Welcome to Apartment 12, Sunny Cove

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions We’ve compiled a list of answers to common questions. How do I book and do I have to pay a deposit? If your holiday start date is more than 6 weeks away at the time of booking, we require a 25% deposit. Your 75% balance payment will then be due 6 weeks before the start of your holiday. Your security deposit card pre-authorisation will then be due 14 days before the start of your holiday.If your holiday start date is less than 6 weeks away at the time of booking, we require full payment plus the security deposit card pre-authorisation. What is the security deposit? A security deposit in the form of a card pre-authorisation is applicable for all holiday homes either at the time of booking (if start date is less than  6 weeks away) or at 14 days before the start of your holiday. The security deposit pre-authorisation is held by Finest Stays to cover any losses, damage and/or additional cleaning charges if the property is left in an unsatisfactory condition. The security deposit pre-authorisation will be cancelled within 7-10 days of departure subject to deductions necessary by reason of your or any member of your party’s breach of your obligations as detailed in our booking conditions. Where do I find out about the booking conditions? Our booking conditions can be found here. Can I book a Short Break? Outside of the peak weeks (i.e. school holidays), we do accept short breaks for a weekend, long weekend or mid-week stay. These are subject to availability and are normally charged at between 50% and 85% of the weekly rate depending on day of the week and length of stay. What time can I arrive and what time must I depart? Our arrival time is from 4 pm and we would ask that you leave the property promptly by 10 am on departure day. Do I need to bring my own bed linen and towels? All our holiday homes are provided with linen plus a bath and hand towel per person. We do not provide beach towels so advise that these are brought with you. We do not provide linen for cots. How do I access the holiday home? Prior to your arrival, the Finest Stays team will email you details of how to access and find your holiday home. We use a system of digital keypads and key-safes in all of our holiday homes so you don’t have to worry about late arrivals or walking to an office for key collection. Do you provide insurance? We do not provide insurance for your holiday but as per our booking conditions, we do require you to have your own holiday insurance policy in place. What are your Opening Hours? Our office hours are 9 am – 5 pm Monday-Saturday all year round. Do you include use of a cot and a high chair? Where stated in our holiday home Finer Details sections, there may be cots and high chairs available for your use. Please note that you will need to bring your own bedding for cots. Do you have any dog friendly holiday homes? Yes, there are a small number of holiday homes that welcome dogs – please contact the Finest Stays team for specific information, or look at the Dog Friendly collection. How do I find out about tides? There is a brilliant smartphone app available called Salcombe App which will give you details of the Salcombe tides for 6 days (times of high and low tide plus the depth changes). Download it for free by searching ‘Salcombe App’ in the Apple app store.

Form Test Page

Contact Details Finest StaysNewquay HouseEmbankment RoadKingsbridgeDevon TQ7 1JZ Phone: +441548 706 706 Email: hello@fineststays.com Why Us? We’re real people, a dedicated team with invaluable local knowledge and a profound affection for The South Hams. No call centres here; instead, we offer a completely tailored and hands-on-service, ensuring the finest care for your property. While other rental agencies rely heavily on popular platforms like Airbnb and booking.com, over 90% of our bookings are taken directly on our website. Being a part of the Finest Stays portfolio means you gain exclusive access to a discerning group of travellers seeking luxury Devon holiday homes in The South Hams, and only by being in the Finest Stays community, can you tap into this invaluable resource and maximise your income. We know the significance of maintaining strong relationships with our owners. We prioritise open and transparent communication, providing regular updates on the market and booking levels. We believe in fostering a partnership with our property owners, ensuring your continued support and informed involvement throughout the entire process. We know that every owner has their own objectives when opening up their holiday homes to guests, so we offer a flexible and tailor-made package to suit you. As a private, local, independent business, we are the keepers of all the best knowledge about where to go, what to see and most importantly where to stay in South Devon. Get your Free lettings guide Join Us Let us showcase your property's full potentialGet in touch and we will arrange a no-obligation call or meeting at your convenience.

Favourites

Finest Stays - Favourites

Career Opportunities

Our dynamic crew is at the heart of the business and we pride ourselves on being a close-knit, friendly team, dedicated to crafting unparalleled travel experiences. We invite you to step away from the ordinary and become part of a community that values innovation, creativity, and a passion for exceptional service. Keep an eye on our job vacancies to discover exciting opportunities within our growing company. We welcome individuals with fresh perspectives and unique talents. If you're passionate about property, people and travel we'd love to hear from you! A deep appreciation for luxury, meticulous attention to detail, and an adventurous spirit are essential qualities we cherish. Interested in joining us? Send your CV and a cover letter to hello@fineststays.com and embark on a journey with us. Meet The Team Current Vacancies We’re not hiring at the moment, but check back soon for future opportunities! As Seen In

About Salcombe

About Salcombe Situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Salcombe has been a holiday hot-spot for generations, proving a paradise for all the ages. Whether you’re looking to ride wild waters, hike through enchanting landscapes or simply lounge on golden sands, Salcombe will not disappoint. Lining the beach is a vibrant harbour-side town brimming with treats from independent shops, restaurants and bars. This is where tourists and locals come together to create the cheerful atmosphere that Salcombe is famous for: after all, if your only concern is which food to try next or which beach to explore, you’ve got a reason to be cheerful. If you’re planning a trip to the area, take a look at our selection of things to do. Discover your perfect seaside escape by browsing our collection of Salcombe holiday cottages, and find your idyllic home base to unwind and explore this coastal gem.

Things to do in Devon

Welcome to one of the top holiday destinations in the UK. Whether you’re planning a short break or to linger longer, you’re spoilt for choice when looking for things to do and places to visit in Devon. With some 509 miles of stunning coastline (and the awesome South West Coast Path if you’re up for a challenge!) Plus some 130 beaches: water sports, swimming or simply chilling on the sands are all high on the agenda.

Totnes

Holiday in Totnes and you’ll experience a vibrant market town with a beating heart, friendly locals and a rich tapestry of independent and eclectic shops, cafes and restaurants. Historic Totnes has a main line railway station, excellent walking trails and the sublime south Devon beaches all within easy reach. What's not to love!

Hope Cove

Luxury Holidays in Hope Cove this Christmas and New Year Sea-son’s greetings in Hope Cove! Where better to enjoy Christmas & New Year than this enchanting traditional fishing village sporting the prettiest sandy bays, endless fresh air and expansive views where the sea meets the skies. Celebrate Christmas or welcome the New Year in unforgettable fashion at your very own private coastal retreat. Nestled in the very heart of Hope Cove and seconds from the beach are these beautiful apartments with availability for full weeks and short breaks across the Christmas weekend (22nd – 26th December) and across the New Year weekend (29th December 2023 – 2nd January)  Book your Christmas or New Year stay before the 26th November 2023 and open the front door to a beautiful Fortnum and Mason hamper so you can pop open the festivities as soon as you put your bags down, and head straight for the beach! *Offer ends 26th November 2023, minimum 4 night stays.

Victoria Quay

Victoria Quay Stay in one of these holiday homes set on the iconic Victoria Quay in Salcombe, you will be the object of envy as it is well known to be the most wonderful waterside position with a sea wall (and epic crabbing location) with incredible views over the estuary, past the Salcombe Lifeboat towards the beaches of East Portlemouth and the South Pool creek.

Things to do in Salcombe

Things to do in Salcombe Being on the coast and in a quintessentially British seaside resort (with bags of style) it’s no surprise that there is lots to do in Salcombe. From boating to pampering, beaching to crabbing and walking to wine-tasting we’ve got it sussed out. Salcombe prides itself on its close community and lively atmosphere. As a result, there is always plenty going on and a variety of activities to try. Why not treat yourself to gin tasting at the local distillery or embrace your wild side and give some watersports a go? If you are a food lover, you will thoroughly enjoy the culinary delights that Salcombe has to offer. Visit dickandwills or The Crab Shed for fresh seafood and local produce. Both boast terrace views over the water, perfect for sunset. With plenty of restaurants to choose from, there really is something to tickle all taste buds in Salcombe. For more casual, family dining, stop by the Winking Prawn on North Sands. Looking for the perfect place to stay? Choose from our selection of luxury self-catering holiday homes in Salcombe.

Properties in Kingswear

Our Kingswear Holiday Homes With it's brightly painted cottages clinging to the hillside, Kingswear sits at the mouth of the dazzling River Dart with outstanding views to Dartmouth and out to sea. One of the very best kept secrets amongst many, it is a truly breathtaking spot. Here is our collection of luxury homes in Kingswear:

Walking

Holbeton Walks One of our favourite Holbeton walks is along the South West Coast Path which lies about a mile from the village so it's easy to join the trail and hike this stunning stretch of coastline. It's just a 20 minute drive to the iconic Dartmoor National Park with its wide open spaces and dark night skies. Welcome to a landscape of giant granite boulders, towering tors, rivers and reservoirs. Home to the famous Dartmoor pony, rare birds and butterflies, Dartmoor offers an exciting and challenging walking experience for seasoned hikers as well as the more gentle routes for an afternoon stroll. We recommend the OS Explorer map OL20 (South Devon) which then gives you access to the OS app with a mobile download. Just to get you on the right track we’ve put together some of our favourite top Holbeton walks, starting with a stroll to the coast. To the beach 1.8 miles (2.9 km) - easy Holbeton to Mothecombe PL8 1LB You'll get to know this well trodden Holbeton walk like the back of your hand during your stay. Explore Devon's country lanes in this undiscovered corner as you gently wind your way down to this beautiful and unspoilt beach. Starting in Fore Street, slide left onto Church Hill and walk for 0.4 miles. Take a left turn and continue for 0.6 miles, another slight left and walk for 0.9 miles then left again for 0.2 miles. Turn right and head on down to the beach.Full details and elevation here Wonwell Beach to Kingston 5.5 miles (8.9 km) - strenuous Starting at St James the Less Church, Kingston, TQ7 4QE One of our favourite Holbeton walks, this beautiful trail follows the River Erme and along some of the most dramatic cliff tops in South Devon before dipping down to the isolated Westcombe Beach. Stop off for a picnic lunch and a swim before winding your way back inland to Kingston. Look out for butterflies: the Orange Tip, Regal, Red Admiral and Peacock love the grassy habitat along the path. Look out for the Oystercatchers feeding on Westcombe beach while the Ravens perform acrobatics along the cliff tops. If you’re lucky you may even spot the Peregrine Falcon!  We love this walk in May when the woods are carpeted with bluebells dotted with wild garlic.  Full details and map showing the route here Mothecombe to Noss Mayo (and back) 5.75 miles  9.21 km - easy to moderate (return 11.5 miles/ 18.42 km) Starting at Mothecombe beach carpark From the carpark head down towards Mothecombe beach and turn right (west) to follow the coast path which takes you around the headland to Meadowsfoot beach, then take the signposted road down to Noss Mayo. The coastline is beautiful, part of the coastal path is a former carriage drive where the gentry would stop for a picnic in the cliff top summerhouse. This version of the walk breaks away from the coast path at Stoke beach and cuts along the road to Noss Mayo. Stop off at one of the pubs in Noss Mayo for lunch before heading home. You can either head back along the same route or continue along the coast path from Noss Mayo along the Revelstoke Drive so you’re walking along the coast back to the carpark.  Full details and map here Avon Dam & Zeal Tor Tramway 7 miles medium difficulty (or 3 miles easy, to the dam and back). Toilets and information board. Car park. Start the walk at Shipley Bridge near South Brent (TQ10 9EL). A beautiful walk which follows the River Avon. This dramatic river is lined with giant granite rocks as it opens up onto moorland with sheep grazing. There are two options for this walk; you can either stop at the Dam and retrace your steps back to the car park or continue onto Huntingdon Cross, Petre’s Cross and the Tramway. This is part of the former Zeal Tor tramway which dates back to 1846 and delivered the clay and peat from Redlake to Shipley Bridge. Pick up trail and details of the walk here. More info about walking on Dartmoor, including routes, accessibility and advice on dog walking here.  Photo credit: Visit Plymouth Discover more wonderful walks in this neck of the woods here 

Private Chefs & Food Catering

Private Chefs & Food Caterers in Devon Dining at home has never felt so indulgent. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, hosting a retreat, or simply gathering with friends and family, bringing in a private chef can elevate your South Devon holiday home experience to something truly unforgettable. Exploring the culinary delights of this region is a journey through a rich tapestry of flavours, traditions, and innovative gastronomy. South Devon is home to an exceptional selection of private chefs and catering businesses, each with their own unique style, expertise, and passion for local produce. Here’s our curated list of the finest private chefs and food caterers in Devon, ready to bring restaurant-quality cuisine straight to your door. For those marking a special occasion or hosting a family gathering, consider capturing the moment with Explosures, a South Devon-based photography team led by Kathryn. Their warm, relaxed approach and stunning imagery make them the perfect addition to any catered celebration. Le Guest Chef Founded by a former Head Chef at The Millbrook, Le Guest Chef delivers exceptional private dining experiences across South Devon. With a strong emphasis on locally sourced and seasonal Devon produce, the team works closely with clients to craft bespoke menus that suit their taste, budget, and occasion, creating memorable moments around the table. Visit Website Wild Artichokes Led by renowned chef Jane Baxter, often seen on BBC’s Saturday Kitchen, Wild Artichokes is based in Kingsbridge and offers vibrant, seasonal menus inspired by local produce. Alongside private chef services and event catering, they also offer an impressive takeaway delivery service to Salcombe, blending bold flavours with a rustic, Mediterranean twist. Visit Website Eat Nice Be Nice Sam and Meg, the founders of Eat Nice Be Nice, run an ethical and sustainable food company that celebrates the best of the South West. They offer private chef experiences, stylish drop-off meals, and mobile location lunches from their converted Land Rover Defender, often used for high-end countryside events. Their kitchen garden restaurant is also set to open soon, offering another dimension to their farm-to-table philosophy. Visit Website Devon Cooks Run by experienced chef Nina Groves, Devon Cooks provides private dining services across the South West. Whether it’s a family gathering, celebration, or intimate fine dining experience, Nina creates delicious menus using fresh, seasonal ingredients, tailored to each occasion with care and creativity. Visit Website La Belle Assiette La Belle Assiette is a national private chef platform offering bespoke dining experiences throughout South Devon. With an easy-to-use booking system and a network of vetted professionals, they deliver tailored menus for everything from seated dinners and gourmet deliveries to interactive cooking classes, all from the comfort of your holiday home. Visit Website Katie Michaels Trained at Tante Marie Culinary Academy and with experience in Michelin-starred kitchens like Artichoke and Nathan Outlaw’s, Katie Michaels offers elegant, ingredient-led private dining across the South West. Raised in the Somerset countryside and passionate about seasonal, local produce, Katie creates beautifully tailored menus full of flavour and finesse. Now running her own company, Kate Michaels Private Chef Ltd, she brings calm professionalism and creative flair to every event, from intimate dinners to retreats and special celebrations. Visit Website The Wandering Cook Jake Bridgwood, also known as The Wandering Cook, brings over 20 years of culinary experience to your kitchen, including a decade as Head Chef at Mitch Tonks’ acclaimed Seahorse Restaurant. His food reflects the seasons and is grounded in simplicity, often drawing on Italian and Mediterranean influences to deliver elegant, unfussy meals. Visit Website Wild Garlic After running a successful restaurant in West London, chef Tom Welch relocated to Devon to launch Wild Garlic. Offering bespoke private dining and event catering, Tom focuses on fresh, local ingredients and refined flavours to create tailored menus that are perfect for entertaining large groups or celebrating special occasions. Visit Website Kate Pennell Kate Pennell is a South Devon-based private chef with an exceptional pedigree, having cooked for HM King Charles III and trained at Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons. Known for her attention to detail and exquisite use of seasonal ingredients, Kate designs bespoke menus that reflect her refined culinary expertise and passion for exceptional food. Visit Website Coastal Chef Coastal Chef delivers elegant, restaurant-quality cuisine to your door with a focus on private dining and bespoke catering for intimate gatherings and celebrations. Their service combines luxury with approachability, making them an excellent choice for those looking to elevate their holiday dining experience. Visit Website The Cellar Door Devon Specialising in exclusive, small-scale dining experiences, The Cellar Door Devon offers hyper-local menus that showcase seasonal and foraged ingredients. Their pairings with expertly selected wines add an immersive layer to your meal, making it a standout choice for food lovers seeking a true taste of South Devon’s natural larder. Visit Website The Greedy Table The Greedy Table creates intimate, indulgent food experiences through private dining, hands-on cookery classes, and custom food events. Their passion for local, seasonal ingredients and attention to flavour ensures every meal is both comforting and creatively presented, making them a popular choice for stylish gatherings. Visit Website Seahorse To You From the iconic Seahorse Restaurant in Dartmouth, Seahorse To You brings the charm of coastal dining directly to your home. Known for its seafood and wood-fired dishes, this private chef service replicates the restaurant’s renowned menu in a relaxed, at-home setting, perfect for fans of fine fish and bold Mediterranean flavours. Visit Website Kit Davies Chef With a background in Michelin-starred kitchens, Kit Davis offers exceptional private dining and event catering across South Devon. His bespoke menus reflect a fusion of global influences and local ingredients, making each meal a distinctive experience rooted in culinary craftsmanship and seasonal inspiration. Visit Website Nick Pearce Cooking With over two decades of experience, Nick Pearce offers a refined yet relaxed private dining service across Devon. Known for his modern British menus and dedication to local, seasonal ingredients, Nick creates bespoke culinary experiences tailored to each guest. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner party, a retreat, or a celebratory gathering, his calm presence and creative flair ensure a memorable meal from the first bite to the last. Nick also offers tasting menus, family-style feasts, and flexible options for both casual and formal occasions. Visit Website Stewart King Offering a laid-back yet luxurious dining experience, Stewart King brings the best of South Devon’s seafood directly to your holiday home. Known for his exceptional skill and deep love of local produce, Stewart creates unforgettable seafood feasts featuring lobsters, crabs, mussels, prawns, clams, and dayboat-caught fish (when available), accompanied by seasonal greens, fresh salads, dips, and artisan breads. With meat options available on request and the option to upgrade with Champagne, this is coastal dining at its finest, without you lifting a finger. Minimum of four guests per booking, all served with heart and hospitality. To book, call or whatsapp: 07828129177 Kitchen Consultant Chef Joe Draper is a highly skilled private chef with a background in Michelin-starred kitchens and a passion for creating memorable food experiences. As the Kitchen Consultant Chef, Joe brings restaurant-quality dining to your holiday home. His style is grounded in seasonality and simplicity, with a focus on bold flavours, elegant presentation, and top-quality local produce. Whether it’s an intimate dinner, a celebratory feast, or a relaxed gathering with friends, Joe works closely with you to design a bespoke menu that reflects their taste and occasion. Visit Website Catch of the Day View all properties

Competition Entry

COMPETITION TIME! WIN A LUXURY STAY IN SALCOMBE PLUS £500 TO SPEND AT WITH NOTHING UNDERNEATH We’re celebrating the opening of the With Nothing Underneath store in Salcombe earlier this year with an exclusive competition. Enter to win a 3-night stay at The Lofthouse in Salcombe plus £500 to spend at With Nothing Underneath. Set right on the water’s edge of the Salcombe Estuary, The Lofthouse is a hidden gem. Perfect for families, friends, or couples, this spacious three-bedroom home offers breathtaking panoramic views, a private waterside terrace, and airy, sunlit interiors. From sipping an Aperol Spritz while watching boats drift by, to falling asleep to the gentle sound of the waves, it’s a stay that feels both indulgent and restorative. Alongside your coastal escape, the winner will also receive £500 to spend at With Nothing Underneath. Founded in London in 2017, With Nothing Underneath has redefined everyday dressing with its timeless, laid-back essentials. From tailoring-inspired shirts to perfectly cut trousers, each piece is sustainably sourced, built to last, and designed to embody effortless style. To enter, follow With Nothing Underneath and Finest Stays on Instagram, like the competition post, tag a friend in the comments and, for a bonus entry, fill in your details using the form below. Terms & Conditions The giveaway will close on Sunday 7th September at 23:59. The winner will be chosen at random on Monday 8th September 2025.The stay will be at The Lofthouse in Salcombe for 3 nights, between 1st September 2025 and 31st March 2026. The stay will be valid for weekends and weekdays, subject to availability. The prize excludes the festive period. Guests must arrange their own transport and, as this is a self-catering accommodation, no food or other services will be provided. The With Nothing Underneath prize must be redeemed by 31st March 2026. Entrants must be 18 or over. No cash alternative or exchanges will be offered for either prize. If the winner does not respond within 48 hours of being contacted, the prize winner will be drawn again. By entering, you agree to these terms and conditions. ABOUT THE LOFTHOUSE Set right on the Salcombe Estuary, The Lofthouse is a spacious three-bedroom home that combines privacy with a prime location just moments from the town’s vibrant streets. Its light-filled sitting room opens onto a waterside terrace, the perfect spot for morning coffee or sundowners as boats drift by. Inside, you’ll find a fully equipped kitchen, a relaxed dining space, and thoughtful touches like a utility area for sandy wetsuits and bodyboards. Upstairs, the master suite offers sweeping estuary views, joined by a bright double and a twin with en suite, all finished with crisp cotton sheets and White Company toiletries. With space for families, friends, or couples, and even the option of a private mooring, The Lofthouse is Salcombe living at its best. VIEW THE LOFTHOUSE ABOUT WITH NOTHING UNDERNEATH Founded in London in 2017 by Pip Durell, a former Vogue stylist and Tatler editor, With Nothing Underneath was born out of a simple idea: to create the perfect shirt for women. After years of tailoring men’s shirts for her own wardrobe, Pip combined her fashion experience with her own very English, effortless approach to dressing, resulting in a brand that is timeless, versatile, and built around everyday essentials. At the heart of WNU is a commitment to doing better for both people and the planet. From the fabrics they choose to the fully audited factories they work with, every decision is made with sustainability and transparency in mind. The brand actively encourages mindful shopping, designing pieces that transcend fleeting trends and instead become forever items to be lived in and loved. SHOP WITH NOTHING UNDERNEATH

Hope Cove Travel

How to get to Hope Cove Hope Cove may be tucked away in a stunning location with three fabulous beaches and great seafood restaurants… but it’s really not that hard to find! Sitting on the beautiful south Devon coast the charming fishing habitat of Hope Cove is your quintessential Devon village with pretty thatched cottages, a shop cum post office, an art gallery and a handful of great places to eat… in fact Hope Cove is quite a dining experience! Think Lobster pods, woodfired pizza and a nearby beach house serving up the best seafood just a 20-minute walk along the coast and you're on the right track! But getting to Hope Cove isn’t as complicated as you may think. Yes, there are just a few miles of narrow country lanes down to the village, but that goes with the territory. You’ll soon feel the sand between your toes and enjoy a picnic on the beach. Whether you’re arriving by air, rail or road, here’s how to get to Hope Cove Flying to Hope Cove Internal flights into both Bristol and Exeter airports are quick and easy. You can fly into Exeter from Guernsey, Dublin, Belfast  City, Jersey, Isles of Scilly, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Glasgow and collect a hire car and drive to Hope Cove which is about 47 miles. Alternatively, fly into Bristol airport (111 miles) and either get a train from Bristol Temple Meads station to Totnes and a taxi to Hope Cove or pick up a hire car.   Driving to Hope Cove South Devon is well connected to London, The Midlands, Wales and the North with both the A30 and the M5 bringing you to Exeter, it’s here that you’ll join the A38, the main dual carriageway which runs between Exeter and Plymouth. Once on the A38 follow signs for Totnes and then Kingsbridge and Salcombe. Hope Cove is just off the Salcombe Road before you get to Malborough; a signposted turn on the right-hand side. Follow the lane until you get to Galmpton and then on to Hope Cove. (Just a few miles with plenty of passing places.)  As a guide, the drive from London will take around 4.5 hours depending on traffic and from Bristol, around 2 hours.  Hope Cove by Train Totnes is the nearest railway station for your holiday in Hope Cove. Trains run regularly from  London Paddington, Bristol, Birmingham, Wales and the North. Your journey will take just over three hours from London Paddington. Book a taxi for your arrival at Totnes station; the trip takes around 35 minutes and costs £37 as a guide.   Taxi Numbers If you’re arriving by train or you’re planning on going into Kingsbridge or Salcombe for dinner while you’re on holiday, it’s worth having a few of our local taxi numbers plumbed into your mobile. There’s a taxi rank at the station in Totnes but these quickly get snapped up when a busy train pulls up to the platform so we recommend booking your cab before you travel. You won’t find taxis waiting for a fare at Hope Cove so for that special evening out, again it's best to pre-book your trip.  Ultimate List of Hope Cove Taxi Numbers

Retreats

Retreat Venue Hire in Devon Escape to the coastal countryside with your guests, for an immersive retreat experience in Devon. When you hire a retreat venue with us, you have exclusive use of an entire property, both inside and out, allowing you to create a self-planned retreat tailored to your vision. Whether you're hosting a wellness or yoga retreat, yoga workshop, corporate event, or creative gathering, our Devon retreat venues are fully equipped with luxurious amenities. Enjoy heated swimming pools, expansive gardens, outdoor fire pits and appended wings for private chefs and more. With plenty of space for your guests to reflect quietly, socialise with one another and take time to themselves, you can make your retreat as low key as you desire. If you’ve any queries regarding hiring our retreat venue, contact us. 

Finest Inspirations

Finest Inspirations Whether you are staying with us for a couple of days or a couple of weeks, we’re here to ensure you get the most out of your holiday. So we have selected some of the Finest experiences on offer to inspire and excite you. From perfect pamper days and delectable dining to exhilarating water sports and wild swimming - we’ve got it sussed. Contact Us PRIVATE CHEF Enjoy canapes on the terrace, a long lazy picnic or a three course fine dining dinner. We have some of the top private chefs ready to create a culinary masterpiece just for you!  SUNDOWNER COCKTAILS After  busy day exploring the coast and countryside simply chill out on the beach with a sundowner in your hand PADDLEBOARD HIRE Hop aboard… everyone’s doing it. Sit, stand or even try a downward dog!, Stand up paddleboarding is massive and a great way to explore the rivers and secluded beaches CHAMPAGNE CRUISE All aboard for Champers! Relax and unwind in the sunshine with a glass of bubbly in your hand as the water gently laps the boat. We can’t think of a better way to celebrate! BEACH YOGA Sun Salutation on the Sands. Relax, restore and rewild on the beach for a coastal experience like no other in an awesome location, leaving you energised for the rest of your stay. SPA DAY For an indulgent day of pampering with friends, find your remedy with a spa experience for a total chill out session with our favourite top therapists WILD SWIMMING Immerse yourself in the gin clear waters of the South Devon coast and dive into a wild swimming experience. Explore the underwater world and experience sand eels in the shallows, shoals of mackerel and bobbing seals as you take the plunge. SURFING Discover the power of the waves, surf to the shore along the beautiful south Devon coastline, Hire boards and sign up for lessons or bring your own board and simply ride the waves at your leisure. ZOO VISIT Take a walk on the wildside as the lyrics go and experience conservation in action right here in South Devon with a visit to our world class conservation parks, zoos and aquariums. GIN SCHOOL Create your own unique gin, bottle it  and personalise with your name on it then relax in the waterside bar and sip your tipple with nibbles. The perfect way to chill out on Devon time. RIB RIDES There’s a RIB ride for everyone! A must for adrenaline junkies or a slightly more sedate pace for families with wildlife spotting along the way. With all the safety kit supplied you’re ready to ride the thrill of the waves along the South Devon coast. SEAL SPOTTING For a real treat head to the coast anywhere from Dartmouth to Hope Cove and look out for the bobbing heads with the puppy dog eyes. Grey seals can often be seen dipping into the clear waters and popping up again… you may be lucky! 

Food and Drink in Salcombe

Salcombe Food and Drink Let’s be honest, most people consider themselves a foodie these days whether that’s as a health food fanatic, seafood lover or Mary Berry-esque baker. Whatever floats your boat, we think Salcombe has fabulous food options to satisfy the most delicate of palettes.

Things to do in Dartmouth

Things to do in Dartmouth Getting out and about on the river is high on everyone’s agenda when visiting Dartmouth. It’s also the best way to see Dartmouth so just go with the flow. Whether it’s a river cruise, kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing or a motor launch, simply grab a lifejacket and you’ll have South Devon’s watersport culture at your fingertips. Enjoy all Dartmouth has to offer whilst staying in a luxury Dartmouth holiday home. Water lovers will feel especially at home in Dartmouth. Like the rest of South Devon, the opportunity for adventure is in abundance. This is what attracts most visitors to the area. There is no better playground for small boats than Dart Harbour. Hire a canoe and explore the winding creeks or try your hand at some dinghy sailing from Dartmouth Yacht Club. In the Dart Valley, explore the oak woodlands and temperate rainforests that are managed by the Devon Wildlife Trust. This is especially wonderful on a hot summer’s day when you can relax in the shade the valley provides and learn about the diversity of its habitats and species. You will soon discover that Dartmouth has a rich and fascinating history. If you are intrigued by mystery, visit Agatha Christie’s Greenway House and return to Dartmouth on a ferry from Greenway Quay. The Dartmouth Museum offers the opportunity to delve into the town’s maritime past. The beautiful 1640s terrace of rich merchant’s houses that the museum occupies is worth a visit, even if you don’t go inside! Getting out and exploring the coast is a must. Picnic at Castle Cove or Sugary Sands before hiring a paddleboard at Blackpool Sands. These beaches are all found on the South West Coastal Path. Follow the path up to Little Dartmouth and take in the impressive, panoramic views it offers across the Estuary and beyond. If you are a fan of long coastal walks, Dartmouth is the perfect starting point. The meandering River Dart is stunning. Rising from its source amongst the rugged granite tors of the Dartmoor National Park as the West Dart River and the East Dart River. The two rivers converge at Dartmeet, a popular beauty spot where the River Dart continues its journey flowing through Buckfastleigh, Dartington, Totnes and Dittisham before reaching Kingswear and Dartmouth. A journey of 74 kilometers from source to the mouth of the river, just beyond the iconic landmark of Dartmouth Castle.

Beaches in Devon

Whether you’re looking for a family friendly beach with sheltered waters or a little cove to launch the kayak, there’s a beach for you in Devon.

Beaching

If you’re looking for sand, sea and perhaps more than a glimpse of sunshine, Dartmouth is a great base.

Kingsbridge Travel

How to get to Kingsbridge Kingsbridge is a beautiful Devon town in a stunning location, sitting at the head of the Salcombe estuary (actually a ria) this charming market town is loved by locals and visitors alike - and it just keeps giving! Think independent local shops, great deli cafes, award-winning restaurants and the beautiful quay with its moorings, popular with stand-up paddleboarders. The town has regular monthly Farmers’ markets, arts and crafts markets in the town hall and some newly emerging antique shops. So, you’ve booked your luxury holiday home with Finest Stays and are considering how to get to Kingsbridge, here’s a quick rundown of Kingsbridge travel. Flying to Kingsbridge Fly into Exeter or Bristol airports; You can fly into Exeter from Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Guernsey, Dublin, Belfast  City, Jersey, Isles of Scilly and numerous European cities. Pick up a hire car and drive to Kingsbridge, about 45 miles. Arrive at Bristol airport (108 miles) and pick up a hire car or get the train from Bristol to Totnes then get a taxi to Kingsbridge or hop on the 164 bus.    Driving to Kingsbridge Travelling from Wales, Midlands and the North, drive down to Exeter on the M5. From London, you can either come along the M4 and join the M5 at Bristol or take the M3/A303/A30 route and join the M5 at Exeter. The M5 converges into the A38 where you take the right-hand lane for Haldon Hill. Kingsbridge is easily accessed from this dual carriageway which links Plymouth and Exeter. Continue along the road with the slopes of Dartmoor on your right until you reach signs for Totnes and Kingsbridge, the slip road to your left takes you onto the A384. You don’t drive through Totnes town (but worth a visit during your stay), instead follow the A381 signposted for Dartmouth and Kingsbridge. The drive from Bristol will take a couple of hours and from London around 4.5 hours depending on traffic.   Kingsbridge by Train Totnes is just 13 miles from Kingsbridge and it’s the nearest railway station with regular trains running from London Paddington, the North, Wales and Birmingham. The journey time from Bristol is 2 hours and it’s a swift 3 hours(or thereabouts) from London Paddington. On arriving at Totnes station you can pick up a taxi, the fare is around £26 and it’s about a half an hour ride to Kingsbridge. Taxi Numbers During busy times we recommend pre-booking your cab as the taxi rank at Totnes can get quite busy with travellers waiting for their onward journey. Check out our list of Kingsbridge taxi companies. Ultimate List of Kingsbridge Taxi Numbers

Walking

Dartmouth offers a great base for a self catering holiday, not only is it one of the top foodie hotspots in the South West, it’s also the base for some excellent walks.

Wellness Retreats

Wellness & Yoga Retreats in Devon Experience the balance of coastal calm and countryside seclusion with our handpicked wellness retreat venues in Devon. We have secluded venues tucked away in the Devon countryside, combining privacy with the serenity of nature. You’re close enough to the coastline for cliff-top walks, inhaling the fresh coastal air, enjoying the calming sounds of the waves and finding peace in being by the water. Whether you’re planning a yoga retreat, a holistic healing weekend, or a wellbeing escape, our venues offer the ideal retreat space for reconnection, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Each yoga retreat location is bookable alongside spacious properties, each offering plenty of bedrooms, generous living spaces and even separate quarters, complete with a kitchen for additional guests, or a private chef (should you wish to include onsite catering for your retreat). From sun salutations in the garden, one on one breathwork or intention sessions in breakout spaces, to fruit and veg picking from the garden, there’s so much potential our retreats venues can offer your wellness and yoga retreats itinerary. 

Hope Cove

With two stunning beaches, excellent coastal walks and stylish holiday cottages, the traditional fishing village of Hope Cove is one of South Devon’s hidden gems.

Things to do in Hope Cove

Things to do in Hope Cove The picturesque fishing village of Hope Cove lies in the shelter of Bolt Tail in Bigbury Bay. Hope Cove is an idyllic holiday retreat offering charming thatched cottages, pristine sandy beaches, and a peaceful atmosphere. Choose to sit back and watch the tide go out and come in with a locally brewed beer in hand, or get active and explore the coastline from the water. Fancy a paddle and a picnic? Hope Cove’s beaches are lapped by gin-clear waters, it’s even been named by the Marine Conservation Society as one of the recommended beaches in 2022 with the water quality designation as excellent. Mouthwell Sands in Outer Hope Cove is a beautiful sandy beach with RNLI lifeguards present during the summer months so it’s perfect for young children to paddle and build sandcastles.  Find your sea legs! If you love watersports head to the beach at Inner Hope for easy access to the sands via the slipway alongside the old RNLI station. This popular playground is great for  dinghy sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding and wild swimming.  Minibeasts and molluscs on a seashore safari… armed with just a bucket and spade, the kids will love uncovering a thriving habitat. Just take a peek beneath the swathes of seaweed around the rockpools and you’ll find scuttling crabs, limpets, shrimps and snails. Hike along the coast path. This is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a stroll or a hike along the South West Coast Path is a real treat. The track clings to the rugged coastline as it passes through Hope Cove so follow the trail in either direction and look out for pods of dolphins, seals and varied birdlife; this coastal landscape is home to herring and black-headed gulls, cormorants, ravens and gannets. South Milton is about a 20-minute walk and Salcombe, 8 miles in the other direction, is a little more strenuous, via Bolt Tail, Soar Mill Cove and Bolt Head.

Things to do in Totnes, best beaches & tourist attractions

Totnes is a great base for a holiday, whether you're planning to escape for a few days or spend a week with family and friends, you'll find some beautiful places to visit and plenty of things to do in Totnes. From ancient castles and towers, the impressive granite tors of Dartmoor, meandering rivers and a spectacular coastline with soft sandy beaches for sandcastles and swimming.

Culture, Festivals & Historical Houses

Festivals, historical houses and galleries galore, Dartmouth ticks all the boxes if you’re looking for a holiday hotspot with a great foodie and cultural vibe.

Beaching

South Devon is renowned for its beautiful coastline and sandy beaches. Hope Cove is no exception.

Corporate Retreats

Corporate Retreat Venues in Devon Reimagine your next team getaway with our exclusive company retreat venues in Devon. Whether you’re a small business taking the whole team away for training, or a leadership board seeking a space to drive inspiration and collaboration, our private corporate retreat spaces are perfect for strategy sessions, team-building experiences, and reconnecting outside of the office.   Each corporate retreat venue offers spacious accommodation and ample parking for up to 14 guests. Complete with meeting-ready living areas, cinema rooms for presentations, expansive gardens for outdoor activities, and luxury amenities including pools and fire pits to help the whole team unwind. Our corporate retreat locations provide tranquil settings that foster focus, creativity, and collaboration. Like you, we want our company retreat venues to be inclusive and can offer limited mobility and wheelchair access in our corporate retreat locations. Please speak to us if you’ve any queries or concerns in this area before booking.

Salcombe's History

Until around 100 years ago, Salcombe earned most of its living from the sea.

Food and Drink in Hope Cove

Hope Cove Food and Drink Hope Cove may be a charming traditional coastal village but it’s no one-horse town, especially when it comes to dining options. In fact, if you’re planning a self-catering holiday you’re spoilt for choice, eating out in Hope Cove is a joy, just make sure you stay long enough to dine at all of the tempting foodie hotspots!

Properties in Holbeton

Our Holiday Homes in Holbeton Our Finest Stays collection of luxury holiday homes in Holbeton are simply idyllic… imagine a bijoux boathouse right on the beach for a romantic escape or perhaps the old school grandeur of Harlequin House, a stunning period property which sleeps 18 guests, just perfect for a get together with friends and family.

Songwriting & Poetry Retreats

Songwriting & Poetry Retreats Venue Create, compose, and collaborate in complete tranquility with our exclusive songwriting and poetry retreat venues in Devon. Surrounded by peaceful countryside and hidden from distractions, our properties are the ideal songwriting retreat spaces for musicians, lyricists, and poets seeking inspiration. Host your very own, self-planned songwriting and music retreat, or venture into the lyrical verses of poetry, in one of our secluded, Devon retreat venues for hire. Enjoy large living areas perfect for jam sessions or solo writing, cosy fire pits to share ideas under the stars, and relaxing amenities like hot tubs and swimming pools to unwind after honing your craft. Whether you’re planning a group music retreat or an introspective poetry escape, our venues provide privacy, comfort, and creative freedom. These hidden gems are available for hire exclusively, ensuring your creative process remains undisturbed. Reach out today to learn how we can support your next songwriting or poetry retreat in Devon.

Awards

Salcombe Awards We think that Salcombe based businesses and individuals winning awards deserve some credit for working so hard so we’ve decided to showcase some local hero’s. Ice Cream They have been winning awards every year for the past 5 years, their latest achievement being a 3-star rating where 25 experts unanimously agreeing that the product tastes divine. This year Salcombe Diary even went one better to be included in the Top 50 Foods in Britain! And if you taste just one flavour – honeycomb – you will understand! And Salcombe Dairy Ice-cream has earned some air miles! Not only is it on the menu at the Dorchester Hotel in London, it flies as far as New Zealand and Singapore on both countries national airlines! Prince Charles the Prince of Wales and Camilla Duchess Of Cornwall visited Salcombe on July 11th 2011 and we were there to witness it! Not only did they have a pint in the local, Camilla tried the Salcombe Dairy Ice-cream as pictured! Exporter of the Year Starting out in the 1970s, family business WK Favis & Sons saw the market for its fresh-caught crab and lobster shrink in the recession, but then a new market opened up for it in China. This has resulted in a time of rapid growth, which saw it win the title Exporter of the Year at the Western Morning News Business Awards 2013. They currently export between 8 – 30 tonnes of live crab to China every week! Wow! Huge congrats for this great achievement in a business that takes such hard work and commitment no matter what the weather. Prize Crab Yours truly has won an award for the awesome crab that is caught by Salcombe day boats, landed on the harbour walls then cooked and handpicked in the crab factory on Fish Quay. The handpicked Salcombe crab received at gold award at Great Taste 2012! Pat on the back for us! Gallantry On 7 December 1939, a few months after the start of World War II, the Samuel and Marie Parkhouse (the name of the Salcombe lifeboat at the time) went to the aid of the SS Louis Sheid, a 6,057 ton Belgian steamer. This had picked up 62 survivors from the SS Tajandoen which had been torpedoed by Günther Prien’s U-47 but was now in trouble herself after hitting rocks near Thurlestone. It took the lifeboat crew two journeys to Hope Cove to land the survivors of the torpedoed ship, but the Louis Sheid’s own crew eventually got ashore after it ran aground in Bigbury Bay. Coxswain Edwin Distin (a survivor of the 1916 capsize) was awarded the RNLI Silver Medal for his seamanship during this rescue. The remainder of the crew were awarded bronze medals. Four years later Distin was himself awarded a bronze medal when, on 4 December 1943, he rescued eleven people from a salvage craft off Start Point. On 8 January 1992, the Baltic Exchange II went to help the MV Janet C which was adrift without power near Start Point. The crew managed to get a line across and held the 1,200 long tons (1,200 t) coaster off the rocks for three hours until a tug was able to take over the tow. Coxswain/Mechanic Frank Smith was awarded a bronze medal for his courage, seamanship and determination during this service. Best Wine On the Sharpham Estate they are producing some extraordinary wines! Their Sharpham Dart Valley Reserve 2013 is an off-dry white with a light, fresh character. It was a double winner at the Sommelier Wine Awards – Gold and Best Wine by the Glass. Not only that, they were selected for The Times Newspapers Top 100 Wines for Summer! Only 40 minutes drive away, we highly recommend a visit to the vineyard to sample delicious wines and cheeses, all produced on the beautiful estate. Local Hero The wonderful Eileen Donovan won the Salcombe Citizen of the Year 2014 – huge congratulations! She is the most bubbly, caring and thoughtful person we know. Having worked at the local Salcombe Pre-School l for over 40 years, Eileen has been a big part in the lives of the Salcombe children and parents over the years. Eileen also supports many in the community who might otherwise feel lonely and unable to manage some of life’s challenges. She tirelessly gives her time and energy to others (and has some wonderful stories of her life growing up in Salcombe!) Best Pub The Victoria Inn, right smack bang in the centre of Salcombe, and run by Liz and Tim Hore, has seen serious improvements since they took over the pub in 2008. They really have invested so much time and energy and it has paid off being finalists in various awards over the years. However, in 2014 they hit the big time getting a GOLD award from Taste of the West and they have won this years Best Family Friendly Dining Experience in the Devon Life Food & Drink awards!

Kingsbridge

The idyllic estuary town of Kingsbridge is ideally situated within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Holbeton Food & Drink

Holbeton Food and Drink Stay in one of our holiday homes in Holbeton and you’ll discover some excellent places to eat in Holbeton and the neighbouring villages. Dine in the friendly local pub or head to the pretty waterside villages of Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo which straddle the River Yealm estuary, the village pubs all have amazing river views, perfect for relaxing with a sundowner.

Salcombe Field of Light

The Field of Light is an art installation of 20,000 lit stems coming to East Portlemouth in Salcombe that will celebrate the RNLI's 200th year. 

Torquay

Book your luxury Torquay holidays and experience a town renowned for its magnificent horseshoe shaped bay, crystal clear waters and elegant Victorian Villas. Chill out on the beach, experience the best in water sports and indulge in fine dining.

Things to do in Kingsbridge

Things to do in Kingsbridge Kingsbridge is bursting with things to do and see. Explore this charming little harbourside town in the South Hams and fall in love with all South Devon offers. The market town sits at the start of the Kingsbridge estuary and has beautiful views over the water and beyond into vast expanses of lush countryside. If you want to discover South Devon and go on some real adventures, this little town is an ideal starting point. Kingsbridge is also a great walking town. For those wishing to stay active on their holiday, the coastal trails in and around Kingsbridge are various. There are hundreds of walks to choose from, and plenty to see and do along the way. Discover South Devon’s rich history as you traverse both well-trodden and more hidden paths. See what the local area has to offer... Just a fifteen-minute drive further south and you will find one of South Ham’s other gems, Salcombe. Alternatively, jump on the Kingsbridge Salcombe Ferry and take in the stunning waterside scenery as you cruise up the estuary.  Other quaint seaside towns and villages, such as Hope Cove and Thurlestone are also easily discoverable from your holiday home.

Cafes & Delis

Holbeton Cafes and Delis You really are spoilt for choice when it comes to breakfast, brunching and lunching! There are some great little Holbeton cafes on our radar, all within a few miles of your luxury holiday cottage. So follow our guide, check out our top spots and enjoy! schoolhouse Mothecombe This popular Holbeton cafe is just at the end of the beach car park. A laidback diner with eclectic interiors and is open all day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They’re also great for takeaways so you can picnic on the sands. The schoolhouse is the little sister of the beachhouse at South Milton which you can’t miss if you’ve spent time there. Look out for their popular barbecues and music nights which run regularly during the summer months. More info about the schoolhouse here.Photo credit - schoolhouse Devon Ben's Farm Shop, Deli & Cafe Yealmpton This one stop shop has it all. The perfect place to pick up your organic meat, veg and picnic deli bits, cereals, wines and groceries. Plan your menus over an almond croissant and a cappuccino, a bacon roll or perhaps delicious mixed mushrooms with salsa verde on sourdough toast. (Be sure to head to the brilliant gallery just across the carpark, it's perfect for gifts to take home!) Photo credits - Ben's Farm Shop and Ben's Farm Shop pizza - main image Nelli's Village Cafe Yealmpton Located on the Plymouth Road in Yealmpton, Nelli’s is open for delicious lunches and afternoon tea with a slice of sponge. This popular cafe with its cottage style interiors has indoor seating and a rear terrace for an alfresco afternoon cuppa. If you're planning a trip into Plymouth, why not stop off for brunch, lunch or afternoon tea at one of our chosen cafes.

Beaching

There are plenty of beaches near Kingsbridge to discover, whether you want shingle or sand.

Salcombe Crab

Crabs are generally covered with a thick exoskeleton, and armed with a single pair of chelae (claws).

Walking

Discover the beautiful coastal path which clings to the coast from Royal William Yard, along the Hoe and down to the Barbican

Writing Retreats

Writing Retreats Great writing starts with the right setting. Our writers' retreats in Devon offer peaceful and inspiring environments where creativity can flourish, whether you’re aspiring to be the next Agatha Christie, Colleen Hoover or David Walliams. If you’re hosting a group writing workshop, or looking for a quiet writer’s retreat space, our venues provide the ideal setting for your literary journey, with ample space for collaboration and private quarters for solo work. You’ll also make the most of high-speed WiFi, serene coastal walks, and calming features like pools, fire pits, and hot tubs to help you recharge between writing sessions. Whether you're planning a collaborative creative writing retreat or seeking a quiet escape for solo work, our writers retreat venues in Devon offer space, inspiration, and total seclusion. Contact us to discuss how we can support your retreat planning.

Walking

Kingsbridge is the place to holiday if you are wanting some outdoor adventures.

Holiday homes in Torquay

Our unique collection of luxury holiday homes in Torquay and cottages in rural south Devon provide the ultimate in style and relaxation for making memories. Torquay is easily accessible with excellent transport links so it’s perfect for a weekend escape whatever the season.

Salcombe Oysters

No other food conjures up a taste sensation as strongly as an oyster: the essence of the sea in edible form.

Food and Drink in Kingsbridge

Kingsbridge Food and Drink If you are wanting a taste of fresh, local produce, South Devon has you covered. A foodie's and holidaymaker's paradise, Kingsbridge is full of excellent food and drink options.

Pubs & Bars

Holbeton Pubs and Bars Stop off at one of our Holbeton pubs for a pint after a bracing coastal walk or a day on the beach with the kids. We have some great family and dog friendly locals ready and waiting so simply relax and enjoy!  Mildmay Colours Holbeton Sitting in the heart of Holbeton, the Mildmay Colours is a charming village pub and perfect place for lunch and a pint after a walk on the beach. Your local Holbeton family run pub prides themselves on their home cooking and local Devon Ales and ciders. Dine alfresco and relax on the terrace with beautiful views over the village or cosy up by the woodburner in the cooler months.  Photo credit : Mildmay colours The Ship Inn Noss Mayo, PL8 1EW This historic village pub sits right at the water's edge in Noss Mayo, just a short drive from Holbeton. Stop off for lunch and a craft beer after a lovely walk alongside the River Yealm. This stylish pub is popular with both visitors and locals and the perfect place to relax beside the river and dine alfresco.. Photo Credit : Matt Austin Rose & Crown Yealmpton, PL8 2EB The Rose & Crown is a prominent village pub in Yealmpton on the A379. Step inside and relax on the sofa in front of the fire with one of their award winning craft beers. The food is a cut above with an exciting menu including crab, duck, pigeon and sides of lobster butter fries as well as traditional Sunday roasts and fish and chips. Dogs are welcome in the bar area.  The Swan Inn Noss Mayo, PL8 1EE Perfect for a pint and supper after a day on the water. Why not chill out on the waterside terrace and dine on the freshest fish. They even supply outside heaters, blankets and hot water bottles for a cosy night's dining if you need them! The Dolphin Newton Ferrers, PL8 1AE This traditional village pub overlooks the  River Yealm and across to Noss Mayo. With home cooked dining and an excellent selection of local beers, ciders and speciality gins, it’s perfect for a lunchtime pit stop.   If you're planning a trip into into Plymouth for a stroll along the waterfront and the Historical Barbican or the stylish Royal William Yard, check out our foodie suggestions and make a day of it.  

Salcombe Scallops

Scallops (like mussels and oysters) are bivalve molluscs, this means that they have two shells.

Restaurants

The wonderful thing about staying in a holiday cottage is the freedom to choose where to dine and Kingsbridge certainly ticks all the boxes when it comes to eating out.

Properties in Dartmouth

Our Holiday Homes in Dartmouth Imagine waking up in a luxury cottage on the harbourside to a view over the ribbon-like River Dart and beyond. The holiday homes in Dartmouth we select at Finest Stays are specifically designed to ensure your holiday is always this memorable. Read More Holiday in Dartmouth There are some really wonderful places to stay in Dartmouth. From idyllic harbourside cottages to exceptional countryside manor houses, we can show you our favourites. Finest Stays have been helping people make their perfect holiday in South Devon for years. We are experts in ensuring that your holiday experience is truly special and runs smoothly. Our luxury holiday homes and cottages are all unique. We add personal touches to each of our South Devon holiday homes to make your stay even more memorable and our Dartmouth holiday homes are no different. No matter what your holiday needs are, we have a property to suit you, including dog friendly cottages and luxury self catering sea view holiday homes. For more Finest info about Dartmouth, read our recent blog posts: Top Dartmouth Walks and Beaches in Dartmouth

Restaurants

For a small hamlet in deepest south Devon, Holbeton has some great places for wining and dining within easy reach.

Things to do in Torquay

There’s a pretty extensive list of things to do in Torquay so we’ve selected just a few of our favourites to help you plan for the holiday ahead. Explore the ancient Kent’s Cavern (an amazing archaeological site, the oldest UK human remains were found here!)  Kids will love the model village in Babbacombe and Paignton Zoo Environmental Park. Ramble around the beautiful Torre Abbey (circa 1196). Stride out on amazing coastal walks, perfect for nature lovers with an abundance of birds and wildlife. If water sports in Torquay are on the agenda there’s an exhaustive list with rib rides, sailing, coasteering, swimming, kayaking and paddle boarding to name just a few! Take a sea life safari and look out for porpoises and dolphins along the way - an awesome adventure not to be missed! 

Bantham

Bantham Holidays Nestled in the heart of Devon, Bantham is a coastal haven that blends unspoilt beauty with a laid-back, welcoming charm. Its sweeping golden sands, backed by rolling dunes and framed by the River Avon, create the perfect setting for beachside adventures and peaceful escapes alike. Whether you're drawn by the thrill of surfing, the joy of rock pooling, or the simple pleasure of soaking up the sun, our Bantham holiday homes and dog friendly cottages cater to every kind of holiday.  Browse our Holiday Homes in Bantham View all holiday homes in Bantham Why holiday in Bantham? Bantham’s unique charm lies in its ability to offer adventure and tranquillity in equal measure. The beach’s reliable waves make it a favourite with surfers of all abilities, while the gentle estuary waters are perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking. Beyond the shore, scenic coastal walks reveal panoramic sea views, leading you to local landmarks like the iconic Burgh Island. For dog lovers, Bantham is a dream, with wide open spaces, dog-friendly beaches, and a collection of dog friendly cottages ideal for coastal explorers.  View Holiday Homes in Bantham Things to do in Bantham From sun-soaked beach days to countryside rambles, Bantham offers a wide range of activities to suit all ages and interests. Spend your days surfing the waves, paddleboarding along the River Avon, or discovering hidden coves and rock pools at low tide. Those who prefer to stay on land can enjoy scenic walks along the South West Coast Path, wildlife spotting, or exploring nearby villages like Thurlestone and Kingsbridge.  Things to do in Bantham Places to eat in Bantham Bantham serves up a delicious taste of Devon, where cosy country pubs, coastal cafés, and gastro street food create a vibrant and varied food scene. From locally sourced ingredients to artisan treats and vineyard produce, there’s plenty to savour around every corner. Whether you’re dining in a traditional inn or picking up picnic supplies from a nearby store, Bantham is the perfect place to enjoy Devon’s rich culinary offerings. Places to eat in Bantham Read More

Properties in Bantham

Our Bantham Holiday Homes Each of our luxury Bantham holiday homes has been carefully selected for its unique charm and prime location. Whether nestled along the water’s edge or tucked within the heart of the village, our properties are chosen for their easy access to the beach, estuary, and local amenities. Inside, you'll find thoughtfully designed interiors that combine comfort with style, perfect for relaxing after a day of coastal adventures. Many of our homes boast sweeping views across the Avon Estuary, offering guests a front-row seat to some of Devon’s most breathtaking scenery. From stylish beachside retreats to countryside cottages, our Bantham collection promises an unforgettable stay in one of Devon’s most sought-after destinations. 

Places to eat in Torquay

There are so many great places to eat in Torquay. But when you’re strolling along the prom it’s not always easy to pick the best. So we’ve selected a few of our favourite places to eat in Torquay to help with that onerous task! The harbourside is lined with excellent restaurants, many serving locally caught fish. Deli beach cafes are great for families and the tapas bars with live music are popular with the youngsters. Torquay is a great destination for dining out whatever the time of day. So whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience, a pizza with the family or an afternoon tea, check out our guide to our favourite places to eat in Torquay.

Wellness in Hope Cove

Wellness in Hope Cove It’s okay to relax and indulge a little on holiday; who can resist a delicious Devon Cream tea, a scoop or two of the local ice cream, fish and chips on the beach or a glass of fizz… but don’t worry, help is at hand! Your fitness levels don’t need to slide. In addition to the stunning cliff-top walks, awesome watersports and wild swimming, we have a handful of selected companies who will endeavour to keep you on the right track. So whether you’re looking for a full workout in the gym, sink into the sands with yoga on the beach or a relaxing hot stone massage you’ll find personal trainers and therapists ready to put a spring in your step. Contact us In-house Pampering What could be more relaxing than some in house pampering during your holiday. My Personal Sanctuary offers luxury treatments in the comfort of your own home. Choose from warm deep tissue massage, treats for hands and feet and replenishing facials to holistic full body journeys. Using Neal’s Yard Remedies Organic Products, their team of expert therapists work with the botanical plant extracts and pure organic essential oils to relax, recharge and rejeuvenate your mind, body and soul. Get in touch with one of our team to arrange a little in house pampering. Make-up and Beauty Rachel Gaunt is a talented experienced beauty therapist and makeup artist who offers beauty therapy treatments in the comfort of your own home… With some 20 years of experience in the beauty industry, Rachel will share techniques, hints and tips with you. Rachel uses high-end brands including Becca, Nars, Urban Decay, Charlotte Tilbury, Chanel and Rae Morris to reflect your style and personality through a range of professional treatments. Be prepared to destress, rejuvenate and enhance your natural beauty. Fitness The Natural Gym  - If you fancy training in the open air try The Natural Gym . What could be better than a work out on the sands as a great way of improving your mind and your body. Devi Majumdar offers excellent outdoor training sessions tailored to suit you. Alternatively, if you fancy a session in your holiday home, Devi will give you a varied, challenging and enjoyable workout! Marvel Fitness - In addition to the alfresco workout sessions, Devi works with Aaron Ryder and the team at Marvel Fitness. The team offer a first class personal service with a well equipped gym and excellent range of cardio work weights and resistence equipment.  Willpower Fitness - Offer a unique and specialised programme of classes and personal training sessions. The sessions are suitable for all ages and capabilities and are a great way of improving your overall fitness, wellbeing and health while on holiday.  Hen House Fitness Centre - Just on the outskirts of Kingsbridge, the Hen House is a fully equipped private gym with its own resident personal trainers on hand to advise and offer encouragement during your workout. You can find out more about The Hen House or book a session here. Quayside - Quayside leisure centre in Kingsbridge is right in the heart of the town alongside the car park and quay. If you’re looking for fitness and swimming, this is a great option, especially with the family. The kids will love splashing about in the lifeguarded 25 metre swimming pool while the fully qualified fitness instructors put you through your paces in the gym, working with weights, cardiovascular exercise and residence machines. Check out their classes and timetables here.. Yoga and Pilates Simply Soulful Yoga & SUP - Simply Soulful Yoga classes offer a space to escape to. What could be more relaxing than yoga on the beach? Regular classes take place on Harbour Beach at Hope Cove in the early morning, late afternoon and early evening. Simply listen to the sounds of the waves lapping on the shore as you relax and unwind and feel the sand between your toes. Simply Soulful caters for all abilities and  the classes run from April through to September, weather permitting. Total chill out experience! Stand-up paddle yoga is becoming hugely popular here in South Devon. It’s a great way of  improving your core strength and balance as well as your emotional and spiritual harmony. The Simply Soulful group run paddleboarding sessions in Kingsbridge just a short drive from Hope Cove. If you haven’t tried it before, give it a go! Yoga at Harbour House - Harbour House in Kingsbridge is the place to go for yoga, pilates, tai chi, kung fu and meditation classes. With three beautiful yoga studios, why not book yourself into a class and awaken your senses, realign and integrate your body and your mind. They also have an excellent cafe! More about Harbour House Yoga and Pilates here. Massage and Shiatsu Hanna Quiggin at The Hen House – Hanna is a Pilates teacher and Soft Tissue Therapist offering deep tissue massage, relaxing massage and one-to-one Pilates sessions. If you’re planning a bit of ‘me time’ during your holiday check out Hanna’s website for further details and a menu of massage treatments available. Shiatsu and Qigong Finest Stays have arranged for guests to have an in-house Shiatsu and Qigong experience with Shiatsu Practitioner and Qigong Teacher Tasha Kalisher, whilst in their holiday home. Tasha’s passion is to empower clients, enabling them to have a deeper understanding of themselves. Tasha will arrange to come and set up for a half or full day for groups of friends or family to experience Shiatsu and Qigong. Shiatsu is a deeply relaxing, restorative fully clothed massage which works to bring the body and mind into balance through acupoints, stretches, rotations and pressure. Qigong is a great physical workout through moving meditation which stretches the muscles and opens the body, increasing vitality and balance for greater stability and strength. 

Places to eat in Totnes

Totnes is a culinary hive of activity when it comes to dining experiences. From the chilled out Mediterranean style vegan and vegetarian cafes, bars and bistros to traditional tea rooms with their multi layer cakes and scones. Add in the excellent pubs and restaurants in Totnes who pride themselves on using locally sourced produce and you’re spoilt for choice.

Cafes and Delis

What could be better than a warming cup of coffee or hot chocolate to end a day at the beach? 

Pubs and Bars

Nothing beats the feeling of relaxing in one of Hope Cove’s village pubs after a day at the beach or a long walk on the South West Coastal Path.

September Stays

Luxury Holiday Homes for September 2025 Stroll the beaches, explore the coastline, sail the seas and surf the waves. Think bobbing sailboats, barefoot beach walks and fireside chats under the stars. We have individually hand-picked only the very best holiday homes, all boasting enviable positions across The South Hams, so you can book your perfect home this Summer with confidence that laid back luxury is guaranteed. Blissful Summer days await! Browse the Summer collection:

Restaurants

From smart pods overlooking the harbour to beach cafes, independent hotels with restaurants to a couple of excellent foodie pubs, there are plenty of choices to tickle your tastebuds so book ahead and try a different place every day!

Crabbing in Kingswear

Crabbing in Kingswear If you’re planning a holiday in one of our Finest Stays properties and you’re familiar with our website, you’ll already know that crabbing is big business here in South Devon. Not only by the crab fishermen who head out to sea with their crabbing pots but also by visitors (and locals) who line the embankment on both sides of the River Dart. So when we talk about crabbing in Kingswear, we’re talking about the smaller inedible Shore Crabs. This little crustacean is enticed onto the line by a piece of bacon (or a smelly mackerel head if you can find one!) Once the bait is taken, the line is then very gently pulled up and the little crab is plopped into a waiting bucket of sea water. Avoid overcrowding the bucket… just put in a few crabs at a time to observe their antics, before carefully releasing them back into the water.  Kids love crabbing; it gives them a sense of freedom (which is often so restricted) and takes you back to a childhood when you were free to play, explore the shallows and discover an underwater world in the rockpools on the beach. What could be better than lying flat on your tummy with both arms hanging over the embankment wall, line in hand and bucket filled with water at the ready. Crabbing in Kingswear is great fun for all the family and one of those kids’ bucket list  ‘must do while on holiday’ things. The Finest team recommends holding a crabbing challenge; the excitement is all in the catch and to see who can hook the largest or the most crab. The kids will soon have you joining in and believe us when we say it’s pretty addictive! What can be better than a bit of sheer escapism and spending time with the family doing something that’s fun. Contact us How to go crabbing in Kingswear The best time to go crabbing in Kingswear is when the tide is coming in Tie your bait onto the line and cast it out as far as possible into the water. Try and aim for some seaweed where the crabs may well be lurking  Hold the line loosely until you can feel a slight nibble on the bait. Be patient.. this can take a little while, perhaps wait for 5 minutes before pulling in the line Prepare your net and have it ready to scoop the crab before you lift it out of the water  When you feel a tug on the line, gently pull it in, take it easy so that the crab isn’t aware of what’s happening and try not to bump it on the wall as you bring it in Pop the crab into the bucket of water. Once you have compared, counted and admired your catch, release them gently back into the water and watch them scuttle away. Don’t forget The crabs can nip in self-defence so remember to keep little fingers and toes away from the pincers! For more crabbing advice check out our Top 5 Mistakes When Crabbing. Or visit the Salcombe CrabFest which is usually held at the end of April/early May each year. Things to do in Kingswear

Things to do in Bantham

Things to do in Bantham Things to do in Bantham The charming coastal village of Bantham sits on the edge of the Avon Estuary, surrounded by rolling countryside and golden sands. This unspoilt corner of Devon is a haven for holidaymakers seeking natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a slower pace of life. Whether you prefer to relax and watch the waves roll in with a drink in hand or get out and explore the coast on foot or by paddleboard, Bantham offers the perfect balance of tranquillity and activity. What's on in and near Bantham There’s always something to look forward to in and around Bantham, with a vibrant line-up of annual events that celebrate the best of Devon. Nearby, Kingsbridge hosts the popular Food and Music Festival, the traditional Kingsbridge Fair, and the agricultural Kingsbridge Show. Just up the road, the Aveton Gifford Classic Car Show delights motoring fans each summer. In Bantham itself, the Bantham Swoosh draws wild swimmers from across the country, while the nearby Hope Cove Weekend offers live music, games, and seaside fun. Whether you’re a foodie, a music lover, or just looking to soak up the local atmosphere, there’s always something happening nearby. Bantham Beaches Bantham is home to one of Devon’s most stunning beaches, with golden sands, rolling dunes, and sweeping views of Burgh Island. It’s a hotspot for surfers thanks to its consistent waves, while paddleboarding and kayaking are popular along the calmer Avon Estuary. At low tide, the beach reveals a maze of rock pools teeming with marine life, perfect for little adventurers. Bantham is dog-friendly outside of peak summer restrictions, and nearby beaches like South Milton Sands and Thurlestone Beach, both under 15 minutes away, offer scenic walks and year-round dog access. Whether you're riding the waves or exploring the shoreline, Bantham’s beaches promise unforgettable days by the sea. Bantham Walks Bantham offers a variety of scenic walks for all abilities, with routes that showcase the best of Devon’s landscape. A popular choice is the circular walk from Bantham to Thurlestone, taking you along the South West Coast Path past dramatic cliffs, sandy coves, and iconic rock formations like Thurlestone Rock. For a more leisurely stroll, follow the Avon Estuary inland towards Aveton Gifford, a peaceful route rich in birdlife and estuary views. At low tide, walkers can stroll across the sands to Bigbury-on-Sea and Burgh Island, returning inland for a varied loop. Whether you’re seeking clifftop vistas or riverside tranquillity, Bantham is a walker’s paradise with trails to suit every pace. Bantham Attractions Bantham is perfectly placed for exploring some of Devon’s most iconic coastal experiences. Just across the Avon estuary, a charming passenger ferry carries visitors from Bantham to Bigbury-on-Sea, offering a memorable and scenic route that’s especially fun for families. From there, you can embark on a truly unique adventure: a ride aboard the famous Burgh Island sea tractor. This eccentric vehicle transports guests across the tidal sands to Burgh Island, a historic and atmospheric destination famously linked to Agatha Christie, who set two of her novels here. The island is also home to the striking Art Deco Burgh Island Hotel and the characterful Pilchard Inn, perfect for a memorable meal or drink with a view. For those drawn to the water, boat trips from nearby Salcombe or Kingsbridge reveal hidden coves, secret beaches, and glimpses of coastal wildlife including seals and seabirds. A short drive inland brings you to the market town of Kingsbridge, full of independent shops, local art galleries, and beautiful estuary views. View more things to do in Devon Read more

 Museums, Galleries & Attractions

We have put together a list of our top attractions in Plymouth which we think are awesome. Time to start planning your trip!  

Luxury Homes for October Half Term

October Half Term Holidays Think roaring log fires, peaceful dog walks along the coastal path, and picnic hampers filled with steaming flasks of coffee and homemade treats. Make October Half Term 2025 extra special by gathering loved ones in one of our handpicked luxury homes for a cosy autumn escape to the Devon coast. Whether you’re dreaming of a snug seaside cottage perfect for little ones, a dog-friendly hideaway with miles of paths to explore, or a spacious rural retreat where the whole family can reconnect, our collection is made for half term memory-making. From hot tubs under starry skies and fire pits for marshmallow toasting, to wellies lined up by the door after crabbing adventures, these homes are designed for everything you love about autumn.

Gift Vouchers

Gift Vouchers Share the Finest Stays Experience Surprise your loved ones with the perfect gift – the freedom to experience a luxurious Devon getaway with Finest Stays. Whether it’s a cosy coastal retreat, a countryside hideaway, or a stylish holiday home, our gift vouchers offer the ultimate choice in indulgent escapes across Devon. Perfect for special occasions, anniversaries, or simply to say “thank you,” our vouchers can be redeemed against our exclusive collection of handpicked properties. With timeless appeal and flexibility, a Finest Stays gift voucher is more than a present—it’s an invitation to create cherished memories. To purchase a gift voucher simply fill out the form with your details and we will be in touch to take payment. Chose between a digital gift voucher or a physical voucher, which you can have posted directly to the intended recipient, or sent to you, so you can add a handwritten personal note and deliver it yourself. Let us know your requirements and we'll be happy to help.  To purchase a Finest Stays voucher please simply fill in your details below and we will get back to you. 

Food and Drink

Thurlestone may be a little off the beaten track, but you don’t need to leave the village to dine in style

Watersports

Near Kingsbridge, there are many great beaches and watersports opportunities.

Strete

Strete is an enchanting coastal village ideally located in the South Hams. On the coast of Start Bay, this little village doesn’t just boast sea views but is in easy reach of bustling nearby towns such as Salcombe and Dartmouth.

Places to eat in Bantham

Places to Eat in Bantham Bantham may be best known for its sweeping beach and scenic coastal paths, but its food and drink scene is just as tempting. This laid-back Devon village serves up a delicious array of local flavours, from traditional pub classics to seaside snacks and artisan coffees. Whether you're grabbing a post-surf bite or settling in for a leisurely lunch with estuary views, Bantham’s eateries celebrate fresh, seasonal ingredients and warm, West Country hospitality.  Bantham Pubs When it comes to traditional pub dining near Bantham, you’re spoilt for choice. At the heart of the village, The Sloop Inn is a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike. This cosy, thatched pub combines rustic charm with a menu full of hearty classics and locally sourced seafood. Just a short drive away in Thurlestone, The Village Inn offers a warm welcome and elevated pub fare, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and an excellent Sunday roast. Head a little further to Churchstow and you’ll find The Church House Inn, a historic 13th-century coaching inn known for its generous portions and relaxed atmosphere.  Bantham Restaurants For refined dining just 15 minutes from Bantham, Twenty Seven by Jamie Rogers in Kingsbridge delivers innovative British cuisine crafted with locally sourced ingredients, perfect for a special occasion. Seafood lovers should make time for The Oyster Shack in nearby Bigbury, where fresh oysters, grilled fish, and seasonal specials are served in a laid-back, coastal setting. In the heart of Kingsbridge, Wild Artichokes offers a vibrant dining experience with Mediterranean-inspired sharing plates that highlight the best of the region’s produce. Beachside Dining in Bantham Right on the edge of the sand, the much-loved Gastrobus is a firm favourite for beachgoers, serving up artisan coffee, hearty breakfast rolls, and laid-back lunches with a side of sea breeze. Just a few steps away, Gastropizza dishes out freshly made wood-fired pizzas, perfect after a day in the surf. Don’t miss the Gastro Treats Bus for sweet-toothed delights like cakes, cookies, and indulgent ice creams, all served from a quirky vintage van.  View more things to do in Devon Read more

Shopping

The quaint shops that line Kingsbridge’s cobblestone streets and twisting lanes are various.

Wellness in Dartmouth

Wellness in Dartmouth Recharge and rejuvenate… make the most of your holiday and be kind to your body and mind. Relax and have some well-deserved ‘me time’. We have some excellent beauty therapists, yoga and pilates instructors and personal trainers just waiting to give you a helping hand while you’re on holiday in Dartmouth. So maintain your inner glow, indulge yourself and perhaps try something new. Contact us In-house Pampering We offer in-house pampering through My Personal Sanctuary giving you the opportunity to recharge and rejuvenate in the comfort of your Dartmouth holiday home. Indulge in luxurious beauty therapies and treatments; facials, deep tissue massage, manicures, pedicures and complete body journeys. Their experienced beauty therapists use pure essential oils from Neal’s Yard Remedies Organic products for the most exquisite experience. If you’d like to use My Personal Sanctuary during your stay, please contact one of our team. Make-up, Beauty & Massages For the full beauty treatment experience visit River & Rose. This contemporary beauty studio is in the heart of Dartmouth and provides a tranquil and relaxing environment, somewhere to forget about the outside world and unwind from the stresses of everyday life. River & Rose offer an extensive range of beauty treatments and massage including make up lessons, manicures and pedicures and a full body aromatherapy massage. The only problem is choosing which treatment or massage to go for! Dartmouth Beauty Studio is the place to head if you’re looking for the ultimate manicures, pedicures and relaxing neck back and shoulder massage (perfect for relieving tension) to bespoke facials and a sublime full body Swedish Massage. Relax in the capable hands of Emma, for the best in basic, holistic and advanced treatments. Emma’s experience speaks volumes with 30 years in the beauty industry, you’re assured of her individual attention. Spa Treatments The Dart Marina Spa is open to non-residents and is the place to go for a spot of pampering during your stay in Dartmouth. Book yourself in with one of their friendly qualified therapists for luxurious and holistic treatments and soothe those aching muscles, relax with a hot stone massage or a rejuvenating and hydrating facial, hot stone massage or a firming body wrap. What a great start to your holiday.   Take yourself off for the day and indulge in a few hours of total pampering at Dartmouth Golf & Spa. Sitting just on the outskirts of Dartmouth, this beautiful spa offers bespoke spa programmes designed to suit you. Spa treatments include massages, rejuvenating facials, body wraps and exfoliators. All treatments are delivered in beautifully appointed treatment rooms and by experienced professional therapists using the award winning Temple Spa product range to relax your body and improve your wellbeing. Fitness Zest Yoga is run by founder Kirsty whose passion for yoga led to the creation of her inclusive and welcoming classes for all abilities, ages and genders. Kirsty focusses on Hatha/Vinyasa style yoga; a fusion of mind, body and breath where the movements transition from one pose to the next, holding the pose and using the breath to take you further. Kirsty also offers outdoor sessions on the beach or at Coronation Park, Dartmouth during the summer (weather permitting). She also provides private one to one and group sessions - perfect if you’re holidaying with friends or family!  The Flavel  Pilates is known to have a positive impact on our mental and physical wellbeing and ultimately improving our quality of life. It’s also great for all ages so why not get yourself booked into one of the classes at The Flavel. This excellent venue is right in the heart of Dartmouth so it's easily accessible. It also has a cafe bar, it’s perfect for after class refreshments! Dartmouth Leisure Centre offers great fitness options for all the family; let the kids have a splash about in the heated indoor swimming pool while you work out in the fully equipped gym or perhaps join one of the exercise classes. Toddlers and younger children are well catered for too, the soft play is always a big hit and perfect if the weather’s a little inclement!  Just Be Pilates Don’t dip out of your daily routine during your holiday. Get in touch with the talented team at Just Be Pilates. Their boutique and tranquil studio is the perfect place for Yoga, mat work, reformer and wellbeing events. Whether you’re an athlete or a complete novice, Justine and her team will guide you through your workout of mindful movement. Stay in Dartmouth

Plymouth

Welcome to Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City is just waiting to be explored, the waterfront is spectacular and the location is stunning! Stretching from the beautiful coastline of the South Hams in the east to the river Tamar in the west, this vibrant city has so much to offer.

Cafes and Delis

Who doesn't love a warming mug of hot chocolate after a swim in the sea or fish and chips on the sands at sunset.

Food and Drink in Strete

Traditional pubs, vibrant coastal cafes and smart restaurants… Strete and the surrounding countryside and coastline has some excellent options to suit all pockets and tastes.

Fishing in Devon

Devon is the perfect destination for a fishing holiday. Not only is the angling great, the beaches glorious and the countryside beautiful but we have sublime holiday cottages for you to lay your head.

Things to do in Strete

Strete is an especially convenient place to stay if you are wanting to explore some of the other wonderful towns and villages South Devon has to offer.

Damage Waiver Policy

Damage Waiver Policy Finest Stays operates a non refundable Damage Waiver Policy with most of the properties in our portfolio. This covers the cost of making good any accidental loss or damage to the selected property and/or its contents caused through act or omission of you (and any of your guests or accompanying pets) up to a certain amount, which is specific to each property. Please see the list below which details the Damage Waiver Fee and the covered Damage Waiver amount for each of our properties. You will also see which of our properties are not part of our Damage Waiver Policy and therefore require a refundable Security Deposit instead. The Damage Waiver Policy and Security Deposit is not insurance and does not provide liability coverage. It is in place to protect guests from the potential high costs of accidental damages to the Finest Stays property in which they are staying. Where any such damage caused exceeds the Damage Waiver cover or Security Deposit amount, you agree to pay Finest Stays, acting on behalf of the owner, any reasonable costs incurred in making good any such loss or damage above the predetermined amount. If damage occurs to the Property as a result of the actions of Guests during the stay, where the extent of that damage is so severe that the Owner must (in their sole opinion) cancel and/or refund subsequent bookings, the Owner may bring a claim against you for any loss arising as a result, including the cost of refunding other guests affected by cancelled Bookings and any additional administrative fees incurred in respect of the same. Please refer to our terms and conditions for full details. DAMAGE WAIVER FEE – £20 incl. VAT (Covering up to £175) Firefly Silver Moon DAMAGE WAIVER FEE – £25 incl. VAT (Covering up to £200) 46 The Salcombe Apartment 13, Willow Cove Apartment 6, Castle Cove Upper Terrapins Lifeboat Cottage The Cove 1 Cliftonville Goldfinch Rockpool Slipways The Art Loft The Wild Hare Ferryman's Cottage Windward Little Swift East Farwell Lodge Riverdale 11 Poundstone Court 7 Victoria Quay Apartment 14, Withie Cove Apartment 7, Elender Cove Colby Cottage Little Oak Midships Sanderling West Wing The Old Lobster Pot 2 Dart Marina Harbour View Offshore Sailors Rest Solace The Atelier Apartment Creeks View 2 Albany House Apartment 11, Silver Cove Apartment 3, Ayrmer Cove Apartment 8, Forest Cove Bluebell Cottage Off The Charts Sea Cove Tickell Cottage The Penthouse Carswell Quarters Larkspur Oysters Sea Salt Spinnaker The Sea Room Moorstone Paddlers View 21 Island Street Apartment 12, Sunny Cove Apartment 4, Carswell Cove Apartment 9, Searush Cove Granary Cottage Little Painter Painter's Cottage Swift Cottage Upper Seaton Croft House Little Pebble Serenity Swallowtail Waterside Courtenay Studio 3 Manor House 7 St Elmo Court DAMAGE WAIVER FEE – £30 incl. VAT (Covering up to £250) Blue Haze 30 Church Street Britannia Devon Farmhouse Lakeside Otter's Cottage Verre de Mer Fairview Luttrells Sailmakers Apex Huckleberry Cottage White Horses Amber Tide Sands Edge Northside Avon Edge Thatchways Mole House 10 Buckley Street Avon Rock Buckley Cottage High Tide Lealholme Quarry House The Looking Glass Watch Hill Ferry Watch Mariners Cottage Skywatcher Waterhead Cottage Asman The Lodge Mandalay Nautica The Moorings Farwell House Boatyard 3 2 Clifton Place Clementine Horsepool Boathouse Mill Bay View Skylark The Lost Lobster Austiger House Four Seas Osprey The Malthouse Weekemoor Dusky Cottage The Lofthouse Sea Shimmer Yellow Sands Juniper House Sandhills Boatyard 1 7 St Elmo Court 3 Victoria Quay Brewery Cottage Cook's Boathouse Old Sail Loft Smugglers Aventos Hope Cove Cottage The Quay Thornbrook 1 The Strand Gull Rock Treetops Vane Lookout Starling House The Gate House Seafern House The Quillet Maberly House REFUNDABLE SECURITY DEPOSIT REQUIRED Property NameSecurityDeposit AmountThe Edge£350The Grange£500The Grange Retreat£500Langston House£75018 The Salcombe£750Vane Hall£750Vane Tower£750Blackstone£750Goodshelter Bay£750Mole House£750The Printworks£750The Wood£750Harlequin House£1,000Inner Hope House£1,000Langston House Retreat£1,000Le Temps Perdu£1,000Lower Deck£1,000Maberly House£1,000Mulberry House£1,000Tacket Wood House£1,000Topwood£1,000Vine House£1,000The Lodge£1,000The Tower£1,400Upalong£1,500Woodspring£1,500Westcombe£2,000

Devon

Stretching from the verdant landscapes in the north of the county to the stylish coastal towns in the south, our collection of luxury holiday homes includes some of the best places to stay in Devon. Offering you the Finest spacious family homes, holiday cottages and apartments ensuring the utmost in comfort and the perfect base for families, friends and couples.

Things to do in Holbeton

Things to do in Holbeton Stay at one of our Finest holiday homes in Holbeton and indulge in an idyllic holiday retreat. Pack up a picnic and head to a pristine sandy beach along this beautiful and totally unspoilt coastline. Grab your walking boots and explore the hidden coves along the South West Coastal Path. Holbeton is just 9 miles from Plymouth giving easy access to historical sites, a world class aquarium and an excellent theatre.  Why holiday in Holbeton? The location is stunning! Mothecombe Beach is perfect for wild swimming and rock pooling. Kids will love building dams along the stream which runs down to the shore. It’s also a good spot for kayaking and paddle boarding. Coastguards Beach is vast and hits the spot for a game of cricket on the sands at low tide. Check out our Holbeton Beach guide for further info. Things to do in Holbeton Visit Mothecombe Gardens which is open to the public every Tuesday, from the end of February to the end of August. Go foraging at Carswell Farm and join one of their exciting foraging workshops and safari tours. Join an early morning beach fitness session with Physically Fabulous for a group workout on the sands at sunrise or book one of their private SUP lessons, great for the core balance! Photo credit - Carswell Farm Visit nearby Plymouth Head to historical Plymouth for a packed calendar of events throughout the year. The city is steeped in history - stroll along the Hoe and climb Smeaton's Tower. Visit the Mayflower Steps where, in 1620 the Pilgrim Fathers landed, and follow their journey at the Mayflower Museum. Discover the Royal William Yard with its excellent restaurants and bars or hop on a ferry to cross the River Tamar to visit the seaside villages of Cawsand and Kingsand. Photo credit: Visit Plymouth

Properties in Strete

For sea breeze lovers, and those wanting to experience the quiet life in a quintessentially British village, our Strete holiday cottages provide the perfect coastal retreat. 

Pubs and Bars

Thurlestone Pubs and Bars It's always good to have a village pub nearby, somewhere for a light lunch or an evening meal. If you’re planning a holiday in Thurlestone, you’re in for a treat, there’s an excellent pub right in the heart of the village which is a firm favourite with both locals and visitors to the area. Nearby Hope Cove also has a couple of excellent pubs, just a 20-minute walk along the coast path or a few minutes’ drive. Head towards Bantham, again along the coastal path or by car and stop off at The Sloop, a charming traditional inn.  The Village Inn Thurlestone A great little pub packed with character. This popular dog friendly inn serves up delicious gastro pub dishes in the rustic bar or in the comfort of the cosy lounge with its squashy leather sofas and roaring fire. A great family and dog friendly local.  The Cove If you love beer you’ll love The Cove! They have a massive range of with over fifty beers, ales, and ciders on offer and hold the award for the UK’s Best Independent Craft Beer Bar. The pub is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a great menu of fajitas, burgers, pizzas and seafood specials. A sociable pub with a great atmosphere and live music. The Hope and Anchor A charming 18th-century pub serving excellent food and a wine list to match. The Hope and Anchor is just up from the beach in Outer Hope and is a great spot for lunch. Relax on the terrace overlooking the sea. Dine on gastro pub classics; burger, moules and frites, steak and freshly caught lobster and crab. Perfect for families too with a special kid’s menu of pasta, sausages and fish goujons. This dog friendly pub also serves some of the best beer around! Hope Cove House Hope Cove House overlooks the beach at Inner Hope. It is a cosy bolthole with a seasonal, ever-changing menu. The small restaurant is open for lunch between 12 – 2.30 pm Wednesday to Saturday throughout the Spring and Summer months. After a swim, indulge and replenish at Hope Cove House. The beach bar is open from 10-6 pm Wednesday – Saturday for coffee, drinks and snacks. Its beautiful interiors complement the idyllic surroundings perfectly and the wine and beer lists have been carefully curated with local suppliers in mind.  If you are hoping to visit the wonderful pubs and bars Thurlestone and the surrounding area have to offer, take a look at our great places to stay.

Beaching

This stunning coastal village is the perfect bolthole for a seaside holiday with some of the finest beaches on the doorstep!

Holbeton

If you’re looking for somewhere special to stay where you can stroll down to the most magical of beaches and relax with a book, walk the South West Coastal Path or try a spot of wild swimming in pristine clear waters, a Holbeton holiday ticks all the boxes.

2026 properties

Plan Ahead for 2026 Dreaming of Devon in 2026? Whether you’re planning a getaway for two, a family gathering, or a long-overdue trip with friends, now’s the perfect time to book your 2026 holiday with Finest Stays. Our handpicked holiday homes are some of the most sought-after along the South Devon coast, and they book up quickly. By planning ahead, you'll have access to the widest choice of dates, the best properties, and peace of mind that your next seaside escape is sorted. Why book for 2026 now? Enjoy a stress-free booking experience, and first pick of our most popular holiday homes, with expert guidance along the way. Find flexible dates to match your ideal holiday window and take the time to plan every detail of your stay. Whether it's coastal walks in spring, summer beach days, or cosy winter hideaways, browse our 2026 availability and start looking forward to something truly special. Be the first to unlock 2026 stay dates

Thank you - Letting Guide Request

Thank You for requesting our Letting Guide Please download the guide below. Get in touch today if you have any queries or would like to let with us. Download our Letting Guide

Beaching

There’s no getting away from it, South Devon is perfect for a seaside holiday and the beaches around Thurlestone are some of the best!

Restaurants

Thurlestone Restaurants Thurlestone may be tucked away in the rolling Devon hills but that doesn’t mean that finding somewhere to eat is a challenge! With all bases covered here’s a list of the best dining spots for you to try while you’re on your hols.  From rustic beachside retreats awash with the best seafood and burgers to fine dining. Whether you decide to hike along the coast path or book a cab, be sure to reserve your table first! If you’re looking for a laid-back beachside shack, The Beach House is a must. For a more formal affair, try Sunday Lunch at The Trevilder at Thurlestone Hotel, great dining with far reaching sea views across the sands to Thurlestone Rock. Request a table by the window! It’s just a 25 minute stroll along the coast path to Hope Cove. Not only is the walk fabulous (sea views all the way) but there are some excellent places to stop for lunch too! Hope Cove has a couple of family friendly pubs serving excellent seafood and woodfired pizzas. For beachside dining, check out the Lobster Pods - these quirky glass domes overlooking the beach and perfect for a get together with friends and family. The Trevilder Fine dining experience at the Trevilder Restaurant, serving up fresh and seasonal dishes and an extensive wine list to match. Starters include Start Bay Scallops or smoked chicken followed by West Country filet steak, Dover Sole on the bone or Mediterranean vegetable tart. If you fancy a treat, they also serve Devon traditional afternoon teas.  Hope Cove House Laid back dining with a boho vibe, this great little restaurant with its cool contemporary interiors serves up some of the best seasonal cuisine in the area. Dine on Salcombe scallops, crispy bream or clams with chilli and garlic. The churros with chocolate sauce are pretty good too! As for the location, it’s spot on - just relax on the terrace overlooking the bay. They also have a cool beach bar which is open from 10am-6pm for coffee, snacks and drinks to keep you going while you’re on the beach.  The Cove Whenever we visit Hope, The Cove is always buzzing! This vibrant pub is just a stone’s throw from the beach and home to one of the best craft beer bars around. This lively bar is popular with both locals and holidaymakers and it’s easy to see why. Dining out at The Cove is a real treat with Devon moules, burgers, fajitas, excellent fish and chips and their famous seafood platter on the menu… all washed down with a pint of craft beer. Relax on the terrace in the sunshine during the summer months and cosy up by the wood burning stove on dark winter evenings. The Cove is also well known for its live music nights so you can enjoy a toe-tapping evening or get up and boogie! The Hope and Anchor Right in the hub of the village, the Hope & Anchor is a stone’s throw from the beach. This St. Austell Brewery traditional pub offers excellent dining and some of the best beer around. The extensive menu is a combo of re-defined pub classics and burgers, from moules and frites, steak and a pork pie ploughmans to fabulous fresh local crab and lobster. There’s also a great kids’ menu serving up sausages, fish goujons and pasta. This dog-friendly hostelry has smart contemporary interiors, a first-floor terrace, and a deck with awesome sea views! Living by the sea really does have it’s benefits, take a look at our great places to stay.

Properties in South Milton

Our Holiday Homes in South Milton Our holiday homes in South Milton offer the perfect blend of comfort, character, and coastal charm. Handpicked for their style, setting, and attention to detail, each property reflects the relaxed beauty of the area while providing all the modern comforts needed for a memorable stay. Whether you're looking for a romantic bolthole with sea views, a spacious family retreat near the beach, or a countryside hideaway within walking distance of the coast, our South Milton collection caters to a variety of holiday styles. With thoughtful touches and exceptional locations, these cottages are ideal bases for soaking up the laid-back atmosphere of this stunning part of Devon.

Things to do in South Milton

Things to do in South Milton Things to do in South Milton South Milton is a laid-back coastal village with plenty to offer for those who love nature, the sea, and the great outdoors. From beach days at South Milton Sands to scenic walks along the South West Coast Path, it’s a place where simple pleasures take centre stage. Whether you’re into watersports, wildlife, or just soaking up the views, South Milton is an ideal spot for relaxed, outdoor days on the South Devon coast. What's on in and near South Milton South Milton and its neighbouring villages come alive throughout the year with a vibrant mix of local events that celebrate the best of Devon. Just a short drive away, Salcombe hosts the popular Crabfest each spring, a celebration of seafood, local produce, and coastal culture, while summer brings Salcombe Regatta Week. Kingsbridge offers a full calendar too, with the much-loved Kingsbridge Show in early September, showcasing rural traditions, local crafts, and entertainment. Nearby Hope Cove Weekend draws crowds with its live music, beach games, and family fun, and the Aveton Gifford Classic Car Show delights motoring fans with a stunning display of vintage vehicles each summer. Whether you're after local food, music, or community spirit, there’s always something happening near South Milton. South Milton Walks South Milton is a dream destination for walkers, with scenic routes that combine dramatic coastal views with tranquil countryside charm. A particular standout is the stretch of the South West Coast Path from South Milton Sands to Hope Cove, an exhilarating clifftop walk with sweeping sea vistas, wildflower-strewn paths, and the chance to spot seals or sea birds along the way. Another favourite is the walk from South Milton to Bantham, which offers spectacular views across Bigbury Bay and takes you past the iconic Thurlestone Rock and over picturesque beaches and headlands. For a more peaceful inland route, footpaths meander through rolling fields and sleepy hamlets towards Thurlestone or Aveton Gifford. South Milton Beaches South Milton Sands is a golden, dune-backed beach perfect for family days, sea swims, and laid-back coastal adventures. At low tide, it’s a great spot for rock pooling, while the calm waters are ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking, with hire available on the beach. Dog-friendly year-round, it’s a favourite for walkers and beachgoers alike. Nearby, Hope Cove and Thurlestone offer more peaceful spots to relax or explore, while Bantham Beach, just a short drive away, is popular for surfing and has its own surf school. With a mix of quiet coves and activity-friendly shores, South Milton’s coastline has something for everyone. South Milton Attractions While South Milton itself is all about coastal charm and natural beauty, it’s also perfectly placed for exploring a variety of local attractions. Nearby Salcombe offers scenic boat trips, harbour cruises, and wildlife-watching tours, giving you a chance to experience the coastline from the water. History lovers can visit Overbeck’s Garden and Museum, a cliffside National Trust property filled with exotic plants and sweeping views. The nearby market town of Kingsbridge is perfect for browsing independent shops, enjoying waterside cafés, or taking a paddle along the estuary. Whether you're after adventure, heritage, or a taste of local life, there’s plenty to discover close to South Milton. View more things to do in Devon Read more

Sailing

Dartmouth has always had a rich sailing history and today is a renowned sailing port welcoming visiting sailors from all around the coast and overseas.

Newsletter Sign Up

Devon Self Catering Cottages

Escape the ordinary and discover our hand picked collection of luxury Devon self catering holiday cottages and accommodation. All our properties are chosen for their location, style and uniqueness: Imagine quintessential country cottages with a timeless charm and unique rustic retreats for a dose of sheer escapism and contemporary waterside properties with spacious terraces and swimming pools. There’s a property just for you in our collection of Devon Self-Catering Cottages.

Crabbing

Stroll along the embankment and you’ll find children (and adults) lying on their bellies or crouching over crabbing lines and buckets.

Dartmouth Shops

Dartmouth Shops Sitting on the banks of the meandering River Dart, historical Dartmouth has been a coastal trading town since the 13th Century when the wealthy were involved in the Bordeaux wine trade. Today, shopping in Dartmouth is a treat, a great place for a relaxing amble around the shops. This charming riverside town has a plethora of smart outlets, as well as the more familiar high street brands, the town is proud of its independently run boutiques, outdoor specialists and shops selling coastal style interiors, excellent delis and bakeries plus your favourite brand food stores. Local drink producers have started to move into the town which is fast becoming the go ‘go to’ destination for food lovers. Dartmouth has some excellent art galleries too, displaying a broad selection of works of art, perfect as a memento of your stay. Explore Dartmouth’s winding streets and enjoy some retail therapy, stop off for a coffee and a pastry, a crab sandwich or perhaps fish and chips overlooking the river. Friday is market day at the Old Market Square with specialist shops and stalls. The Artisan Market is on the 4th Saturday of the month if you’re looking for some eclectic style and the Farmers’ Market is on the 2nd Saturday of the month, perfect for picking up locally grown produce, local meats and the freshest fish.   Shopping in Dartmouth Simon Drew Gallery, Foss Street  Simon’s popularity has spread throughout the UK since opening his gallery in 1981. Working in pen and ink, his quirky wildlife drawings combined with nonsense verse and everyday objects can be seen on the prints, cards, and mugs in the gallery which also showcases a range of ceramics.  Triton Galleries, Foss Street If you’re interested in fine art, this is the gallery for you with an unrivalled collection of original art and collectable limited editions from the UK's leading contemporary artists. Browser Books, Foss Street An independent bookshop packed with an assortment of brilliant titles waiting to be browsed so pick up your holiday read.  Dartmouth Silver, Foss Street Beautiful handcrafted silver jewellery made in the studio in Dartmouth. Wild Food Devon - Fish & Game, Mark Lobb, Market Square An established fishmonger supplying fresh local fish & game. All fish is caught no more than 30 miles from Plymouth or Brixham and Mark’s permanent spot at the Market Square means you can buy fresh fish whenever you fancy. Saveurs Boulangerie, Patisserie and Chocolaterie, Market Street An independent French bakery and café producing exquisite freshly baked hand-crafted French bread, pastries, cakes and chocolates. They also have run French baking courses. Great for breakfasts and light lunches. The coffee is pretty good too!  Dartmouth Butchers, Victoria Road The only butchers in Dartmouth, this family-run business only buys from local farms and suppliers so they can guarantee traceability. They make all their own sausages in-store. 11 Clothing, Victoria Road Independent store selling branded clothing, footwear and accessories for men and women.  Paul Barclay Designs, Oxford Street You’ll instantly recognise Paul Barclay’s designs if you’ve spent any time in Dartmouth. His shop/gallery is packed with his distinctive pictures of yachts and buildings and he’s earning a reputation as being one of the leading artists in the southwest.  Nash & Duff, Newcomen Road An Independent British lifestyle shop selling beautiful handmade bags. Bert & Buoy, Fairfax Place Distinctive original art on coastal British blankets and homeware - cushions, tea towels, mugs and glasses plus beautiful bags, framed prints and stationery. Seasalt, Fairfax Place Functional, stylish clothing, footwear, bags and jewellery, all designed in Cornwall plus a homeware range. Crew Clothing, Fairfax Place Originating in Salcombe in ‘93 this coastal clothing brand with its crossed oars and stripes reflects the lifestyle of the British seaside.  Smith Street Deli, The Old Shambles Smith Street Great selection of deli products including local Sharpham cheeses. Great for coffee, pastries and lunch. The Dart Gallery, Lower Street A collection of works by a selection of established British artists with mixed and solo shows over two floors.  Escape to the Coast, Lower Street  Coastal style interiors gifts and fashion from local makers and businesses, small independent manufacturers and UK suppliers. Distinctly Living, Lower Street Beautiful stylish home and kitchenware displayed with unique furniture design. Pop in and check them out!  Jack Speak, Lower Street This Dartmouth based British Naval Heritage lifestyle brand is the go to place for stylish coastal clothing for all the family. Fat Face, The Quay Originally started with two young Brits selling T-shirts to fund their skiing. Today the brand sells easy going clothes which reflects the lifestyles of their customers. Henry Lords High end yachtie and tech savvy gear for the great outdoors. Hollands (formally Dartmouth Boating Centre), Riverside Court South Embankment Traditional store selling outdoor clothing and sporting goods. Stay in Dartmouth

Beaching

Holbeton Beaches If you’re looking for a beach which is totally unspoilt and untouched by tourism, a beach which is perfect for a romantic picnic, sublime for wild swimming and excellent for watersports. A beach of childhood dreams and safe for children… look no further, we have some hidden gems up our sleeves. Holbeton beaches are all the above with plenty of parking and a charming Italian style cafe/restaurant (open all day) and loos. Admittedly they involve a short walk but they are pushchair friendly, and who doesn’t like to improve their step count? Our Holbeton beaches have to be some of the best!  Mothecombe Beach (Meadowsfoot) Mothecombe beach is idyllic. The beach of childhood dreams. If you’re looking to escape the rat race and chill out on the sands, Mothecombe delivers! Pretty much untouched and void of development since the 19th century, this sheltered cove at the mouth of the River Erme Estuary. Needless to say it's perfect for children with gently shelving sands leading down to the water. If you’re looking for activities; take the paddleboard, kayak or bodyboard and get out on the water or plunge in for a spot of wild swimming. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks to the rockpools with a net and bucket or building sandcastles and waiting for the moat to fill up on the incoming tide.  Facilities   Mothecombe car park in a designated field and is open daily, (last entry at 5pm and gates will be closed and locked at 7pm)  charges: From April 1st  – September 30th £6 per day (£3 after 3pm). Pay parking attendant on entry. schoolhouse cafe/ bistro  public toilets at the schoolhouse book an early morning beach fitness session Access : Park at the beach car park, turn left and cross into a field, follow the gravel path through the woods down to the beach. Suitable for prams. Mothecombe is privately owned by the Flete Estate and is open daily to the public. Dogs are welcome from the 1st October to 30th April.  We love – an afternoon of paddle boarding and a picnic on the sands… this Rupert Bear beach is the best! Photo credit: Visit Plymouth Coastguards Beach Just around the corner from Mothecombe Beach is Coastguards Beach, a vast expanse of sand which stretches for half a mile at low tide. Straddling the River Erme close to the mouth, this magnificent tidal beach is perfect for kids (and dogs) to let off steam and splash in the river shallows down to the sea. A great place for paddle boarding, kayaking and bodyboarding with easy access to a slipway. Explore the estuary at low tide with its hidden coves and rock pools. It’s also possible to cross the river onto Wonwell Beach at lopw tide (between the two slipways which is part of the South West Coastal Path route.)    Facilities   Park at the Mothecombe car park in a designated field and is open daily, (last entry at 5pm and gates will be closed and locked at 7pm)  charges: From April 1st  – September 30th £6 per day (£3 after 3pm). Pay parking attendant on entry. School House cafe/ bistro for takeaway and eat ins public toilets at the schoolhouse Access Park at the beach car park, exit through the gate and turn left to walk down the lane which is narrow and quite steep. At the bottom of the hill you’ll reach the breach. There are a couple of bollards but allows good access for horse riding, wheelchairs, prams and water sports kit.  We love – this vast beach is easy to access with the kids, perfect for a big family picnic and a splash about in the shallows at low tide - amazing! Wonwell Beach Wonwell Beach You can access Wonwell Beach at low tide from Coastguards Beach by crossing the River Erme between the two slipways. The beach is beautiful and mirrors Coastguards, look upstream and you’ll see an old lime kiln on the sands, (constructed between 1700-1850 and in use until the early 20th century). This is a great spot for birdwatching. Parking on this side of the river is very restricted, especially during weekends and holidays so we wouldn’t recommend driving to Wonwell. The South West Coastal Path crosses the river, this is a fabulous walk which, heading east, leads on to Beacon Point and the beautiful Ayrmer Cove, an otherwise relatively inaccessible beach accessed only by footpaths. Facilities and access Recommend parking at the Mothecombe car park and crossing the river at low tide. Parking on the lane leading down to Wonwell is restricted and can often get congested.  there are no facilities on the beach We love – dog walking at low tide, this such a fabulous expanse of sand for the pooch to let off steam and get very wet and sandy! Wembury Beach This beautiful beach is owned by the National Trust and is very popular with families. It's the perfect spot for rock pooling too. The Marine Conservation Centre offers educational rockpool rambles to help you identify the molluscs lurking within. Wembury is perfect for children with a gently shelving beach and generally good quality sea water. Facilities   park by the church just up from the beach beach side refreshment kiosk and café/restaurant toilets Wembury Beach is dog friendly between 1 October and 30 April Access Wembury Beach PL9 0JG just a short walk from the carpark to the beach We love – Relaxing with on the beach with a flask of tea and a book    Photo credit: Visit Plymouth Nearby Beaches... discover more beautiful beaches just a short drive away from Holbeton

Places to eat in South Milton

Places to Eat in South Milton The area around South Milton offers a relaxed yet flavourful food scene, with everything from cosy country pubs to laid-back beach cafés and pop-up eateries. Nearby villages like Thurlestone and Hope Cove are home to welcoming pubs and restaurants serving hearty favourites, fresh seafood, and locally sourced dishes. Food trucks and seasonal pop-ups often appear at beaches like Thurlestone and Bantham during the warmer months, offering everything from wood-fired pizzas to fresh coffee with a sea view. Whether you’re after a casual bite or a sit-down meal in a charming setting, the local dining options are full of character and coastal charm. South Milton Cafés & Coffee Shops The area around South Milton Sands is dotted with welcoming cafés and coffee shops, ideal for everything from a morning pick-me-up to a leisurely afternoon treat. South Milton is home to The Beach House (although closed temporarily due to fire damage - we hope to see it back soon). Just up the road in Thurlestone, the Village Inn offers light bites and a relaxed atmosphere, while Thurlestone Village Stores serves great coffee and homemade cakes. In nearby Hope Cove, The Cove Café Bar is a popular spot for brunch and coastal views, and Hope Cove House offers a charming setting for coffee or afternoon tea. Over in Bantham, the gastrobus near the beach is a favourite for takeaway coffee and snacks with a sea breeze.  South Milton Restaurants The area around South Milton boasts a variety of excellent restaurants that showcase the best of Devon’s coastal flavours. In nearby Hope Cove, the Lobster Pod Bistro is a standout choice, known for its fresh seafood and unique glass dining pods with panoramic sea views. Also in Hope Cove, the Hope Cove House restaurant offers refined, seasonal dishes in a relaxed yet elegant setting. For a more casual coastal dining experience, the Beachhouse at Bantham is a popular seasonal spot serving fresh, locally inspired menus right by the water. Keep an eye out for The Rock Box too, a travelling kitchen that pops up at beaches and events across Devon, often serving gourmet street food with a creative twist.  Pubs in South Milton If you’re after a more relaxed dining experience or a cosy drink after a day outdoors, the local pubs near South Milton won’t disappoint. The Hope & Anchor in Hope Cove offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with a varied menu and great coastal views. In Bantham, The Sloop Inn is a characterful favourite, serving hearty classics and local ales in a rustic, laid-back setting. Over in Thurlestone, the Village Inn is a welcoming local spot known for its quality pub food and relaxed charm. Whether you're looking for a traditional Sunday roast or a pint after a long walk, these nearby pubs provide a perfect slice of Devon hospitality. View more things to do in Devon Read more

Kingswear

With its brightly painted cottages clinging to the hillside, Kingswear sits at the mouth of the River Dart with outstanding views to Dartmouth and the sea.

Properties in Salcombe

Our Holiday Homes in Salcombe Each of our luxury Salcombe holiday homes has been handpicked because of their prime central location, exceptional views and beautiful interior design. Access to the water and town is a key feature of our properties, closely followed by an exceptional view of the estuary and a great interior. We also look for that magic which sets it apart from your average holiday home in Salcombe – from spa facilities to a private sanctuary overlooking the sparkling blue water of the estuary. Read More Our Salcombe holiday lettings all benefit from our exacting levels of service. Your own personal concierge will tailor-make your holiday experience before you arrive, by developing an itinerary to suit you and your group. Self-catering is standard with our properties but if you’d like a private chef for the week, an evening champagne cruise on the water or even a helicopter as part of your luxury accommodation in Salcombe, please just ask. With our fleet of boats available, discover the dramatic coast, visit hidden coves or hop onto a secluded beach. From traditional locally-crafted yawls to high-tech speed boats, we can organise a charter to suit your group during your stay in one of our luxury holiday cottages in Salcombe. Check out our other holiday homes near Salcombe such as our Hope Cove holiday homes. Get in touch, tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll find you the right holiday home to suit your needs. For more Finest info about Salcombe, check out our blog; from the best coffee shops in Salcombe to top tips for crabbing, we have got you covered.

Kingswear Shops

Kingswear Shops Sitting across the river from Dartmouth, Kingswear is a charming village with sailing (rather than shopping) at its heart. There is, however, a local village store that is licensed and very well stocked for your day-to-day essentials. But for those of you in need of a little retail therapy, hop on the ferry and discover Dartmouth's excellent shops. Stroll through the meandering narrow streets lined with independent boutiques, art galleries, delis and high-end high-street brands, stop off for a coffee or lunch and make a day of it. Dartmouth has always been a popular town for shopping and it’s perfect for picking up gifts from the stylish interiors shops or perhaps a brolly in a downpour! Don’t miss the Old Market Square with its specialist stalls and shops. Friday is market day in Dartmouth but there’s also an Artisan Market on the 4th Saturday of the month and a popular Farmers’ Market on the 2nd Saturday of the month for the best local produce, fish and meat.  And finally… When the shopping is done, pick up some fish and chips from Rockfish and find yourself a bench at Bayards Cove - simply perfect! Shopping in Kingswear and Dartmouth Saveurs Boulangerie, Patisserie and Chocolaterie, Market Street This great independent French bakery and café produces the finest freshly baked pastries, chocolates, cakes and bread. Fancy yourself as a bit of a baker? You can sign up for one of their French baking courses. Great for a coffee and a croissant.   Wild Food Devon - Fish & Game, Mark Lobb, Market Square This established fishmonger supplies fresh fish, all caught within 30 miles of Brixham and Plymouth. Mark also specialises in game so if you’re looking for a brace of pheasants or fancy a venison steak, he’s your man. You can find Mark at his permanent spot in the Market Square.  Triton Galleries, Foss Street An unrivalled collection of collectable limited edition prints and original art from leading British contemporary artists.  Simon Drew Gallery, Foss Street  Working in pen and ink, Simon creates quirky wildlife drawings combined with nonsense verse for prints, cards and mugs. Pop into his gallery and check out his range of ceramics, the gallery opened in 1981 and is one of the mainstays of the town but Simon’s work can now be spotted throughout the UK. Dartmouth Silver, Foss Street Contemporary handcrafted silver jewellery made in the Dartmouth studio. Browser Books, Foss Street Well worth a browse… this independent bookshop is packed with brilliant titles for your holiday reading.  Paul Barclay Designs, Oxford Street Earning a reputation as one of the leading artists in the south west, Paul Barclay’s pictures of yachts and buildings are instantly recognisable. Nash & Duff, Newcomen Road Beautiful hand made bags from this independent British lifestyle shop. Treat yourself! Escape to the Coast, Lower Street  Small local independent manufacturers showcasing coastal style interiors gifts and fashion. The Dart Gallery, Lower Street Two floors of works from select established British artists. Distinctly Living, Lower Street Contemporary stylish home and kitchenware and unique furniture design. Great for coastal inspired gifts! Jack Speak, Lower Street Stylish coastal clothing from this emerging Dartmouth based British Naval Heritage lifestyle brand.  Seasalt, Fairfax Place Cornish based company offering functional, stylish clothing, bags, footwear and jewellery. Bert & Buoy, Fairfax Place Stylish and distinctive, Bert & Buoy sell original art on coastal homeware - British blankets, framed prints, cushions, tea towels, glasses and mugs. Crew Clothing, Fairfax Place This local coastal clothing brand started in Salcombe in ‘93 and reflects the lifestyle of the British seaside.  Dartmouth Butchers, Victoria Road This family run business is Dartmouth's only butchers. They make their own sausages and all meat is all locally sourced guaranteeing traceability.  11 Clothing, Victoria Road This local independent store sells branded clothing, accessories and footwear.  Smith Street Deli, The Old Shambles Smith Street Fab selection of local cheeses and deli products. Delicious coffee, pastries and lunches. Fat Face, The Quay This much loved brand selling easy going clothes was originally started by a couple of young Brits selling T-shirts to fund their skiing! Henry Lloyds, The Quay Clothing for the great outdoors, lovely tech savvy and mostly high end yachtie gear.  Hollands (formally Dartmouth Boating Centre), Riverside Court South Embankment Great for outdoor clothing and boating gear.  Visit Kingswear

Surfing in Devon

The Devon coastlines are home to some excellent surf schools offering wetsuit and board hire as well as excellent tuition with qualified instructors. Every beach is different so we recommend booking a lesson or two especially if you’re new to surfing. So wax your board and come and join Devon’s surfing community at the best surf spots in Devon. You’re in for the ride of your life!

South Milton

South Milton Holidays Tucked away on the scenic Devon coast, South Milton offers an idyllic escape for those seeking a quintessential countryside-meets-coast holiday. With its sweeping views over lush green hills and easy access to the unspoiled sands of South Milton Sands, this charming village captures the relaxed rhythm of rural life without compromising on natural beauty. Whether you're planning coastal walks along the South West Coast Path, beach days filled with sea swims or quiet evenings soaking up golden sunsets, South Milton sets the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable holiday in one of Devon's most picturesque corners Browse our Holiday Homes in South Milton View all holiday homes in South Milton Why visit South Milton? Holidaying in South Milton is all about embracing the slower pace of life and immersing yourself in the simple pleasures of the Devon coast. This peaceful village is a hidden gem where days are shaped by the tides, the views, and the changing colours of the sky. From lazy mornings spent beachcombing at low tide to afternoons exploring nearby coves, South Milton invites visitors to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature. Its friendly, understated charm and proximity to coastal highlights like Hope Cove and Salcombe make it a wonderful base for a memorable and restorative break. View Holiday Homes in South Milton Things to do in South Milton South Milton is a haven for those who love the outdoors, with its stunning natural surroundings offering plenty to see and do. At the heart of it all is South Milton Sands, a beautiful stretch of golden beach perfect for sunbathing, wild swimming, or paddleboarding in calm, clear waters. Beyond the shore, the area is laced with scenic walking trails, including direct access to the South West Coast Path, leading to breathtaking viewpoints and nearby villages like Hope Cove and Thurlestone.  Things to do in South Milton Places to eat in South Milton South Milton may be a small village, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to food and drink. The area is home to a handful of beloved local spots that celebrate the best of Devon’s seasonal produce and coastal flavours. Whether it’s fresh seafood served just steps from the beach, a laid-back lunch with sweeping sea views, or a cosy pub meal in a nearby village, there’s something to satisfy every appetite.  Places to eat in South Milton Read More

Properties in Hope Cove

Our Holiday Homes in Hope Cove Come and discover Hope Cove for yourself visit Hope Cover for a luxury holiday and book to stay in one of our Hope Cove holiday cottages. Check out our collection of Hope Cove holiday cottages and holiday homes near Hope Cove or get in touch, tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll find you the right holiday home to suit your needs. For more Finest info about Hope Cove, read our recent blog posts: Eating out in Hope Cove and Hope Cove beaches. 

Properties in Kingsbridge

Our Kingsbridge Holiday Homes Whether you want to explore the South Hams on a walking holiday or simply get away from it all and relax in a little luxury, our self-catering Kingsbridge holiday homes are available all year round and ideally located, the majority with stunning estuary views. We add personal touches to each of our South Devon holiday homes to make your stay even more memorable and our Kingsbridge holiday cottages are no different. No matter what your holiday needs are, we have a property to suit you, just get in touch.

Culture, Festivals and History

Hope Cove has a friendly, creative community. The old fishing village now offers a relaxed form of tourism that encourages visitors to embrace its maritime history, appreciate nature and simply spend time in the great outdoors.

Kingswear Food and Drink

Kingswear Food and Drink With views across the river to Dartmouth and Dartmouth Castle, Kingswear’s picturesque waterfront is the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat or a drink. Despite its small size, the village has a handful of delightful pubs and restaurants and is just a stone’s throw from all that the neighbouring town has to offer.

Dittisham

You may have not even heard of Dittisham (pronounced ‘Ditsum’ by the locals). Tucked away on the west bank of the meandering River Dart, just a short ferry ride from Dartmouth, this beautiful riverside village ticks all the boxes for a romantic escape, relaxed family holiday or a get together with friends. 

Thank you for your enquiry

Thank You For Your Enquiry A member of the team will be in touch soon. Back to home page

Kingswear Cafes and Delis

Kingswear Cafes and Deli's Kingswear offers the best of both worlds, a slice of seclusion from its big sister Dartmouth when you want it but also easy access to the cafes and delis across the river. If you are spending a few hours in Dartmouth, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to cafes and delis; it’s getting quite a reputation as the ‘go to’ town for stylish delis and French-style bistros so immerse yourself in a little continental cafe culture but don’t forget the traditional Devon Cream tea! Of course, you don’t have to hop on the ferry for your morning coffee… Kingswear Cofee Company Stroll down to The Square in the heart of the village and stop off at the Kingswear Coffee Company. The perfect place for a pick me up with a coffee and a croissant, excellent bacon paninis and some of the best afternoon tea and cake.  Woodroast, Dartmouth Woodroast has some of the best coffee and homemade cakes in Dartmouth. This cafe sources its coffee from artisan roasters The Curator just down the road in Totnes, making it a great choice if you are looking for some truly local produce. After a blustery beach day on Blackpool Sands, warm up in Woodroast with a hot chocolate with all the trimmings and warm, freshly-baked banana bread. Smith Street Deli, Dartmouth Visit the Smith Street Deli on your day trip to Dartmouth and you will be impressed by a tasty menu, locally sourced produce and fabulous customer service. On a sunny day, you can opt for a takeaway ‘lunch box’ stacked full of delicious deli meat and cheeses to enjoy al fresco on the bank of the river. Beth's Bistro, Dartmouth After a morning stroll or swim, head over to Beth’s Bistro in Dartmouth for a traditional full English breakfast or a light lunch. If you are feeling a little more indulgent, why not opt for a traditional cream tea or some handmade cake?  Dart Marina, Dartmouth For afternoon tea with a view, visit Dart Marina, a stylish hotel overlooking the River Dart. Starting at £33 per person for the luxury ‘Afternoon Tea Royale’, the Dart Marina offers smoked salmon sandwiches, handmade cakes, and fresh scones with Devon clotted cream. All are accompanied by a glass of fizz or a refreshing Hendricks Gin cucumber cocktail. Served from 2-3 pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in the River Restaurant, this is the perfect weekend activity when in the South Hams. Make sure to pre-book!

Properties in Thurlestone

Relax in one of our luxury holiday cottages in Thurlestone and discover a tranquil world of spectacular coastal walks, dog friendly beaches and excellent water sports

Pubs and Bars

Whether you’re looking for a traditional pint pulling locals’ pub or somewhere to take the kids for lunch, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in Kingsbridge.

Thank you for your letting enquiry

Thank You For Your Letting Enquiry A member of the team will be in touch soon. Back to Let Your Holiday Page

Cafes and Deli's

Well if you’re staying in Kingsbridge you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to cafe culture.

Properties in Newton Ferrers & Noss Mayo

Our Newton Ferrers & Noss Mayo Holiday Homes Our handpicked holiday homes in Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers offer the perfect blend of comfort, character, and coastal charm. From elegant waterside retreats with sweeping estuary views to tucked-away cottages nestled among the trees, each property is chosen for its unique style and exceptional setting. With thoughtfully designed interiors and easy access to the water, village pubs, and scenic walks, our Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers holiday lets promise a truly memorable Finest Stays experience.

Wellness in Kingsbridge

Wellness in Kingsbridge We tend to over indulge a little on holiday, and that’s okay… even the strongest-willed can find the delicious Devon cream teas, locally made ice cream, fish and chips and the odd glass of fizz hard to resist. But fear not! We have some excellent personal trainers, Pilates and yoga instructors, and massage and beauty treatments to keep you glowing not groaning. Take a look at our top picks for wellness in Kingsbridge. Contact us In-house Pampering You’re on holiday to relax and enjoy a little me time, to recharge and rejuvenate - and why not? It’s an important aspect of any holiday so treat yourself to some in-house pampering with My Personal Sanctuary which offers luxurious treatments in the comfort of your holiday home. Using Neal’s Yard Remedies Organic products made using pure essential oils, the company offers a range of treatments including replenishing facials, deep tissue massage, full body journeys and treats for hands and feet. Get in touch with one of our team to arrange some pampering at your Kingsbridge holiday home. Make-up and Beauty The Hen House Relax in the peaceful setting of The Hen House just on the edge of Kingsbridge. The highly qualified experienced team offer a range of professional treatments to destress, rejuvenate and enhance your natural beauty. The perfect place to indulge in a little ‘me’ time. More details from The Hen House. Rachel Gaunt Beauty Therapist As well as practising at The Hen House, Rachel also offers beauty therapy in the comfort of your holiday home. Experienced beauty therapist and makeup artist  Rachel Gaunt has some 20 years of experience in the beauty industry and is on hand to share techniques, hints and tips with you in the comfort of your holiday home. Rachel uses high-end brands including Charlotte Tilbury, Chanel, Becca, Nars & Urban Decay and Rae Morris to reflect your personality and style.  Fitness Marvel Fitness Aaron Ryder, Devi Majumdar and the team at Marvel Fitness pride themselves on offering a first-class personal service through a well-equipped gym with an excellent range of cardio, resistance and weights equipment. They also offer non-contact boxing fitness classes and Personal / small group training. Check out their website  for pricing and further information  Willpower Fitness For group functional fitness classes and personal training sessions, check out Willpower Fitness. They offer unique and specialised programming which is perfect for any guests wishing to improve their health and well-being while on holiday. Their sessions are suitable for all abilities and ages. You can find the class timetable and get in touch Willpower Fitness here. The Natural Gym Make the most of the beach and try a training session on the sands, perfect for improving body and mind. The Natural Gym offers brilliant outdoor training sessions to suit you. Devi also does home visits and can train you at the location of your choice to give you a varied, challenging and enjoyable workout! Hen House The fitness centre at The Hen House has its own resident personal trainers and a fully equipped private gym. The trainers are on hand to offer encouragement and advice to help make the Devon hills more manageable! To find out more or book a session at The Hen House click here. Fitness Is Issy Wood strives to get the very best out of each of her clients helping them to reach their goals through personal training and fitness classes. She also offers nutritional guidance from her private gym in Moreleigh, just a short drive from Kingsbridge. Contact Issy at Fitness Is and book yourself in!  Quayside Right in the heart of Kingsbridge, sitting along the quay is the town’s leisure centre. Keep yourself in shape under the watchful eye of qualified fitness instructors while you work on the weights, cardiovascular exercise and resistance machines. Perhaps combine with a few lengths of the 25m pool on the same site. More about Quayside, classes and timetables here. Yoga and Pilates Harbour House Harbour House has three beautiful yoga studios for their regular yoga, pilates, tai chi, kung fu and meditation classes; join in and awaken a sense of inner joy as you realign and integrate body and mind. More about Harbour House Yoga and Pilates here. Hen House “The Pilates Method teaches you to be in control of your body and not at its mercy” Joseph Pilates. And you can do just that… Jo Moore and Caroline Coetzee of JM Pilates are both very experienced pilates instructors in the classical method. Why not book yourself in for a private class which will be tailored to meet your individual needs using classical apparatus and the mat. Get in touch with JM Pilates here. Massage The Hen House - Hanna Quiggin Hanna works as a Pilates teacher and Soft Tissue Therapist offering relaxing massage, deep tissue massage and one-to-one Pilates sessions. Visit Hanna’s website for complete massage treatments available. Shiatsu and Qigong Tasha Kalisher is a Shiatsu Practitioner and Qigong Teacher and generally works out of her clinic in Bristol and her home in Slapton, but Finest Stays have arranged for guests to have an inhouse Shiatsu and Qigong experience whilst in their holiday home. At the core of Tasha’s work is a passion to empower clients to enable them to have a deeper understanding of themselves. Tasha will come and set up for an afternoon or a full day, for groups of friends or families to experience Shiatsu and Qigong; Shiatsu is a fully clothed massage. It is deeply relaxing and restorative. It works with acupoints, stretches, rotations and pressure to bring the body and mind back into balance. It is traditionally given on a mat on the floor, but you can also request to use a massage chair if mobility or space is an issue. Qigong is a moving meditation but it is also a great physical workout, opening the body and stretching the muscles to encourage greater stability and strength and increasing vitality and balance.  Tasha can also offer tips on nutrition, movements and herbs that can support your specific requirements. Get in touch with Tasha to find out more about Shiatsu and Qigong.

Thank you for your booking

Thank You For Your Booking Your booking summary will appear here. Back to Homepage

Properties in Dittisham

We’ve pushed the boat out with our luxury holiday homes in Dittisham and slightly meandered off the beaten track. Intrigued? Come and take a peek.

Special Offers

Special Offers Discover a curated collection of luxury holiday homes in Devon, where exceptional comfort meets stunning natural beauty. Take advantage of our last-minute discounts and seasonal promotions to enjoy a getaway like no other. Whether you’re seeking a serene retreat or an adventure-filled escape, our selection of the finest stays in Devon promises something for every taste. Explore our beautiful homes in coveted locations such as Kingsbridge, Salcombe, and Dartmouth, each offering unique charm, breathtaking landscapes, and a wealth of local attractions. Book your dream stay and indulge in the ultimate Devon experience.

Things to do in Noss Mayo & Newton Ferrers

Things to do in Noss Mayo & Newton Ferrers Surrounded by estuary waters, wooded valleys and dramatic coastline, Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo are a gateway to a wide range of relaxed outdoor pursuits and scenic discoveries. From river adventures and coastal walks to charming nearby villages and quiet beaches, this peaceful part of Devon offers plenty to enjoy at your own pace. Whether you're here for nature, adventure, or simply to unwind, there's something to suit every kind of getaway. What's on in and near Noss Mayo & Newton Ferrers Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo host a variety of seasonal events that capture the spirit of Devon. The Noss Mayo Regatta and Newton Ferrers Water Carnival offers a week of sailing races, fun on the water, live music, and community celebrations whilst The Newton & Noss Festival brings together local art, performance, and great food in a relaxed, village atmosphere. In autumn, Yealmpton Apple Day is a favourite for families and foodies alike, celebrating the harvest with tastings, traditional crafts, and entertainment.  Beaches near Noss Mayo & Newton Ferrers The coastline around Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo is dotted with a selection of beautiful, unspoilt beaches. Mothecombe is one of the area’s most popular spots, offering a sweeping stretch of golden sand, shallow waters ideal for paddling and swimming, and nearby facilities including a café and parking. It’s a family favourite, with space to spread out, explore rock pools, and enjoy a traditional seaside picnic. For those seeking a more secluded experience, Cellar Beach is a hidden gem tucked beneath the wooded cliffs and accessible by foot. With its shingle shore, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s a tranquil haven for swimming, sunbathing, or launching a kayak.  Walks near Noss Mayo & Newton Ferrers The landscapes surrounding Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo are a walker’s paradise, with a variety of routes that showcase the area’s natural beauty. One of the most scenic options is the circular walk linking the two villages via the tidal Voss and wooded footpaths along the River Yealm, perfect for a leisurely stroll with rewarding estuary views. For those craving coastal drama, the South West Coast Path offers stunning clifftop walks starting from Noss Mayo, with routes leading to Cellar Beach, Stoke Point, and the rugged headlands beyond. Inland, trails around the Flete Estate and the Erme Estuary wind through ancient woodlands, open fields, and peaceful valleys.  Noss Mayo & Newton Ferrers Attractions Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo offer a relaxed mix of scenic and low-key attractions, ideal for exploring at your own pace. The seasonal pedestrian ferry linking the two villages is a much-loved feature, adding charm to coastal walks and easy access to local pubs and paths. The River Yealm is perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and boat hire, with calm waters and beautiful estuary views. Nearby highlights include the historic quay at Newton Ferrers, the peaceful St Peter’s Church in Noss Mayo, and the surrounding countryside and estuary views of the Flete Estate, perfectly placed for a quiet wander or picnic with a view. View more things to do nearby Read more

Things to do in Thurlestone

Escape to the coast for a spot of wild swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking or snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters,

Places to eat in Noss Mayo & Newton Ferrers

Places to Eat near Noss Mayo & Newton Ferrers Tucked along the tranquil banks of the River Yealm, Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers offer a wonderfully relaxed dining scene that celebrates fresh, local flavours in truly scenic settings. From waterside pubs to cosy cafés and elegant restaurants with estuary views, there’s something to suit every taste. Whether you’re stopping off mid-walk for a pint and a ploughman’s or settling in for a long, lazy lunch with the tide lapping nearby, food and drink are an essential part of the experience here. Expect warm hospitality, seasonal ingredients, and plenty of character in every bite. Restaurants & Pubs in Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers The pubs in Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers are as welcoming as their settings are picturesque. In Noss Mayo, The Ship Inn and The Swan Inn sit right on the water’s edge, ideal for al fresco dining on sunny days or cosy meals by the fire. Both serve seasonal menus with an emphasis on fresh seafood, West Country produce, and classic British favourites. Across the estuary in Newton Ferrers, The Dolphin Inn offers a friendly atmosphere and hearty pub fare, perfect after a coastal walk or paddle on the river. Cafés & Coffee Shops in Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers For relaxed mornings and indulgent afternoons, the cafés and coffee spots in and around Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo offer plenty. The Green Deli in Newton Ferrers is a local favourite, serving excellent coffee, freshly made pastries, and wholesome brunches. Nearby, Schoolhouse Devon at Mothecombe is a brilliant spot for wood-fired lunches, homemade cakes, and laid-back seaside vibes. For something a little sweeter, Surfing Cow Gelato near Holbeton is a must-visit for artisan ice cream made on the farm, with dreamy flavours and countryside views.  View more places to eat nearby Read more

Kingswear Pubs and Bars

Kingswear Pubs and Bars There are a couple of great pubs in Kingswear serving excellent ales and good pub food. Dartmouth, just across the river, has a wider selection of pubs and bars to choose from, so you certainly won’t be short of watering holes to visit during your stay! The Steam Packet Inn, Kingswear With its roots back in the 15th century, this historical pub could certainly tell some tales. Sitting adjacent to the village church, it’s a great spot for a pint at any time of year. Cosy up in front of the open fires during the cooler months and soak up the sun from the raised terrace in the spring and summer. The views across the river to Dartmouth and the Britannia Royal Naval College are fabulous. The Ship Inn, Kingswear Located in Outer Hope, the Hope and Anchor is owned and operated by the Cornish brewery, St Austell Brewery. In the summer months, you can enjoy dining outside, and when the weather turns cold, cosy up indoors with a hot beverage. The 18th-century Hope & Anchor is a great little retreat. It has plenty of Devonshire charm and its food and drink options are just as locally inspired. You can always trust the catch of the day to be excellent. What makes this pub especially great, is the fact that the beach is less than a minute’s walk away. Spend a day paddling in the water, relaxing on the shore, or taking a boat out, before relaxing in the Hope and Anchor and watching the sun set on another beautiful day in South Devon. Dolium Wine Bar and Tapas, Kingswear If you fancy sipping an Aperol Spritz overlooking glistening water and the glorious South Hams countryside, then Dolium is a must-visit. This lively Italian establishment is relatively new to the village but is already being dubbed Little Italy in South Devon. Browse the varied cocktail menu over antipasti and while away the hours watching the sun set over neighbouring Dartmouth. The Dartmouth Arms, Dartmouth The Dartmouth Arms is a cosy pub located directly across the water from Kingswear on the historic Bayards Cove in Dartmouth. Serving well-kept, local beers and homemade food, this establishment is a firm favourite for those after a more traditional pub in an attractive setting. Draught beers include Exmoor Ales Wicked Wolf, Otter Ale and Sharp’s Atlantic IPA. They also regularly switch up guest ales throughout the year. 

Gardens & Attractions

Gardens & Attractions Holbeton is the ideal location for exploring the beautiful countryside and coast between Modbury (home of the Stetson hat) and Plymouth. The Yealm estuary is straddled by the sailing hotspots of  Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo for paddleboarding and kayaking. Discover the beautiful Lukesland Gardens on the fringes of Dartmoor and the charming Mothecombe Gardens with its very own micro-climate. Forage on the shoreline, sample local wines at Callancombe Vineyard or have a wild day out with the kids at Dartmoor Zoo. Foraging & Safari Tours Carswell Farm, Holbeton, PL8 1HH Fancy going on a barefoot forage? Scramble over rock pools on the beach just below Carswell Farm and learn how to sustainably harvest seaweeds. Pluck wild food from the hedgerows and meadows enroute to the field kitchen for the harvest preparation, cooking and preserving. From sea and shore to plate in just a couple of hours. What a lovely way to spend an afternoon!  Book your Wild Food Forage & Feast workshop here Photo credit: Carswell Farm Calancombe Vineyard Calancombe Estate, Nr Modbury, PL21 0TU While away a few hours at the award winning Calancombe Wine Estate. Stroll around the orchards, vineyards and winery or book onto a guided tour and learn about Devon wine and cider production. You can of course indulge in a little wine tasting and round off your visit with delicious tapas and a glass of Calancombe or afternoon tea. Calancombe is just 7 miles from Holbeton..  Plan your visit to Calancombe Vineyard here Lukesland Gardens Ivybridge,  PL21 OJF Imagine having a 24-acre garden on the fringes of the Dartmoor National Park. Lukesland Gardens is just that and it’s family owned and run. The gardens are located in the stunning Addiscombe Brook valley and host a wonderful array of spring and autumn flowering shrubs and specimen trees. Take a stroll around the islands, waterfalls and ponds (which are fed by the clear waters of the stream) and absorb the sights and sounds of this relaxing environment. Lukesland is child friendly and kids will love the freedom to explore the paths and tunnels. As with all good gardens, Lukesland has a charming tearoom serving home-made vegetable soup and a selection of cakes to enjoy with your afternoon tea. Plan your visit to Lukesland Gardens here Photo credit - Dan Soley photography/Lukesland Gardens Mothecombe House & Gardens Holbeton, PL8 1LB - Open 10am–4pm, Tuesdays from 5 Mar–27 Aug. Just a couple of miles from Holbeton is Mothecombe House and Gardens. The grounds feature a beautiful walled garden with Lutyens terraces planted with wisteria, agapanthus and herbaceous borders. The house and gardens are sheltered from the strong south westerly winds and have their own microclimate which provides the perfect environment for magnolias and camellias and carpets of snowdrops and bluebells, hellebores, Solomon’s seal and foxgloves. A plant lover’s dream! Photo credit: Val Corbett/Visit Devon Full details about entry and parking here Dartmoor Zoo inspiration for Hollywood film ‘We bought a Zoo' Sparkwell, Plymouth PL7 5DG Dartmoor Zoological Society is a charity dedicated to wildlife conservation, education and research so it strives to ensure it doesn’t have a detrimental impact on its environment, some  33 acres of woodland on the edge of Dartmoor. Take a walk on the wild side and see cheetah, tiger, lion, Amur leopard, monkeys, wolves, jaguar, tapir, lynx, monkeys, capybara, meerkats, bugs and reptiles to name just a few! So take a picnic or stop off at the restaurant for lunch or tea and cake and enjoy a wonderful and educational day out. Photo credit: Visit Devon Ticket information and opening hours for Dartmoor Zoo here More info about gardens and attractions near Holbeton here 

Things to do in Dittisham

Dittisham may be small but it’s perfectly formed and a great base if you’re keen on watersports, walking and chilling out on the riverbank. The River Dart is easily accessed from the pontoon so it is perfect for launching kayaks, canoes or stand up paddle boards.

Luxury May Stays

Luxury May Stays With two bank holidays and a half-term on the horizon, May is the perfect time to press pause. Whether you’re planning a long weekend by the coast or a week-long getaway with family and friends, our collection of handpicked holiday homes offers something special for every kind of break. From sea-view terraces and countryside retreats to beachside cottages and spacious family stays, discover your perfect base for making the most of spring in South Devon.

Dartmouth Travel

How to get to Dartmouth Dartmouth is in a stunning location...sitting at the mouth of the River Dart in the heart of the South Hams and surrounded by steep wooded hillsides. But believe it or not, getting there isn't too onerous a trip. Devon has excellent transport connections to the rest of the country and you'll soon be sipping fizz on the deck or dining alfresco on the embankment. Flying to Dartmouth Fly into Exeter or Bristol airports. You can fly into Exeter from Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Guernsey, Dublin, Belfast  City, Jersey, Isles of Scilly and numerous European cities. Pick up a hire car and drive to Dartmouth, about 45 miles. Arrive at Bristol airport (108 miles) and pick up a hire car or get the train from Bristol to Totnes then get a taxi to Dartmouth. Driving to Dartmouth Dartmouth is easy to reach by road, with both the M5 and A30 bringing you to Exeter ready to link to the A38 which runs between Exeter and Plymouth. So an easy journey whether you're driving down from Wales, the Midlands or the North and a straightforward trip from the M25 onto the M3 and joining the A303 which takes you past Stonehenge. Once on the A38 towards Plymouth, take the Totnes slip road onto the A384. After Totnes follow the A381/A3122 to Dartmouth. The drive from London will take around 4.5 hours depending on traffic and from Bristol, around 2 hours.  Dartmouth by Train Totnes is the nearest railway station with regular trains from Birmingham, London Paddington, the North and Wales arriving at Totnes train station. Your journey will take just over three hours from London Paddington.  It’s easy to pick up a taxi at Totnes station, then it’s about a 30-minute ride to Dartmouth… you can of course catch the ferry from Totnes for a relaxing trip along the River Dart to Dartmouth.  Taxi Numbers If you’re taking the train, it’s sometimes hard to grab a cab at the station especially if you’re travelling with young children with lots of bags. By the time you’re at the taxi rank you may find the cabs have all been taken! We recommend booking your taxi in advance to be sure you’re not left hanging around. You should expect to pay around £26 for the trip. Ultimate List of Dartmouth Taxi Numbers

Places to eat in Dittisham

This charming riverside village may be small but there are a number of excellent places to eat in Dittisham with a couple of good pubs and a riverside cafe serving excellent locally caught seafood.

Restaurants

The Best Restaurants in Devon Here in Devon we are truly spoilt for choice when it comes to foodie finds. Devon's delicious array of restaurants really does have something for everyone. Here is our top 10 best restaurants - trust us, you'll want to save this for later!  Andria - Dartmouth Food so sensationally good that the Good Food Guide UK has placed them in the top 100 UK restaurants in 2023. This gorgeous and beloved little restaurant on Lower Street in Dartmouth serves locals and visitors truly delightful dishes—well worth booking, in our opinion. The Seahorse - Dartmouth This beautifully elegant bistro with an open kitchen and leather banquettes is one to book for that very special occasion. Fresh fish arrives daily from small boats landing just a few miles from the door, and their wine selection is simply divine. River Exe Café - Exmouth A boat trip to this wonderful floating restaurant is an absolute treat. Yes, that's right—it's a restaurant on the water! The River Exe Café is a unique, award-winning restaurant floating in the River Exe, serving some of the most delicious dishes, including oysters, mussels, and beautiful seafood sharing platters. The Elephant - Torquay Situated by the beautiful Torquay harbour, this Michelin Star restaurant is a must-visit. Many of their ingredients are grown and reared from the restaurant’s very own dedicated farm in Brixham, South Devon. Gidleigh Park - Newton Abbot Set majestically on the bubbling upper reaches of the River Teign, Gidleigh Park enjoys an exquisite location on the very edge of Dartmoor National Park. Their Michelin Star restaurant is truly spectacular, using only the best seasonal ingredients, many freshly harvested from their own kitchen garden. Gather - Totnes A cosy restaurant in the beating heart of Totnes, the Gather kitchen showcases dishes using locally sourced and wild foraged ingredients from the fields, shoreline, rivers, and hedgerows. We recommend booking the tasting menu for the full "Gather" experience. You won’t regret it! Emelia - Ashburton A small Italian eatery and wine spot located in the charming market town of Ashburton. Watch the chefs prepare truly sensational, authentic Italian food, and get ready to be utterly delighted! The Beach House - South Milton When it comes to restaurant locations, it doesn’t get much prettier than this. Overlooking Thurlestone Rock, the Beach House is located on South Milton Sands, part of the National Trust Estate. Conde Nast recommended and beloved by locals, this laidback foodie destination sits in a rustic beach house right on the sand. Open year-round, with plenty of outside seating for the summer and a snug, cosy atmosphere inside for the winter. Le Petit Monde - Bideford In France, "Le Petit Monde" means your circle of friends—people that come together to enjoy and share. That’s precisely the feeling you’ll get at this lovely little French bistro in Bideford. Expect fantastic French food (even frog legs, if you’re feeling brave!) and, as you might expect from an authentic French restaurant owned by a French couple, the wine menu is second to none. The Bull Inn - Totnes The Bull Inn is a fantastic organic, radical, and ethical pub with a seasonally-led restaurant. It serves ingredient-driven dishes cooked from scratch, and their genuinely seasonal menu changes daily before every service. In our opinion, this is a must-visit—the food and atmosphere here are quite simply superb.

Kingswear Restaurants

Kingswear Restaurants After a long day of exploring the picturesque village of Kingswear, sit down to eat with magnificent views stretching across the Dart Estuary. Most restaurants in Kingswear and the neighbouring town Dartmouth offer outdoor seating with river or countryside views, adding to the charm of the dining experience. If you’re visiting in October, don’t miss the mouthwatering Dartmouth Food Festival!  Dolium Wine Bar and Tapas, Kingswear Dolium Restaurant in Fore Street specialises in authentic Italian tapas for lunch and dinner all served up in a bistro style vibe. The friendly Italian owners have selected an extensive range of wines to pair up with the delicious antispasti plates and sharing platters - a vibrant little piece of Italy overlooking the River Dart - perfect!  The Steam Packet Inn, Kingswear Ideally located, close to the ferry in Kingswear, The Steam Packet Inn serves some of the best freshly-cooked pizzas around, with a wide selection of delicious toppings! This family friendly pub is warm and welcoming with a nautical vibe and well worth a visit.  The Ship Inn, Kingswear The Ship Inn is a charming, historic pub known for its picturesque waterfront location, cosy atmosphere, and traditional British pub fare - think fish and chips, pies, and burgers. The menu also includes vegetarian and gluten-free options. Whether you're a local or a visitor to the area, it's a popular spot to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings. Andria, Dartmouth The award-winning Andria Restaurant offers a first-class dining experience in the South Hams. Nestled in Lower Street, close to the harbour, this sophisticated restaurant offers modern European-style sharing plates in a rustic setting, where both food and service are taken seriously. With sustainability and locally-sourced ingredients a priority, it will come as no surprise that the menu has a focus on all things fish. Each dish is fresh, well-executed and refined.  The Angel, Dartmouth Book a table at The Angel during your visit to Kingswear and you will have a new holiday highlight. The a-la-carte menu has a delectable selection of locally sourced goodness and the kitchen is headed up by Masterchef: The Professionals finalist Elly Wentworth. From the first bite of the Brixham crab risotto to the final mouthful of the clotted cream parfait, The Angel will provide a real taste of Devon. Rockfish, Dartmouth Rockfish is a popular seafood restaurant known for its fresh, sustainably sourced fish, casual dining experience, and views over the Dart. If you're staying in Kingswear and craving seafood, Rockfish is a must visit. With the Rockfish Takeaway next door, you will also have the choice to eat your fish and chips in the more traditional way - al fresco on the harbour wall! This Dartmouth establishment is a firm favourite for locals and visitors alike. 

Noss Mayo & Newton Ferrers

Tucked away on the southern banks of the River Yealm, our holiday homes in Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers offer an idyllic escape for holidaymakers seeking peace, charm, and natural beauty.

Food and Drink in Dartmouth

Dartmouth Food and Drink Dartmouth owes its popularity as a year round destination to the amazing restaurants, cafes, bars and delis that pack a punch into this historic waterside town. We can’t think of a better spot for a gastronomic delight to tickle the taste buds!

Dartmouth Taxis

Travelling in Dartmouth Planning a trip out of Dartmouth, perhaps walking to a pub for lunch or a picnic on the beach and don’t fancy the long hike back? It makes good sense to pre-book your Dartmouth taxi before you head out. There isn’t a taxi rank in Dartmouth as such but you may find one or two Dartmouth taxis parked up near the Platform 1 Champagne Bar & Restaurant on the Embankment. Otherwise simply standing on a street corner waiting for a passing cab isn’t an option.  So why not select a few Dartmouth taxi numbers from our list below and add them to your phone. Dartmouth Taxi Numbers Alan's 07933 277461 Bluebird Taxis   01803 833522  Devon Taxis  01803 833778 - 6 seaters Darren’s Taxi  07805 138850 - 6 seaters Kestrel Taxis  01803 832526  Kingswear Taxi  07759 766442   (Kingswear) Mainland Taxis  07970 121466  Mickeys Taxis  07812 088935 - 6 seaters Paul's Taxis   07516 219466 Prestige Taxis Dartmouth 01803 714336 - 8 seater Roadrunner Taxis Totnes 01803 732834 If you’re looking for a Dartmouth holiday home with the beach in reach, or perhaps closer to the action, take a look at our Finest Stays luxury holiday cottages.  View all Dartmouth Properties

Walking

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.

Kingswear Travel

How to get to Kingswear Kingswear is beautiful… you couldn’t get any closer to the water if you tried. This quintessential coastal village is a thriving hotspot and a hive of activity during the summer months but it’s really quite accessible with excellent rail and road transport links taking you to the very heart of this beauty spot.  Whether you’re arriving by air, rail or road, here’s how to get to Kingswear... Flying to Kingswear Well almost… Regular flights into both Exeter and Bristol airports are a great entry gate into the south west especially if you’re visiting from Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dublin, The Channel Isles and further afield. Hire a car at the airport and the drive to Kingswear should take you less than an hour from Exeter. From Bristol airport it's just over two hours - 98 miles if you pick up a hire car. Alternatively get the train from Bristol Temple Meads to Brixham then get a taxi to Kingswear. Driving to Kingswear Your trip to Kingswear is easier than you may imagine. As with any other of our South Hams towns and villages the M5 and A30 brings you to Exeter where you join the A38. Once on the A38 you keep left for Torquay which takes you up Telegraph Hill along the A380. Keep on the A380 and follow signs for Brixham and the A3022. Take a right turn onto the Dartmouth Road the A379 the follow signs for Kingswear and the B3205. Kingswear by Train Paignton is the closest railway station to Kingswear, the journey usually takes around 3 hours 10 minutes. From Paignton, pick up a taxi for the 20 minutes ride to Kingswear which should cost around £17 as a guide.  Taxi Numbers If you’re arriving by train we recommend pre-booking your taxi from Paignton Station to your holiday cottage. South Devon is a popular holiday destination and you may find the waiting taxis are all snapped up. Choose from our ultimate list of Kingswear taxi numbers Ultimate List of Kingswear Taxi Numbers

Beaching

Indulge yourself in one of our luxury holiday apartments in Plymouth and you’ll have access to some of the best beaches right on your doorstep

Boat Trips & Cruises

The best way to discover Britain's Ocean City is from the water. Plymouth has such a wonderful, sprawling waterfront which is all very accessible and waiting to be discovered.

Hope Cove Taxis

Travelling in Hope Cove If you’re staying in one of our luxury Hope Cove holiday cottages and planning a meal out in Kingsbridge, Salcombe or pushing the boat out at The Burgh Island Hotel. We recommend booking your Hope Cove taxi beforehand. Hope Cove is a charming fishing village with just a footpath running along the coast, linking Inner and Outer Hope but no taxi rank so you’re unlikely to see taxis waiting to be hailed in Hope Cove.  That said, there are a couple of Taxi companies in Hope Cove and a good number in Kingsbridge, Salcombe and the wider area which are happy to take fares to and from the village.  So why not select a few Hope Cove Taxi numbers from our list below and add them to your phone so you’re well prepared for getting out and about without the car. Hope Cove Taxi Numbers 24/7 Taxi 01548 800800 A2B Taxi 01548 854050 Arrow Cars 01548 856120 Coast 2 Coast 07719 946224 Eco Taxi 01548 856347 HR Taxi 07946 322824 In Hope 07719 730428  Mainland Taxi 07970 121466 (Totnes) One2One Taxi 01548 859359 Salcombe & District 07714 512516 South Hams Taxi 01548 852545 Totally Taxi 07542 626545 Twenty 20 Taxi 07796 110641 Whether you’re planning to stay in Hope Cove for a few nights out of season or booking a family holiday, take a look at our luxury cottages and apartments in Hope Cove.  View all Hope Cove Properties

Food & Drink in Plymouth

Part of the excitement of taking a city break is choosing where to stop for brunch, lunch or afternoon tea

Restaurants

When you’re new to a city and just have a few days to explore, it’s quite a challenge knowing where to look. So, we’ve done the hard work for you and selected some of the top restaurants in Plymouth, including waterside hotspots and tucked away bistros serving the freshest locally caught fish and seafood

Pubs & Bars

Many of the more traditional pubs and bars in Plymouth are along the waterfront at The Barbican with its bustling historic cobbled streets.

Kingsbridge Taxis

Travelling in Kingsbridge If you’re staying in one of our luxury Kingsbridge holiday homes and celebrating with an evening at The Seahorse in Dartmouth or perhaps The Beach House at South Milton, we strongly recommend that you book your Kingsbridge taxi a few days ahead. (You’ll find that the buses don’t run much into the evenings and whilst you may be able to get to your destination by bus, you won’t be able to get home!) Kingsbridge is well served by taxis which are happy to take you to the towns and villages scattered around the South Hams.  So, to make your evening go with a swing we’ve selected some local Kingsbridge taxis companies, (you may like to add a couple to your contacts) leaving you free to dine out knowing you’ve secured a lift home! Kingsbridge Taxi Numbers HR Taxi 07946 322824  Twenty 20 Taxi 07796 110641 One2One Taxi 01548 859359 Coast 2 Coast 07719 946224 Riddell Executive Cars 07718360132 Treasure Island Taxis 07938 559366 Acorn Taxis and Executive transport 07799 558816 P T Roberts 01548 856666 Eco Taxi 01548 856347 Arrow Cars 01548 856120 A2B Taxi 01548 854050 Whether you’re planning to stay in Kingsbridge for a few nights out of season or booking a family holiday, take a look at our luxury cottages and apartments in Kingsbridge. View all Kingsbridge Properties

Cafes & Coffee Shops

Cafe culture is thriving, and Devon is no exception! We’ve selected a few of our favourite cafes and coffee shops in Plymouth.

Sailing & Watersports

If water sports float your boat then Plymouth certainly delivers with a fabulous waterfront location and outstanding activities to explore from relaxing paddle boarding and kayaking to adrenaline fused wake boarding and coasteering.

Kingswear Taxis

Travelling in Kingswear Planning a trip out of Kingswear, perhaps for a pub lunch or a day at the zoo? There isn’t a taxi rank in Kingswear so waiting for a cab to pass by isn’t going to work so we recommend booking your Kingswear taxi beforehand.  We’ve selected a few companies for you so help is at hand…why not select a couple and add their numbers to your phone. Kingswear Taxi Numbers Kingswear Taxi  07759 766442   Mainland Taxis 07970 121466 AB Cabs Brixham 07936 860949 Kestrel, Dartmouth 01803 832526 Prestige Taxis Dartmouth 01803 714336 Devon Taxis  01803 833778 – 6 seaters Darren’s Taxi  07805 138850 – 6 seaters Mickeys Taxis  07812 088935 – 6 seaters Paul’s Taxis   07516 219466 Whether you’re planning to stay in Kingswear for a few nights out of season or booking a family holiday, take a look at our luxury cottages and apartments in Kingswear.  View our properties

Salcombe

The estuary and beaches are what make this place really special so have a read and pick your beach to visit when you’re next in town.

Kingswear Things To Do

Things to do in Kingswear Kingswear is picture postcard perfect, a charming village with row upon row of pretty painted cottages clinging to the hillside on the banks of the River Dart. The views across to Dartmouth and out towards the mouth of the river are pretty good too. But this buzzing village is far from sleepy; there’s a vibrant sailing community, regular annual regattas and a couple of great little pubs and a cafe. Throw into the mix nearby magnificent historical houses, a wildlife conservation park and some of the best beaches on the doorstep - we think you’re onto a winner. Get on the water... Kingswear is the perfect village for watersport lovers. Located at the mouth of the estuary, there is plenty of space on the water for all. From sailing boats to canoes and paddleboards, the harbour is always buzzing with activity.  If you can’t get enough of the water, take a trip to one of the beaches nearby. Some of South Devon’s best beaches, such as Blackpool Sands and Thurlestone Sands, are within easy reach when you are staying at one of our Kingswear holiday cottages.  Stroll along the coast path Beautiful coastal trails wrap around the village and are perfect for those who are after a more active holiday. Either take the Dart Valley Trail and follow the river inland to Greenway and Stoke Gabriel or opt for a more breezy route across the headland on the South West Coastal Path over to Brixham. Stop at Berry Head and see if you can spot Mew Stone just out to sea. Discover the local area South Devon is an area of the country that is rich in history and there are plenty of National Trust properties to prove it! Just up the river from Kingswear, you will find Greenway, the former home of crime writer Agatha Christie. The estate even features in some of her books. You can reach Greenway on the Dartmouth Steam Railway, or by walking part of the Dart Valley Trail. Coleton Fishacre is another National Trust property just a short drive or walk from Kingswear. The property’s spectacular gardens bloom all year round.

British Travel Award Popup

We’re nominated for a British Travel Award and we’d love your help to bring it home. Vote to be entered into a huge prize draw, with dream holidays and luxury cruises up for grabs. Vote now

Dartmouth

A visit to Dartmouth is special at any time of year thanks to its community feel, excellent local produce, and stunning landscape.

Autumn Breaks

Luxury Holiday Homes for autumn 2025 Golden leaves crunching underfoot, coastal walks framed by dramatic skies, and evenings spent by the fire with a glass of wine in hand – autumn in Devon is truly magical. Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in the slower pace of the season with an autumn break in one of our handpicked luxury holiday homes. Whether you’re looking for a cosy cottage for two, a dog-friendly retreat where four-legged friends are welcome, or a spacious home for family gatherings, we have the perfect setting for your autumn getaway. Think crisp mornings followed by pub lunches, afternoons crabbing in harbour towns, and sunsets watched from the comfort of your private hot tub. From October half term adventures with the kids to romantic November weekends, our collection of South Devon stays is made for memory-making. Many homes feature roaring log burners, fire pits, and panoramic views across moors and coastline – so you can embrace the season in style.

Kingswear Sailing

Sailing in Kingswear You can’t stay in Kingswear and not get out on the water in some shape or form. Whether it's a quick hop on the ferry across the river to Dartmouth, a fishing trip or aboard a luxury yacht… the water beckons. Kingswear and Dartmouth have always been recognised as well-renowned sailing destinations and receive many visiting crafts from the UK and overseas. The deep moorings provide easy access to the pontoons with no need to wait for the rising tide before setting sail. The River Dart is very popular with kayakers and paddle boarders and is a great way of exploring the narrow creeks and discovering the wildlife along the way. To keep things simple, we’ve done the leg work for you and chosen local hire companies who will kit you out with all the necessary life jackets and buoyancy aids to get you out on the water. The Dart Harbour Sea School The Dart Harbour Sea School offers RYA sailing and RYA powerboating courses and yacht charter off the south Devon coast. Their qualified instructors and skippers will go the extra nautical mile to ensure you get the most of your day. Dart Harbour Sea School has some great craft including 4.8m RIBS, Fairline Phantom and their recent addition; the Bavaria 36 cruising yacht.   Dartmouth Boat Hire Centre Visit Dartmouth Boat Hire Centre for the mini superyacht experience giving you the freedom to explore the meandering river Dart with its stunning waterfront properties, diverse wildlife and amazing views.  The Paddle Shack Jump aboard one of the fastest-growing sports! SUP has taken the world by storm and it’s a sport that anyone can try. With a little tuition from the Paddle Shack you’ll soon be exploring the secret spots along the River Dart.  Nomad Marine For an exhilarating rib ride, get in touch with Nomad Marine as they dash along the coastline between Start Point, Salcombe, Hallsands or Berry Head. Perfect for seal and dolphin spotting. You’ll find them at Double Steps Pontoon, Dartmouth TQ6 9AL or call 07458 386787. Sea Kayak Adventures Qualified instructors lead these kayaking adventures. A great way to get out on the waters and explore the stunning South Devon coastline with these experienced guys. A wonderful family day out!  River and Harbour Cruises This circular cruise takes in some of the best spots along the River Dart including Bayards Cove, Dartmouth and Kingswear Castles, Dittisham village, Britannia Royal Naval College, Sir Walter Raleigh’s Boathouse and Greenway Quay. A lovely family day out which starts and finishes in Dartmouth.  Coasteering in South Devon If you’re looking for adventure. this one ticks all the boxes … great for the adrenaline junkies out there! Explore the coastline along intertidal crevices along the rocky coastline by swimming, jumping and climbing without the use of floats, boats or boards.  For extreme coasteering go for The Punishing Point around one of South Devon’s most exposed headlands, Start Point, packed with caves, narrow gullies and great jumps! Book through Go Coasteering. So if you’re planning one of our Finest Stays in and around Kingswear, get planning and book your watersports in Kingswear or get in touch with one of our team and we’ll arrange everything for you. For more info about where to go and what to do in Kingswear visit our blog.

£50 Deposit Scheme

Secure your holiday for just £50 Turn your Devon daydream into a date in the diary. With our low deposit offer, you can secure your stay for just £50 today and settle the rest later. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a friends’ retreat, or a romantic weekend, your perfect stay is only a few clicks away. Relax, we’ll take care of the details, so all you need to do is choose where to unwind. Valid for a limited time only, booking conditions apply.

Winter Breaks

Winter Holidays in Devon Discover the calm and beauty of winter holidays in Devon with Finest Stays, where luxury coastal retreats and peaceful countryside hideaways offer a restorative escape from everyday life. Enjoy crackling fires, spacious interiors, dramatic seascapes and quiet rural surroundings - perfect for couples seeking a cosy getaway, families wanting a refreshing change of scene, or groups looking for a comfortable winter break in Devon. With quiet beaches, wide-open walking routes and charming towns at their most tranquil, Devon is an inspiring destination for winter breaks. Whether you're planning a slow weekend, a remote-working retreat or a long, rejuvenating stay, our winter-ready holiday homes provide comfort, style and exceptional local knowledge. Settle in and enjoy a refreshing winter holiday in Devon with Finest Stays.

Booking Conditions

Booking Conditions Conditions of Hire – Last updated 12th July 2023 We are Salcombe Finest Ltd, trading as Finest Stays. Bookings are happily accepted by Salcombe Finest Ltd, referred to as SF, on the following conditions: The contract of hire is deemed to have been made once a deposit of 25% of the holiday price (or total amount if within 6 weeks of commencement of the holiday) has been paid, and completion of the online booking form and confirmation of booking has been despatched by Salcombe Finest to the guest. Bookings made through our online booking system are provisional until confirmed by Salcombe Finest. A contract shall only arise when your booking is subsequently confirmed in writing via a letter of confirmation sent to you by email. It is a contract of tenancy between the owner of the property and the tenant, with SF acting as booking agent on behalf of the owner. The balance payment is due 6 weeks before the holiday commences. If the balance is not received by the date due on the booking confirmation, Salcombe Finest, at their discretion, reserves the right to make the property available for re-booking. This does not release the guest from their obligation and the deposit paid will not be refunded under any circumstances. £50 Deposit Scheme: Where you have paid £50 deposit for your holiday, your balance payment will be due 6 weeks ahead of your arrival date and must be paid in full. If you cancel your booking, the subsequent payment is still payable and will automatically be charged on the day you cancel. The contract of hire is deemed to have been made once a deposit of £50 has been paid, and completion of the online booking form and confirmation of booking has been despatched by Salcombe Finest to the guest. Bookings made through our online booking system are provisional until confirmed by Salcombe Finest. A contract shall only arise when your booking is subsequently confirmed in writing via a letter of confirmation sent to you by email. It is a contract of tenancy between the owner of the property and the tenant, with SF acting as booking agent on behalf of the owner. The balance payment is due 6 weeks before the holiday commences. If the balance is not received by the date due on the booking confirmation, Salcombe Finest, at their discretion, reserves the right to make the property available for re-booking. This does not release the guest from their obligation and the deposit paid will not be refunded under any circumstances. Booking Fee: When making a booking you will be required to pay a booking fee to SF which is part of and included within the overall price you pay. The booking fee is payable for the services that SF provide to receive, handle and process all aspects of your booking, thereby allowing you to book a Property. The booking fee is non-refundable unless we are unable to accept the booking on behalf of the Owner or the Property is unavailable at the time of the holiday. Damage Waiver/ Security Deposit: For nearly every property, you will be required to pay a non-refundable Damage Waiver Fee, which is property specific. The waiver is to cover accidental damage, loss or loss of rental as a result of the conduct of the guest or members of the guest’s party, dog or any other person authorised to enter the property at the guest’s invitation or authority. Guests are liable for loss and damage caused to the owners’ property and contents to the full value of the owners’ loss even though the value of the loss exceeds the damage waiver. The Damage Waiver Fee is not insurance and does not provide liability coverage. If the selected property is not covered by a Damage Waiver Fee, you will be required at the time of making your final payment to provide us a Security Deposit as a pre-authorisation on your credit/debit card, which is property specific and will be advised to you at the time of booking, as a deposit to cover accidental damage, loss or loss of rental as a result of the conduct of the guest or members of the guest’s party, dog or any other person authorised to enter the property at the guest’s invitation or authority. Please note this pre-authorisation is returned within 7-14 working days of your departure. Guests are liable for loss and damage caused to the owners’ property and contents to the full value of the owners’ loss even though the value of the loss exceeds the Security Deposit. The Security Deposit is not insurance and does not provide liability coverage. For more information regarding the Damage Waiver Policy please click here. At Finest Stays, we are extremely privileged to be able to offer our guests the chance to stay in some of the most beautiful and individual private homes in Devon. We do our utmost to acknowledge all damage to our properties, however, please be aware that any damage found on your arrival must be reported to the Property Manager or to Finest Stays at your earliest convenience. If damage is present after your departure that has not been reported, you will be liable for this. We completely appreciate that accidents can happen, however we would be grateful if we are always made aware. Cancellation: On cancellation of a confirmed booking, Salcombe Finest will retain your non-refundable booking deposit and you will remain responsible for payment to Salcombe Finest of the total cost of your booking. We therefore strongly advise you to take out holiday insurance to cover you for the full cost of the stay. If a booking is cancelled before the start date of the booking no refund will be issued unless the property is rebooked by another guest in place of the cancelled booking. In the event the property is rebooked, a refund of the monies paid by the cancelled guest will be issued less the full amount of the deposit paid, any payment surcharges incurred and any discounts issued at Salcombe Finest’s discretion in order to achieve a replacement booking. Holiday Extensions: If you wish to extend your stay after your booking has been confirmed, Salcombe Finest will apply the additional accommodation cost, along with a £50 administration fee. Early termination: tenant contract may be determined before the end of the Holiday Period by the Agency giving you the tenant notice only in the event of you being in material breach of the terms of these Conditions or by reason of fault with the Property (leak, electrical fault, or other) or some other force majeure catastrophic event (fire or flood or other) rendering the Property unfit for habitation. Insurance: It is a condition of booking that all clients must have full comprehensive holiday insurance including cancellation, medical and third party cover. All personal belongings of the client are the sole responsibility of the client. We accept no responsibility for loss or damage howsoever arising. If we have to cancel your booking due to matters beyond our control, such as force majeure – including war, civil strife – we will refund you in full. If we have to cancel your booking due to a fault with the property we will refund to you the appropriate proportion of the Holiday Rental attributable to the then unexpired remainder of the Holiday Period from the point of determination minus our costs including: time, commission, damage, loss of rent and other operating costs (e.g. changeover, cleaning etc). You may be able to claim our costs from your insurance. If we the Agent have to cancel your rental holiday whilst you are on your holiday the Tenant Agent contract may be terminated at any time and you will be asked to vacate the property immediately. If we the Agent have to cancel your rental holiday whilst you are on your holiday due to you being a nuisance or annoyance to the Owner or to any other occupier of adjoining or neighbouring premises you will not be refunded for any part of your Holiday Rental. In the event of cancelling your holiday before you arrive or during your stay the Agent has no obligation to assist you in finding an alternative Holiday or accommodation. Nothing in this agreement is intended to exclude or limit our liability for death or personal injury arising from negligence or for loss arising from negligent misrepresentation or fraud. Properties are available for occupation from 4.00pm on the day of arrival and must be vacated by 10.00am on the day of departure. If tenants do arrive early and, with the agreement of SF, take up occupation before 4.00pm no guarantee can be given that SF staff, cleaners, or other tradesmen will not enter the premises before 4.00pm and no liability can be accepted for loss or damage to items left in the property. Tenants are asked not to enter the property without SF permission and if they do gain entry do so entirely at their own risk without guarantee of readiness of the property for occupation. If tenants expect to arrive outside office hours (9am–5pm, Mon–Sat inc) SF will make every effort to ensure that keys are available and that the property is ready for occupation. However, this cannot be guaranteed and remedy might not be possible until the first working day thereafter. The agent strongly suggests that tenants arrive during working hours so that any problems can be quickly addressed. Tenant obligations: allow the Owner or the Agency by its authorised representatives to enter the Property to inspect the state of it and to carry out necessary works of maintenance or repair, at all reasonable times upon 24 hours’ prior notice in writing, or in the event of emergency at any time without notice, causing as little inconvenience to you as reasonably practicable and making good any damage caused to the Property and your property; Tenant obligations: to keep the Property and the furnishings, kitchen equipment, crockery, glasses, bedding and towels clean and in good condition and be responsible for repairing any damage caused by you during the Holiday Period. You are required to leave the property, including equipment and BBQ's, in a clean and tidy condition after your stay: all rubbish and waste within bins, clean crockery and cutlery neatly in cupboards, dirty crockery and cutlery within dishwasher and switched on, indoor floors and outdoor spaces swept, dirty linen on beds or in bath. If a property is left in an unreasonable condition or additional linen is used additional cleaning charges may be applicable. Tenant obligations: not cause any damage to the walls, doors or windows of the Property; Tenant obligations: not do anything that may reasonably be considered to cause a nuisance or annoyance to the Owner or to any other occupier of adjoining or neighbouring premises; Tenant obligations: not do or permit any act that would make any insurance policy on the Property void or voidable or increase the premium; and, Tenant obligations: comply with any rules or regulations applicable to the Property booked, full details of which will be made available to you and any other regulations reasonably made from time to time after prior consultation with you and notified to you from time to time during the Holiday Period and ensure that they are observed by all members of your family or party. Tenant obligations: be responsible for placing any rubbish from your stay in the correct bags and location for collection as per the individual property’s waste collection instructions. The agent reserves the right to pass on any charges resulting from the incorrect disposal of rubbish at a £25 administration cost. Tenant obligations: be responsible for cleaning the barbecue if used during stay. The agent reserves the right to pass on any charges resulting from a left dirty barbecue at a cost of £25 per hour cleaning charge. The Owner reserves the right to repossess the Property if excessive damage has been caused by you or a member of your party. Any damage, breakage, or anything else giving cause for concern noticed on taking occupancy of the property, must be  reported within 48 hours to the owner, manager, caretaker or agent. The tenant is responsible for any damage or breakages, which should be reported to the owner, manager, caretaker or agent, during the period of occupancy. Such losses or additional cleaning charges (if the property is left in an unsatisfactory condition) will be billed to the tenant. The tenant will not cause any annoyance or become a nuisance to tenants or occupants of adjoining premises. If agent or owner is complained to or asked to be called out to the property a charge of a minimum of £100 + £25 per subsequent hour will be deducted from the security deposit. Any articles left by the tenant can be forwarded on receipt of a minimum handling fee of £15 plus postage deducted from the security deposit. Any unclaimed articles will be disposed of after 28 days. Neither the property owner nor the agent shall be held responsible for any accident, loss or damage which may be sustained by the tenant, member of his party, or visitor to their property, however caused. When a hot tub, sauna or swimming pool is included in a property letting, or if the property is close to the water, or if rental of the property entitles use of facilities provided by others, the owners and their agents cannot accept liability arising from the use of the hot tub, sauna or swimming pool, proximity of the water or use of facilities, which are at the tenants own risk. When a swimming pool, hot tub, and/or spa is included in a property letting, these require routine maintenance and cleaning to ensure safe and hygienic use. Maintenance visits are carried out by trusted contractors, usually on a weekly basis, and may take place during guest stays. Guests are expected to allow reasonable access for these visits. Contractors will always aim to be quick and discreet. In the event access is denied, neither the property owner, management nor their agents accepts responsibility for the condition of the pool/spa or hot tub, or for any health, safety, or hygiene issues that may result. When a gym is included in a property letting, use of the gym and equipment is wholly at the tenants own risk and the owners and their agents accept no liability for any injury or damage that may occur. If for any reason beyond the owners control the property is not available on the date booked, all rent and charges paid in advance by the tenant will be refunded in full, but the tenant shall have no further claim against the owners or agent. Accommodation is let for the specified number of tenants only and excess numbers cannot be accepted. The signatory must be a member of the party occupying the property. Domestic pets are not allowed over the boundary of the property except where specified: and they are not permitted in any bedrooms or on any furniture. Pets must not be left unaccompanied in any property for any length of time and must be kept under control at all times. At the end of the holiday all traces of the pet must be cleaned from the house and gardens. “No Pets” in the description may not guarantee that pets have never occupied the property. Where tenants bring pets without consent, they will be asked to remove the pet from the property immediately. The agents are responsible to their owners for the collection of rentals only and no claims regarding the accommodation will be accepted by the agents. Every effort will be made to ensure the standard described for each property and that all items of equipment described and supplied by the owners are in good working order. However, no guarantee is given or liability accepted if any breakdown occurs. Repairs are always effected as soon as possible, although inevitably delays do occur. When use of a hot tub or swimming pool is included in the rental this will be regularly maintained and every effort will be made to ensure that a reasonable temperature is reached and the water safe for swimming. However, the owner / SF will not be liable if, due to circumstances beyond their control, necessary criteria are not reached. The property Owners cannot accept responsibility for loss of utility services which include water, power and telecommunications that occur through no fault of the Owners. SF and the Owners will of course use their best endeavours to get services reconnected. SF accepts no responsibility for the condition of the property. The property is maintained by a Property Management company on behalf of the property Owner. Any faults with the property will be repaired by the local Property Management company in their own “reasonable time”. SF accepts no responsibility for the speed of the Property Managers response to fix the property and asks on their behalf for your understanding given the location and logistical situation of Salcombe; it is not London. Any complaints regarding the property are to be addressed directly to the Property Manager. In the event of any dispute between parties it shall be referred to the jurisdiction of the English courts only and any actions shall be heard in the court for the area in which the property is situated. Any contract shall be governed by English law and interpretation. If the tenant has any complaint in respect of a Property you must report it to the agent within 24 hours of arrival to ensure sufficient time is allowed to investigate and/or take the necessary remedial action. No compensation will be offered if you deny the Agency or Owner the opportunity to rectify matters during the Holiday Period. The agent will act on a goodwill basis as arbitrators between you and the Owners to resolve any dispute satisfactorily but cannot be held liable if one or both parties are dissatisfied with the outcome. Neither the Owner nor the Agent accepts responsibility for work taking place outside the boundary of a Property, nor for noise or nuisance resulting from third party activity over which the Owner or the Agency has no control. The Agency strongly recommends that anyone with such concerns avoid town/village centre Properties, as noise disturbance is more likely in such locations. All details on the website are given in good faith and are believed to be correct, but their accuracy is not guaranteed. All bookings are accepted at the discretion of the property owner and agent. The security deposit held from time of booking will be refunded within 14 days of departure subject to deductions necessary by reason of your or any member of your party’s breach of your obligations in clauses above. An additional security deposit, at the discretion of the owner/agent, may be required with certain bookings, particularly single sex or young persons. The Tenant is liable for the full cost of any damage caused to or within the property during the letting. By accepting these terms and conditions you agree to payment for any additional damages up to the value of £1000. The Tenant acknowledges that this does not limit their liability for damages in excess of this amount. The cost of any damage will be invoiced to the Tenant on or as soon after departure as possible by the Agent, the Owner or their Representative. If there is any cause to withhold any security deposit or additional damages SF will retain an additional 20% of the amount withheld to cover administration costs. All prices are subject to change and may vary prior to confirmation of a booking, in line with demand and availability. SF reserves the right to alter these conditions at any time. Zero Tolerance We aim to treat our guests courteously at all times and expect our guests to treat our team and third parties in a similarly respectful way. We take seriously any threatening, abusive or violent behaviour against any of our team or third parties. Anyone giving verbal abuse of members of team or third parties during the course of their holiday will result in the holiday being cancelled, all guests being asked to depart the property with immediate effect and with no refund on their booking. There will be no appeal process. Violence Policy We operate a zero tolerance policy with regard to violence and abuse and we have the right to remove violent guests from a property in order to safeguard practice our team and other third parties. Violence in this context includes actual or threatened physical violence or threatening verbal abuse which leads to fear for a person’s safety, leading to complete breakdown in trust and communication. In this situation we will cancel the booking and will ask all guests to depart the property with immediate effect and with no refund on their booking. There will be no appeal process. I have understood and agree to the booking conditions and payment methods set out. I accept these conditions on behalf of those booked in my name. I agree to care for the property during my stay and leave it clean and tidy. I declare that I am over 18 years of age and agree that this booking is made in accordance with the Conditions of Hire and Booking Information detailed on the current website. These booking conditions supersede all previous issues.

Society House Apartments

Society House Apartments Totnes

Golfing

Pack your clubs, the golfing is exhilarating and the views spectacular!

Black Friday Sale

B L A C K F R I D A Y S A L E Explore the best of Black Friday at Finest Stays Now is your chance to reserve your stay with 10% off all holiday homes across our entire portfolio for any length of stay, just use code BF23 at the checkout to claim 10% off your holiday. This limited time discount is applicable for holidays arriving between 1st January - 28th March 2023 - be quick if you spot a holiday home you love – this offer ends at midnight Sunday 3rd December.

Kingswear Beaches

Kingswear Beaches The beaches near Kingswear are perfect for building sandcastles with the kids or taking the plunge for a spot of wild swimming. Kayaking and paddleboarding are both available at  Blackpool Sands, a lifeguarded beach where the kit is available to hire. Try rock pooling at Beesands followed by lunch at The Cricket Inn, overlooking the gin-clear waters. Who doesn't love a day beside the sea? Castle Cove This charming cove has beautiful views of Dartmouth Castle but if you’re planning a trip down to Castle Cove Beach we advise checking the tide times before you head off, the shingle beach completely disappears at high tide so you may have to postpone that leisurely picnic! Access - Hop on the ferry and take a stroll or drive out towards Dartmouth Castle. Join the footpath from the car park and take the steep path (100 concrete and wooden steps) which leads down to the shingle beach.  Facilities –  Tea rooms at Dartmouth Castle 50 meters from the beach Toilets  Parking   We love – a lovely secluded beach and afternoon tea at the Castle! Blackpool Sands Beach This privately owned beach is one of the most beautiful around and perfect for families with its Blue Flag accreditation for water quality. The location is pretty stunning too… backed by evergreen trees dotted with pines, the sheltered bay offers excellent watersports with kayak and paddleboard rentals available on site. Take a dip in the crystal clear waters or laze on the sands followed by lunch at the excellent cafe. This is a dedicated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is well worth a visit! Blackpool Sands Beach has a dog ban in place between March and October and is open all year round.  Access Along the A379 Blackpool Sands, Blackpool, Dartmouth TQ6 0RG’ Facilities Blue Flag Awarded Beach hire water sports equipment cafe plus takeaway on site RNLI Lifeguards – seasonal, July to September only first aid facilities.  sand pits for building sandcastles car parks Toilets beach shop We love –  A great family-friendly beach in a stunning location with everything on hand!  Slapton Sands Monument Beach If you’d prefer not to get sand between your toes, Slapton Sands is the place for you! This stunning stretch of shingle and pebble beach is less busy than its sandy counterparts. The sea is steeply shelving but having taken the plunge, it’s beautiful for swimming, paddleboarding and kayaking. Look out for the bobbing seals and the occasional pod of dolphins… We’ve even had a visiting whale spotted offshore! This long expanse of beach is very popular with fishermen spinning for mackerel on the summer and autumn tides. Beach access is alongside the car park. Dog friendly all year round. Access Drive along the A379 from Dartmouth and through Strete, passing Blackpool Sands, Slapton Sands is another 3.5 miles. You can’t miss it!  Facilities water sports – great for sailing, canoeing and kayaking but no sports hire shops picnic on the beach or on the grassy area by the monument ice cream van cafes, fish and chips and a pub in Torcross 0.5km toilets Attractions While in the area, a stroll around the Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve is a must! This is the largest freshwater lake in southern England and is cut off from the sea by the A379. Take the circular walk around the Ley which takes you through the village of Slapton and back down towards the car park. The birdlife is prolific! We love - the wild swimming and space for kids and dogs to play away from the crowds. Torcross Beach Another quieter spot is the beautiful stretch of shingle beach at the opposite end of Slapton Sands Monument Beach. Unlike Slapton Beach, Torcross has a prom lined with pretty cottages, a pub and a handful of cafes. Again there are no watersports hire but there is a slipway down to the beach so you can launch your own craft. Access to the sea is steep but it does mean you don’t have to wade through the water for a decent swim! Perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding within the clear waters of the bay.  This is such a lovely spot to relax for a few hours with plenty of space for children to let off steam. Stroll up to the pub for a pint or pick up some fish and chips. There are toilet facilities in the car park right opposite the beach. Dog friendly all year round.  Access Alongside the A379, Torcross, Kingsbridge TQ7 2TQ Facilities RNLI Lifeguards – July to September cafes and pubs along the promenade 20m from the beach. Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve  car parking is available 20m from the beach across the A379.  toilets We love… kayaking in the bay followed by fish and chips on the beach! Beesands Beach Off the beaten track, just a 10-minute drive from Torcross is Beesands, a mile-long shingle beach and a freshwater lake. This is picture book Devon with a pretty row of old fisherman’s cottages, a seafood shack and The Cricket Inn, an award-winning pub serving the best seafood pancakes!  Daily fishing boats pull ashore and you’ll often see Conger Eels strung up along the green. Dine on fresh crab sandwiches or a takeaway seafood platter from Britannia Fish - simply perfect! Access Drive along the A379 from Dartmouth to Torcross along the A379 to the village of Stokenham, take a left turn at the mini roundabout and follow the road until you reach a left-hand turn signposted for Beeson and Beesands.  Facilities Toilets  parking  pub and seafood shack eat in or takeaway excellent walk towards Start Point and Torcross along the South West Coastal Path. We love - the authenticity of Beesands plus the seafood picnics on the beach and wild swimming. 

Watersports

Watersports in Hope Cove With two beaches, Hope Cove is the ideal place to try your hand at some watersports. Hire a boat, paddleboard or sea kayak and soak up the unrivalled views from the water. Inner Hope's sheltered and shallow bay makes it perfect for beginners. Sailing If you are bringing your own boat to Hope Cove, you will benefit from the open beach and slipway at Inner Hope, as well as the option for parking your trailer in the local car park. However, before you arrive, make sure that you research more about the harbour, including tide times and the best places to anchor. This will ensure that you make the most of the coastline and stay safe when out on the water.   Boat Hire If you are wanting to hire, Hope Boats promise to power your aquatic adventures during your stay. Their self-drive boats give you and your family or friends the freedom to spend a day on the water taking in the breathtaking views of the towering cliffs and exploring sheltered waters. From Hope Cove, Thurlestone Sands, South Milton, Bigbury and Burgh Island are all within safe boating distance. Of course, check the weather and tides before you hire to avoid disappointment.   Paddleboarding The calm, clear waters surrounding Hope Cove make it the perfect place for a spot of peaceful paddleboarding. Take your time exploring the curves of the coastline with friends and family.  Get your board delivered to you by SUP Away or collect it from their office near Bantham Beach. SUP Away has the latest equipment and hire prices start from just £25 a day. You can find a list of suggested locations, as well as expert safety advice, on their website. Sea Kayaking Sea kayaking is a great way of exploring the coastline around Hope Cove. Not only does it get you active but it helps you discover the beauty of the South Hams from the quiet of the sea and notice parts of the surrounding area that you otherwise wouldn’t have. Roam in and out of coves and, whenever you fancy it, moor up on your own stretch of sand for a break or beach picnic.  Hope Cove Kayaks are moored on Harbour Beach and are available to hire for multiple days to a week. Each kayak comes with two paddles, two buoyancy aids, a dry bag, a waterproof phone case, and an optional junior buoyancy aid. Equipment can even be delivered straight to your door if staying at Hope Cove! If you have your own kayak, you can easily get down to the water via the slipway alongside the old lifeboat station at Inner Hope. Diving With the high number of shipwrecks in the locale, diving is also a popular sport for visitors to Hope Cove. However, with no dive centre on-site, you will have to bring your own equipment and be adequately trained before getting in the water. You can change into your gear in the local car park and walk down a short slope to access the shore.  Hope Cove offers a shallow dive, with plenty of rocky and seaweed areas to explore. Look out for jellyfish, cuttlefish, seahorses, and even the bobbing head of a seal! Make sure you always dive with a buddy.  So if you’re planning to stay in one of our Finest Stays in Hope Cove, and arranging your itinerary of things to do, don’t forget to book your watersports. Alternatively, get in touch with one of our team and we’ll do the leg work for you.

Let with us popup

Join our portfolio before the end of September 2024 and we'll gift you a case of 6 bottles of Bollinger special Cuvée to say welcome to the club! Get in touch and we will arrange a no-obligation call or meeting at your convenience.

Watersports

If you’re staying in one of our luxury holiday cottages you must get out on the water

Kingswear Culture, Festivals and History

Kingswear Culture, Festivals and History Not only is Kingswear in a great location for messing about on the river, but it also ticks all the boxes if you’re looking for a little culture and great dining. Just across the river, literally a 5-minute ferry trip and you’re in historical Dartmouth; famous for its music festivals, fine dining and galleries. If you’re a culture vulture this little gem has it all. Dart Music Festival This annual event takes over the town for 3 days in May and attracts some of the best talents around with a lineup of more than 100 acts performing at this fabulous family festival... And what’s more, it’s free!  Dartmouth Food Festival A gastronomic delight for the palette and the senses and one of the top food festivals in the UK! Dartmouth Food Festival is free and fills the town with a heady mix of taste-tingling delicacies;  street food, celebrity chefs, tasking shacks and demonstrations.  Flavel, Dartmouth It’s worth keeping in touch with this contemporary venue, home to a cinema, theatre and library. The Flavel is right in the centre of Dartmouth just a short walk from the foot ferry and sits at the very heart of the town’s entertainment with regular music events, opera, art gallery and theatre shows.  National Trust near Kingswear When staying in Kingswear, you will be lucky enough to have some of the best National Trust properties and outdoor areas in South Devon on your doorstep. From protected beaches to gardens with a view, there is plenty to see and explore. Make sure you keep an eye out for the various events put on by the National Trust throughout the year. Coleton Fishacre Just a couple of miles from Kingswear is Coleton Fishacre House and Gardens. Owned by the National Trust, this beautiful country estate is a reasonable 6-mile walk hike along the South West Coast Path. The tropical gardens are RHS-accredited and home to exotic plants,  herbaceous borders and woodland with wildflowers. The 1920s Arts and Crafts house has fabulous Art Deco interiors and was once owned by the D’Oyly Carte family in its heyday. Dogs are welcome in the gardens. Greenway House and Gardens It’s a six-mile drive from Kingswear to Greenway House. This beautiful property was once the holiday home of Agatha Christie who solved many mysteries from her writing desk in this rather homely Georgian house. Today the entire estate is owned by the National Trust and the era of 1950’s style interiors reflects Christie's life and loves and includes exhibits of her clothes and memorabilia. The gardens are beautiful; there’s a vinery and a restored peach house in the walled gardens and a tea room off the cobbled courtyard. The front of the property overlooks the River Dart, follow the narrow winding paths down through the woodland to the boathouse on the banks of the River Dart and you can almost hear the words from the pages of a Deadman’s Folly ringing in your ears. Dogs are welcome in the gardens.

Luxury self catering holiday cottages in Totnes

Our unique collection of luxury holiday homes in Totnes and cottages in rural south Devon are perfect for exploring Totnes, the coastal towns and beaches.

Vane Hall Collection

Vane Hall Collection

Ultimate List of Taxis

Travelling in Salcombe If you’re looking to travel out of Salcombe, we highly recommend pre-booking a taxi as there isn’t a dependable taxi rank. If you’re very lucky, you might find a taxi parked near to Coleman’s Butchers or at Whitestrand car park but don’t count your chickens! Taxi Numbers 24/7 Taxis 07946 322824 South Hams Cabs 01803 840404 / 07772 744598 Merlin's Taxi 07455 951185 Coast to Coast 07719 946224 Clark Cars 01548 842914 Totally Taxis 07542 626545 Salcombe Taxis 07938 470600 Arrow Cars 01548 856120 One 2 One Taxis 07766 406129 Moonraker Taxis 01548 560231 South Hams Taxis 01548 852545 Acorn Taxis 07799558816 In Hope Taxis 07719 730428 Road Runer Taxis 01803 732834 Twenty20taxis 07796 110641 Riddell Executive Cars 07718 360132 If you’d like to be in the centre of town for your holiday, we have some amazing Salcombe holiday homes that are right in the action. Why not stay with Finest Stays in one of our Self Catered properties? They are all in prime locations in the centre of town so you can walk to all the restaurants in Salcombe without the need for a taxi. View all Salcombe Properties

Kingswear Walking

Kingswear Walks Stunning scenery, easily accessible tracks and trails and an enviable microclimate are the ingredients which make Kingswear a great base for a self-catering holiday. Throw into the mix some of the best beaches and the freshest seafood and you’re on to a winner! So while you’re staying in Kingswear why not get out and about and explore the beautiful South West Coastal Path which runs through the village, you’re in for a treat. Time to lace up your boots put the lead on the dog and blow away the cobwebs…  Kingswear is a great base for a self-catering holiday with excellent walking trails on the doorstep. Not only do you have the South West Coastal Path runs through the village but you can hop on the ferry to Dartmouth and benefit from the fabulous walks on the other side of the Dart.  We’ve selected a few of our favourite trails to set you off on the right foot… Kingswear to Greenway This lovely walk winds its way along part of the Dart Valley Trail as it follows the river banks and creeks. If you’re a wildlife and nature lover you may be lucky enough to spot one or two roe deer, seals, wading birds and herons. The trail takes you to Greenway House, the former home of Agatha Christie with gardens which border the River Dart by the infamous boat house. The perfect spot for a cream tea. What could be more Devon than that? Pick up the trail from the Village shop in Kingswear and follow directions to Greenway. The Dartmouth Town Trail Hop onto the foot ferry which runs from Kingswear to Dartmouth and discover the antics of our ancestors as you explore Dartmouth’s rich heritage. A right Royal romp through the historic streets and alleyways, discover historical sites and learn how the town has played such a large part in the Late Queen Elizabeth II's life.  Pick up the town trail here. Kingswear to Coleton Fishacre Head off towards the headland from Kingswear, following the coastal path in the direction of the mouth of the River Dart. This trail takes you to a brilliant viewpoint where you can see both the castles of Kingswear and Dartmouth, follow the directions here.

Home

Finest Stays Luxury Holiday Homes The Finest Stays portfolio of holiday homes has been carefully and lovingly curated to offer our guests the most exclusive selection of luxury holiday homes & cottages across Devon. We never compromise on comfort, style, elegance or location, making it a joy to choose a divine holiday home of a lifetime and create happy, beautiful and treasured memories.  Browse all Properties Join Devon's local & independent experts to maximise the rental return on your property asset As a luxury holiday home letting agency, we focus on a select group of holiday homes in Devon which enables us to truly showcase your property to its full potential. We only include high-end properties which can offer a unique self-catering, luxury experience to our guests. We offer realistic advice about prices and annual income potential. Most importantly, we offer competitive commission rates and favourable contract terms. We know that owning a holiday let is about generating profit, hence why we treat your property as a business, not just a listing. You can count on us for proven and profitable advice. Let Your Property As Seen In What our customers have to say

Travel

How to get to Salcombe You can get to Salcombe by plane, train and automobile. For 70 years, from 1893 to 1963, there was a train that went from Totnes to Kingsbridge but the growth in the popularity of the motorcar meant it was eventually shut down. Amazingly, there was even a plan to open a line from Kingsbridge to Salcombe! The terminal was to be at Snapes Point with a ferry taking people from the peninsular of land over to the main town! We wonder how different Salcombe would be if that railway had been implemented... Salcombe remains a hotbed of style, sophistication and relaxed glamour which is reflected throughout the town with its cool shops and some of the most sought after luxury Salcombe holiday cottages on the South coast. Here at Finest Stays we aim to offer the complete holiday experience, divulging useful tips on everything from water sports to the best places to dine out. So, after much list making and discussion about how we can take the strain out of your holiday, (after all the little things count too!) we decided to quickly run through your travel options to your stay.  We all tend to grab the keys and jump in the car, it’s easy and automatic. But, have you ever considered the alternatives?  Driving to Salcombe South Devon is well connected to The Midlands, the North, Wales and London with both the A30 and the M5 bringing you to Exeter and onto the A38, this is the main route between  Exeter and Plymouth. Continue along the A38 and follow signs for Totnes, then onto Kingsbridge and Salcombe. Or continue along the A38 until you reach the slip road signposted Modbury and join the A379 for Kingsbridge and follow signs for Salcombe. Either route from London will take around 4.5 hours and from Bristol, around 2 hours. On arriving in Salcombe, park the car and enjoy life on Salcombe time, especially during the summer months. Stroll to the beaches; It's about a 20 minute walk along Cliff Road to North Sands and around 10 minutes further to South Sands where you can pick up a ferry back into town. A regular ferry runs from Whitestrand, it's just a short hop across the water to the beautiful beaches at East Portlemouth (facing Salcombe). Both ferries are dog friendly and a fun way of seeing the town at it's best... from the water. By Rail There are regular trains from London Paddington and London Waterloo to Totnes train station with First Great Western. Your journey will take just over three hours from London Paddington and a little longer from Waterloo. Either way, there is a 30-40 minute taxi ride from Totnes train station to Salcombe. Taxi Numbers Salcombe Even at train stations, it can be hard to find a cab, so book your pick‑ups ahead. We recommend using these Salcombe taxi’s where you should expect to pay around £40 one way into Salcombe from Totnes station. Ultimate List of Salcombe Taxi Numbers Flying to Salcombe Your best airport to fly into is Exeter. Flights come in from Edinburgh, Guernsey, Dublin, Newcastle, Glasgow, Belfast City, Jersey, Isles of Scilly and various European cities. FAQ's We're often asked whether guests will need a car in Salcombe, how easy is it to park, can you walk to restaurants for dinner? So here are some answers to those most frequently asked questions: Should I take the train or drive? This depends on whether you’re planning on arriving in Salcombe and just staying in the town. But if you’re planning on heading further afield, perhaps to explore the coastline and beaches around Dartmouth, Thurlestone Bigbury or Hope Cove then your best option is to take the car.  Do I need my car to explore Salcombe? No is the easy answer. If you’re looking for beaches in Salcombe, they’re easily accessible on foot or by passenger ferry. For dining there are some good pubs, hotel restaurants, cafes and takeaways… you can of course always hire a private chef. Everything you need is in the town.  Is there plenty of parking in Salcombe? There is parking in the town but it can get very busy during peak holiday times and on a lovely sunny day. Many of our luxury holiday homes have private parking and some have dedicated parking. Salcombe streets are narrow and usually very busy with pedestrians so it’s best not to try and drive through the town unless you have to.  Where to stay in Salcombe?

Sailing

You haven’t really seen Salcombe until you’ve explored it from the sea.

Pubs and Bars

A big part of what makes Salcombe so great is its bars and pubs.

Luxury Devon Holiday Apartments

Luxury Devon Holiday Apartments Looking for the perfect apartment in Devon for your next holiday? Our collection of luxury Devon holiday apartments offer the ideal base to explore this stunning stretch of the South West. From seaside apartments in Salcombe and Dartmouth to countryside escapes in Totnes and Kingsbridge, each apartment is carefully chosen for its comfort, style and unbeatable location. Whether you're planning a romantic break for two or a family getaway, our self-catering apartments put you in the heart of some of the region's most popular destinations. Enjoy easy access to the sea, scenic coastal walks, charming villages and local eateries. Browse our luxury Devon apartments to find your perfect home-from-home.

Cafes and Deli's

Dartmouth must have one of the best cafe cultures in the south west. Stylish delis spill out onto the pavements with french style tables and chairs, conventional  tea shops boast traditional Devon Cream teas.

Walking

We can’t think of a more relaxing way to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery than a good old stomp along the local tracks and trails.

Shops

List of all the Salcombe Shops While Salcombe is well-known for its outstanding natural beauty, a simple stroll through the famous Fore Street will show you the contribution that Salcombe’s community has had in making the town what it is today. Scattered with a selection of independent outlets offering the finest in fashion, food, homeware and seaside essentials, this is the perfect place to indulge in some serious retail therapy while you’re away. Saunter through the narrow side streets of Salcombe to discover hidden gems and local favourites; from cosy book shops and quaint coffeehouses to jewellery stores and beach-wear boutiques. But don’t forget to check out the jewels in the crown of Salcombe’s shops: after all, this is where brands such as Jack Wills, Crew Clothing and Quba Sails were initially founded – proof that Fore Street has long been a place for young, bold entrepreneurs to bring their creations to life and put Salcombe on the map. After ambling down Fore Street ticking off shops, why not spend an afternoon enjoying the artisanal side of Salcombe? Island Street is brimming with talent and offers a diverse range of art galleries, boat-building yards and food stalls serving the finest in local produce – not to mention live crab and lobster if you’re feeling up to it! Salcombe is a secret haven for shopaholics, providing a perfect mix between high street names and independent designers.If you really do shop ’til you drop, you’ll only have a short walk to the beach or a local pub for refreshing drinks and relaxation. Starting at the top of Fore Street, here is a rundown of the various shops in Salcombe as we work our way down the hill.(This list excludes food outlets and boat shops.) Shopping in Salcombe Quba Sails Stashed full of their stylish sail jackets and customisable bags as well as their Men’s X sportswear series. Explosures This photography shop (you’ll find some fab greetings cards!)  offers family portraits, location/beach based shoots with no charge to take photos and no obligation to buy. Explosures allows you to capture those special moments. Love from Two boutiques offering casual, chic seasonal women’s wear, shoes and accessories. Salcombe Clothing Company Smart casual menswear.  Stocking mainly Gant clothing, they even offer a few Gant items for ladies and children in their range. Mountain Warehouse New to Salcombe (where Lloyds bank used to be).This store sells all the kit needed for the outdoor lifestyle. Musto Find technical outdoor jackets and warm weather gear.You’ll also find nautical clothing for men and women. Suzy Watson Design Beautifully crafted homeware and interior design goodies. Boots The family favourite chemists.Stocking everything from medicine to make up. Aubin & Wills High-quality menswear with a coastal feel. Find a range of clothing for all seasons here. Henri Lloyd Technical sailing jackets and stylish nautical fashion. Amelia’s Attic Cheska from Made in Chelsea’s Mum’s shop!This store is Girly girl heaven! Deck Out Find fabulous ladies clothing, gifts and accessories. White Stuff Casual clothing brand started in The Alps and consistently maintained in Salcombe. Crew Clothing  A fabulous British brand inspired by the coast. Joules 1 Fully stocked children’s clothing ranging from 0 – 12yrs.They offer a great selection of babywear.  In-store order service available. Joules 2 Diagonally opposite you will find their equally popular, colourful adults range. Rowbury A gallery full of quirky local prints and paintings. Aloft Bright and breezy men and womenswear with a dash of quirky lifestyle gifts. Shopping in Salcombe: Russell Court Mo Logan Antiques, interiors and art. The Salcombe Bookshop Stocking the latest romantic tales and crime thrillers perfect for your holiday reading.  Also stocking local history, guidebooks and maps.There is also a second-hand section as well! With Nothing Underneath Stocking sea-worthy shirts, sunset sweatshirts and the perfect womenswear for all seasons. Shopping in Salcombe: Carrying on along Fore Street Helly Hansen Technical sailing attire for men and women Bonningtons Newsagents. Fat Face Another shopping in Salcombe staple – a clothing brand created from a love of both sea and snow. Chattels A go-to for exquisite homeware and gifts. Cranch’s Sweetshop The legendary Salcombe sweet shop.Fill your white and pink striped paper bags to the brim for a sugar rush, Rudds Classy wellington boots. Coleman’s Butcher Our favourite local butcher. Matt is always on hand to offer advice on how to cook their locally sourced meats.  He also delights in making some ready to go bbq goodies you don’t want to miss. Drang Gallery Mega art gallery – expect Damien Hirst! Bowers Wines Salcombe’s only off-license stocked to the brim with all the gin and wine you can drink. Spotted Independent local boutique offering ladies and men’s fashion. Lovingly curated pieces to suit every budget and style. The Tonic Gallery Run by the Artist Greg Ramsden of the South West Academy of Art.The gallery represents predominantly marine-based works from acclaimed artists both near and far and specialises in landscape paintings, sculpture and ceramics. Moshulu Shoe shop under the arch – find casual sandals, slippers and shoes. Shopping in Salcombe: Along Island Street Salcombe Antiques Discover stunning antique investment jewellery. Repairs are also possible. Paperbird Island Fun activities and products including face painting, art activities, greetings cards, organic t-shirts and bags.Booking recommended. Gin Factory Locally roasted coffee, craft beer and wine, gin cocktails, taster sessions, Salcombe gin merchandise and gin school. Gallery Five Art for sale. Supporting local artists and craftsman stocking 80% Devon-based artists. Salcombe DIY Does what it says on the tin! Plus beach kit and that much needed portable BBQ. Salcombe Embroiders For all your embroidery needs. Salcombe Sea School Paddleboard hire and sales, wakeboards, various towables, flip flops. Will Bees Bespoke Bags, purses, clutches and accessories handmade in Salcombe, can also be personalised while you wait. Salcombe Boat Store Chandlers and all things boat-related including wetsuits. Jam industries Cool and casual knitwear, t-shirts and sweats for beach days and evenings.Bridging the gap between city and surf for both him and her. Co-op Small but well-stocked supermarket. Reddish Marine Inboard and outboard sales and services. . Retail therapy in Salcombe When it comes to shopping in Salcombe, there truly is something for everyone. If you’ve come to Salcombe with your children, they’ll make a beeline for Cranch's , the famous traditional Salcombe sweet shop with the distinctive white and pink striped paper bags just waiting to be filled to the brim. Take a dog-leg turn from Fore Street around the Fortescue Inn to find Victoria Quay; a quaint row of chocolate box houses overlooking the sea. Here is your classic crab-catching spot – it takes considerable skill and patience to land a crab from these walls! If you’re looking to get clued up on crab-catching before you arrive, check out our blog for the top 5 mistakes to avoid. Looking for a quick snack as you shop in Salcombe? You’re in luck: Salcombe Dairy Ice-cream produces their famous ice-cream on Island Street; a delicious must-try whilst in the area. (Their top flavour is most definitely honeycomb!) For those staying in self-catered Salcombe holiday homes, there are plenty of local food shops to create your picnics and evening meals. These shops are mainly independent traders who we love to support as they are run by local families.

Cafes and Deli's

Sometimes we wonder about how many sandwiches and rolls are made in homes and deli’s each summer in Salcombe

Properties in Plymouth

Choose from our exclusive collection of luxury holiday apartments in Plymouth’s prime location.

Properties

Restaurants

Dartmouth has some of the best restaurants in the South West and offers a cosmopolitan mix of cuisines, in fact food is so important in the town it has its very own Food Festival!

Wellness

You may be on holiday but it’s not an excuse to dip out of your fitness regime and we have some excellent trainers and facilities to keep you on your toes.

Collections

Explore Our Curated Collections Every home in our portfolio has been carefully chosen for its character, location, and sense of luxury. From seaside escapes perfect for families to romantic hideaways and dog-friendly cottages, our Devon holiday home collections make it easy to find your ideal stay. Whether you’re dreaming of ocean views, a countryside retreat, or somewhere with space to celebrate together, you’ll find inspiration in every collection - each one offering the comfort, quality, and attention to detail that define Finest Stays. View all Properties So much to offer… As well as their eye-catching designs, our collection of properties have been hand-picked for their prime locations, each offering dazzling views of the glimmering estuaries and vibrant harbours. Both Salcombe and Dartmouth are undulating towns so, we’ve deliberately chosen properties that keep traipsing up and downhill to a minimum. Our luxury holiday homes come in all shapes and sizes: from grand, country manors to sleek, sea view apartments. After a long days exploration comes to an end, your relaxing evening begins. Perhaps it’s a BBQ in your garden with the family, a peaceful soak in your private pool or cocktails on your terrace watching the sun go down: whatever you have in mind, one of our coastal or countryside holiday homes can provide the perfect experience. View all Properties

Maps

Salcombe Maps Salcombe is located in the South Hams which is the most southerly part of south Devon. It starts in the lower quarter of Dartmoor National Park and spreads to the west towards Plymouth, around the coast, and to the east encapsulating Dartmouth and Totnes. Did you know? The name South Hams comes from the old English word “hamme”, meaning an enclosed or sheltered space. This refers to the climate of the area, which is one of the mildest in Britain thanks to its southerly location and protection by Dartmoor’s battered granite hilltops. Salcombe is well known for having golden sandy beaches where you can enjoy a whole host of activities. The harbour is tidal so these beaches get washed by the sea each day as the tide comes in and goes out – thank you nature! Here is an aerial overview of the most popular beaches in Salcombe. Salcombe town is on one side of the estuary. It starts at water level and climbs up the steep hillside. Fore street runs parallel to the water’s edge and is the main artery of running through Salcombe. It gets pretty busy in the summertime with cars and hoards of people/dogs squeezing through the narrow street! Here are some of the main landmarks around town. You can also get a more detailed map from the Salcombe Information Centre. Holiday Homes in Salcombe Our Salcombe holiday lets are all located in wonderful positions in town and each have phenomenal views over the estuary. Take a look at the map below to get an overview, and then visit our luxury holiday homes accommodation page for more information.

Wellness in Salcombe

We think that relaxation is a really important part of a holiday, so even if your self-catered Salcombe holiday home doesn’t have its own swimming pool, we want you to feel chilled out.

Ice Cream

There really is just one ice-cream we need to talk about, and that is produced in Salcombe by Salcombe Dairy Ice-cream

Things to do in Plymouth

This vibrant city has a full calendar of events from world class yacht races and firework extravaganzas, pop concerts and street markets.

Pubs and Bars

Nothing beats popping into the pub for a pint or a spot of lunch after a brisk coastal walk or a spot of retail therapy and Dartmouth has its fair share of pubs!

February Half Term

Luxury Homes to rent this February Half Term This February half term, imagine crisp beach walks, kicking a ball along the shore before warming up with a hot chocolate, and evenings spent around a crackling fire. Whether you’re after a snug seaside cottage for little adventurers, a dog-friendly retreat for bracing coastal escapades, or a spacious home for the whole family to gather, we have the perfect getaway waiting for you. Picture hot tubs under starlit skies, board games by the fire, and wellies ready for beachcombing and rock pooling—these homes are made for winter magic. For more inspiration, explore our blog on half term activities in South Devon.

Cabins & Glamping Pods

Luxury Devon Glamping Pods, Cabins and Wilderness Retreats Made for nomadic types, if escaping the urbanity and retreating to the wilderness sounds like your idea of heaven, explore our collection of luxury glamping pods and cabins across Devon, all seemingly plucked from a fairy-tale. Get in touch with your inner explorer in a wild rustic cabin or unwind with a glass of bubbly under the stars from a hot tub glamping pod. If you can’t find what you’re looking for here, discover our collection of hot tub holidays in Devon. If you’re seeking a secluded stay for couples, check out our collection of romantic getaways in Devon.

Facts

Salcombe Facts 1. There used to be a train line from Totnes to Kingsbridge and there were even plans to build an extension to Salcombe! The terminal was to be at Snapes Point with a ferry taking passengers across the estuary to the town. 2. Today the population in Salcombe is 1800 in winter and 19,000 in summer. How does everyone squeeze in?! 3. Salcombe has seahorse nurseries in the rare eelgrass beds. 4. We are visited by dolphins, seals and even basking sharks! One dolphin called Danny visits us from Dartmouth and has his own Facebook page! 5. During the English civil war, the town sided with the Royalists and held out against the Roundheads. The ruins of Fort Charles remain towards the south of the town near North Sands. 6. In 1764, the first holiday home, The Moult, was built in Salcombe. 7. Salcombe became a ship registry port in 1864 but still came under Dartmouth for customs. A customs house was later built at Salcombe which still exists today as a fabulous holiday home. 8. Between the two world wars, Salcombe developed as a holiday resort, with Salcombe Sailing Club being founded in 1922 (it was only until 1948 when women were allowed to join!) 9. During the Second World War a radar station was set up on Bolt Head and Salcombe became an Advance Amphibious Base for the United States Navy in September 1943. 10. Salcombe Dairy Ice-cream is on the menu at the Dorchester Hotel in London as well as flying as far as New Zealand and Singapore on both countries national airlines. Ice cream in Salcombe really is that delicious! 11. 66 ships and many auxiliary vessels sailed from Salcombe on 4 June 1944 as part of “Force U” which landed on Utah Beach, Normandy. Afterwards, Shadycombe Creek and Mill Bay were used to repair the damaged landing craft. 12. A lifeboat station was established by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution in 1869. In 1916 the Salcombe lifeboat, an open rowboat “The William and Emma”, was capsized crossing The Bar whilst navigating turbulent seas resulting in 13 of the 15 crew’s lives being lost. 13. Today the Salcombe RNLI have a Tamar-class all-weather boat and an Atlantic 75 inshore boat. 14. A sea covered sand spit – opposite Sharp Tor – that restricts entrance to the estuary has caused the wreck of many unfortunate vessels during bad weather. 15. The Bar is believed to have been the inspiration that led the poet Tennyson to write his famous poem – ‘Crossing the Bar’, following a rough passage over the Bar in the yacht Sunbeam, whilst staying with the historian J. A. Froude. 16. Salcombe was the home port for a fleet of fast yacht-like clipper schooners. The fleet’s pace enabled them to get the first of the season’s fruits, such as oranges from the Azores and Pineapples from the West Indies, to the markets ahead of the competition.

Walking

The best way to see the Salcombe area is to go on a walk and explore the stunning coastline.

Seafood

Salcombe sits in a unique position in the UK and our fishing fleet has access to some wonderful seafood.

Locations

Discover Devon’s Most Exceptional Holiday Destinations From the chic harbour towns of Salcombe and Dartmouth to the laid-back coastal charm of Hope Cove and Thurlestone, our handpicked holiday homes put you right where Devon shines brightest. Finest Stays offers luxury cottages, beachside retreats and large family homes across the South Hams and beyond - each chosen for its comfort, character and unbeatable location. Whether you’re craving sea views, countryside calm or a spot close to the surf, our Devon holiday homes give you the perfect base to explore, unwind and make memories that last. View all Properties

Estuary

Salcombe Estuary Strictly speaking, Salcombe estuary isn’t technically an estuary but a Ria; a tidal inlet with no major fresh water source flowing through it. It was formed as river-cut valleys were flooded by post-glacial rising sea levels. Such flooded river valleys are known as ‘rias’, or in this instance, a ‘dendritic ria’ as each creek is itself a ria! At the mouth of the estuary lies Salcombe – famous as a sailing destination and a characteristic town with stone quaysides and brightly painted buildings. There are many creeks and valleys to explore around the Estuary leading to picturesque villages with thatched houses and country pubs serving real ale, Scrumpy and good food. Southpool is one such village that regularly wins prizes for best-kept village. At low tide there are stepping stones from one side of the creek to another – a fun treat for kids – and the gateway to the pub for grown-ups! (See The Millbrook in Salcombe restaurants section). The larger town of Kingsbridge lies at the head of the Salcombe estuary – in the summer the Rivermaid Ferry makes trips between Salcombe and Kingsbridge (when the tides are right). The climate in Salcombe is almost Mediterranean bringing balmy summers and mild winters to the area. Many species of plant life flourish here that are rarely found in other parts of the UK, and birds such as egrets, cormorants and herons flock here in their thousands. The Salcombe estuary grows Eel grass which supports a rare UK seahorse population. In fact, Eelgrass is the perfect environment for seahorse nurseries! Dolphins, basking sharks and seals are also frequent visitors to the waters giving water skiers a bit of a shock! There is one famous dolphin called Danny who normally lives in Dartmouth but he is known for his visits to Salcombe in the quieter winter months. He even has his own Facebook page with his thoughts on life in the ocean blue!

Events

With a wide variety of live music, side-splitting comedy, and sporting events on offer, there is plenty to see and do in Salcombe all year round.

Restaurants

There are restaurants for every taste and wallet both in Salcombe and its surrounding areas.

Ground Floor Bedroom Holiday Cottages

Holiday Cottages with Ground Floor Bedroom Our handpicked collection of holiday cottages with a ground floor bedroom offer the freedom and flexibility to include the whole family in your holiday plans. Chosen from our cottages to rent in Devon, Salcombe holiday homes and Dartmouth holiday homes, you'll find all properties feature ground floor bedrooms and bathrooms so they’re the perfect choice for extended parties. Ideal for couples with young children who may prefer to live apart from the rest of the group, excellent for grandparents who enjoy a little peace and quiet and great for teenagers yearning for a little freedom and a space of their own!  So if you’re looking for a ground floor holiday cottage which offers flexible accommodation and excellent facilities without compromising on location, luxury and style, somewhere to get together for lazy breakfasts, relaxing evenings and celebrations, you’re in the right place.

Beaches

Beaches are one of the reasons our guests return to Salcombe year after year.

Crabbing

Crabbing in Salcombe is a wonderful pastime popular with all the family.

Sweet Shops

Cranch’s sweet shop has to be the ultimate, which has been going since 1869.

Let your holiday home

Luxury Holiday Home Letting Agency in Devon Why Us? We’re real people, a dedicated team with invaluable local knowledge and a profound affection for The South Hams. No call centres here; instead, we offer a completely tailored and hands-on-service, ensuring the finest care for your property. While other rental agencies rely heavily on popular platforms like Airbnb and booking.com, over 90% of our bookings are taken directly on our website. Being a part of the Finest Stays portfolio means you gain exclusive access to a discerning group of travellers seeking luxury Devon holiday homes in The South Hams, and only by being in the Finest Stays community, can you tap into this invaluable resource and maximise your income. We know the significance of maintaining strong relationships with our owners. We prioritise open and transparent communication, providing regular updates on the market and booking levels. We believe in fostering a partnership with our property owners, ensuring your continued support and informed involvement throughout the entire process. We know that every owner has their own objectives when opening up their holiday homes to guests, so we offer a flexible and tailor-made package to suit you. As a private, local, independent business, we are the keepers of all the best knowledge about where to go, what to see and most importantly where to stay in South Devon. Get your Free lettings guide Competitive commission Straightforward commission and smart pricing techniques. Operating in the luxury market we achieve high rental rates Expert Marketing Comprehensive and holistic approach to marketing, with dedicated marketing support and a high-converting website Powerful PR Coverage Desirable and influential brand with powerful online presence & editorial coverage in the best publications Experienced Local Team Private, independent & truly local business that delivers heartfelt, intuitive hospitality Bespoke Service Bespoke programme tailored to each individual owner's unique needs, with unrestricted owner bookings What could you earn? What Makes a Finest Stay? We represent a handpicked portfolio of luxury properties across The South Hams, opening the doors to some of the most beautiful homes in the UK. From quintessential cosy coastal cottages to secluded beach huts and boathouses, grand country manor houses with swathing gardens and large banqueting halls to slick glass-fronted waterfront apartments, we represent a variety of home styles. Staying true to our name and entirely focused on providing truly luxurious self-catering experiences, we only represent exceptional private homes that tick the Finest Stays boxes; outstanding locations, architectural pedigree and beautiful interiors.  From the very start, Finest Stays has only accepted the 'best in class' holiday homes onto our books and the portfolio now consists of about 100 hand-selected properties in spectacular locations, from Salcombe to Thurlestone, Hope Cove to Dartmouth. Our expert team pride itself on exemplary service, making sure we phone each guest to discuss their needs and requirements ahead of their stay. Clients say this personal service brings them back year after year; some to the same much-loved holiday home, others to enjoy a new experience every time. Either way, it's Finest Stays they call when they start planning their next luxury staycation. Join our portfolio Meet Our Owners Join Us Let us showcase your property's full potentialGet in touch and we will arrange a no-obligation call or meeting at your convenience. As Seen In

About Finest Stays

Meet the Finest Team We’re real people, a dedicated team with invaluable knowledge and a profound affection for The South Hams. No call centres here; instead, we offer a completely tailored and hands-on-service to our property owners and guests.   Kate Founder & Owner Kate created Finest Stays, previously Salcombe Finest, in 2013. Her connection with South Devon is both personal and professional, and she possesses endless knowledge on all aspects of holidaying in the area. Kate handpicks the holiday homes for our portfolio and crucially, it is Kate's passion for South Devon and its beauty and charm that puts her personal level of service in such high regard amongst property owners and guests. Kate works closely with the rest of the team, ensuring the business runs seamlessly while staying true to its core values, nurturing long-term relationships and offering expert insight to help maximise the potential of our owners homes. Hattie Revenue Manager & Operation Hattie works closely with owners on revenue management, regularly reviewing booking patterns and market data to optimise pricing and maximise occupancy, helping ensure each property reaches its full potential. Hattie is also a true advocate of providing an exemplary service for our guests so that they want to return to holiday in South Devon again and again and again. Here at Finest Stays, Hattie is responsible for quality control and ensures that any problems are resolved efficiently and effectively, all while maintaining great relationships with our fantastic property owners, our lovely guests and our trusty suppliers. Jane Portfolio Consultant Jane is responsible for discovering best-in-class holiday homes and welcoming them into the portfolio. With extensive local knowledge and a meticulous eye for detail, she ensures that every new property meets our high standards and aligns with the luxury our guests have come to expect. Jane builds genuine, long-lasting partnerships with our property owners, offering guidance and support from the very first conversation. From the moment a new home joins the portfolio, Jane leads the onboarding process with care and precision, coordinating with our trusted photographers and meticulously finesses every listing. Kirsty Marketing Manager As Marketing Manager for Finest Stays, Kirsty brings creativity, strategy, and a deep understanding of the holiday market to every campaign. With a keen eye for brand storytelling and a passion for showcasing the beauty of Devon, she leads all marketing activity - from social media and email campaigns to homeowner outreach and seasonal promotions. Kirsty is focused on attracting guests and property owners, ensuring the Finest Stays brand continues to grow. Whether she’s creating inspiring content or refining marketing strategy, Kirsty’s data-driven approach helps elevate every aspect of the Finest Stays experience. Vicky Holiday Consultant Vicky is the friendly and knowledgeable point of contact for our fantastic guests and wonderful property owners, expertly managing bookings, enquiries and day-to-day communications. She ensures every guest enjoys a seamless experience from the moment they start browsing to the day they check out, handling each interaction with care and professionalism. Whether you're searching for the perfect property for your next Finest Stays getaway or have a quick question, Vicky is always on hand to help. With a passion for delivering exceptional service, she goes the extra mile to make sure every guest feels valued and supported. Jess Holiday Consultant & Guest Liaison Jess plays a vital role in ensuring a smooth and seamless experience for every guest. She handles guest issues promptly and professionally and works to optimise performance across all booking channels, identifying both challenges and opportunities for growth. As well as communicating closely with owners and their respective guests, Jess also supports day-to-day bookings and enquiries with efficiency and care, ensuring no detail is overlooked. With her organised approach and calm problem-solving skills, Jess is a key part of delivering the trusted, five-star service that guests expect from Finest Stays. Josie Bookkeeper Accounts, accounts, sailing, accounts! Josie has been working for Finest Stays since 2019 and is in charge of keeping financial track of the company. From payments coming in, to business expenses going out – Josie is a real stickler for detail! Behind the scenes, Josie ensures that everything adds up with precision and care. Her methodical approach and eagle eye for accuracy help keep the business running smoothly, allowing the rest of the team to focus on delivering exceptional experiences. When she’s not balancing the books, you’ll likely find her out on the water. Sue Content Creator There is an endless list of reasons for visitors to book one of our luxury holiday homes in Devon, and Sue works behind the scenes to bring those reasons to life through the content on our website. From highlighting the best beaches and local attractions to showcasing hidden gems and seasonal experiences, Sue ensures that as many people as possible discover just how special our wonderful area truly is. Her love for the area shines through in every word she writes, helping to inspire guests to book their next unforgettable escape. Join our Portfolio What Our Guests Say

Thurlestone

A charming coastal village just a stone’s throw from the sea with dog friendly beaches, a traditional Devon pub, excellent walks and a vibrant Beach House just off the sands for seafood and sundowners.

Luxury Holiday Homes for Christmas

Luxury Holiday Cottages for Christmas 2025 The South Hams is a magical place to celebrate Christmas. Enjoy blustery coastal walks, rosy-cheeked and bundled up in coats. Sit by cosy log fires crackling in centuries-old inns. With Christmas eve carols and boxing day swims, the twinkling lights of charming coastal villages and unspoilt utterly bucolic countryside, it's hard not to fall in love with south Devon at Christmas. All of our luxury holiday homes in Devon will have an elegantly decorated Christmas tree awaiting your arrival, as well as local festive goodies, so you can pop open the festivities as soon as you lay your bags down. These holiday cottages are all available to rent in Devon for Christmas - some available for full weeks, others can be booked for short breaks. Browse our Christmas edit below:

The Finest Stays Blog

Top informative blogs packed with advice on the best beaches, foodie hotspots, news and activities for your holiday in Devon.

Contact

Contact Finest Stays We are happy to talk/email/snail mail about any questions you may have. To contact Finest Stays, please use any of the following methods. We will get back to you as soon as we can. Finest StaysNewquay HouseEmbankment RoadKingsbridgeDevon TQ7 1JZ Phone: +441548 706 706 Email: hello@fineststays.com

New to Finest Stays

New to Finest Stays Be the first to discover what’s new on Finest Stays. We’re constantly searching from coast to countryside to bring you the most beautiful holiday homes in Devon, so there’s always a new Finest Stay for you to explore.

Privacy Policy

This site uses cookies for marketing, personalisation, and analysis purposes. You can opt out of this at any time or view our full privacy policy for more information.

New Year

Luxury Holiday Homes for New Year in Devon Usher in 2026 with a bang and book a luxury holiday home in the utterly unspoilt and truly beautiful South Hams. Whether you're looking to book a a dog friendly New Year’s Eve break, a large grand house fully kitted out for feasts and banquets, or a cosy coastal cottage with a hot tub, a roaring log fire and close proximity to the best beaches. We’ve gathered together all of our homes  and cottages that are available to rent for New Year’s Eve and across the New Year weekend. Some of our holiday homes and cottages are available for full weeks whilst others can be booked for short breaks. Browse the New Year collection:

Running Mooring

Cottages with a Running Mooring Messing around in boats can bring a lifetime of joy. Many of our luxury holiday homes in Devon have a mooring, so you can hire a boat at the beginning of your stay and keep it at home with you - this way you and your family can spend as much time as you like on the water! Blazing summer days just are best spent on the water. Getting around and exploring hidden coves and secluded lagoons. Just moor up or anchor and jump in the twinkling blue sea and swim to a beach! Simply choose your boat from one of our carefully selected boat hire companies and you’ll meet experienced professionals who are ready and waiting to instruct. They’ll soon have you kitted out with your buoyancy aids so you’re ready to set sail Browse our handpicked collection of holiday cottages with running moorings included free of charge.

Short Breaks & Weekend Breaks in Devon

Short Breaks and Weekend Breaks in Devon If you're looking to escape to the coast for a long weekend break or a mid-week escape, look no further than our collection of luxurious holiday cottages below. Below you will find holiday cottages in all shapes and sizes, from cosy fisherman's cottages small enough for two or a large countryside manor for twenty. All of these are open for short stays as well as week long stays. Some are open for short stays all year round, and some are only open for short stays in certain months. So, we recommend you pop in your preferred dates below and discover your perfect escape! If you can’t find your ideal property here, browse our complete collection of Luxury Devon holidays for more inspiration.

South Sands Beach Apartments

South Sands Beach Apartments South Sands beach is an ideal place to splash through the waves, explore the hidden coves on a kayak tour or venture out with the dog on a paddle boarding adventure.  Lie back and look out to the golden sands, catch up on your favourite novel, take a dip in the sea, or hop on the South Sands Ferry and explore the other beaches just beyond. These waterfront apartments promise endless possibilities for families, friends, and couples. South Sands beach is a popular swimming spot in the warmer months, and being ideally located on the South West Coast path, trails and walking routes are aplenty. Plus Salcombe is a 25 minute walk away so you're close to all the action! Little ones adore splashing about in the stream that runs down the middle, building epic sandcastles and exploring the hidden treasures at low tide.  Four legged guests will love these apartments as much as two legged ones. All of these beachfront boltholes are utterly dog friendly, and dogs will be in heaven with the endless rambles and sea swims. Please note South Sands beach is dog friendly from October until May. During the other months, dogs are not allowed on the beach except during Ferry operating times when dogs are welcome to cross the Sands on a lead to embark and disembark to and from the Ferry. However, North Sands beach, just a short stroll away, is dog friendly all year round and pooches can run until their hearts content! View our complete collection of dog friendly cottages in Salcombe.

Swimming Pool

Luxury Holiday Homes with a Swimming Pool This is our handpicked collection of beautiful holiday homes dotted across The South Hams - all with a swimming pool!

Valentines Day

Cottages for Valentine's Day in Devon This Valentine’s Day, escape to the South Devon coast for a truly unforgettable romantic retreat. Picture cosy evenings by the fire, strolls along secluded beaches, and candlelit dinners in charming local restaurants. Whether you’re planning a weekend of relaxation or adventure, our handpicked holiday homes offer the perfect setting to reconnect and create lasting memories with your special someone. Treat yourselves to the ultimate Valentine’s escape—where love meets the sea.

West Charleton Grange

Stay at one of the beautiful properties at West Charleton Grange and you won't believe how many wonderful things there are to do with the family.

Velarde Gallery Apartments

Velarde Gallery Apartments Kingsbridge

Summer Holidays & Breaks

Luxury Holiday Homes for Summer 2025 Stroll the beaches, explore the coastline, sail the seas and surf the waves. Think bobbing sailboats, barefoot beach walks and fireside chats under the stars. We have individually hand-picked only the very best holiday homes, all boasting enviable positions across The South Hams, so you can book your perfect home this Summer with confidence that laid back luxury is guaranteed. Blissful Summer days await! Browse the Summer collection:

Luxury Homes for May Half Term

Luxury Homes for May Half Term Is there anywhere more glorious than South Devon in May? We don't think so. Make the most of this May Half Term and escape to South Devon on a holiday of a lifetime. Dog walks along the coast, BBQs in the sunshine, day trips on the boat, and evening strolls along the beach. Does it get any better? Browse our luxurious handpicked holiday homes in South Devon with availability this May Half Term. Picking your base to explore the stunning coastline and countryside couldn't be easier, have a browse! We say book early to avoid disappointment, pack your bags (and your swimming costumes!) and see you in May!

Luxury Homes for the Salcombe Town Regatta

Book one of our Finest Salcombe town properties and be part of the celebration at the Salcombe Town Regatta.

Large Holiday Homes

Whether it’s a spontaneous trip or a long-awaited holiday, adult groups always leave Salcombe smiling.

Coastal Homes

Coastal Homes in South Devon Ah the simple pleasure of a slow Summer by the sea. Browse our collection of dreamy seaside holiday homes in Devon where floppy sunhats, sandy toes and long leisurely lunches in the sun are all compulsory. Head out on your paddle board at sunrise, venture out on a kayak, brave an early morning dip in the big blue or simply pop open the champagne and watch from the sand, South Devon is slice of coastal heaven where it's all about laid back luxury. Bliss.  Contact Us

Dog Friendly

With stunning beaches, excellent coastal walks and stylish dog friendly holiday cottages, South Devon is a paradise for your canine companion with lots of holiday options available.

Family Friendly

If you’re looking for a relaxing, fun-filled family holiday that everyone can enjoy, look no further than Salcombe.

Countryside Homes

Countryside Homes and Rural Retreats in Devon Beautiful luxury holiday homes nestled in the Devonshire countryside. If you’re looking for the ultimate rural experience, discover our luxury glamping collection. For more information or help booking your countryside escape, please get in touch with our friendly team. Speak to our holiday consultants

Stays for Two

Escape to a hideaway and stay in one of our finest cottages for couples. We all need to take time out from our busy lives and relax and we can’t think of a better place to switch off than South Devon.

October Half Term

Make the most of the October half term with a handpicked collection of beautiful holiday homes perfect for autumn adventures.

Easter Holidays

Easter holidays in South Devon are the perfect time to be with family and revel in the beginning of longer days and the chance to explore our magnificent landscape.

Near a Pub

Leave the car keys on the table, it’s chill out time and with this in mind we’ve selected some of the Finest holiday homes with a pub nearby.

Sea Views

It’s been scientifically proven that simply spending time at the seaside is good for you, improving wellbeing and relieving stress levels.

Hot Tubs

Sit back in the bubbles, perhaps with a glass of bubbly of your own, and look out over mesmerising views of Salcombe.

Last Minute Availability

If you are looking for a UK-based summer getaway to provide your family with a wonderful holiday, we have a few last-minute deals on our holiday homes to whet your appetite.

Self Catering

Going on holiday is all about relaxation. That’s what makes choosing the right accommodation so important: after all, it will be your home away from home for the time you’re away.

Super Luxe

Finest Stays, we’ve hand-picked a diverse selection of luxury holiday homes in stunning locations, each with their own unique charm, beautiful interior design and panoramic views of the coast or the beautiful South Devon countryside.

The Lanterns Hope Cove

Luxury Holiday Homes in Hope Cove With two stunning beaches, excellent coastal walks and stylish holiday cottages, the traditional fishing village of Hope Cove is one of South Devon’s hidden gems. This tiny village has fast become one of the most sought after locations for folk journeying to the south coast in search of sandy bays, bright turquoise seas and darling waterside lunch spots With easy access to the beaches for wild swimming and watersports, beautiful coastal walks on the doorstep plus some tasty dining options with excellent local fish and chips and wood-fired pizzas. Book to stay in one of these beautiful holiday cottages and you’ll have all the ingredients for a spectacular holiday. Explore Hope Cove