South Devon Cottages

Why book a cottage in South Devon?

South Devon is an area below Dartmoor stretching from Plymouth to Exeter. It includes many seaside and market towns and the coastline is part of the 630 mile South West Coast Path. The South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty covers 60 miles of countryside and coastline, offering stunning views, walks and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

As you would expect for an area along the Devon coastline there are many spectacular beaches to explore. Bigbury-on-Sea, Bantham Beach and Hope Cove Beach all have miles of golden sands - perfect for sunbathing or building sandcastles. 

Inland, the southern edge of Dartmoor is a dramatic National Park of rock-tors, heather and bracken, wonderful for walking and exploring. If you love exploring the outdoors then you will really enjoy a self-catering holiday cottage in South Devon.

Where are the best places to visit in South Devon?

The dramatic coastline dominates the area of South Devon and there are many great places to visit. Head to Salcombe, famous for its local crab, or visit the peaceful towns of Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo, overlooking the Yealm estuary. The resort of Torquay has many wonderful nearby beaches such as Oddicombe Beach and Paignton Sands. They have miles of golden sand and safe, shallow waters for swimming.

The cities of Plymouth and Exteter form the border of South Devon at its eastern and western points. Plymouth is the largest city in Devon and has a rich maritime heritage. It has a thriving hub of shops, museums and many fantastic places to eat. Exeter is full of history and at the heart of the city you can find Exeter Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in England.

Where are the best places to eat and drink in South Devon?

As you would expect from its location on the coast, South Devon has many great seafood dishes that make the most of the quality local fish and shellfish. If you don’t like seafood then fear not, there is a huge variety of restaurants which cater to meat eaters, vegetarians and vegans.

The Elephant - Overlooking the Torquay harbour, chef and owner Simon Hulstone runs The Elephant, a Michelin starred seaside restaurant. Championing local produce; a large amount of the ingredients come from the restaurant’s farm in Brixham. The menu is constantly changing according to the seasonal produce but you can expect wonderfully inventive and creative cookery.

Millbrook Inn - How better to follow up winning Devon County Dining Pub 2019 than winning for 2020 as well! Local ingredients, some of which are foraged, are at the heart of a menu that is constantly being updated and evolved.If you want to get a true taste of Devon then head to the Millbrook Inn.

Delphini’s Gelato - Home-made ice cream and hot chocolate using Devon milk and cream and Belgian chocolate - what’s not to love! New flavours are constantly being created by owner Johan so you’ll want to come back again and again,

What are the best attractions in South Devon?

South Devon is a perfect holiday location as it really does have something for everyone. If you like the great outdoors then there are miles of coastline and countryside to explore. Walk the South West Coast Path or cycle along the Exe Estuary Trail.

If you prefer the buzz of the city then there is plenty to do in Plymouth or Exeter. In Plymouth, head to The Barbican, an historic quarter centred around the Harbour. Visit the Mayflower Museum and learn more about the journey made to the New World. In Exeter explore the underground passages that were designed to bring clean drinking water into the city. They are the only passages of their kind that exist in the UK. 

If you are visiting South Devon with children then there are plenty of activities to keep them entertained. The National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth is the largest in the UK and is home to over 4000 animals including turtles, stingrays and sharks.

Feel like a giant when you visit Babbacombe Model Village, a miniature village and railway. The village has thousands of miniature people and buildings, portraying life over the last 60 years.

Types of holiday

Celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary? Take a look at these romantic cottages - perfect for that special holiday away. If you want a break with the whole family and need lots of space then check out these large properties. You might want to get away with your four legged friend and have lots of walks on the beach or the countryside. If so, these pet-friendly cottages will be perfect! With over 100 South Devon cottages, there really is something to suit everyone.