Luxury Winter North Devon Escape

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service to the 4-star Saunton Sands Hotel and Spa. Enjoy a pre-dinner drink in the lounge while you take in the stunning views of the coast.

Today, we visit Bideford, the historic port town located on the River Torridge. Once Britain’s third largest port and while it still has maritime connections, these days, it is more widely known as being a thriving shopping centre, with a historic Pannier Market. We will spend some free time for you to explore the town and take in the river views.

We will then visit Dartington Crystal, one of North Devon's main exports and one of the UK’s main glass manufacturers. You will enjoy a tour of the site, learn about the history and the techniques of making the glass, and get to watch the process in person. There will be a chance to pick up some gifts to take home.

We will return to the hotel early afternoon – take advantage of the hotel’s excellent facilities or enjoy a walk along the sweeping Saunton Sands.

This morning, we enjoy a trip to the two twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth, which are interconnected by a funicular Cliff Railway. Lynmouth lays on the base, with plenty of quirky shops and cafés to see, before taking the trip up via the railway to Lynton and discovering more splendid local gems.

We return to the hotel for the afternoon – soak up the views from the lounge and garden terrace, or enjoy an indulgent treatment in the thermal spa (extra charges may apply, please pay locally.)

Today, we enjoy a trip to Ilfracombe. With its pastel-coloured houses, the picturesque harbour is the perfect place for a stroll. The town also has a reputation as a culinary and cultural hub and is a haven for foodies, so why not sample some of the area’s finest produce? Devon crab is a popular snack, or for those with a sweeter tooth, try Rolys Fudge or a traditional Devon Cream Tea.

We return to the hotel and there is time to relax before dinner.

After breakfast, we start the journey home.