the South Hams gourmet SafariGourmet Guides

for dates and prices please visitwww.gourmet-guides.com

DartmouthTour DossierThe Premier - Dartmouth Departure

1 Our guides create memories you will never forget, that are personal, but do not invade your right to your own conversations and interactions. They will bring the trip to life when you want it.

2 No hidden extras, all the tour costs are included in one ticket price.

3 Everyone pays the same, there are no discounts to fill tours. We can cater for 12 people on our advertised Safaris. You will not find the tours anywhere else.

4 Exceptional, locally produced food and wine. We only take you to atmospheric restaurants that deserve their reputations for delectable food.

5 We personally research every tour and pilot it until we are happy that it meets our mission statement.

6 Exceptional value for money.We negotiate with our suppliers through repeated business to get you real value. We want to drive economy back into local businesses and the communities we trade with.

7 We value our environment and work earnestly to reduce our impacts and yours by taking less cars into the nature reserves, using low emission vehicles and never leaving a trace.

8 Exceptional customer service. The guides, drivers and businesses we work with are here to serve you and create a relaxing ambience. Therefore you can really kick back and relax from your daily routines.

Kieran LaurestonFounder and Director

Our PhilosophyThis tour dossier provides the itinerary as well as information about Gourmet Guides and how to prepare for your adventure, what to pack, what to expect and where to stay. Essentially everything you need to know before you set off for South Devon and your Gourmet Safari.

If you’re thinking of a short break or looking for an activity/tour on your extended vacation, you need to look no further! We have developed stimulating and authentic cultural tours that work with the seasons and the tides as our ancestors did and involve minimal activity.

If you enjoy meeting like-minded people and dining in atmospheric restaurants, whilst journeying through stunning scenery then you need to book yourself onto our South Hams Gourmet Safari!

Our guides are fun and passionate about the local area. They don’t just lead you around - they hold interesting knowledge of the landscape, the culture and the traditions; they love introducing you to the people that work the land, that produce delicious food and drink, and to the chefs that deliver authentic cuisine.

We are trying to do something different and to prove this we have developed 8 promises we guarantee on a Gourmet Safari.

Introduction

Notes from the founder!Why choose a gourmet safari?

Gourmet Guides deliver exclusive food and wine tours through areas of outstanding natural beauty. We blend authentic cultural experiences with exclusive travel for the luxury market. This allows you to discover the hidden gems, meet like-minded people and reduce your carbon footprint.

We offer great value for money by negotiating exclusive itineraries, but we also offer services not available to the general public.

Our passion is to deliver to you the perfect combination of exclusive adventure shaped with mouth-watering experiences. We believe in our business and work earnestly to make your vacation one that you will always treasure.

We aspire to travel off the beaten track for adventure. Contact us with your dream experience and we will endeavor to produce an exceptional itinerary for you packed with local produce and remote locations only accessible by boat.

Our current Safaris are based around one-day itineraries, however if you wish to explore more and take more time over your experience we can offer overnight to week long itineraries.

Whilst accommodation is not at the moment included in the package, we can recommend exclusive hotels in picturesque locations where you can stay, whatever your budget. Our partner for Dartmouth is the Royal Castle Hotel.

We are currently developing many other food trails that will soon feature on www.gourmet-guides.com taking in many places of outstanding natural beauty.

We look forward to seeing you on one of our tours.

The Dartmouth Safari is our Premier, due to its proximity to the South Hams the stunning features and places it has to offer. It is our recommended tour of choice.

Background

Coffee is served at the departure location

We commence the day with refreshments at Blackpool Sands.

Single Estate Organic Tea & 100% Arabica Organic Coffee

Danish Pastries

Our first tasting will include a selection of Quickes CheesesTaw Valley CheddarHawkridge Soft and Blue

Sharpham Blue

Mikes SmokehouseManuka Smoked SalmonManuka Smoked Duck

the tastingmenu

Our first beverage tasting is

The South Hams Brewery for a beer tasting of their pale Wild Blonde to their dark Pandemonium.

For those wishing to try something a little more soft and fruity we have a tasting of Luscombe Drinks from Elderflower to Cider.

Our second tasting will include

Freshly caught

Beesands Crab

Beesands Scallops

Complimented withWhite Picpoul de Pinot Or Cremant d’Alsace and Luscombe Drinks

The Venus RestarantBrunch

Mikes Smokehousefood tasting

The South Hams Brewery

Beverage tasting

Tour of the Sharpham estate to include

A Tasting of the Sharpham Sparkling Pink and the Sparkling Reserve

Sharpham Estatetour of the

Our Lunch time tasting is based in the Avon Estuary, renowned for their succulent seafood and includes:

Oyster Tasting

Au naturel Oyster Kilpatrick

Garlic & parmesan

Oyster Rockefeller

Day-boat caught fish with Provençal sauce.

Home baked Breads with dips.

Fruits de Mer to include Salcombe Lobster

Fowey Mussels

Brixham Clams

Lunch is complimented with a local white Kenton wine chosen by the chef.

Your hand picked produce to include

Red Earth Pork Pie Quich Lorraine

The Kitchen Garden Ploughmans Chutney

Freshly Baked Kingsbridge Baguettes

Mondovina crackers Crème Fraiche & spring Onion Black Olive

Netherwoods Olives

Burts Crisps

Vegetable Sticks and dips

The Bar

Local Kenton Ortega White or Local Sharpham Whole Berry Rose or French Cabernet Sauvignon or Nua Prosecco

Your Luxury Hamper will also include a selection of South Hams Brewery Pale and Dark Ale or Luscombe Drinks and Cider

Luxury Hamperthe river cruise

Oyster ShackLUNCH at the

The following itinerary is an example of our Spring and Autumn Safaris. Please note that Summer Safaris leave and return later to take in the later evenings. Should you wish for a bespoke tour that utilizes the Spring timings please call with your proposed dates.

The South Hams Safari Itinerary

South Hams

Plymouth

Dartmouth

Kingsbridge

Ivybridge

Plymouth

Dartmoor National Park

Brixham

Paignton

Torquay

Totnes

Plympton

Modbury

Bigbury

Holbeton

Bantham

Thurlestone

Bigbury-on-sea

GalmptonBatson

Hope Cove

Slapton

Strete

Stroke Fleming

Dittisham

Warfleet

Kingswear

Cornworthy

Harberton

Dartington

Dean Prior

Staverton

Didworthy

Ugborough

Berry Pomeroy

Littlehempston

Marldon

Torcross

South Allington

East Prawle

North Hallsands

Beasands

Beeson

BattisburghCross

FordLuson

A3121

A379

A385

A381

Torr

Higher Torr

NewtonFerrers

Noss MayoBridgend

Wembury

Down Thomas

PlymstockTurnchapelStaddiscombe

Bovisand

HeybrookBay

Yealmpton

Brixton

Elburton

Lee Mill

Sparkwell

Cornwood

Lee MoorWotter

Roborough

Bigbury Bay

Plymouth Sound

Torbay

Start bay

BittafordAshprington

TuckenhayGalmpton

Torbay

A38

A38

A385

Salcombe

SouthMilton

Churchstow

AvertonGifford

Tour Route

Stokenham

A381

Woodleigh

Loddiswell

Hillhead

Harbertonford

Stoke Gabriel

South Pool

Rattery

South Brent

EastPortlemouth

ActivityDestination

Dartmouth Departure from the Royal Castle Hotel

Blackpool Sands Brunch – Organic Tea/Coffee and Danish

Slapton Sands History and biodiversity of the reserve

1st Tasting local produce – Cheeses, cured meats and Beverages

2nd Tasting Local Crab, Scallops – and not so local fine wine

East Portlemouth 2 km walk down into the Salcombe Estuary

Salcombe Estuary Salcombe boat trip

Salcombe Brief time for exploring Salcombe’s backstreets

Southsands Beach Boat trip to South Sands and the Sea Tractor

3rd Tasting Oysters, catch of the day, fruits de Mer Kenton Wine

4th Tasting Sharpham Sparkling Reserve and the Sparkling Rose

River Dart Private Cruise Includes Hamper of local produce and more wine

Dartmouth Harbour Arrival in the golden and happy hour

The Royal Castle Hotel Please refer to your emailed booking or details on the web for your departure and return times

Departure is from The Royal Castle Hotel TQ6 9PS. Situated on Dartmouths harbour and waterfront.

Blackpool Beach & The Venus RestaurantA simply stunning, almost hidden beach and one of the most breath-taking in South Devon.

Slapton Sands & Start BaySlapton Lee was formed over 3000 years ago and it is home to some of the rarest and largest collections of biodiversity in England. It is one of the only habitats of the rare Cirl Bunting.

The Stokeley EstateOur first food and drink tasting experience, where you will choose the products for your evening hampe. It’s also a great opportunity to purchase some local products as souvenirs.

Beesands An old fishing village with superb views across Start Bay. We stop here for a history of fishing in the area, the local catch and its evolution and a tasting of fresh Crab and Scallops.

East PortlemouthHas remarkable views out to the Mouth, across to Salcombe, up to Kingsbridge and on a clear day even Dartmoor.

Salcombe EstuaryWe stop for a connection and some souvenir shopping. It is home to a rare population of sea horses due to its unique estuary.

South Sands Beach One of the most unspoilt beaches in South Devon. This is actually part of a cove, surrounded by stunning clear waters of the mouth of the estuary and Fort Charles.

The Avon EstuaryWe stop for a short walk down the stunning estuary and head into a very atmospheric shack on the banks. Our favourite restaurant for its fine quality seafood, charming character and vibrant atmosphere.

The Sharpham EstateThis thousand year old farm consists of five hundred acres. The setting of this age old estate is simply stunning, and made even more special by the Sharpham Sparkling Rose and the Reserve.

The Dart River Private CruiseWe conclude our adventure with a private charter on the Lower River Dart. From the walk down to the quay to the views from the river itself, memories are made that you will keep for ever.

Our highly recommended accommodation and perfect departure point due to its location in the heart of the South Hams. This waterfront hotel is of the early Georgian style but with a Victorian façade. Originally built as two separate merchant houses, it has a “glassed-in courtyard”, a winding wooden staircase, 20 antique spring bells above reception and the original coaching horn.

At present we do not have packaged prices on offer.

Recommended Accommodation

Charm of DartmouthRoyal Castle Hotel

With the English climate it is best to come prepared for any eventuality. Please check the tour itinerary for specifics of your tour. We recommend you wear good footwear for unstable ground and comfortable warm clothing for the river cruises. We supply blankets on the cruise and fashionable ponchos for short periods where we may encounter rain. The tours are predominantly under cover from the elements but if you would prefer your own raincoat we suggest you bring it and you can leave it on the bus.

Frequently asked QuestionsThink English Climate!What should I wear?

We can cater for any event. Whether it is an office day out, or a ladies’ or boys’ night out. Please call or complete the booking form with your details and preferences. We can cater for more than 12 people by working with you to produce a bespoke itinerary.

Bespoke option availableI am organising an event

Potentially all of our products may have come into contact with nuts. We only use local suppliers for products and our food is prepared by top chefs in highly rated restaurants and all ingredients/possible contaminations are labelled. However, it is up to you to inform us if you have an allergy or have not tried shell fish before. Therefore, there is a participation statement that highlights your need to advise us. We are happy to work with you to find a menu that will tantalise your taste-buds should you not wish to have a certain aspect of the food or drink. A full list of food for each tour is available in the trip itinerary.

Please advise us!I have food allergies

If the weather creates an unsafe environment we will cancel. We will give you advance notice of cancellations where possible and work with you to re-book your tour when the conditions return. Our guides are knowledgeable outdoor enthusiasts and they watch the weather patterns and know the local environment. If gourmet guides cancel a tour we will look into alternative tour options or supply a full refund. There are only short sections from the vehicle to the restaurant or vineyards that are unavoidable. The rest of the tour is all undercover. For days where it is just showers we supply umbrellas and waterproofs.

Waterproofs ahoy!What if there is poor weather?

We are able to offer each tour without any physical elements. We will deliver a slight variation to the regular itinerary but you will miss out on several key features of the original trip. For this we will offer features of equal value. If you require a wheelchair, we will need to know in advance to assist in your booking but we would be more than happy to cater for your requirements.

Ready for your requirementsWhat if I have mobility issues?

Our advertised tours are specifically aimed at adults and this may jeopardise the other clients’ experience. If you book a private/bespoke tour we will accommodate your children as long as they are over 18 for drink tastings. We can cater for children under 18, but we would need to know your requirements in advance and we can produce adapted itineraries.

Child experiences optionalCan I bring anyone under 18?

Yes of course. Over the coming months have a look back as themed tours are advertised. We will be running specific singles tours, party tours, ladies nights hen nights and events. Please contact and you may find that even our regular tours have other singles on them. Don’t be shy - come and meet like-minded people - you may find you meet more people on your own!

Everyone is welcome!Can I come on my own?

Yes, however, this will come with a premium, please call for a quote. We deliver exclusive luxury and romantic days. You will be wined and dined in luxury and privately chauffeured in a prestigious vehicle, along with your personal guide. We will organise a day that features stunning aspects that will create truly memorable experiences.

Romantically speaking...yes!Do you offer romantic tours?

Due to the nature of pets, we have to look at this in a case-by-case situation. We have catered for pets in the past. However, in the height of the season this is more difficult and will depend on the other clients as much as the destinations we explore. Please feel free to contact and where we can we will do our best to satisfy your requirements. We do have access to local kennels that we can use and the driver can also look after pets in the vehicle while we are at venues that are not pet friendly.

Optional furry friendsCan I bring my pet?

Due to the distance we travel please inform us of this with your booking form. We would suggest that you take your usual remedy prior to departure. We are never in the vehicle for more than 45 minutes and our drivers are set to “slow”. Please let the guide or driver know before departure as we can also change the seating arrangements. We would hate for you to have any discomfort!

Please advise us!What if I suffer with motion sickness?

We only use executive vehicles that are post 2014 and 9 - 15 seater that produce low emissions. All are fitted with air conditioning, heaters, cool box with refreshments, binoculars, tour itinerary, blankets for the cruises and waterproofs and umbrellas in case of the odd shower.

Executive styleWhat vehicle will we travel in?

Payment in full is due at the time of booking.

No contract is agreed and no tour will commence until full payment has been received.

Once full payment has been received the Client agrees to the following Terms and Conditions.

Should the Client wish to cancel a booking, the following refunds may apply on receipt of written notice:-

At least 12 weeks’ notice before the booked session – 90% of the total fee

At least 8 weeks’ notice before the booked session – 50% of the total fee

At least 6 weeks’ notice before the booked session – 10% of the total fee

Advertised tours require a minimum of six people to run. Where this minimum is not met, alternative tour options will be offered or a refund will be available.

Refunds are not available in whole or in part for unused tours due to Client late arrival, illness, accident, adverse weather conditions, or for any other cause outside the control of Gourmet Guides.

Gourmet Guides reserves the right to cancel a tour where reasonably necessary. In this instance alternative tour options or a refund will be available.

Gourmet Guides do not provide insurance for any Client or third party. It is the Client’s responsibility to arrange appropriate insurance to cover any activity undertaken during a Gourmet Guides Tour.

On matters of safety during the tour the decision of the Gourmet Guide or Driver is final.

Clients should ensure they are fit and appropriately attired for their chosen tour itinerary.

Gourmet Guides excludes all liability, to the extent permitted by law, for any injury or loss suffered during a Gourmet Guides Tour.

The Gourmet Guides tour bus will wait a maximum of 15 minutes from the proposed tour start time, at the advertised departure meeting point, unless notified by the Client in advance. If the Client misses the departure they can attempt to catch the Tour at the next location. This will be advised by the departure location staff or the Gourmet Guide.

Gourmet Guides Terms & Conditions

Prices are correct as of November 2015, but are subject to change.

Any complaint should be made known verbally to Gourmet Guides immediately and in writing within ten days of the incident. Gourmet Guides will endeavor to resolve such complaints to the satisfaction of any aggrieved party. Where no satisfactory resolution is made, a referral may be made to ABTA the Association of British Tour Agencies, for guidance on a final resolution of any dispute.

Gourmet Guides will not store customer financial details (credit or debit card numbers).

Gourmet Guides 19 Braddons Hill Road East Torquay Devon TQ1 1HA

Any contract between Gourmet Guides and another party will be governed by, and construed and interpreted in accordance with, English law.

Gourmet Guides

for dates and prices please visitwww.gourmet-guides.com

19 Braddons Hill Road East Torquay

Devon TQ11HA