TRYING to reach the inner sanctum of Buckfast makes cracking the Da Vinci Code seem like a doddle.
Despite being one of Scotland’s most common (and controversial) drink choices, there’s a real sense of mystery surrounding the world’s most famous tonic wine.
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Living up to another tartan trope, I walked (actually plane, train and automobiled) my way 500 miles down to the home of ‘wreck the hoose juice.’
And if you thought that Devon wasn’t the sort of place that shouldn’t be associated with a beverage dubbed ‘Commotion Lotion’… you’d be right.
As soon as I got out my taxi in Buckfastleigh, I felt like I’d wondered into the setting of a travel agent advert after passing so many beautiful beaches and cracking coastline views.
I was tickled by some of the local businesses too – the Buckfast barbers, a Buckfast carpet firm and some other companies named after the village.
Allegedly made my monks, the winery isn’t even situated within the main part of Buckfast Abbey itself.
And if you speak to staff and locals, most don’t actually know where the juice is produced.
That’s because the winery is hidden away in a wooded area with signs warning people mustn’t trespass.
It’s a short walk from the Abbey and protected with military-like precision so many of the details are impossible to speculate on.
However, I got the impression you’d experience the dark side of Devonshire if you ignored the warning signs.
Thankfully the Abbey itself is far easier to find and a nice visit for tourists.
Even better, it has a hotel just off-site as well as its own pizzeria – where you can have a glass of Buckfast – and a gift shop selling special products such as beers you can’t get anywhere else.
Unlike Scotland, where only traditional Buckfast is sold, the store also has whiskies and different infused wines exclusive to the Abbey.
While the pizzeria – called San Benedetto’s – is also hugely popular, with the monks regularly dining there.
Just a stone’s throw away from Exeter and every other Devonshire staple, Buckfastleigh is often overlooked.
Perhaps the windsurfing and water sports nearby are more popular activities for folk.
But Buckfast Abbey is well worth a visit too when you’re looking for a more chilled out day on your travels.
Locals are delighted to meet visitors and are quick to offer some of their own tourist advice.
Just don’t expect them to love Buckfast as much as the Scots – most seem indifferent at best.
If you do visit, the Northgate Hotel just off the Abbey is ideal for the friendly service and lovely rooms as well as prime location.
With a bar and restaurant on the ground floor, you can relax in comfort knowing you’re just a short walk from some stunning strolls.
If you see the monks roaming the grounds of the Abbey, don’t be shy in saying hi.
Read more on the Scottish Sun
It’s a common misconception that they all take a vow of silence – and it couldn’t be further from the truth.
But I wouldn’t anticipate them sharing a glass of Buckfast with you.
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