The Magic of Cornwall This tailor-made programme offers an in-depth tour of England s south-westerly county Dream Escape provides the creativity and insider access to show you the secret villages and hidden gems of this peninsula whose character is forged by maritime tradition. Day One: Across the Tamar Bridge to Cornwall Take a morning train from London to Plymouth, the naval city associated with Sir Francis Drake and the Mayflower. Your driver-guide will meet you as you alight, and take you across the Tamar Bridge into Cornwall. Spend the afternoon hearing tales of fishing and smuggling as you gain your first views of the picturesque harbours so characteristic of this coast. Your first hotel enjoys an enviable secluded location overlooking a beautiful sandy beach. Dine here tonight after taking some time to relax in the spa and swimming pool.
Day Two: The South Cornish Coast and Gardens Explore this rural area that is bordered by the English Channel. There are many characterful places like Mevagissey and St Mawes that wind down quiet valleys to the sea; take time to enjoy a pint of locally brewed ale as you have a pub lunch of a Cornish pasty, or of Fish and Chips. The temperate climate makes this area ideal for horticulture. Visit the Lost Gardens of Heligan, a remarkable restoration of a place that had been lost to nature. Also see the estate where England s only tea plantation is to be found enjoy a cup served with scones accompanied by local plum jam and clotted cream. This evening, why not sample the haute cuisine at a local Michelin-starred restaurant?
Day Three: To the Southernmost Point of Great Britain Take the King Harry Ferry to the Kerrier district that includes the most southerly point on the British mainland the Lizard Point. See the green-tinged Serpentine Rock as you journey to this landmark. Your driver-guide will also take you to some of the beautiful coves in the area that indent the spectacular coastline in this area. The follow the shores of Mount s Bay to legendary St Michael s Mount, the most iconic site in Cornwall; cross the strait to visit the house perched on the top of the island overlooking a hidden garden. Then head to your accommodation for the next two nights. Stay in a charming small hotel with stunning views over St Ives Bay.
Day Four: Artists and Mines en route to Land s End St Ives is one of the best-loved of all English seaside towns, having once been a centre for an artist s colony enchanted by the quality of the local light. Take time to visit the Tate Gallery, and the Barbara Hepworth Museum where many modernist sculptures are displayed. Then follow the north coast of the Penwith Peninsula past an area that was long associated with tin mining. Stop to visit one of the former mining sites en route to the fabled headland called Land s End next stop New York! Return via Newlyn, a major fishing port and home to galleries where Cornish art is best viewed. This evening, drive into St Ives for dinner at one of the restaurants where freshly caught fish is always on the menu.
Day Five: Northeast to Padstow and the Camel Valley Your destination today is Padstow, a delightful fishing port at the mouth of the River Camel that has become a paradise for gourmets who flock here to enjoy the local seafood. Take time to browse around the quaint streets of the town; then take a luxury boat cruise on the estuary to see the local scenery. A further highlight today is a visit to a local winery; although small in scale, the sparkling wine produced is said to rival Champagne. Your hotel for tonight is anything but traditional! It is an eco-hotel that is very contemporary in style and enjoys a stunning location overlooking the Atlantic. Enjoy dinner in the relaxed restaurant this evening.
Day Six: The Villages and Harbours of North Cornwall Your last day in Cornwall is a chance to explore some of the prettiest of all Cornish villages that cluster on the North Cornish Coast. Take a final view of charming cottages clustering around small harbours which on this coast look out to the Atlantic Ocean. A highlight in the area is the ruins of Tintagel Castle, the reputed birthplace of King Arthur. Late this afternoon, drive to Newquay Cornwall Airport where you will board your evening flight to London Gatwick. End of Services