You could be well forgiven for never having heard of a Geopark, but they have existed for several years and the smallest on the South Devon Coast wants to introduce you to everything they have to offer.
A geopark is described by the UNESCO as “A territory encompassing one or more sites of scientific importance, not only for geological reasons but also by virtue of its archaeological, ecological or cultural value“.
Still confused? In essence it means a region where there are several so called “Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty” or similar designations with a wide variety of reasons for this classification, such as the wildlife, rare flowers and fossils.
The South Devon coast is well known for its fossil hunting areas and if like me you spent a lot of time searching the cliffs and fallen rocks for the smallest hint of a fossil, you’ll know just how many there are. However, the English Riviera Tourism Company (effectively the local tourism authority) want to show you that alongside the fossil hunting, there’s lots more you can do around South Devon.
From the 25th May to 5th June, visitors to the area will be able to pickup a map from any of the local tourist information centres in South Devon and explore the special connections this area has with rare wildlife, flora & fauna or just enjoy a walk in one of the sunniest areas of Britain.
You can also take part in various pre-planned activities ranging from coasteering with an experienced instructor where you are guaranteed to get wet, to bushcraft survival or perhaps a gentle walk exploring what the area was like 400 million years ago when the dinosaurs ruled the land.
There’s more information on the English Riviera Geopark web site and a video below which introduces the English Riviera Geopark.
More Resources:
Visitor attractions around Paignton
Hotels in Paignton
Paignton Holiday Cottages
