Ripples of relaxation on England’s ‘Riviera’

We’ve arrived on a Daish’s Holidays trip from our hotel in Torquay and still have the upmarket Dartmouth in store as we explore a section of Devon’s coast in old-fashioned comfort on a pre-arranged coach journey.

Street food and alternative gift stores abound as I’m taken in by the new age vibe and make an impulse out of character purchase of Tarot cards – much to the surprise and bewilderment of my family and indeed myself.

It’s a contrast to Torquay – part of the 22-mile English Riviera where stylish yachts and designer clad holidaymakers fill the busy harbour.

There, a short walk from the Blue Flag beaches and palm tree lined front, we had begun our stay at The Devonshire – a beautiful 1900's building set on a hill overlooking the Tor Bay.

It’s one of Daish’s ten hotels across the UK – popular with senior holiday makers who can catch one of 25 luxury coaches to transport guests in comfort from a number of pick up points across the UK.

The chain is reporting a growing family audience keen to forgo planning the best motorway route, day trips, restaurants, entertainment and 90 million other considerations to try and create some lasting memories on holiday – and leaving it in the hands of some local experts.

Holidays include travel (by coach, self-drive is available) en-suite accommodation, breakfast and a three-course dinner and evening entertainment.

With the practicalities of our break sorted I’m free to adopt a more laissez faire approach and start to picture myself returning refreshed and practised in the mystical arts. An exploration of nearby Babbacombe with its funicular railway and hidden beach waterfall (also considered part of the Riviera along with Paignton and Brixham) couldn’t have been seen in the cards though along with the amount I’ve enjoyed a stress free trip of discovery. Visit www.daishs.com and www.daishs.com/torquay for more information.