Torquay Backpackers

A holiday resort without the 'tack'! If you are looking for arcades and piers you may be disappointed! Victorian architecture still dominates the town dating back to when the resort was born.

On the water:
Famous as a water sports mecca you can do almost anything on the water. That is "anything" that doesn't require wave! Surfers may have to wait a few months for some freak weather! There is ample opportunity to sail, wind surf, dive, water ski, jet ski, canoe or ride one of those inflatable banana things. You can go out on a fishing boat, take a trip up the River Dart, see dolphins under a glass bottomed boat or view the sunset and the Torquay lights on an evening cruise.

Along the path:

For those who prefer dry land, take a walk along the SW coastal path. Within minutes of the harbour you will be walking along cliff tops with views over the whole Bay. Further on the path descends into lushly vegetated areas more reminiscent of the tropics than a British woodland. The path links beaches from the golden Abbey Sands to secret shingle coves where the famous red cliffs of Devon plunge into the turquoise waters. For swimmers, the sea is warm (by British standards) and so safe that a midnight dip in the phosporescence is an experience not to be missed!

Historically speaking:
Take a step back in time at Cockington Village where thatch, parkland, and horse drawn carriages combine to create a scene worthy of a period drama.

DARTMOOR NATIONAL PARK
15 miles inland from Torquay, there lies one of the most magical locations in the country. Torr dotted open moorland contrasts with mossy river valleys to create a very beautiful landscape. The famous Dartmoor ponies are easy to spot. The dartmoor pixies are not but they will probably see you! By night the moor is a very spooky place. There is barely a corner of Dartmoor that doesn't lay claim to a ghost or a myth. When the mist rolls in unannounced, beware The Hound of the Baskervilles that preys out lonely travellers.

NOCTURNAL ACTIVITES
Torquay is famous for its live music scene and the local bands are certainly worth a listen. The Piazza or the Hot Rock and Blues Bar are a good starting point. If you prefer a quieter pub try The Pickwick (always a friendly welcome) or The Hole in the Wall (the oldest pub in Torquay). For those who like DJs and fun pubs, head to the harbour.

There are clubs to suit all from the famous pumping Monastry to the well hidden Hideaway which attracts a curious concoction of characters on a Friday night. There is a thriving gay scene in Torquay best experienced at Rockys or Ibiza on the Harbour.

On the restaurant scene there is a restaurant to suit every taste and pocket.