradorsandducks on Trip Advisor
Swadincote, Derbyshire

Events and attractions

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