Walking & hiking in Hope Cove
Hope Cove is a walker’s paradise. Sitting on the South West Coast Path, this village is a popular spot for those taking in the rugged coastline of the South Hams.
Walking in Hope Cove
Indoor Activities & Rainy-Day Attractions in Devon
The ultimate guide to indoor Devon attractions & rainy-day activities perfect for families & couples. Plan a memorable rainy day out in Devon with Finest Stays.
Outer Hope Circular
Outer Hope Circular 3 miles (4.8km) Start at Outer Hope Finish at Outer Hope Fancy getting to know the village of Hope Cove better? This circular route around Outer Hope will reveal more about the village you are staying in. Get a taste of rural Devon living as you wander through countryside lanes and fields. The route Start by following the coastal path towards Thurlestone up the steep hill and through the gate. Follow the right fork of the path and down the hill where the path bends to the right. As you reach the top of the hill on the coastal path, you will be able to see the rock arches at Beacon Point. Go through a gate down to the road and then follow it away from the beach, up the valley towards South Huish Farm. Take the narrow lane opposite the farm and follow it up a hill until you come into a field. Make sure that you shut any gates you went through, especially near farms where cattle may be grazing. As you walk through the field, keep left until you reach a gate to the road. Turn left down the road and after approximately 40 metres you will need to cross a stile in the hedge on your right. Cross the field to a short track into the road. Turn right along the road then left down a lane on the far side of the first house. Once you reach the road, turn left then right into Benns Close. At the bottom of the close continue down the field to the footbridge. Cross the field until you reach a stile in the hedge, which turns into a track. As you walk through the village, see if you can spot any reminders of its fishing and smuggling history. Walk along the track and up the field to a stile in the wall beside a gate. Go over the stile and turn right onto the ridgeway path. Follow the path through several fields to come out at a gate and down to a road. Cross the road and go down the steps to the left of the chapel before taking the first right-hand turn back along the path to Outer Hope. At the chapel, look out over the water and imagine the ships of a Spanish Armada passing close to Hope Cove as they moved up the Channel in 1588 with the aim of removing the Protestant Queen Elizabeth I and restoring Catholicism to England.
Top 5 Devon Coastal Walks
You would be really missing out if you decide to visit Devon and not walk its stunning coastline. In this blog, we explore what makes the Devonshire coast so appealing and how best to explore it, as well as revealing our top 5 Devon coastal walks. If you’re planning a walking holiday to Devon with your four legged friends, view our Salcombe dog friendly cottages. 1. Hope Cove Circular 4.8 miles - download the route Why walk here? Hope Cove is a small seaside village in the South Hams, found just west of Salcombe. Boasting a sandy beach and a nearby headland to traverse, this typical Devonshire landscape makes the perfect setting for a casual amble or a more organised circular walk. Dogs are allowed on leads in Hope Cove walks. In the summer this coastal walk is particularly stunning, with wildflowers blanketing the headland. If you’re lucky, you may even see kestrels and peregrines swooping above the grassland. The route This walk is a great combination of headland, beach and quiet country lanes. Start your walk at Outer Hope car park and make your way down to Hope Cove. From here, you will pick up the South West Coast Path. This coastal path takes you all the way across the headland. Make sure you make a detour off the coastal path to visit the scenic site of Bolt Tail. Continue on the South West Coastal Path past Bolberry Down until you reach Bolberry. From here you will follow a footpath across several fields all the way back to Hope village. 2. Exploring Dartmouth 4.2 miles - download the route Why walk here? Dartmouth is a place drenched in history. This little circular route explores the whole area, from Little Dartmouth to Dartmouth Castle. As far as Devon coastal walks go, this one is really varied, covering an interesting range of landscapes and character-full places. The route This coastal walk starts at the National Trust Redlap Car Park at Little Dartmouth and follows the South West Coast Path around Warren Point and past numerous coves (you should pass Willow Cove, Ladies Cove, Deadmans Cove, among others). You should follow the coast path to Dartmouth Castle. The 15th-century castle was built to protect the River Dart, a significant port. The castle is now an English Heritage site and you can visit for under £10 for non-members (free for members) if you wish to take a short break from walking. The neighbouring tea rooms offer great views over the estuary. After leaving the castle, carry on along the river past Warfleet Cove to reach Gallants Bower. From here you can essentially follow the footpath back right to the car park where you started the walk. 3. Salcombe to Torcross 12.6 miles - download the route Why walk here? Salcombe is a beautiful estuary town located in the South Hams. It makes the perfect starting point for a walk. Salcombe to Torcross is a more challenging Devon coastal walk, as it covers miles of coast path. Make the most of parking options at either end of the route and explore public transport options as this is not a circular route. The route The coastal path from Salcombe to Torcross is pretty straightforward to navigate. Take advantage of the great views from Gammon Head and Prawle Point. Perhaps stray onto the beaches of Lannacombe or Great Mattiscombe for a picnic or swim in the summer! Particularly special about this Devon coastal walk is the wildlife you may encounter. Cirl buntings, once threatened, now frequent Prawle Point and there have been over 180 species of birds recorded at the freshwater lake at Widdicombe Ley. See how many you can spot! 4. Prawle Point 4.1 miles - download the route Why walk here? This route around East Prawle and Prawle Point is perfect if you want to explore Devon’s most southerly point. Prawle Point offers spectacular views over the English Channel. The challenging circular covers a combination of rocky terrain and green lanes. The route Starting at East Prawle you will walk through the village, onto a bridle path, and eventually onto the South West Coast Path. Follow this coast path as it meanders around Prawle Point and above Willow Cove. From here, the path should drop down the cliffs and head past a couple of different coves. This Devon coastal walk is especially popular with wildlife lovers. In the summer, migrating species of butterflies can be found. If you are lucky and eagle-eyed enough, you may also see seals, dolphins and even basking sharks out at sea. To complete this circular route, follow the road up from Prawle Point to East Prawle. 5. Paignton to Brixham 5.4 miles - download the route Why walk here? If you want to experience the English Riviera, this Devon coastal walk will cover two great destinations in South Devon: Paignton and Brixham. Both harbour towns are surrounded by beautiful stretches of countryside and coastline to explore. The route You can reach Paignton either by taking the train to the station or by driving and parking. This walk begins at Paignton station. Walk through Torbay Park and down onto the seafront. From here you will join the South West Coast Path and head towards the harbour. Follow the coastal path as it crosses under the Broadsands railway viaduct, around Broadsands beach, and eventually climbs away from the beach. The path will descend at Churston Cove, the entrance to Brixham harbour. Follow it around the headland until you reach Brixham. In Brixham, there are plenty of public transport options with regular buses back to Paignton station. Where to stay? If you are looking to visit south Devon and explore these great Devon coastal walks, get in touch with us at Salcombe Finest. Whether you wish to be in the heart of Salcombe or somewhere right on the sea such as the picturesque coastal village of Hope Cove, we have properties to suit you.
More Devon Inspiration...
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
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.
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. Book your weekend in Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers
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
