Slapton Sands & Dartmouth

OVERVIEW

Drive through the bucolic Devon countryside with relaxing stops in historical Dartmouth and small villages where you will see reminders of Allied exercises in World War II. After departing from the pier, you will drive east through the fertile valleys of rural Devon. Hedgerows grace the roadways, centuries-old stone homes dot the countryside, and farming communities nestle ever so peacefully among the rolling hills. The scenery couldn’t be more idyllic as you make your way to Dartmouth. A sailing point for the Crusades in the 12th century, Dartmouth is steeped in history. Dartmouth Castle looms over the entrance to the port, 17th-century half-timbered houses line the waterfront, and the narrow streets recall a much earlier time. While exploring the city during free time, you might enjoy lunch on your own, as there are plenty of options. Succulent seafood dishes are on nearly every menu and traditional pub fare is always a favorite, especially when accompanied by a fresh-poured pint of ale. Later, rejoining your coach you will follow the coast to Slapton Sands. It was here in 1944 that Allied forces held a secret dress rehearsal for D-Day. Unfortunately, speedy German E-boats interrupted the exercise and hundreds of U.S. soldiers died. You will have an opportunity to pause for photos at their war memorial and at a Sherman Tank that was raised from the seabed years later. Afterwards, it’s on to the village of Blackawton, where you will enjoy a quintessentially English cream tea before driving back to Plymouth.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a relaxed drive through a pastoral Devon landscape of hedgerows, farms and stone cottages.
• Spend free time in Dartmouth, taking in its Tudor era architecture or seeking lunch on your own at an atmospheric pub.
• Pay your respects at the Slapton Sands memorial to 700+ Allied soldiers who perished here during a secret D-Day rehearsal tragically interrupted by German E-boats.
• Put wartime thoughts far behind as you savor a soothing English cream tea, steeped in flavor and tradition.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.