County gears up for busy tourism year
Visit Devon's 2010 hot list can have you dreaming of soaking in an outdoor hot tub in the South Hams, or taking in a round of golf at a tournament on the stunning Jurassic Coast.
But, perhaps wisely, the list does not restrict itself to warm weather activities. It also features a diverse range of exhibitions, festivals which celebrate the region's delicious produce and the biking craze which is firmly establishing itself in the region, thanks to multi-million pound investments.
Jamie Christon, acting chairman of Visit Devon, said the list represented just a "small selection" of great reasons to holiday in the county in 2010.
He said: "Visit Devon will be promoting all that's happening in the county across the year to tempt both holidaymakers and day visitors to our beautiful and diverse part of the world."
On the list is a secluded beach hut offered by Carswell Cottages at a private cove in South Devon, which offers the perfect escape from the rat race, with wind-up lanterns and a luxurious open air hot tub compensating for the lack of electricity.
It also features the new Surf Museum, which former ITV reporter Peter Robinson will open at Saunton Sands next year.
And in Exeter, the city's links with the woollen trade can be explored when the newly refurbished Quay House opens in time for Easter.
Ilfracombe's upcoming Severn Ferry Link is highlighted, offering a 50-minute jaunt from North Devon over to Swansea to enrich the Westcountry holiday experience, and to bring an all-round influx of Welsh visitors.
In Torquay, the exquisite Cary Arms welcomes children and dogs, with pets getting their own beds at the boutique inn which has been expertly renovated by the de Savary family.
Still in Torquay, marine aquarium Living Coasts is featured, with its new Local Coasts exhibit which allows children to crawl through transparent tunnels to get up close to see creatures such as seahorses and starfish from below.
And Torbay's Festival of Crime Writing will celebrate the much-loved Agatha Christie, between April 21 and 24. Then, between May and August, the Plymouth Summer Festival will offer a wide range of activities and entertainment.
The links between the gorgeous countryside and delicious local produce will be in focus throughout August, when South Devon celebrated 50 years of its Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty designation.
Cyclists do not have to wait until summer to take advantage of the new trail at Haldon Forest, near Exeter, which is part of a drive to turn the South West into the country's leading destination for the sport.
Mr Christon said: "We are looking forward to a successful season in 2010 but it remains important for tourism businesses to continue to work together to market the county to visitors.
"Devon not only offers great attractions, beautiful beaches and fantastic countryside but as a destination we also offer great value for money and this will be an important message for 2010."
To view the full list, visit www.visitdevon.co.uk/site/hotfor2010 .
