Grand Tour of the West Country

Day 1

We head south this morning to visit historic Gloucester before a one-night stay in Somerset.

Day 2

After breakfast, we cross into Devon with a visit to Torquay, the jewel of the English Riviera. We continue towards the Dartmoor National Park and onto Buckfast Abbey, the home of a Benedictine Monk community. Tonight, we travel to Plymouth, where we'll stay for three nights.

Day 3

We start the day with a cruise around Plymouth's famous harbour, from which you will take in Plymouth Hoe, Drake's Island and one of the largest Naval Dockyards in Western Europe. Afterwards, you'll have a chance to explore maritime Plymouth on dry land, where we recommend exploring the Barbican and the iconic Smeaton's Tower lighthouse.

Day 4

Today, we enter Cornwall for the first time to board the Looe Valley Line Railway. Take in beautiful views of the picturesque valley and glorious estuary as we travel to Looe; this charming resort prides itself on its soft, golden beaches, fresh fish and a stunning harbour.

Day 5

We head deeper into the heart of Cornwall with a visit to the incredible Eden Project. Home to the largest indoor rainforest in the world, this former clay pit is a botanist's dream. From here, we travel to the ancient smuggler's port of Mevagissey; this Cornish gem is where you can try traditional Cornish Pasties or cream teas (just remember to spread your jam first). We later check into our next hotel in Falmouth for two nights.

Day 6

Today's itinerary includes visits to two jewels of the West Country crown - St Michael's Mount and St Ives. Linked to the mainland by a causeway, St Michael's Mount is a tidal island and is home to a unique village and a legendary castle. In St. Ives, why not wander the cobbled streets or explore independent shops and galleries of local artists?

Day 7

This morning, enjoy a leisurely start to explore fantastic Falmouth, famous for its fascinating maritime heritage and home of the National Maritime Museum. We depart north, travelling through beautiful Bodmin Moor, stopping in at the Jamaica Inn along the way. Made world-famous by Daphne du Maurier, Cornwall's most notorious smugglers' inn is now home to a museum and collection focusing on the famous author. We later arrive in Bideford for our final two nights.

Day 8

Today's first visit is to the UK's only remaining glass factory, Dartington Crystal for a fascinating tour of the factory. We later head to picturesque Clovelly, an ancient fishing village once owned by the Queen of England.Don't forget to say hello to the village's working donkeys!

Day 9

We bid the West Country a fond farewell.

B=Breakfast, D=Dinner