Why do they call it the English Riviera?

The Victorians first called it the English Riviera because of its resemblance to France’s chic and bustling southern Mediterranean coastline, which boasts celeb-favourite spots like Monaco, Saint-Tropez and Nice.

Where is the French Riviera of the UK?

Referring to the Torbay area in South Devon, the Riviera is located around the key locations of Brixham, Paignton and Torquay.

What is considered the English Riviera?

The English Riviera is essentially the Torbay area and takes in 22 miles of the stunning South Devon coastline. It takes its name as the English Riviera from Victorian times, when visitors compared the warm climate to that found on the French Riviera.

Has babbacombe got a beach?

Babbacombe is to the north of Torquay and below the cliffs at Babbacombe are two beaches, Babbacombe Beach which is a small pebble beach and Oddicombe Beach which is a long red sandy beach. Access to Oddicombe is via the Babbacombe cliff railway which is suitable for wheelchairs.

Why is the French Riviera famous?

The French Riviera is known for its beaches, views, picture perfect water, yachts and as a playground for the wealthy. It also has charming towns and villages (and Monaco, which is an independent state) and a highly regarded art and culture scene. The French Riviera has a total population of over two million.

Why is Babbacombe beach red?

Babbacombe Cliffs are a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), for their rock formations. From Oddicombe Beach you can see how ‘faulting’ caused by earth movements has resulted in a section of red rock dropping to a lower level than the white limestone beside it, at the same time steeply tilting the red rock.

Is there a town in Babbacombe?

A quaint little town with a good shopping centre, plenty of variety and relaxing cafe’s. Not often said, if you need a loo then go by a coffee, otherwise get your 20p ready for the portaloo.

What’s considered the French Riviera?

The French Riviera is a stretch of coastline entirely within the region Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. Despite there’s no official boundary, it is usually considered to extend from Toulon or Saint Tropez to Menton, and it includes the Principality of Monaco.