Riviera

A LARGE conservation charity in one of the UK’s most popular holiday spots has gone into liquidation – putting several tourist attractions at risk.

Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust (TCCT) is responsible for more than 1,700 acres of green spaces in and around the Devon seaside towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham.

That amounts to 80 per cent of the green space along the English Riviera including 40 miles of footpaths and bridleways.

The trust is also responsible for managing the entire 22-mile stretch of the South West Coast Path (SWCP) – made world famous in the recent Salt Path movie – that runs through the Torbay area.

Now these destinations known as the “crown jewels” of Torbay, are at risk.

One spot, Occombe Farm, which is an all-weather family farm attraction with indoor and outdoor play areas, animals, paddocks and walking trails – will close for good.

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The attraction opened nearly 20 years ago, and has been much loved by families since – including my own, as I grew up in the area and frequently visited as a child.

The attraction was the ideal spot for families to escape to, with something for all ages and interests.

Little kids could run around in the play areas, older kids could learn about the farm animals and even get up close to them, and families could gather over lunch in the cafe – it even hosted many events such as Halloween trails and beer festivals.

While Occombe Farm is the only attraction fully closing, the charity was responsible for many other spots and now locals are worried paths won’t be cleared, bins won’t be emptied and sites will become unmaintained.

This is because, Torbay Council (which owns the freehold for most of the land cared for by TCCT) has said that its “hands are completely tied” due to legal obstacles concerning the liquidation.

Essentially, this means that Torbay Council cannot enter and care for the sites TCCT cared for, until they speak to the appointed liquidator.

But this worry is part of a bigger fear.

If these sites aren’t cared for or maintained, they could be at risk of losing their prestigious titles.

This includes the UNESCO Global Geopark title, which destinations TCCT cared for helped to gain.

The English Riviera is one of just three UNESCO Global Geoparks in England and 10 in the UK.

TCCT said: “Many areas we manage form part of the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark, due to their unique natural heritage and we’ve worked alongside national, regional, and local associations to ensure Torbay’s green spaces receive the recognition and preservation they deserve.

“It is with great sadness that the incredible achievements of our passionate team, including our volunteers, is drawing to a close.

“Our priority now is to support them as we navigate this process.”

Berry Head National Nature Reserve – also run by the trust – is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) has the largest colony of guillemots on the South Coast and other threatened species like the Greater Horseshoe Bat.

Berry Head is also home to 400-million-year-old limestone, making it an internationally acclaimed geological site, as well as two well-preserved Napoleonic-era forts.

If all of these elements become uncared for, locals are worried that Berry Head won’t meet the requirements of the titles anymore, and consequently lose them.

Other destinations TCCT cared for include Anstey’s Cove, a small beach popular for kayaking, paddle boarding and snorkelling, and Elberry Cove – often compared to Mediterranean destination due to its crystal clear waters and romantic ruins.

Inland, Cockington Country Park is award-winning parkland that feels more like a hidden fairytale village spanning over 450 acres with pretty ornamental gardens, farmland and woodland – all within walking distance of Torquay seafront.

The park, which dates back to the Domesday Book, also forms part of the UNESCO Global Geopark and has been repeatedly awarded a Green Flag.

The liquidation means that events at this popular destination will be cancelled, such as the annual orchard apple picking.

The biggest jewel in the trust’s crown is the South West Coast Path though, which recently featured in Hollywood movie The Salt Path starring Gillian Anderson.

The trails are managed by TCCT, meaning over the years all the signage, walkways, handrails and so on, have been added by them.

Locals are concerned that the 22-mile stretch could become inaccessible without regular maintenance.

Whilst the future of each site isn’t clear, many have spoken out about the importance of saving English Riviera’s top places to visit.

Councillor David Thomas, leader of Torbay Council, said: “The closure of Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust will have a significant and deeply felt impact on the people who were employed at sites across the Bay.

“In the coming weeks, we will be taking time to understand the full implications of this news and what it means for the future of these important spaces and initiatives.”

MP Steve Darling said in a Facebook post: “This is a huge loss for our natural environment and for the dedicated staff who have worked so hard to protect it.

“Despite repeated calls for support, the Conservative administration has failed to help the Trust find a sustainable path.

“As its assets return to council ownership, we must ensure they are not sold off without public input.

One person then commented: “Please fight your hardest for these natural, public and beautiful spaces to be protected and kept in the best interest for the people of Torbay!

“These natural spaces should remain as they are, with additional funding if necessary — selling any single part of it off to foreign investment, developers or anybody other than local charities or Torbay Council would be absolutely devastating to the people of Torbay.”

A Torbay Council spokesperson told Sun Travel: “We understand that the closure of the Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust (TCCT) will have a wide-reaching impact on our communities, and that many residents will have questions and concerns.

“However, at this time, due to the complex process for liquidation, we are unable to provide any further information on the individual spaces or services that are managed or provided by TCCT.

“We await confirmation of the liquidators’ appointment to determine its next steps, recognising how important these green spaces are to our community.

“We would like to reassure residents and visitors that we will continue to work closely with partners and stakeholders to assess the impact of the Trust’s closure.

“This includes considering what it means for our cherished green spaces, as well as the important environmental designations, community initiatives, and long-term stewardship of our natural assets.”

A spokesperson for the South West Coast Path said: “We are working with Torbay Council and SWISCo (a local service provider) to ensure that current works to improve accessibility along the South West Coast Path and King Charles III England Coast Path National Trails are not impacted by the recent news.”

Sun Travel has contacted TCCT for comment.

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Meanwhile, if you are considering visiting the English Riviera, The Sun’s head of travel Lisa Minot visited and found delicious seafood festivals and hidden beaches.

Plus, the English Riviera is home to the UK’s best B&B – here’s whether it is really worth the hype.

JUST 16 miles from the bustling city of Lisbon is a hidden gem town with stunning architecture and a royal past.

Cascais sits on the Portuguese Riviera and is known for its scenic beaches.

The town started out as a fishing village before becoming a popular retreat for the Portuguese royal family.

For example, in the 1870s, King Luis I of Portugal had a summer home in Cascais and as a result, the destination was viewed by others as a glamorous place to go.

Many wealthy families then started to visit, resulting in a number of grand mansions being built.

Later, during the Second World War, the town became a safe haven for exiled European royalty.

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And a number of spies also resided in the region – which ultimately inspired Ian Fleming’s first James Bond novel, Casino Royale, set in Estoril nearby.

Today, the rich and famous still enjoy the town with Cristiano Ronaldo’s new £22million house – which is rumoured to be Portugal’s most expensive residence – located in Quinta da Marinha, in Cascais.

For those heading to the town there is plenty to do.

Rather uniquely, Cascais has a ‘Museum Quarter’ where visitors can explore the Condes de Castro Guimaraes Museum inside the Palace of the Counts of Castro Guimaraes.

The mock-Gothic building features the oldest museum in the town.

Alternatively, travellers can head to the Sea Museum that includes exhibits on underwater archeology and the original fishing community that lived in the town.

Then in the historic centre, there are a number of charming cobbled streets with traditional mosaic pavements, pretty squares and quaint shops.

Of course, the town has sprawling beaches too.

One spot is Praia da Conceicao – a golden sand beach near the centre of the town where you can head to Estoril along a coastal path.

The path stretches over 1.5 miles long and offers beautiful sea views from several beaches.

One recent visitor said: “This is a beautiful beach in the Cascais area near the train station.

“I’d say it’s a small beach with calm, clean, but cool waters.

“The beach also has good facilities: restrooms, showers, a beach bar, a restaurant, and umbrella rentals.

“I loved the caves and rocks, and Rua Frederico Arouca near the beach is lined with bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops.”

If you enjoy surfing, you should head to Praia do Guincho, which boasts large, crashing waves.

There is also the Santa Marta Lighthouse to explore, which has a blue and white exterior and also has a museum about the country’s lighthouses.

If you fancy a longer hike, with forests and sights of historic palaces, head to the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.

Depending on what time of the year you visit, the town also hosts a number of events such as jazz festivals, sailing championships and a classic car exhibition.

When it comes to the food scene, there is a lot of choice as well.

Linking back to its fishing village past, the destination has lots of top seafood spots with fresh dishes such as lobster stew and grilled fish.

One well-rated spot is Residente, which features a cream and green interior, with a tiled bar and lots of plants hanging from the ceiling.

You could opt for traditional Portuguese octopus rice with garlic and coriander for €22 (£19.13) or traditional cod fish with egg, onion and potato for €18 (£15.65).

For something sweeter, make sure to head to Santini – a historic ice cream shop that has been a part of Cascais for over 50 years.

The town also has a lot of hotels to choose from depending on your budget.

You could stay at the Grande Real Villa Itália Hotel & Spa, which used to be the home of exiled Italian kings.

The hotel faces the ocean and has a swimming pool, spa, gym and is close to a number of golf courses.

It costs from £179.05 a night, for two adults.

Or you could head to Legacy Hotel Cascais, Curio Collection By Hilton from £137 per night.

The hotel is just a five-minute walk to the town centre and a 10-minute walk to the beach.

In addition to modern rooms and a breakfast buffet, the hotel also has a rooftop pool, indoor swimming pool, spa and wellness centre, sauna, sun terrace and sprawling garden.

The best way to get to the town is by flying to Lisbon, which costs from £41 if flying from Manchester, from £42 if flying from London and from £57 if flying from Birmingham.

Once in Lisbon, hop on the train to Cascais, which takes around 40 minutes and costs from as little as €2.30 (£2) per way.

Make sure to grab a seat on the left side of the train, as the entire journey runs along the coastline to Cascais, so you will be able to see lots of pretty towns, beaches and monuments.

Cascais is then also the last stop on the journey so you don’t need to worry about missing your stop.

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THE first glimpse of a popular UK seaside town’s £20million beachfront transformation has been revealed in brand new footage.

Located in the heart of Devon, the new project is set to redefine a stretch of stunning British coastline.

An incredible new fly-through tour has provided residents with a first look at Paignton’s bright future.

The ambitious new plans include the instalment of vital flood protection and upgrades to public areas.

After being appointed by Torbay Council, the construction firm Knights Brown has revealed that it is preparing for full-scale works to commence in early November.

The project is set to unfold in three key phases.

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It aims to protect homes, businesses, and community areas from coastal flooding, while also introducing brand new promenades, seating zones, landscaping and improved lighting.

Phase one will focus on Paignton Green North, with work scheduled for completion before the English Riviera Airshow in May 2026.

The following phase will aim to tackle Paignton Green South.

While a separate single-phase scheme at Preston seafront is due to start at the end of the year.

The £20million project is being funded by the UK government and the Environment Agency as part of broader efforts to strengthen climate resilience.

Construction zones are expected to briefly pause during the 2026 six-week summer holiday period.

Throughout construction residents will also still be able to access both beaches.

Promenades will also stay open but may be narrowed in places.

The green spaces surrounding the work will also remain fully accessible and local businesses will continue to run as usual.

Cllr Chris Lewis, deputy leader and cabinet member for place development and economic growth at Torbay Council, said: “This marks Paignton’s first large-scale transformational project—an initiative that goes far beyond flood defence.

“It will deliver a dramatically enhanced seafront experience for all, with modern design and improved public spaces that add lasting value to the area.

“More than protection, this scheme is about unlocking Paignton’s future as a thriving, vibrant coastal town.”

Mike Crook, divisional director at Knights Brown, added: “We’re proud to be working in partnership with Torbay Council on this game-changing project for Paignton and Preston.

“We have vast experience in coastal and marine projects, having worked on schemes across Wales and the UK, including Mumbles in Wales and Associated British Ports in Southampton.

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“Our team is excited to contribute to Paignton and Preston’s future—not just through construction, but by being an active and positive presence in the community.

“We look forward to working closely with residents, businesses and local organisations to ensure this project benefits everyone.”

It may not have the heat of Italy, but this tiny village sitting on the British coast is built to almost exactly reflect it – and it even has the same climate

Now that autumn has arrived and the season of chilly weather, gusts and downpours is upon us, many will fantasise about a getaway to an exotic location.

A Greek isle, the Spanish coastline or perhaps the Italian Riviera.

Whilst those yearning for a trip to the latter may find it’s not as challenging as they might imagine, with one tiny village nestled on the British shoreline designed to almost perfectly mirror it, albeit without the Aperol spritz and the pasta.

If you’ve been contemplating a UK break that feels far more exotic than it truly is, you’re in good company, but North Wales might just have the answer, at a fraction of the cost.

Its striking coastline, verdant hills, and a culture as vibrant as its surroundings, have emerged as a favourite for those seeking both adventure and relaxation – and its terrain isn’t a world away from the Cinque Terre – even if the climate may not always cooperate, reports the Express.

Nestled on the estuary of the River Dwyryd lies the charming Welsh treasure of Portmeirion. The brainchild of Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, constructed between 1925 and 1975 in the manner of an Italian village, its dwellings are adorned with vibrant hues, concealed passageways and flourishing gardens.

Given such a distinctive setting, it’s hardly surprising that the village captured the imagination of the film and television world.

Portmeirion boasts the remarkable distinction of being the actual “Village” in the iconic 1960s television series The Prisoner, featuring Patrick McGoohan. The programme chronicles the former spy imprisoned in the enigmatic village as he battles to keep his secrets safe.

Following a jaunt to the village, an enthusiast took to TripAdvisor to leave a glowing five-star review, saying: “Being a fan of the TV programme ‘The Prisoner’, I had always wanted to visit ‘the village’ and it didn’t disappoint! We had a stroll along the seaside walkway & came back through the woods. The village shop is dedicated to the TV programme & the prices inside were very reasonable – my wife & I loved it.”

Portmeirion isn’t just for fans of ‘The Prisoner’; its charm is universal, offering a myriad of unique experiences at every turn that make it an ideal spot for those who relish the sensation of being somewhere truly special.

And it’s not only enthusiasts of the show singing Portmeirion’s praises; Which? consumer experts have crowned the village as the top seaside spot in Wales.

Their endorsement reads: “The best seaside destination in Wales, Portmeirion in Gwynedd, is also one of the UK’s most unusual holiday villages.”

They praised the village, awarding top marks for both tourist attractions and the seafront, noting: “Visitors loved the architecture and its setting above a wide, sandy estuary – giving it five out of five stars for tourist attractions and for its seafront.”

Echoing this sentiment, another visitor shared their experience online: “What an amazing place! Fabulous, friendly staff, especially Dafyyd at the gate. Such a happy soul.

“We visited on a gorgeous, sunny day and had a lovely time wandering around looking at the beautiful buildings, soaking in the amazing views and eating our picnic.”

Travel blogger Jen Carr took her kids to France instead of Cornwall for less than half the price it would have cost to holiday in the UK. This is exactly how she did it

When planning a half-term break, Cornwall tops the list for its beautiful beaches, cosy cottages and a holiday without the airport stress – but it’s not cheap.

Travel blogger and mum Jen says she recently took her family to France after pricing up Cornwall and realising it was more expensive than going on holiday abroad.

“We recently priced up a summer break – a week in a two-bedroom caravan in a holiday park in Cornwall came in at £2,100,” she says. “And that’s before adding petrol, meals out, and activities!

“For the exact same dates as that caravan in Cornwall, we found a week at a French holiday camp for under £1,000 – literally half the price. More sunshine, better facilities, more fun – and for less money.”

The money she saved on the campsite went towards flights and car hire. But it wasn’t just accommodation costs where she managed to save money. The blogger, who runs The Travel Mum, has revealed other ways people can save some serious cash.

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Petrol vs flights

“Driving from where we live to Cornwall takes seven hours each way and, with fuel prices as they are, would’ve cost us around £120 just in petrol. (Plus 14 hours of hell in the car with the kids…)

“We found flights to the French Riviera for under £500 for four people. You can get flights to Paris for even less, currently around £350 for four people in August. If you can travel light you save a fortune by not adding a big check in luggage.”

Holiday camp hack

“The South of France has absolutely mastered the art of the family holiday camp. Think pools, huge playgrounds, kids’ clubs packed with activities, and evening entertainment that keeps everyone happy.

:And the best part? For the exact same dates as that caravan in Cornwall, we found a week at a French holiday camp for under £1,000 – literally half the price. More sunshine, better facilities, more fun… for less money.”

Eating out costs less

“In Cornwall, we’ve spent £60+ on a family pub lunch without even trying. In France, we were eating out in little village restaurants for €35-€40 total – three courses, bread, and a glass of wine included.

“Supermarkets are much cheaper too. We stocked up on fresh baguettes, cheese, and fruit for picnics and spent much less than we would on a similar supermarket shop in the UK.”

Car hire ‘dream’

“This one’s less about saving money and more about saving your sanity. If you’ve ever braved Cornwall in peak season, you’ll know the chaos of narrow lanes, endless queues, and half the UK heading there at once.

“In contrast, driving in France is a dream – wide, quiet roads, smooth journeys, and far less stress. Plus, car hire is surprisingly affordable if you book in advance, making it an easy win for both comfort and convenience.”

The bottom line

“Everyone assumes UK staycations are going to be cheaper than going abroad, but that isn’t always the case. When you add up flights, accommodation, eating out, and activities, France actually cost us less – and let us explore a whole new area of the world.

“Our holiday in France could have been even cheaper too! The French Riviera isn’t known for being the cheapest part of the country, but we have always wanted to visit.

“Would we swap Cornwall for France again next half-term? Absolutely. Next time, we’re eyeing up Brittany, the Atlantic coast and even Corsica! Sometimes, going abroad really is the budget option.”

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Outside the train window, there’s a flickering reel of flowering fruit trees, lambs and swans nesting on the marshy levels. Following the Exe estuary towards Dawlish, where the railway runs along the beach, flocks of waders are gathering on the sandbanks, backed by boats and glinting water.

I’m heading for the Dart valley and the English Riviera, AKA Torbay, to explore by foot and ferry, river boat, bus and steam railway. The area promises wine, walking, seafood and an eclectic history from prehistoric cave-dwellers to Agatha Christie. It’s easy to assume a Devon holiday must involve driving, but it can be even better without. On previous trips, I’ve stayed in Exeter and toured by train, or based myself in Torquay to walk the coast path and take the boat to Brixham. This time, I’m testing the limits of what can comfortably be done without a car by staying in an old farmhouse in the countryside, half a mile from the nearest bus stop.

Bus 125 runs every couple of hours from Paignton, and the road from Four Cross Lanes bus stop to Sandridge Barton winery is laced with stitchwort and pink campion, growing under hedges wreathed in honeysuckle. Robins are singing in the apple trees and skylarks over the fields. Hard to believe I was in rainy Essex this morning and am now in a sunny Devon vineyard, ready for the midday tour. A whiff of wood smoke from the fire in the tasting cabin mixes with soft bubbles from the Sharpham sparkling wine, made on site and tasting of oak and tart apple crumble. The last taster, a young, fruity red, comes with Sharpham cheeses and local chilli jam.

Afterwards, I stroll for a mile down to Stoke Gabriel for provisions. The route is almost impossibly idyllic: a narrow track under banks of ferns and wildflowers. The only sounds are birdsong and a waterfall near the old mill. It’s a path I might never have found if I’d come by car. Along the stony beach of the big Millpool, I reach the River Shack and sit right by the water with bowls of sesame-seaweed salad and honeyed anchovies. Dozens of green and orange crabs are marching sideways over the dam nearby, caught and released by children fishing there with sacks of bacon. A heron is fishing too, far out in the pool.

Back at Sandridge Barton, the new restaurant has closed for the day, and there are only sheep in the orchard and swallows spiralling overhead. My brother joins me from Somerset on the last bus and we have a whole floor each in the pale pink, wisteria-decked Lower Well Farmhouse next to the winery. It would comfortably sleep eight in three doubles and a twin, all en suite, and downstairs there’s a slate-floored farmhouse kitchen, beamed, log-fire-warmed sitting room and a walled courtyard strung with lights (from £278 a night, three nights minimum).

Agatha Christie’s house at Greenway is roughly three miles south, beside the River Dart, so we decide to walk there the next morning. After a mile or so along a lane, paths lead down to the quay at Galmpton Creek and we pick up the well-signed Greenway trail, along a stony beach, through woods and over hills, to the gate. There are lockers to store bags and free hot drinks for visitors who reach Greenway without a car. We have simnel scones with pots of tea before wandering through the gardens. Woodpeckers yaffle above banks of primroses and strawberry flowers, lipstick-bright camellias and cascading rhododendrons. We sit in Christie’s old sitting room, where 1930s songs are playing, and stroll into woods, past mossy fountains, river views and hillsides white with wild garlic. This year, the National Trust has introduced a new half-price admission for non-members after 2.30pm (full price £17 adults, £8.50 under-18s).

The Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company runs different routes across the River Dart and sells combi and Round Robin tickets. From the little quay below Greenway, we catch the boat to Dartmouth (£12) along the wide, tree-lined river to explore palm-studded gardens and half-timbered houses. A quick ferry trip (£1) to Kingswear brings us to one end of the steam railway (£23.50) and, from the glass-walled observation carriage (£3 extra), the views are unbeatable.

The train passes wooded riverside cliffs and crosses viaducts, then climbs through oaks and neon-yellow broom flowers to reach the sandy beaches of Torbay. We end the day eating River Teign mussels on a sunny, pub-style terrace at The Boathouse in Paignton, with the foaming sea just feet away. The only problem is, once we’ve finished, the last bus has left and our options are a four-mile sunset walk or a £12 taxi. We take the taxi.

Heading to the bus stop in Stoke Gabriel the next morning, paths lead us up from the water, through a blossoming community orchard and the village churchyard, where a 1,000-year-old yew tree rests its sagging branches on wooden posts. A PlusBus ticket for the whole Torbay area costs £3.70 for a day or £13 for a week and gives you unlimited bus travel as an add-on to a train ticket.

From Paignton, we catch bus 22 to Torquay harbour. Red-legged turnstones are scampering under oyster-crusted pillars, and a new statue of Christie with her favourite dog, Peter, was unveiled in April. She was born in Torquay in 1890 and several novels feature local settings. She would have been more familiar with yesterday’s boat and steam train trips than today’s Rib ride (£37). A breezy, hour-long coastal tour takes in caves, coves and rocky arches, cormorants and harbourside seals, before flying us back across the bay with the salt spray spattering our laughing faces.

Torquay is peppered with Christie-related landmarks, including Beacon Cove, where she nearly drowned; the Grand Hotel, where she honeymooned; and Kents Cavern, which inspired her mystery novel The Man in the Brown Suit. The tour of Kents Cavern leads through a wooden door into dripping tunnels and dens of ancient cave bears, past stalactites, calcite bands and pickaxe marks. The guide lights moss-and-beeswax-filled scallop shells and holds up neolithic skulls like a cheery, enthusiastic Hamlet (£16.95 adults, £14.25 under-16s, if booked in advance).

Torquay Museum, in an elegant gothic building five minutes by bus from Kents Cavern, displays the fossilised jawbone of a 41,000-year-old human, one of Britain’s earliest Homo sapiens. You can also find stuffed birds and farmhouse kitchens, delicate Egyptian sarcophagi and pictures crafted in Torquay marble. In the UK’s only gallery dedicated to Christie, there’s also one of her fur coats and the walking stick David Suchet used to play Poirot (£10 adults, £5 under-18s for an annual pass).

There’s time before our train for a meal at No Seven, a seafood bistro with a sea-view wine bar upstairs. From the Tickled Pink Torquay gin, flavoured with raspberry and rose petals from Torre Abbey garden, through the gurnard with basil and tomato, the tempura plaice and skate wing, to the coffee with local fudge, it’s pretty much perfect.

Accommodation was provided by Sandridge Barton and travel by GWR (advance tickets from London Paddington to Torquay or Paignton from around £50 each way, or from Taunton from £6 each way), with additional help from English Riviera

Its clear and tranquil waters are hard to beat, and I’ve struggled to find a beach that’s as pretty as this ever since I visited

France has no shortage of beautiful beaches that draw in thousands of visitors each year, and while some are still relatively unknown, Nice is no stranger to tourists thanks to its location as the capital of the French Riviera.

While there are plenty of dupes for the French Riviera, there’s nothing quite like seeing the real thing, and a few years ago I decided to do just that. Attracting an estimated five million visitors each year, although I found the pebbled beaches in Nice fairly charming, it didn’t make for a relaxed seaside getaway. Fortunately, there are plenty of tranquil towns along the French coastline, and one of them is home to the prettiest beach I’ve ever seen.

Often hailed as the Jewel of the French Riviera, Villefranche-sur-Mer is a mere 15 minutes from Nice and a welcome break from the crowds of tourists you can expect to see in the capital during the peak summer season, myself included.

Arriving with little more than a freshly-baked baguette and a towel in my bag, lounging on the beach here was exactly what I’d hoped for from my trip the South of France — a laidback seaside with a touch of old-school charm.

Sheltered by dramatic cliffs adorned with pastel-hued homes gazing out over the azure waters, stepping off the train and glimpsing the shoreline felt like picking up a postcard.

The charming town houses roughly 5,000 year-round inhabitants and is often considered one of the region’s most beautiful, reports the Express.

Though it was high season and busy with other sun-seekers, the charming bay known as Plage des Marinières never seemed excessively crowded either, and there’s a peaceful atmosphere to the beach.

Comprising rough sand mixed with tiny stones, it also proved to be a slightly more comfortable experience than lounging on Nice’s 10km stretch of coastline.

Charming bistros and eateries dot the seafront, and while I’d brought my own provisions due to travelling on a budget, which is, in fact, doable along the glamorous French Riviera, it ensures that grabbing refreshments won’t prove problematic for day-trippers.

Though my visit lasted just one day, it’s certainly deserving of an overnight break or even several days, particularly for those seeking somewhere slightly more easy-going than Nice.

Speaking of her own visit, Louise Scott who runs the blog All Things French said: “Discover charming architecture, worn shutters, wrought-ironwork, and colour everywhere. A few shops, weekly brocante and food markets, and a terrific variety of beautiful restaurants and bistros makes relaxing for a week (or a month) in this place an absolute joy!”

Catching the train is incredibly straightforward, and while I can’t recall the exact fare when I visited, a quick glance at Trainline revealed that a one-way ticket today costs just £3.

However, a word of caution — in all my travels to beaches around the world since, I’ve yet to discover one as charming as Villefranche-sur-Mer, complete with its slightly rugged landscape and peaceful shore.

Indeed, I’d even venture to say that the South of France boasts some of the world’s most stunning beaches, and while it’s renowned as a posh destination, it’s certainly achievable on a budget if you’re merely seeking a relaxed beach holiday.

While Nice is certainly worth a trip, I’d highly recommend using it as a base to explore the less-visited beaches nearby.

Sandgate, in Kent, has 4.3 stars on TripAdvisor with people saying it’s great to have a lovely walk or bike ride next to the coast

This quaint seaside village in Kent is brimming with charm and personality, boasting vibrant quirky homes, crystal clear waters, and a laid-back vibe. It’s our county’s very own Riviera – there’s even a sign ‘The Riviera’ to confirm it – and it’s definitely worth a visit.

Welcome to Sandgate, a perfect spot for leisurely exploration if the weather holds up. You can stroll through the town, taking in the picturesque properties and flower-laden gardens, and spotting delightful ‘holiday vibe’ details like hanging baskets, eccentric windows, and intriguing balconies.

If you’re seeking inspiration for house painting, this coastal village nestled between Folkestone and Hythe will have you reaching for your paint roller in no time.

The houses are painted in a true spectrum of colours, ranging from bright green, to a soft lavender, to aquamarine and sun-bleached terra cotta reminiscent of Spain. The sea at Sandgate’s pebble beach boasts ‘excellent’ rated bathing water quality, a status it has maintained for the past eight years.

However, in May, swimmers were advised by the Environment Agency to steer clear of the beach due to sewage pollution caused by a damaged pipe. Southern Water, however, assured that it had not affected the bathing water, reports Kent Live.

The beach has also consistently held a Seaside Award for the past 12 years.

Amenities such as toilets, shops, cafes, pubs, and restaurants are conveniently located on the High Street just a few minutes away. There’s also a promenade where you can enjoy a 1.5-mile walk to Folkestone or a three-mile stroll to Hythe.

There are three council car parks available: Castle Road and Wilberforce Road, where charges reach £4.50 for up to four hours; and Gough Road, which comes free of charge but offers just six spaces.

Last year, Rightmove crowned Sandgate as one of the 10 priciest seaside locations in Britain for house purchases, with average sale prices hitting £495,009.

It hasn’t featured in the newly released rankings, though Whitstable and Hythe have made the cut. Anyone considering property investment in Sandgate now would be looking at an average of £435,995 for the past year.

Overall sale prices climbed six per cent compared to the previous year, yet dropped 21 per cent from 2022’s peak. The majority of transactions involved flats, which commanded an average of £233,438.

Some of the most stunning properties perch on hillsides with sweeping Channel views. Housing also extends along the Esplanade and stretches towards the interior.

The area buzzes with activity, as Sandgate’s High Street boasts an array of restaurants, cafés, bars, and pubs. The beach earns 4.3 stars out of five from 199 Tripadvisor reviewers.

Whilst the most recent pair of reviews partly grumble about public music playing, one visitor’s said: “I’ve always loved Sandgate beach and frequent this area a lot over the summer. It’s great to have a lovely walk or bike ride next to the coast.

“Lovely views, and feels like you’re somewhere else. Great to just take your mind off everyday issues, to relax and take in the lovely sea air, sound of the sea and birds. Love this place.”

On a day when the skies are clear, you can feast your eyes on the coast stretching towards the enigmatic Dungeness, with France occasionally peeking through the horizon. Sandgate Park, too, has upped its game with fresh play surfaces introduced last year, complete with hopscotch for the older generation to share some old-school fun with the kids.

Then there’s The Famous Ship Inn, a beloved community haunt that dishes up freshly netted fish and chips, boasting a top-deck terrace with breathtaking views.

Don’t forget about the cosy log fire – a perfect spot to remember when the leaves start to fall. And if you’re strolling along Granville Parade, pop into the Boat House Café, which commands a stunning view of the beach.

With an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor from 126 reviews, it’s a hit for scrumptious lunches and breakfasts. A recent review gushed: “I’ve been here a few times now and the first time I had their hot dog with onions and wow, it was lovely.

“The second and third time I went I had their Greek salad and oh my goodness, it is spectacular and the owners are very welcoming. I’m definitely recommending this place and 100 per cent going back, so much so I’m literally on my way there in 10 minutes with my daughter.”

One of Sandgate’s most celebrated former residents was the beloved actress Hattie Jacques, and you’ll quickly spot a blue building bearing a commemorative plaque marking her birthplace as you stroll down the High Street. She remains the cherished English comedy star best remembered for her appearances in the iconic Carry On film series, though her talents graced stage, radio and television throughout her prolific career.

The village was also home to author H. G. Wells, hailed as “the father of science fiction”. Beyond his imaginative novels, he penned non-fiction works and established himself as a respected journalist, sociologist and historian.

Delving deeper into history, you must explore Sandgate Castle, constructed during Henry VIII’s reign to guard the beach and coastal route to Dover rather than protect a harbour. This Grade I-listed fortress boasts an extensive defensive heritage.

By 1808, the central tower had been converted into a Martello tower design. Roughly one-third of the original fortress has since been lost to time.

The village also houses the Shorncliffe Redoubt, a Napoleonic-era earthwork fortification linked to Sir John Moore and the 95th Regiment of Foot, famously known as the 95th Rifles. Don’t miss St Paul’s Church either, whose striking tower soars from the hillside – it’s absolutely stunning.

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