Nestled between Dartmoor National Park and the sea, South Devon is a picturesque county with a unique charm. Its landscape is dotted with high green ridgelines, deserted combes, and an array of sandy coves and tidal beaches carved out by the English Channel. The area is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.
South Devon is also known for its thriving green economy, with organic farms, zero-waste shops, and environmentally-minded vineyards scattered throughout the region. The riverside market town of Totnes has become a hub for the outdoorsy, artistic community, attracting tourists and locals alike.
For a memorable stay in South Devon, consider Leopoldina, a grand Victorian property with modern interiors and stunning views of the River Dart. The Bull Inn in Totnes is another excellent option, offering cozy rooms and an organic restaurant that emphasizes sustainable practices.
When it comes to dining, South Devon has a culinary scene that caters to diverse tastes. The River Shack in Stoke Gabriel is a popular waterfront cafe where you can enjoy pizzas and local seafood while watching the boats go by. The Riverford Field Kitchen offers a unique dining experience with a set menu that showcases fresh, organic produce grown on their own plots. Emilia in Totnes serves authentic Northern Italian dishes in an intimate and romantic setting.
For those seeking a rural escape, Glebe House is a charming restaurant with rooms set in a 15-acre smallholding. Their four-course menu features seasonal ingredients and Italian-inspired flavors. Circa, the winery restaurant at Castlewood Vineyard, offers innovative dishes that incorporate winemaking by-products and ingredients sourced from the estate.
South Devon is a paradise for beach lovers, with a wide range of hidden coves and sandy shores to explore. Blackpool Sands is a popular choice with its designated car park, cafe, and stunning shingle-sand beach. Great Mattiscombe Sands, accessible via a short walk from the Start Point Lighthouse car park, offers a more secluded experience with rock pools and panoramic views. Gara Rock Beach, reached via a steep descent from the cliffs above, is a great spot for escaping the crowds.
For a more immersive experience, embark on a section of the South West Coast Path, a 630-mile coastal hiking trail that winds around the southwest peninsula of England. The South Devon portion of the trail stretches for about 100 miles, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and countryside. The Dartmouth Greenway Round is a particularly scenic circular walk that follows the Dart Valley Trail and includes two ferry crossings.
Agatha Christie fans can visit Greenway, the riverside holiday home where the renowned writer lived for many years. Now operated by the National Trust, the house has been preserved to reflect Christie’s presence, with her personal belongings and a thriving second-hand bookshop that supports the upkeep of the property.
