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The Salcombe regattas

Every summer, the seaside town of Salcombe turns into a hive of tradition and activity as it plays host to two consecutive and much-loved events that attract sailors, families and holidaymakers from across the UK. The Salcombe Town Regatta is a week of entertainment and celebration that encourages people of all ages to get involved with the community, while the Salcombe Yacht Club Regatta is a competitive occasion for sailors, that’s also a treat to watch from the shore. Against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Salcombe estuary, both festivals capture the spirit of the coastal community with a blend of sailing, family entertainment, live music and breathtaking scenery.

Salcombe Town Regatta: A traditional seaside festival

For many, the week in August that marks the Salcombe Town Regatta, is the stuff that childhood memories are made of, encompassing sandcastle competitions, races across the mud at low tide, spot the bloomer competitions, the ‘greasy pole’ (you really have to be there), fun runs, harbour swims, and all coming together in a spectacular torchlight water procession and fireworks display (oggy oggy oggy!). Fun and games for the whole family – the town becomes a hive of entertainment, brimming with bunting, a carnival atmosphere, a popular party on Island Street, and stalls to peruse in Whitestrand Car Park.

Festivities on the water

The water plays a pivotal role in the festivities, providing both the backdrop and much of the entertainment. Watch the action unfold or get involved in the harbour swim, greasy pole, raft races, mud races and more. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, sample some of South Devon’s finest local produce, from crab, fish and scallops to gin, clotted cream and fudge, either at Salcombe’s cafes, restaurants or the quayside stalls at Whitestrand.

Fun for all the family

The Salcombe Town Regatta has something for everyone but is very much geared towards families, with activities for all ages. Children’s races, crabbing competitions, treasure hunts and beach games provide plenty of entertainment for younger visitors. Traditional favourites include the Spot the Bloomer competition and a sandcastle competition at South Sands beach (there are some very serious sandcastle builders amongst us).

Evening entertainment

There’s a lively, inclusive atmosphere throughout Salcombe Regatta, with celebrations continuing from day into evening. The Island Street Party takes place on the first Sunday of the regatta bringing live music, food, drink, family activities and stalls selling local goods, while the week draws to a memorable close with a torch-lit lantern procession on the water followed by a spectacular fireworks display over the estuary.

Salcombe Yacht Club Regatta: Sailing at its finest

A more specialist occasion, but one that everyone who visits Salcombe can take enormous pleasure in watching, is the Salcombe Yacht Club Regatta – usually in the last week of July. For sailing enthusiasts, this thrilling week of competitive racing in one of the country’s most scenic natural harbours is a truly special occasion, and certainly the events are a sight to behold.

Organised by the Salcombe Yacht Club, the regatta attracts experienced sailors and spectators as the estuary comes alive with yachts, dinghies, yawls, and more, racing across the water, creating a mesmerising scene against the green hills and sandy beaches. Visitors can watch the racing from the waterfront and nearby beaches while soaking up the maritime atmosphere, in an event that reflects Salcombe’s long-standing sailing heritage.

More than sailing

Beyond the regattas themselves, summer in Salcombe is the stuff that Pinterest boards are made of, offering plenty to enjoy, from natural scenery to local attractions. Beautiful beaches like North Sands and South Sands are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding and relaxing in the sun, while the South West Coast Path provides wonderful walks with panoramic sea views. On hot days, few things hit the spot quite like a Salcombe Dairy ice cream, and when those energy levels drop, a trip to the traditional Cranch’s Sweetshop is most definitely in order.

Planning your Salcombe stay

Unsurprisingly, both regattas are extremely popular times to visit the area, so Salcombe holiday cottages get booked up quickly. If you’re able to book in advance it can make your plans much smoother, and ensure holiday homes in the nearest locations, but then again you might prefer to be a little outside the action so you can dip in and out as you please. Whether you are visiting for the family-friendly festivities of the Salcombe Town Regatta or the spectacular sailing during the Salcombe Yacht Club Regatta, these unique summer events offer a wonderful opportunity to experience the very best of Devon’s coastal charm.

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Date: 1st October 2026

Halloween in Salcombe

Halloween in Salcombe: Spooky things to do this autumn For lots of people Salcombe is the embodiment of summer holidays - beach days, buckets and spades, crab sandwiches, sandy toes and salt in your hair. However, those in the know know that autumn brings with it a special kind of magic, as the colours change, a unique drama sets in across the landscape, and the quieter months invite those visiting to feel more connected to the rhythms of nature. The summer crowds have gone, the evenings are drawing in, and activities lean into dramatic walks along the coast path beneath darkening skies, exploring Salcombe's maritime history, hunting for pumpkins, and retreating to cosy holiday homes for leisurely evenings cooking local fare and snuggling up by a roaring fire. Whether you're looking for Halloween activities for the family or simply an excuse for an autumn escape, here's how to enjoy autumn in and around Salcombe. Why visit Salcombe at Halloween? In October, Salcombe has a different charm to it. It’s noticeably quieter and it’s an excellent time for walking, exploring the beaches and discovering local history. Few things beat a pasty after a hike along the South West Coast Path on a cold, sunny day. Equally, when the sun goes down, Salcombe's pubs provide plenty of opportunities to warm up and settle in for the evening. For families, October half term is an especially good time to visit, when you can combine Halloween-themed activities with some of the classic South Devon experiences that work just as well in autumn as they do in summer. Ghosts, smugglers and shipwrecks Salcombe is no stranger to mysterious stories, not least because its ancient heritage leaves plenty of opportunity for tall tales and strange happenings. The name appears to relate to medieval saltworking, although the moniker 'Salcombe' is first recorded in 1244. One of the few Bronze Age ships in England was washed up on Salcombe's rugged shores, containing treasures that are still being discovered today. It's not the only ship wreck in the area either - if these waters could talk, they would tell the stories of lots of brave souls lost in their depths. Travel across the centuries and you will discover more, from smugglers to Fort Charles at North Sands, which was a stubborn Royalist stronghold during the English Civil War and said to have held out as the very last Royalist-held castle on the English mainland. Head along the coastline and you will find Burgh Island - a particularly atmospheric location favoured by crime author Agatha Christie. Alongside a 1930s hotel, it's complete with the historic Pilchard Inn, associated with tales of the ghost of Tom Crocker, a local smuggler said to haunt the island. Furthermore, a few miles from Salcombe is the infamous Berry Pomeroy Castle near Totnes, which lays claim to being one of the most haunted locations in the UK. A picturesque castle, it has been the subject of countless ghost sightings throughout the years and even if you don't spot any spirits, it's guaranteed to make for a truly eerie excursion. Halloween activities in and around Salcombe Halloween events change from year to year, so it's always worth checking individual destinations before travelling. Some activities are announced specifically for October half-term, while others run throughout the autumn, and then there are the evergreen things that we fall in love with again and again each year. Pumpkin picking at Terawhiti Farm What could be more seasonal than pumpkin picking? Terawhiti Farm is a small, family run farm that grows mostly vegetables, including pumpkins which they nurture from seed. Located near South Milton, they offer the chance to pick your own in the lead up to Halloween, making for a wholesome and happy day out. Chocolate workshops Salcombe Dairy is a favourite feature of the local landscape, making (in our opinion) the best ice cream and chocolate money can buy. Their Salchemist Masterclasses are an opportunity to make your own chocolate creations as well as sample some of their 21 flavours of ice cream. They typically have a class over Halloween - talk about taking Trick or Treating to new heights. National Trust activities There are lots of National Trust properties in the South Hams and each year they choose how to celebrate the season. For example, that might mean craft workshops to make bubbling cauldron models at Overbeck's, complete with dramatic views of the coast outside. You can combine it with a walk to Bolt Head as well! Dartmouth Steam Railway Not too far away, the Dartmouth Steam Railway is an enchanting way to explore the South Devon coastline at any time of year, and seeing the colours change along the River Dart in autumn is a treat. At Halloween, they have been known to host a themed train, but even without the spooks it's a special way to spend time. Halloween comes to the Babbacombe Model Village A great way to spend time as a family is to head to Babbacombe Model Village in Torquay, and at Halloween they go all out with spooky illuminations, a miniature pumpkin trail, and eerie surprises to fright and delight. Salcombe Live Not a Halloween occasion, but something celebratory for the autumn, The Salcombe Live Festival is a family-friendly weekend of music and comedy at the start of October. It sees events take place across the town, offering an eclectic mix of live original music from South West artists. Explore the landscape For us, one of the best activities at this time of the year is to embrace the landscapes in all their wild glory. Whether you roam along the South West Coast Path or head towards Dartmoor to see if you can hear the howl of The Hound of the Baskervilles (set within the wild and misty moors), few things will make you feel more invigorated. Plan your Halloween break in Salcombe A quieter version of South Devon is an enchanting experience, and having your own Salcombe holiday cottage to settle into is a really special way of making the most of it. Whether it's bringing home that pumpkin to carve together as a family or settling in with a glass of wine and a spooky film after a day of fresh air, it's all about rest that soothes the soul. Choose a cottage with a sea view and watch the weather roll in across the estuary, or look for a property with a hot tub for the ultimate autumn wind-down. Halloween is a wonderful excuse to discover a different side of South Devon, but you don't need a packed schedule to enjoy it. Come for the pumpkin picking, coastal walks and ghost stories, but stay for the quiet beaches, cosy evenings and spectacular scenery. If you're lucky enough to wake up to a clear October morning, wrap up warm, head for the coast and enjoy Salcombe at its atmospheric best. Explore holiday cottages in Salcombe

Date: 17th April 2026

A Wednesday Afternoon at The Old Stable Sauna, East Portlemouth

A Wednesday Afternoon at The Old Stable Sauna, East Portlemouth Back in April, the Finest Stays team swapped a Wednesday afternoon in the office for a few hours at The Old Stable sauna in East Portlemouth - a gifted experience that turned out to be one of the best midweek resets we’ve had in a while. Getting there is part of the experience itself. You can catch the passenger ferry across from Salcombe, which drops you just below The Old Stable café and sauna, or drive around to East Portlemouth where there’s parking nearby. The road into the village changes completely depending on the tide. At low tide, the estuary opens up beside you with incredible views across the water and mudflats towards Salcombe, while at high tide the landscape shifts again, with the surrounding countryside roads becoming much greener and softer. The sauna sits above the ferry landing and Fisherman’s Cove, next to The Old Stable café, looking directly across the harbour towards Salcombe and Snapes Point. It’s a simple setup, but the location does most of the work. We arrived with enough time for a coffee beforehand and sat outside watching the boats move across the estuary. The café itself is relaxed and understated - organic coffee, homemade sausage rolls, pastries and sweet treats - the kind of place you end up staying longer than planned. Then into the sauna. The wood-fired heat builds steadily, and because the entire front of the sauna looks out across the water, you stay connected to the setting the whole time. You watch ferries coming and going, people paddleboarding across the harbour and the tide shifting below you whilst sitting in complete silence or chatting with whoever you’re sharing the session with. What stood out most was how social it felt. No phones, no distractions, no one really checking the time. Just properly switching off for an hour. Between sauna rounds, we stepped outside into the sea air before braving the cold plunge. Some headed straight for the water below, others stuck with the plunge tubs, but all of us came back into the sauna wide awake and laughing. It quickly became less about wellness trends and more about the simplicity of it all - heat, cold water, fresh air and good company in one of the best spots on the South Devon coast. The Setting The Old Stable sauna is positioned directly above the Salcombe to East Portlemouth ferry landing, overlooking the harbour waters, Snapes Point and Salcombe itself. On a clear day, you can see right across the estuary whilst sitting inside the sauna. It’s one of those locations that feels very tied to the landscape around it rather than built separately from it. Getting There The easiest way from Salcombe is via the passenger ferry to East Portlemouth, which runs regularly across the water and drops you just below the sauna and café. If you’re driving, there’s parking close by in East Portlemouth. The tidal road into the village is worth the journey alone - particularly at low tide when the estuary stretches out beside you and the views open up across the water. The Experience The setup is straightforward: wood-fired sauna sessions with optional cold plunge access and the sea only moments away. You can book communal sessions or private hire for groups, and the atmosphere feels welcoming whether you’ve done sauna and cold water therapy before or not. What we liked most was how unpolished it felt in the best way possible. Nothing overly curated. Just a really good sauna, on the water, with excellent coffee nearby. Stay Nearby For guests staying with Finest Stays in a luxury cottage in Salcombe, East Portlemouth or the surrounding South Hams villages, it’s an easy addition to a coastal stay, particularly outside of peak summer when the estuary feels quieter. You could easily build an afternoon around it: ferry across from Salcombe, sauna session, coffee at The Old Stable, then a walk along the coast path before heading back across the water.A huge thank you again to The Old Stable and Village Farm Café for having us earlier this spring. It’s exactly the sort of local experience we love recommending to guests looking to experience this part of Devon a little differently.

Date: 26th January 2026

How to make the most of a long weekend in Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers

How to make the most of a long weekend in Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers South Devon is brimming with beauty spots and popular holiday destinations, from those favoured for summer holidays and plenty of water sports in Plymouth to countryside stays with a wealth of walking opportunities. Amongst the picture-perfect locations are Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo. The neighbouring villages are on opposite banks of the River Yealm's estuary, and are best known for secluded stays in the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, filled with sailing, coastal strolls, pub lunches, and waterside views, but within easy reach of the buzz of Plymouth. Offering a slower pace to some of their better known counterparts, these connected havens are ideal for couples, families and dog-owners looking for a restful stay. From exploring the Yealm Estuary to taking a walk along the South West Coast Path and enjoying fireside pints at the iconic Ship Inn, here's our guide to making the most of a long weekend in Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers. Day One: Arriving in Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers The approach to Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo takes you down scenic country lanes, with views of the estuary rising up to greet you. Needless to say, first impressions set the tone for your getaway, and this is the stuff of chocolate box dreams. Wherever you stay, you can walk between the villages, and Noss Mayo has two free village car parks if you need them, although many of the Finest Stays holiday homes have their own parking as well. Exploring the villages Once you've got out of the car, it's time to stretch your legs and get your bearings. In Newton Ferrers village centre you will be greeted by an array of charming independent shops, galleries, and cafés - perfect for a caffeinated pick-me-up or styling yourself out in South Devon's finest fashion. The Green Deli is a favourite location for breakfast, lunch, and bits to take home as well. Noss Mayo on the other hand is a dreamy little world of waterside cottages, estuary views, and slipways that lead straight into the water - for those who fancy a spot of kayaking or paddle boarding. Wander down the narrow streets to get a sense of where you are, and plan which pub you most want to go to in the evening. One of the particular joys of a luxury holiday in Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers, is that you can walk between the two villages down footpaths and country lanes, as well as explore circular routes in the surrounding area - more on that in a moment. Lunch suggestions Once you've got the lay of the land, a spot of lunch is in order. Whether you fancy a feast or a light bite, the cafes, pubs, and shops invite you to tuck into the best of local fare. You might like to head to The Swan Inn in Noss Mayo - a welcoming family-run pub with a terrace overlooking the water, local cask ale, and a delectable menu. Make sure you treat yourself to an award-winning Surfing Cow Ice Cream, made just down the road in Mothecombe. The Ship Inn is another of Noss Mayo's firm favourites - a waterside pub brimming with creaky beams and old-world charm - perfect for a long, lazy lunch. Of course, if you're itching to get to the beach or out on a hike, there are lots of local shops where you can pick up fresh fare and a good cup of coffee. An afternoon in coast and country South Devon holidays are about many things, but chief amongst them is enjoying the landscape. This is a part of the UK blessed with immense natural beauty, so whether you enjoy it on land or on the water, on the beach or on the clifftops, being outside is what it's all about. If you look closely, you might even see some of the incredible wildlife, from seals to seabirds or simply watching the boats bob by. Walks along the South West Coast Path The South West Coast Path is a wonder of the world (if you ask us), and there are several loops to enjoy on a long weekend in Noss Mayo. For example, there's the circular Revelstoke Drive and Noss Mayo walk starting in the National Trust car park on Hannaford Road, or the Wembury and Yealm Estuary Circular spanning four miles from Wembury beach car park. Clear waters at Cellar Beach A day at the beach is one of life's great joys, and for those who like peace and quiet, Cellar Beach is perfect. A tranquil cove, you can reach it via a woodland walk, which takes around 40-minutes from Noss Mayo - or you can get to it by water. Dogs are welcome throughout the year, and it's an ideal place to spend the afternoon exploring caves and crystal clear waters. Rock pooling at Wembury Beach A short drive from Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo, Wembury Beach is a breathtaking stretch of coast surrounded by dramatic cliffs and home to abundant wildlife. An excellent place for rock pooling, it also offers views of the Great Mewstone - a distinctive island known for its history as a smuggler hideout, and inspiration for artist J.M.W. Turner. Relaxed evenings in the village Evenings on your Noss Mayo long weekend are all about taking advantage of a slower pace of life. Sunset walks along the estuary, dinner in one of the village pubs or cosy nights in tucking into that hamper of local produce you procured earlier in the day. From your garden or patio simply stargazing offers endless entertainment, listening to the water lap the shore and soothing that nervous system before a restful night's sleep. Day two: Water sports, walks and local attractions Now that you're in the rhythm of things you can take the second day of your Noss Mayo long weekend in your stride. For a breakfast like no other, hop over to the Schoolhouse Devon at Mothecombe, for favourites including Mimosas, waffles with berries, mascarpone and maple syrup, or a Salcombe Smokie with smoked mackerel, smoked bacon, tomatoes, fried egg and sourdough toast. Then, those coastal walks continue to beckon, or perhaps you're in the mood for adventure, seeing the area from the water with a little kayaking or paddleboarding on the Yealm Estuary. If you want to pick up the pace, you can also hire a boat or go sailing, exploring the landscape with help from Carter Boat Hire. Meanwhile, those with an appetite for learning will love the Wembury Marine Centre close by where families love finding out more about marine conservation and learning about the seabirds and seals that make their home on the coastline. 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Date: 16th January 2026

Saunas in Devon to beat the 'January Blues'

Saunas in Devon to beat the 'January Blues' From Scandinavian heritage to modern spa inspiration, contrast therapy, mixing hot and cold exposures, is having a moment in the UK as we all seek to feel like the best version of ourselves. However, taking that holistic tradition to new heights is the opportunity to swim and sauna in the great outdoors, with beach views and wild swims framing immune-boosting and invigorating experiences that nurture mind, body, and soul. Devon is uniquely placed to offer this contrast therapy, with Devon saunas near the beach twinned with an ice cool dip in the sea. Inviting you to beat the January blues and boost your wellbeing at the same time, here's what, when, and why beachside saunas in Devon are the perfect way to set your wellbeing intentions for 2026. Understanding the 'January Blues' We've all heard of the 'January Blues', and to a greater to lesser extent we all know what they are. For some, it's simply feeling a bit deflated after the excitement and excesses of the festive period, but adding to it, the cold, the dark, reduced social connection, and pressure to be a 'new you' in the New Year, can cause a dip in our mood. In more extreme situations, some even suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) - a type of seasonal depression. So prevalent is the 'blue' feeling, that the third Monday in the month is known as 'Blue Monday' - aka, the most depressing day of the year. For those heading to Devon in January, however, there's plenty to smile about - not least a little contrast therapy to leave you feeling energised and enthused. Why winter wellness matters Lots of us associate the New Year with resolutions intended to get us into the gym to become the 'best' version of ourselves. Nature, however, teaches us that these chilly, dormant months are for nurturing - leaning into the season and perhaps being a little gentler with ourselves and those around us. Holistic wellness encourages us to follow suit, recognising that these shorter daylight periods are not for raw salads and 5am workouts, but for energetically warm foods, nourishment, gentle movement, and connecting with the rhythm of the natural world as it moves back towards abundance once again. In a period where anxiety is high, mental health is at its most fragile, and our bodies crave being cared for, it's access to fresh air, quiet routines and the calm of nature that help us find our way back to ourselves. This is how we transition from hibernation to restoration in anticipation of spring. The health benefits of sauna therapy In many cultures, sauna therapy has been a staple part of wellbeing with a history that spans millennia. From Finnish pit saunas to Roman bathhouses, they have offered places for relaxation, spiritual purification, socialisation, and cleansing for thousands of years. Simply experiencing saunas is enough for most of us to know that we feel better for it, especially when we feel as though the cold has permeated our bodies right to the bone. However, documented wellbeing benefits span the mental and physical, from activating the sympathetic nervous system to improving mood, detox, reducing pain, and improving circulation. Cold plunges and wild swimming: Mind over matter So-called 'wild swimming' has had a renaissance in recent years, with more of us seeking to connect with nature and enjoy time outside. It ties in with the beauty and benefits of cold plunge therapies - famously popularised (and taken to extremes) by Wim Hof. You don't need to plunge into an ice bath, however, to get the benefits of jumping into the cold. In fact, it's decidedly more pleasant not to do that. Cold water swimming alone has its benefits - it's a beautiful way to exercise, breathing in the fresh air and, in our case, the beauty of the Devon seascapes. Getting into the sea is, in itself, therapeutic, known anecdotally for being stimulating and mood boosting, while research also talks about 'blue health' - connecting blue spaces (outside water habitats) with better general and mental wellbeing as well as more physical activity. The salt water also has its merits, from soothing the skin to reducing inflammation. Meanwhile, the concept of the cold plunge has documented benefits including: Reduced inflammation Reduced stress Improved immunity Better sleep quality Overall feelings of a better quality of life The power of contrast: Saunas and cold water combined While saunas and cold water plunges have their individual pluses, the real magic happens in the contrast. Moving from hot to cold on a cycle is not only invigorating but supercharges the feel-good-factor. Benefits include: Reduce pain Enhance function Alleviate muscle soreness Manage swelling Improve blood circulation Boost mood Crucially, one of the bits of the process that people miss, is the importance of rest between the heat and the cold. That's a very good excuse to sit on the beach for a minute and take it all in when you visit a Devon beach sauna. Wellness with a view: Sea air and coastal calm Where saunas on the beach, combined with sea swims, really have the edge on contrast therapy in a swimming pool, is the landscape and connectivity with nature. While we may be biased, there are few places in the world quite as beautiful as South Devon, and speaking from experience, there's nothing quite like having the beach (almost) to yourself on a cold winter morning, and breathing in the view. It's well known that coastal environments help us feel better. Being around nature, taking the time to notice it, the fresh air, perhaps some sunlight if you're lucky, the sounds of the seagulls and the rhythm of waves lapping the shore - it's all a recipe for improving our mood and helping us unwind. Even the sea air's negative ions are linked to alleviating depression. With Devon saunas located at the likes of Blackpool Sands (a Blue Flag-awarded beach and real beauty spot), the iconic Bigbury on Sea, overlooking the Erme Estuary at Mothecombe, and flanking the Shoalstone Seawater Pool in Brixham, saunas in Devon leave you spoiled for choice. Making it part of a Finest Stays winter break Building these wellbeing experiences into a holiday, so you can enjoy them as an individual event or as a regular feature during your getaway means you can turn a mini break into a really unique retreat. Think of it as a spa ritual designed by nature - even better if it's just a short distance from where you're staying so you can start or end the day with a mindful ritual. Alternatively, stop along one of the beautiful walks in Dartmouth the area has to offer - a long hike is a particular highlight of Devon in January. At Finest Stays we are lucky enough to work with some of the most beautiful and exclusive properties across the South Hams, whether you're looking for a boutique hideaway for two or somewhere you can hunker down with a whole group of friends. Amongst them, is a treasure trove of destinations within easy reach of a Devon sauna or two. For example, we love The Lodge for a celebratory gathering just moments from Blackpool Sands or the magical Mulberry House - a Grade II listed mansion in the heart of the Flete Estate, just a 10-minute stroll from The Somewhere Sauna at Mothecombe. Discover a Devon sauna near your dream holiday home