The GeoPark of Torbay

What is a Geopark?

GeoparkS are unified geographical areas where landscapes have international geological significance that are recognised globally.

A UNESCO Global Geopark uses its geological heritage, in connection with all other aspects of the area’s natural and cultural heritage, to enhance awareness and understanding of key issues facing society, such as using our Earth’s resources sustainably, mitigating the effects of climate change and reducing the impact of natural disasters.

Where is our Geopark?

The entire area of Torbay is the Geopark.  Through the geology of the coastline you can see untouched landscapes formed by glaciation that are unseen anywhere else in the world. Along our coastline there is also proof of tropical seas and scorching deserts, raised beaches and drowned forests from hundreds of millions of years ago.

In September 2007 the English Riviera received international recognition for its rich geological, historical and cultural heritage, it became one of just 57 areas around the world to endorsed by UNESCO and welcomed into both the European and Global Geopark Networks.

The geological tale behind the English Riviera Geopark is quite spectacular and one of extremes. From a seascape bathed in the warm and beautiful tropical seas of the Marine Devonian to a landscape of arid, barren Permian desert.

Our nearest point of interest is on Roundham, GCR Statement of Interest: "This is the type section of the Permian Tor Bay Breccias.  These here include a variety of fluvial breccias, in which types formed during ephemeral sheet floods are the most abundant. On the south side of the headland are interbedded aeolian sands showing palaeo wind directions towards the north-west. This contrasts with the directions of fluvial transport, deduced from sedimentary structures such as imbrication and cross-bedding in the breccias, which was towards the south-east. A key site for demonstrating Permian sedimentary environments."

To celebrate the GEO FEST Reach Outdoors are running reduced price hour long kayak tours, so you can see our coastline from the sea. Visit https://www.reach-outdoors.com/event-booking to book your place.