A Brit and A Southerner

Value of Vacation – How Much Is Travel Worth to You?

Travel Tips

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Aug 12, 2019

Value of Vacation – How Much Is Travel Worth to You?

“Travel is never a matter of money but of courage” (Paulo Coelho)…for those of you that love traveling the world and are able to experience it, this quote is likely near and dear to your heart. But unfortunately, this is not the case with many Americans. Did you know that 49 percent of working Americans would give up paid vacation time in exchange for a salary increase? It’s a stark reality but one of many interesting facts raised in a recent annual Vacation Confidence Index survey by Allianz Global Assistance. By the end of this post, hopefully you will be able to answer this question yourself – how much do you place on the value of vacation?

Americans Waste Vacation Days

When I started reading Allianz’s survey, many of the facts came as no surprise given that Americans have a tendency to “waste” vacation days on an annual basis. In 2015, according to US Travel Association, Americans wasted a staggering 658 million vacation days. Has the trend diminished over recent years? Unfortunately not! 2016 saw this number slightly increase to 662 million, while 2017 continued the upward trend to 705 million.

So, when I noticed in Allianz’s article that half of Americans would rather see an increase in their salary, it’s honestly no surprise. There are really two ways you can look at this – Americans are (or at least consider themselves) to be underpaid OR there is a distinctive trend of Americans preferring to stay at home and leave the travel to citizens of other countries. It’s certainly a stereotype that many associate with Americans and unfortunately, these statistics are not doing any favors to change this opinion.

Millennials Want Unlimited Vacation Time

Despite the negative statistic (or positive if you are in the market for getting an increased salary at work)…it’s not all doom and gloom as this survey highlights a number of encouraging statistics that may see the trend changing in years to come! If you walked into work tomorrow and your boss offered you the incentive of being able to take unlimited vacation time whenever you wanted…what would you say? Your immediate response would likely be yes but if he/she then indicated you had to give up a portion of your paycheck, would your response change?

According to Allianz’s Vacation Confidence Index survey, one in three (34 percent) would give up a portion of their paycheck to have unlimited vacation – YEAH THAT’S WHAT WE ARE TALKING ABOUT! I guess it’s no surprise to also hear that Millennials are even more likely (41 percent) to do this. If you love travel, you will realize that it’s not actually the cost of traveling that prevents you from doing it, it’s having enough time to explore the world!

Finding the Balance Between Work and Vacation

What is most interesting about this statistic is that Millennials are now the most likely to give up a portion of their paycheck for unlimited vacation time but in the same token, this same group would give up paid vacation time for an increase in their salary!

What can we establish from this dataset? Well, given that we fit perfectly into this category, let’s use our personal opinions on this topic. We have been very fortunate over the last 8 years to establish our travel brand, while at the same time maintaining full-time jobs at Arkansas State University. Flexibility and professional success (as identified in the Allianz survey) are undoubtedly key components but I would also add that being able to stay connected 24/7 provides an opportunity that perhaps previous generations have never had.

We are incredibly fortunate to be in positions that honestly, we can do most things from wherever we are in the world. When you are willing to show your employer that you are willing to respond to an e-mail, run a report or resolve an issue when you are technically “on vacation” this adds so much value to the work vacation balance.

Heather frequently reminds me that when we are on vacation we should leave work at home but honestly, I truly feel that we are able to be so successful because we have found that perfect balance of being able to leave our day jobs yet still assist whenever needed when we are on the road. The benefit of having an international travel sim card such as that offered by KnowRoaming is a great way to stay connected wherever you are in the world.

Allianz Vacation Confidence Index Survey

Take a look at the following infographic for details on the recent survey that Allianz conducted. Which of these categories do you consider yourself to be part of? Do you agree that there is a vast difference in opinion between Millennials, Baby Boomers, Generation X etc?

Perhaps after reading this post and checking out more of the statistics from the Vacation Confidence Index survey, you will be left with many more unanswered questions. The concept of working remotely while you are traveling, how much should you stay “connected” with your job when you are on vacation and whether there is really a true work/vacation balance are topics that you could easily write another 1000 word post on!

What is the Value of Vacation for You?

Ask yourself the following questions:

What salary would you have to receive from your employer in order to have ZERO time off (paid or unpaid)?
What salary would you accept in order to be able to take vacation whenever you want (unlimited)?
What is most important to you – salary or vacation?
How do you use vacation days – do you travel or do you prefer staycations?

Each of the above questions will collectively lead you to an answer on exactly how you determine the value of vacation. Everyone will have very different answers and that’s ok – it’s about finding the happy medium and “balance”. The Allianz Vacation Confidence Index survey primarily posed the first two above questions but we believe that you should dig even deeper to determine how you intend on using vacation.

If you are intending on staying at home and relaxing, I would argue there is a likelihood the trend would be folks that do this would be more apt to taking a pay raise and losing vacation days. How materialistic are you? Do you need to have the latest tech products? If yes, it sounds like salary is a more important factor but every individual will have a different pendulum to determine which is key for them!

So the million dollar question, what is the value of vacation for you? Our desire to explore the world and experience diverse cultures means that we are obviously a little biased and place a strong emphasis on being able to travel. However, we are always intrigued to hear the flip side to this and establish why others feel differently. Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Summary

For the avid travelers reading this post, I can certainly understand how the thought of being able to travel the world more frequently is going to be the most appealing factor. But as with all stories, there are two sides that are worth hearing and it’s only fair to learn and try to understand why there is such a large percentage of Americans that would be willing to forfeit paid time-off in order to see an increase in their salary.

Many people have an inherent fear of traveling, most notably because of the stereotypes that are attached to many places (including USA) around the world. From threats of terrorism to the potential to pick up diseases on the road, there is a lot of negative media that understandably encourages many people to stay at home. Our opinion has always been that you are just as safe (if not safer) in most places across the globe and as long as you carry international travel insurance, such as the amazing service offered by Allianz, you can travel with a peace of mind knowing that you are covered for any issues that may occur.

I am intrigued to see how these trends change over the next few years – will we see a continued increase in these statistics or will younger generations have a stronger tendency to travel or want to make more money? Only time will tell!

This post is sponsored by Allianz Global Assistance (AGA Service Company) and we have received financial compensation. As always, all thoughts and opinions shared in this post are our own.

Colorado National Monument – Best Things to See in One Day

Colorado

Chris Boothman

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Aug 5, 2019

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Colorado National Monument – Best Things to See in One Day

From the Rocky Mountains to the Mile High City, Colorado is home to a plethora of amazing attractions but yet there are still many that are frequently left in the radar because of the iconic aforementioned places that attract so much attention. One of these lesser-known locations we would argue is the Colorado National Monument, located in the western half of the state close to the state line with Utah and in the city of Grand Junction. Colorado National Monument may not be the first place you think about visiting when considering a trip to the “Centennial State” but after reading this post, we are convinced that this will likely change!

Whether you are exploring Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks or taking a road trip from Denver to Moab to explore everything in between, Colorado National Monument is located in the perfect spot to explore what I consider to be a real hidden gem. Magical panoramic landscapes are not uncommon to various areas of Colorado but when you stumble across an area that could quite easily be considered the fifth National Park in the state, you know you are experiencing a place of beauty.

Before visiting this area consisting of 23,000 acres of spectacular natural beauty, we had no idea what to expect and honestly only anticipated spending a short time exploring this “monument”. However, how wrong could we be? Let’s take a look at the journey we took and how our experience made us quickly fall in love with the Colorado National Monument.

How to Explore Colorado National Monument

As you approach the city of Grand Junction, it’s worth establishing how you intend on exploring Colorado National Monument. Dependent on whether you are an avid hiker, mountain bike aficionado or simply prefer to enjoy leisurely scenic drives through places of beauty, you are in luck because this area has something for all the above. For us, this was a slight detour from our final destination of Arches National Park in western Utah, so we only had a few hours to discover the inherent beauty of Colorado National Monument.

colorado national monument east entrance

For those of you intrigued by the thought of hiking some of the best trails in Colorado, there are definitely plenty to choose from. From easy to moderate to challenging, Colorado National Monument has something for every hiking standard. Devil’s Kitchen is perhaps one of the easiest but definitely one of the most spectacular. Serpent’s Trail is an enjoyable short hike with incredibly rewarding views at the end.

Here is a list of trails that you should consider adding to your itinerary if you have time:

No Thoroughfare Canyon – Moderately Difficult Hike
Ute Canyon – Moderately Difficult Hike
Coke Ovens – Easy Hike
Serpent’s Trail – Easy Hike
Devil’s Kitchen – Easy Hike

Of course, there is no better way to explore any destination that on foot but the reality is, unless you are planning on spending several days in this part of Colorado, time will likely be against you and so exploring via the scenic drive is perhaps the best way to experience the very best things to see in Colorado National Monument.

rim rock drive colorado national monument

Scenic Drive Route

The historic Rim Rock Drive, one of highlight scenic drives anywhere in the United States, takes you through the heart of Colorado National Monument and is definitely one of the best drives we have taken anywhere in the world. There are two entrances to this drive – the East entrance at Grand Junction and the West entrance at Fruita. Regardless of which entrance you enter, you will immediately see the breathtaking beauty that we will describe through the rest of this post.

Many of the most spectacular scenic drives that we have taken are through national parks and they generally start with a fairly “normal” landscape and gradually reach a climax of spectacular beauty. As mentioned, Colorado National Monument bypasses all of the normality and you are immediately faced with the sight of Redrock canyons and other natural attractions.

colorado national monument rim rock drive

Frequently renowned as one of the “crookedest roads in the world” with 16 switchbacks along the 23 miles, Rim Rock Drive is undoubtedly an experience you won’t forget. I cannot believe we almost bypassed this experience but so glad that we stumbled across this location.

Our journey started at the East entrance close to Grand Junction. The winding roadway meanders along an almost unbelievable route on the rim of Monument Canyon. For those of you driving between Grand Junction and Fruita, forget all about the interstate and take this drive…you won’t regret it! Here are some of the highlight attractions we saw throughout the 23-mile stretch of road.

Serpents Trail

Although your eyes will be wandering around the epic scenery as you start the drive through Colorado National Monument, it won’t be long before you are ready to venture out of your vehicle and take a short hike along Serpents Trail. This trail measures 3.4 miles but there are several options to take a much shorter walk if you are focused solely on admiring the epic scenery overlooking the canyon.

Popular for being a haven for a myriad of wildflowers, Serpents Trail is perhaps the best trail for every standard of hiker because you have the opportunity to admire breathtaking views across Grand Junction.

A word of warning, be careful along this trail because there is nothing to protect you from the overlooks except for your own common sense. There is one particular spot if you are willing to climb the rocks where you can peer over the edge and look back down on the road that winds through. This is not the best spot for anyone with a fear of heights but if you can overcome that, it’s a pretty incredible view.

Red Canyon Overlook

If you are intrigued by geology and erosion, the overlook at Red Canyon will be a spot you won’t want to leave. Take the short stroll down to the rock wall overlook and admire the incredible scene from the head of Red Canyon through the valley to Grand Junction.

As you can peer over the edge of the overlook, take a moment to notice how erosion has taken effect on this landscape over thousands of years. To one side, vertical cliffs are still standing while on the opposite side, it’s much shallower with cliffs having eroded away over the years.

red canyon overlook colorado national monument

For those interested in hiking in Red Canyon, this is one of the more challenging in Colorado National Monument. With steep cliffs surrounding the head, you may find it easier to start lower down and try and climb into the heart of the canyon. A word of caution, this is likely only suitable for the more adventurous hikers.

Fallen Rock Overlook

A short drive from Red Canyon will lead you to another iconic landmark – Fallen Rock! Along with nearby Ute Canyon Overlook and Red Canyon, this trio of attractions is a popular spot for advanced hikers but are equally spectacular viewed from Rim Rock Drive. Although the overlook only has a small parking lot for seven or eight vehicles, those fortunate to find a spot will enjoy amazing views across the canyon.

Obviously, the reference to a “fallen rock” is likely why you choose to visit this location and so you are likely intrigued to hear about the story of this geological phenomenon.

Fallen Rock was located on the cliff above and was a large mass of Wingate sandstone that eventually fell after erosion took place in the softer lower levels at the base of the cliff. But the beauty of this overlook, just like many of the other locations along this drive, will leave you focused on so much more than just a single rock.

Ute Canyon Overlook

Ute Canyon is worth visiting if you are ready to hop out of your vehicle and take a short 0.1-mile hike through a juniper woodland to a fenced overlook above a 300-foot vertical cliff. This viewpoint looks directly into the west arm of Ute Canyon while you can also catch a glimpse of Fallen Rock in the distance.

You could be forgiven for thinking that many of these overlooks will blend together because I 100% attest that each and everyone is breathtaking. But the inherent beauty of Colorado National Monument is that there is something unique that helps distinguish each landmark and Ute Canyon is no different. You will notice as you peer down through the canyon that this has much more woodland than any of the aforementioned overlooks.

Highland View Overlook

Throughout the road trip along Rim Rock Drive, you will climb to over 6,500 feet and there are several spots that provide epic panoramic landscapes across the whole of Colorado National Monument. One of the highest overlooks is at Highland View above Monument Canyon and only 1/2 mile north of the second-highest point along this drive at 6,593 feet. The overlook is guarded by a semi-circular stone wall so again, please be careful when trying to capture the perfect pictures.

Highland View is one of the popular spots among photographers to capture sunrise and sunset shots. In fact, all of Colorado National Monument is a photographer’s dream with such a plethora of different shades of red providing epic artistic beauty. Just a short distance from Highland View Overlook is Artists Palette but I would argue the whole of this landscape should be designated as such.

When it comes to panoramic scenery, there are not many spots along this scenic drive that offer more attractions than Highland View. From here, you can embrace the scenery featuring Monument Canyon’s iconic cliffs, the city of Grand Junction in the distance and of course, Grand Valley canyon with the Colorado River meandering through it.

highland view colorado national monument

Grand View

If you fell in love with Highland View, the short drive to Grand View will reward you with perhaps even more breathtaking scenery as you admire spacious vistas overlooking Monument Canyon, Independence Monument, and the incredible Grand Valley.

By now, you have probably established that the majority of overlooks throughout Colorado National Monument require plenty of care and attention, given the lack of secure fencing but you don’t need to worry about this at Grand View as there is a fenced overlook allowing even those with serious height phobia to enjoy this scenery.

Memories of Bryce Canyon came to mind as we peered out over Monument Canyon, identifying a plethora of gorgeous geologic formations such as the 450-feet high Independence Monument, Pipe Organ Spire, Organ Pipe Spire among many others.

For those of you interested in learning about the intricacies of this geological phenomena, there is an interpretative sign at the overlook offering an explanation of the various rock layers, how erosion has played such an integral role in shaping what you see in front of you and of course, the formations themselves.

Balanced Rock

Arches National Park may be home to the infamous “Balanced Rock” but visitors to Colorado National Monument have an opportunity to see Colorado’s counterpart – a 600-tonne boulder perched on top of a rock pedestal. For those of you entering the park from the West entrance at Fruita, this will likely be your first stop while those heading out will have fond memories thanks to this amazing natural attraction.

Located 2.7 miles from Saddlehorn Visitor Center, you cannot help but appreciate how nature has created such a unique formation. Whether it’s a matter of time before erosion continues to take its toll and Balanced Rock is no more is perhaps inevitable, but for now, visitors can enjoy this magical formation in all its glory.

balanced rock colorado national monument

This is another iconic spot for avid photographers to capture sunrise shots as the sun first meets Balanced Rock and creates an awe-inspiring view at the top of the bluffs overlooking the Colorado landscape.

Summary

Colorado National Monument has quickly become one of our favorite locations – albeit after only spending a few hours exploring this beautiful natural landscape. But as you can see from our experience, this is a place full of natural beauty, epic panoramic views and hiking trails that lead to incredible overlooks.

Driving through this landscape is definitely one of the best scenic drives anywhere in the United States (perhaps the world!) and although this is a pretty bold statement to make, I am sure after you visit here for the first time, you will likely have similar thoughts.

Have you visited Colorado National Monument? What other landscapes around the United States do you consider to be spectacular yet they haven’t quite reached the status of “National Park”? Share your thoughts below and as always, we are intrigued to learn about new places and new adventures that we can take!

Best Days Out in Devon Not to Be Missed This Year

England

Chris Boothman

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Jul 22, 2019

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Best Days Out in Devon Not to Be Missed This Year

When you think about taking day trips around the UK, it’s fair to say places such as London, the Cotswolds, Yorkshire Dales and Lake District will spring to mind. But there is something quite magical about South-West England that we would argue should entice visitors just as much as any of those aforementioned locations. For locals and visitors alike, experiencing the best days out in Devon will lead to a collection of amazing locations that may never have been on their radar but will likely lead to a return visit in the future.

We have been fortunate to visit the county of Devon on several occasions, exploring both the best things to do in South Devon and also heading to the north coast to explore the beautiful seaside resort of Ilfracombe. But the beauty of Devon is that there is so much more and we decided to put together a collection of what we think are the best days out in this part of England.

Whether you are visiting on holiday or live in the immediate vicinity, Devon is a county with pretty much everything. From the historic Buckfast Abbey to the gorgeous South-West coastal path in Ilfracombe that will immediately remind you of the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland, Devon offers perhaps the most eclectic blend of natural and man-made experiences that deserves to attract visitors from all across the globe.

Best Days Out in Devon

Let’s take a look at Devon’s best day trips, all of which you can reach within a maximum of 2-3 hours if you are staying in the county. For those in the neighboring counties of Somerset, Dorset and Cornwall, many of these will be feasible trips while further afield, there is easy accessibility to Devonshire towns from London and beyond thanks to the national and local train service.

Torquay
Babbacombe
Brixham
Dartmouth
Dartmoor
Ilfracombe
Dawlish
Plymouth
Cockington
Totnes/Buckfastleigh

If you are looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coast or perhaps explore one of the UK’s remaining active fishing ports, Devon is the place to visit. Although this is by no means an exhaustive lists of places worth visiting, this is certainly a great start to finding out why we have quickly fallen in love with this part of England.

A collection of vibrant coastal towns, quaint villages and nature’s finest can be found throughout Devon and the aforementioned locations offer a blend across this beautiful county.

Torquay

Let’s start with perhaps the most infamous location in Devon, the beautiful coastal town of Torquay located in the heart of the well-reputed region known as the English Riviera. Just a short drive from the city of Exeter, Torquay is the perfect town to visit regardless of your preference.

From an eclectic blend of high-street shops to the beautiful harbor home to a diverse array of high-value yachts, Torquay epitomizes everything there is to love about Devon if you are looking to enjoy the hustle and bustle of the county. Torre Abbey Museum and Living Coasts are two of the more popular attractions for all the family to enjoy but regardless of your taste, Torquay is a vibrant town with something for all ages to experience.

Hop on the local ferry that crosses the bay to the nearby coastal towns of Brixham, Teignmouth or Dartmouth, or take a stroll along the coast before arriving at Abbey Park to enjoy crown green bowling, pitch and putt golf or just relax on a beautiful summer’s day with your favorite ice cream. Remember, Devon is home to some of the best ice cream anywhere in the UK!

Babbacombe

Just a short drive from Torquay is the smaller town of Babbacombe but this is another seaside resort that is well worth visiting if you are ready to experience some of the best views in Devon. As you stroll along the promenade, you cannot help but fall in love with the spectacular panoramic views across the bay. When the sun is out, Babbacombe is perhaps the most breathtaking locations in South Devon to enjoy epic scenery (though I am sure a few other spots would argue otherwise).

The beauty of visiting Babbacombe is that there is plenty to do in a small area. Pay a visit to the iconic Babbacombe Model Village, frequently renowned as one of the best attractions for all the family to enjoy in the Torbay area.

A short walk from here will lead you to one of the best cafes in the area, the Cliff Railway Cafe. Grab a quick bite to eat before venturing down the historic railway to Oddicombe Beach. This funicular railway has been in operation since 1926 and is still a thriving attraction for visitors and locals alike.

After admiring the gorgeous bay, return to the summit before taking a walk along the prom and enjoying yet another delicious cafe – Babbacombe Bay Cafe. Offering some of the best food in Devon, this cafe has a diverse menu of breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea to choose from.

Brixham

When it comes to fishing, there are not many places in England that embrace this more than the South Devonshire town of Brixham. Whether you choose to visit Brixham by car or our preferred method of boat (via the Torquay to Brixham ferry option), you immediately notice the harbor that epitomizes everything there is to love about this town.

Watch local fishermen going about their day to day activities in order to find the “catch of the day” or hop on the iconic Golden Hind to take a tour of one of two full-sized replicas of Sir Francis Drake’s vessel. If you enjoy a little retail therapy, Brixham is home to a collection of local shops where you can find everything from produce to perfectly manicured crafts to Devon’s piece de resistance – fudge!

Berry Head National Nature Reserve is an internationally acclaimed heritage site and can be found at the southern tip of Tor Bay. Just a short walk from Brixham harbor, this is a great place to enjoy yet more epic views of the bay while also exploring history in the area.

Dartmouth

When you hear the term “English Riviera”, it’s a fair assumption that you will immediately think about the iconic French Riviera, with the gorgeous beaches, beautiful scenes across the Mediterranean and more. Although Devon’s equivalent is a little less appealing when it comes to the pristine sandy beaches, the quintessential town of Dartmouth offers a harbor area that is comparable to some of those iconic French ports.

A collection of gorgeous yachts, fishing vessels and more can be found docked inside Dartmouth harbor, waiting to venture along the River Dart or head out to sea. The quirky cobblestone streets that make up the heart and soul of Dartmouth are a historic reflection on this beautiful town. Embrace the history and heritage of the town by visiting the likes of Dartmouth Castle and the Brittania Naval College.

Dartmouth is another location that can be reached either by car or the more intriguing route via the car ferry. It’s on this ferry where you can truly appreciate the beauty of the harbor as you approach the town and admire the breathtaking scene surrounding it.

Dartmoor

As we established earlier, Devon offers an eclectic blend of day trip options, including the ability to get away from the hustle and bustle of city (or even town) life by visiting places such as Dartmoor National Park. If you love hiking, exploring waterfalls and discovering historic hidden gems, there are not many places more spectacular than Dartmoor.

With wild, open moorlands and river valleys waiting to be explored, Dartmoor is home to a diverse population of wildlife that is every nature photographer’s paradise. At 368 square miles, there is a lot to see in Dartmoor, so whether you are an avid hiker ready to hit some of the best trails in South-West England or simply ready to explore some iconic spots across this national park, we strongly recommend spending some time in one of the Visitor’s Centers to learn all about this beautiful paradise.

Walking, cycling, canoeing, climbing, camping and even geocaching are all activities that you will enjoy in Dartmoor National Park. The beauty of this region is that even though you may feel like you are away from most civilization, the reality is that you are just a short drive from nearby towns such as Torquay, Plymouth and Exeter. It’s the perfect location to enjoy a day trip to explore the inherent beauty of Devon’s gateway to nature!

Ilfracombe

Let’s venture to the north coast of Devon to explore the beautiful coastal town of Ilfracombe. Although we are focusing most of our attention on South Devon, this should take nothing away from the beauty throughout the northern half of the county. Ilfracombe is undoubtedly at the heart and soul of this part of the county and after visiting here during our recent visit to Devon, we can well and truly attest that this is a place you will not want to miss out on.

When you think about the perfect day trip location, Ilfracombe is perhaps one of the best spots in Devon. Offering just enough to fill a full day, experiencing the best things to do in Ilfracombe encompasses exploring epic attractions, visiting delicious restaurants, and of course, exploring a beautiful harbor where you can enjoy another day trip to nearby Lundy Island.

From the award-winning Ilfracombe Aquarium to the Chapel of St. Nicholas, and from the spectacular South-West Coastal Path to a collection of cafes where you can indulge in stereotypical Devon cream teas, Ilfracombe is home to everything all the family needs to experience a day trip to remember.

Dawlish

If you love stumbling across hidden gems, take a trip to Dawlish, home of the black swans. That’s right, Dawlish is the perfect coastal civil parish to visit to experience something you don’t see every day – a collection of black swans that can be seen relaxing in “The Brook”, a small river that wanders through the heart of this town and flows into the sea.

Just like many of the neighboring towns that can lay claim to something infamous, Dawlish embraces the iconic black swan and regardless of which shop you visit, you won’t be too far away from being able to purchase a souvenir representing this animal. Dawlish is undoubtedly the type of place where you will visit and immediately feel relaxed, with the sights and sounds of this town unlike anywhere else in region.

Ready to embrace more nature in the area? Head over to Dawlish Warren, just a short drive from the heartbeat of the town to experience gorgeous beaches and a nature reserve home to a myriad of diverse bird species – a birdwatcher’s paradise for sure!

Plymouth

Ready to visit the largest town in Devon? Head to the south coast and visit Plymouth, a vibrant location offering everything you would expect in a larger British metropolis yet still maintaining the Devonshire local feel throughout the town. The bustling, vibrant character associated with Plymouth can be seen but when you hear about the maritime history associated with this town, it’s no surprise to see everything on display that embraces this heritage.

Plymouth is an iconic location for many reasons, none more so than this being the start of many historic sailing/yachting events. For the foodies out there, Plymouth is a cuisine haven, with seafood at the forefront of many of the best restaurants here. Head over to the Plymouth Gin Distillery to take a tour of this plant before sampling one or two glasses of this fine beverage.

The National Marine Aquarium has a collection of diverse sea-life, while the nearby Barbican is a cultural hotspot that is well worth visiting.

Cockington

Take a moment to think about an idyllic, quintessential English village…now take a look at the collection of pictures below…Welcome to Cockington, Devon! If ever there was a location in Devon that epitomizes this stereotype, Cockington is definitely the place to visit. In the heart of this small village is Cockington Court, a 16th century historic manor house that is surrounded by acres upon acres of beautiful country park.

A collection of tea gardens can be found scattered throughout the village and although you may not spend a full day in Cockington, there are not many places in Devon worth visiting to experience a stereotypical cream tea more than this historic village.

Just a few miles outside of Torquay, Cockington is the perfect place to visit prior to or after your visit to the nearby coastal town. It’s one of those places that once you visit, you won’t regret it and you will likely be wanting a return visit, if only to see those idyllic thatch cottages.

Totnes

The historic market town of Totnes is one of the quirkiest places worth visiting in Devon. Before venturing into this town, why not visit the breathtaking Buckfast Abbey in nearby Buckfastleigh. A working monastery, this historic attraction dates back to the 11th century when an abbey was first constructed on these sacred grounds. Today, this is home to a collection of self-sufficient Benedictine monks that welcome visitors from all across the globe.

After a quick visit to Buckfastleigh, head into Totnes to walk up the main street admiring the beautiful architecture and exploring the popular open-air market that is one of the highlight attractions here. Local goods, produce and souvenirs can be purchased here and it’s no surprise that this is one of the most popular markets throughout Devon.

At the top of the main street, take a short walk to Totnes Castle, one of the best remaining examples of a Norman motte and bailey castle left standing in England. A self-guided tour can lead you to the very top of this castle where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding region and beyond.

Summary

Devon is a county that you cannot afford to miss out on when you are ready to explore England. For those that are reading this and already live in the immediate vicinity of Devon, you should be prepared to take some epic day trips because each and every one of these locations is an amazing experience.

Whatever type of traveler you are, there is something in Devon waiting to satisfy your needs. This is just a small collection of amazing day trips that we have been fortunate enough to take but the beauty of Devon is that there is so much more. We didn’t even mention the spectacular Canonteign Falls, one of the highest natural falls in the UK, the historic city of Exeter or many other places…the list is endless but you just have to let spontaneity take over when you are in Devon and start exploring.

With untouched countryside, rugged yet breathtaking coastal paths and much more, Devon is a natural paradise waiting to be discovered. Combine this with a collection of quintessential towns and villages and you are presented with a county that is more than just home to decadent fudge and delicious cream teas. But don’t forget to sample that clotted cream because it’s just as good as the stereotype suggests!

Best Things to Do in Ilfracombe During an Amazing Visit

England

Chris Boothman

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Jul 15, 2019

5

$Best Things to Do in Ilfracombe During an Amazing Visit$

The magical beauty of the UK can be found when visitors head outside of their comfort zone and explore places generally frequented only by die-hard locals and stereotypical British travels who prefer to stay within the confines of the island. The South-West corner of the UK, notably home to the counties of Devon and Cornwall, is a hidden gem that visitors to the UK need to become more aware of. The idyllic town of Ilfracombe, located on the northern coastline of Devon, was a place we recently visited and it’s no surprise to hear that we quickly fell in love with the inherent beauty here. Whether you are visiting during a day trip as we did or you are staying in close proximity, there are plenty of things to do in Ilfracombe that will keep you occupied throughout the day.

Destinations such as London, Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds will always attract travelers from across the globe but since leaving England in 2006, I have been focused on trying to inspire folks to visit places like the beautiful county of Devon.

Whether you are experiencing the best things to do in South Devon or heading to the northern coast to explore gorgeous seaside towns such as Ilfracombe, Devon is one of those quintessential British regions that should be on everyone’s radar. Let’s take a look at why Ilfracombe quickly jumped to the very top of our favorite Devonshire destinations.

Where is Ilfracombe?

Ilfracombe, Devon? Ok, I get it…probably not the first place you think about visiting when you are contemplating a trip to the UK. It’s also worth noting that even if you reside in the UK, Ilfracombe is not likely to be a destination on the tip of your tongue as there are many other places that you would likely consider visiting first.

Frequently left in the shadow of some of Devon’s more iconic locations such as Torquay and Dartmoor National Park, Ilfracombe is a seaside resort located on the northern tip of the county. Easily accessible from nearby larger towns such as Barnstaple, Tiverton and even Exeter and Torquay further afield, Ilfracombe is a town that is well worth visiting if you are planning a trip to South-West England.

5 Best Things to Do in Ilfracombe

Regardless of your interest in archetypal British heritage, you cannot help but fall in love with the gorgeous setting as you approach the coastal town of Ilfracombe. We decided to take a day trip from South Devon which lead to a 90 minute drive before arriving in the stereotypical Devonshire country lanes that saw us reach Ilfracombe. As you drop down into the town, the breathtaking beauty of this destination immediately strikes you and brings back any memories or thoughts that you may have about a typical British seaside town.

Ilfracombe may not be the bustling seaside resort such as Blackpool or even Torquay but what it does possess is a distinctive blend of natural beauty combined with traditional British seaside architecture that makes it a place you won’t want to leave.

From historic architecture to breathtaking views across the Bristol Channel and a rugged coastline similar to what you may expect to find at the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland, Ilfracombe is a resort that we want to give the recognition we think it deserves. Here are some of the best reasons to visit Ilfracombe along with a few things you wont want to miss during your next visit.

South-West Coastal Path
Ilfracombe Harbor
Chapel of St. Nicholas
Lundy Island Experience
Enjoy a Devonshire Cream Tea

Let’s take a look at each of the above experiences and perhaps you will be inspired to visit a place that truly epitomizes the magical beauty we associate with England. This is far from an exhaustive list of things to do in this part of North Devon but if you are able to experience each of these, you will certainly realize why we quickly became enamored by Ilfracombe.

South-West Coastal Path

If you love the great outdoors, Ilfracombe’s stunning coastline is going to immediately capture your attention and make you want to explore further. This gorgeous rugged coastline is home to a myriad of spectacular overlooks and also the iconic South-West coastal path, England’s longest waymarked long-distance footpath which stretches for 630 miles all along the coasts of Devon, Cornwall and Dorset.

Although visitors to Ilfracombe today may be enamored by the idyllic harbor or perhaps the towering “Verity” statue, you cannot help but constantly gaze over to the coast with the collection of amazing viewpoints. We spent a couple of hours hiking along the coastal path, frequently stopping for pictures but mainly to admire the natural beauty in front of us. Be prepared for some steep gradients along this hiking trail but this workout is well worth the effort.

After walking in Jersey during our last trip to the UK, we realized that the best way to explore the UK is on foot. For the really adventurous folks that visit Ilfracombe and are planning to stay for longer than a day, why not consider hiking this coastal path for 8 miles all the way to the nearby village of Woolacombe. But for those that prefer to stay in and around Ilfracombe, you will be amazed by the number of coves as you navigate the challenging but incredibly rewarding landscape.

Ilfracombe Harbor

In terms of history, there are not many places in Ilfracombe more historic than the harbor which has a rich heritage dating back as far as the 12th century. This fully working harbor has long been protected by a hill that is home to the oldest functioning lighthouse in the UK. Day trips to Lundy Island and around the bay are available here but it’s the rich history of fishing in the area that makes this such an iconic harbor not only in Devon but throughout the UK.

Today, visitors to Ilfracombe harbor can spend time perusing the vessels that have plenty of nautical miles between them. Alternatively, head along the street to explore the quirky shops, home to a variety of local souvenirs, typical Devonshire fudge and of course, traditional English fish and chips.

When it comes to quirky landmarks in North Devon, Damien Hirst’s “Verity” statue located in Ilfracombe harbor is perhaps the strangest. Towering above the Ilfracombe landscape and essentially looking over the harbor, Verity is a stainless steel and bronze statue designed by Hirst in 2012.

There are plenty of mixed emotions among locals and visitors alike as many feel this statue is “out of place” given the depiction of a pregnant woman holding a sword while standing on a pile of books. It’s hardly the type of attraction you would expect to see in a typically Victorian seaside resort but you cannot help but visit this and have an opinion or two.

Chapel of St. Nicholas

When it comes to the history of Ilfracombe, there are not many landmarks more historic than the Chapel of St. Nicholas. Perched on top of a high rock, locally known as Lantern Hill, overlooking the harbor of Ilfracombe, this iconic chapel has been a place of worship for locals and visitors alike since 1321. In 1540, it ceased to be a working chapel but today, it serves as a working lighthouse given it’s location at the top of Ilfracombe for passing vessels.

The walk to the summit of Lantern Hill offers breathtaking views out to sea in one direction and back across the town of Ilfracombe in the other. With a number of benches scattered along this short trail, this is definitely a popular spot to capture epic photographs of the panoramic landscape.

Once you arrive at the summit, the quaint chapel is worth exploring. It won’t take you long to explore the interior but it’s the rich heritage of this place of worship that makes it such a special place. For a period of time in the late 19th to early 20th centuries, this chapel was neglected and it was only in 1962 that it was restored to the present day condition by the local Rotarians.

Lundy Island Experience

Ilfracombe is a popular spot for visitors not only because of the beautiful town but also because it is a great location to hop on a boat to take a trip to nearby Lundy Island. A day trip to Lundy Island is an unforgettable experience onboard the historic MS Oldenburg, a vessel dating back to 1958 that is still going strong to this day.

The crossing to Lundy Island takes around 2 hours each way and seasonally is available multiple times each week, both from Ilfracombe and the nearby town of Bideford. Visitors will have ample time to explore the island upon arrival, with around 4-6 hours allowed before sailing back to port.

We unfortunately visited Ilfracombe the day prior to the next scheduled sail but we were still able to admire the gorgeous MS Oldenburg resting in Ilfracombe harbor. Whether you are a sailing aficionado or simply want to experience the untouched natural beauty to be found on Lundy Island, a day trip here is well worth the price of a ticket.

Devonshire Cream Tea

It doesn’t really matter where you visit in Devon, it goes without saying that you cannot leave without sampling a local Devonshire cream tea. Many places around the UK will try and claim to have authentic cream teas but there is nothing that quite compares to sampling the real deal in Devon.

We stumbled across a real gem of a cafe and couldn’t resist sampling their cream tea. Aptly named “The Naked Cake”, this is perfectly situated along the front in between the heart of the main town and Ilfracombe harbor. This is the perfect place to grab lunch or enjoy a late afternoon cream tea – we did both…it really is that good!

Served in traditional bone china cups and dishes, we were left wanting to sample more. The decadent menu of drinks (check out the collection of hot chocolates) and homemade cakes is amazing but the local pièce de résistance is the cream tea featuring a fruit scone, fresh clotted cream and strawberry jam, obviously accompanied by a pot of tea!

Summary

Ilfracombe is unlikely to be a place you would consider taking a trip to the UK for unless you had other places you wanted to explore. However, I would argue that this along with the rest of Devon definitely justifies taking a trip to this part of the UK.

Whether you consider camping in Devon or prefer to stay in a more luxurious B&B along the coast, there is a magic about this county (and I am not just talking about the delightful cream teas!) that deserves to be explored.

This was our first visit to Ilfracombe and we fell in love just as we have done with the rest of Devon. We look forward to returning again in the future and hopefully heading out on the MS Oldenburg to explore the gorgeous Lundy Island.

Have you visited Ilfracombe or any other parts of Devon?

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