A LEADING Topsham tourism company is calling for the industry in Devon to join together to build a better showcase for the county.
A LEADING Topsham tourism company is calling for the industry in Devon to join together to build a better showcase for the county.
According to Topsham-based Cartwheel Holidays, a leading non-profit tourism firm exclusive to the West Country, the industry needs to link together all the elements that draw visitors to Devon to revive the Great British Holiday.
In response to the changing economic climate, Cartwheel has just re-launched its website in an expanded format featuring its 570 accommodation listings across the region, and details of farm shops and farmers markets.
Gina Woodcraft, chief executive of Cartwheel Holidays, said: "Currently the tourism industry in Devon is very accommodation focused, but this is only a small part of the experience potential visitors are after.
"If we can become more integrated, show and deliver the whole experience they're after, it will encourage people to return year after year.
"By putting more information in one place, people can get a better feel for the area and the authentic Devonian experience quickly and easily."
Much of the accommodation that gets advertised by Cartwheels Holidays comes from farmers turning their out-buildings into bed and breakfasts, Cartwheels also offers free advice to local farmers wanting to diversify.
The food and drink organisation Taste of the West is endorsing the company by providing a comprehensive list of farm shops and farmers markets for the new website.
John Sheaves, chief executive of Taste of the West said: "If we can get more people enjoying our delicious local food and drink during their stay here, it gives them even more reason to return."
Cartwheel will celebrate its 10th anniversary this year.
The Cartwheel website include searches by county, by town and also by niche, including fishing breaks, business breaks, pet friendly and toddler friendly breaks.
It also has a new last minute deals availability search with links to google maps.
For more information visit www.cartwheelholidays.co.uk.
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