Torquay: The Setting Sun & Wild Food Experience

Exploring the Devon coast doesn’t get much more engaging than the “Setting Sun & Wild Food Experience” offered by Babbacombe Watersports. This 3-hour adventure promises an active mix of sea kayaking, wildlife spotting, foraging, and a fresh, locally-sourced dinner. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or someone curious about the natural surroundings of the English Riviera, this tour packs a lot into a short window.

We’re particularly drawn to how this experience combines outdoor fun with authentic local flavors and wildlife encounters, all set against the stunning backdrop of a sunset over the sea. The chance to paddle around Thatcher Rock and explore SSSI sites adds an educational touch, while the opportunity to forage for marine herbs and hunt fossils makes it truly hands-on.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is weather-dependent—conditions can change quickly at sea. It’s also not suited for those prone to seasickness or with food allergies. But if you’re prepared for a bit of active outdoor time and enjoy being immersed in nature, this could be a highlight of your trip to Devon. It’s ideal for small groups looking for a memorable, authentic experience that combines scenery, wildlife, and local cuisine.

Key Points

• Sea kayaking at sunset offers both a scenic and invigorating way to experience the coast.
• Visits to SSSI sites provide insight into the scientific interest of the local environment.
• Foraging and fossil hunting make the experience interactive and educational.
• The meal of fresh line-caught Mackerel emphasizes local, sustainable cuisine.
• Tour is suitable for active travelers comfortable with outdoor conditions.
• Limited to small groups, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour delivers a compact yet rich adventure along the Devon coast, blending sea kayaking, wildlife observation, foraging, and culinary delights into a three-hour window. Organized by Babbacombe Watersports, it’s a well-rounded outing that appeals to nature lovers, foodies, and those seeking a different way to experience the English Riviera.

The journey starts with a briefing and outfitting, where technical clothing and equipment are provided. Expect to wear layered clothing suitable for changing weather — active wear, waterproof trousers, and thermal jackets are recommended. The guide will ensure everyone is well-equipped before paddling out into the calm waters, heading toward Thatcher Rock and nearby SSSI sites.

The highlight of the paddle is the chance to watch the sunset over the sea, which transforms the landscape into a canvas of warm hues. As you paddle, you’ll pass seals basking on haul-outs, a true delight for wildlife enthusiasts. The guide often mentions observing seals fishing and sunbathing, which many reviews find to be a calming and memorable part of the trip.

Paddling Around Thatcher Rock and Through Natural Arches

One of the most visually captivating parts of the tour involves paddling around the iconic Thatcher Rock, a well-known landmark on the English coast, and through a natural sea arch. These geological features aren’t just pretty—they’re of scientific interest, designated as SSSI sites, meaning they are protected and significant for their natural features.

The natural arch, in particular, is a memorable sight. Paddling through it, you get a sense of the raw power of the sea and the fascinating ways nature sculpts the coastline. This provides excellent photo opportunities and a real sense of adventure. The guide’s commentary adds depth, explaining the geology and ecological importance of these sites, which many past participants appreciate.

Foraging for Marine Herbs and Fossil Hunting

Once you’ve paddled around the scenic sights, the boat stops on a secluded beach. Here, the wild food portion of the experience begins. You’ll hunt for fossils—an activity that appeals to both adults and kids—learning how to spot and collect these remnants of ancient life. Foraging for a special marine herb that flavors the evening’s meal is another engaging activity, emphasizing sustainability and local sourcing.

The guide’s expertise makes these foraging sessions both fun and educational. Many past reviews highlight how they loved learning about the local flora and fauna, and how it enhances their appreciation for the region’s natural history. The foraged herbs are then used to flavor the fresh, line-caught Mackerel (or another white fish), which will be prepared on hot stones right there on the beach.

The Meal: A Fresh, Local Seafood Dinner

The culinary highlight is the dinner of fresh Mackerel, caught earlier that day, paired with local breads and salads. The fish is cooked right on the beach, flavored with the foraged herbs, giving it a truly local and authentic touch. The preparation on hot stones is a rustic yet effective method, resulting in tender, flavorful fillets.

Reviewers often remark on the quality of the food, emphasizing that it’s simple but delicious, and showcases the best of local seafood. The experience of eating on the beach while the sunset fades is a perfect way to end the adventure. It’s worth noting that this is a communal, small-group experience, which fosters a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Considerations

This tour is designed to be accessible for most outdoor enthusiasts, but it does require some active participation. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures personalized attention but means early booking is recommended. The tour duration is about 3 hours, with flexible start times; check availability in advance.

Weather can influence the experience significantly. While the guide provides technical gear such as waterproof jackets with spray decks and hoods, be prepared for wind, rain, or cooler temperatures, especially at sunset. If it’s warm enough, you might wear beach clothes but should still bring a layer for sitting by the fire.

Because the tour takes place partly on the water and on a remote beach, it’s not suitable for people with food allergies or those prone to seasickness. Participants should bring layers, snacks, water, a waterproof camera, and comfortable clothing. Note that refreshments and snacks are not included, so consider bringing extra provisions if you plan to stay around after the meal.

Value and Overall Impression

At around three hours, the tour offers a compact but rich experience that combines physical activity, education, wildlife observation, and a local culinary highlight. The cost might seem modest given the inclusions—guidance, all technical gear, and a freshly prepared seafood meal—making it good value for those who want more than just a sightseeing trip. The small group setting enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized storytelling and interaction.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see seals and other wildlife up close. The sunset setting adds a magical atmosphere, turning an active outing into a memorable evening. While it’s weather-dependent, most reviews mention that even on less-than-sunny evenings, the experience remains rewarding, thanks to the engaging activities and beautiful scenery.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who enjoy being outdoors and learning about local ecology and geology. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate fresh seafood and are curious about foraging. It’s also ideal for families or small groups looking for a personalized, eco-friendly adventure.

However, those prone to seasickness, with food allergies, or seeking a purely relaxed, land-based activity might want to consider other options. The tour’s emphasis on natural beauty, wildlife, and hands-on activities makes it a distinctive way to connect with Devon’s coast authentically.

“Torquay: The Setting Sun & Wild Food Experience” offers a well-rounded, engaging taste of Devon’s coastal environment. It balances physical activity with education and culinary delights, all set against the stunning backdrop of a sunset. The small-group approach fosters intimacy and personalized attention, making it a memorable choice for adventurous travelers who want to get off the beaten path.

If you’re after a fun, active outdoor evening that offers wildlife viewing, a bit of foraging, and a delicious local meal, this tour hits all those marks. It’s best suited for those comfortable with being on the water, appreciating nature, and eager to enjoy a unique, authentic experience in the English Riviera.

FAQs

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring layered clothing suitable for variable weather, snacks, water, a waterproof camera, and comfortable outdoor clothes. Technical gear is provided, but dressing appropriately will make the experience more enjoyable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it isn’t explicitly stated, small groups and active outdoor activities generally suit older children or teenagers. Always check personal comfort with water activities and the physicality of paddling.

Do I need to have paddling experience?
No prior experience is necessary. The guide provides all equipment and instructions, making it accessible even for beginners.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can influence the trip, but the guide outfits participants with technical clothing, and safety is a priority. Cancelations are possible if conditions are unsafe, so checking the forecast beforehand is wise.

Can I join if I have food allergies?
This tour isn’t suitable for people with food allergies, as the meal involves fish and possibly other ingredients that could pose a risk.

What wildlife might I see?
Seals are often spotted basking or fishing. Resident cetaceans (whales and dolphins) also move around South Devon, providing opportunities for wildlife observation.

How big are the groups?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed experience.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It can be, especially for active families with older children, but always consider the physical activity and weather conditions before booking.

This experience offers a fantastic way to combine outdoor adventure, wildlife, and local cuisine into one memorable evening. If you’re in Devon and looking for an authentic, small-group activity that emphasizes enjoying the natural environment, this tour should be on your list.

You can check availability for your dates here: