THE BEST OF SOUTH DEVON

OUR TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO WHEN VISITING THIS PICTURESQUE REGION

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Swimming, surfing, sailing, canoeing, windsurfing, paddleboarding – the list of ways to get out on the water here is long and varied. You can find tranquility gliding along on the open sea in a yacht or the pounding rush as you carve through a wave – just make sure you get your feet wet somehow while you’re here!

Located high on the cliffs above Salcombe, this Edwardian home is surrounded by beautiful exotic plants including towering palms and a banana garden. The house itself displays the quirky inventions of former resident Otto Overbeck: his ‘rejuvenator’ administered electro-magnetic shocks, with the aim of prolonging life and improving wellbeing.

South Devon is an oasis for wildlife – its warm climate, unusual geology and sheltered aspect mean many species normally found on the Continent flourish here. You should look out for dolphins and basking sharks along the South West Coast Path and kingfishers on South Efford Marsh.

The best way to get a feel for the quality and variety of a region’s produce is to hop along to a farmers’ market. Newton Abbot town centre holds one of the biggest every Tuesday and Friday, whilst Bovey Tracey’s, held every other Saturday, is smaller but has a great selection of stalls selling everything from local meat to home-made chutneys.

This beautiful town manages to combine its picturesque charm with being one of the busiest commercial fishing ports in England. Watch the trawlers and day boats bring in their catch, explore the full-sized replica of Drake’s vessel, The Golden Hind, or simply sit back with a drink on the harbourside, take in the sea air and enjoy the views.

There are 68 public beaches within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, many of which have received awards for water quality and beach cleanliness. Take a bucket and line to Dittisham and try a spot of crabbing – a great activity for kids. Or try the sheltered Blue Flag beach at Blackpool Sands near Dartmouth. Whether you seek peace and quiet, sporting thrills, family fun or a wildlife haven, the perfect seaside spot isn’t far away.

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With its dramatic tors, rolling valleys, ancient woodlands and beautiful wildlife, Dartmoor is a breathtaking destination that shouldn’t be missed. There are plenty of walks to suit every ability, from adventurous day-long hikes to gentler routes taking in some of the fine pubs along the way.

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The region has become famous for the quality of its local brews, with many breweries now offering tours and samples. Check out Paignton-based Bays, Tuckers Maltings in Newton Abbot or the Dartmoor Brewery, home to the popular Jail Ale.

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A much-publicised war of words broke out recently over the ‘right’ way to prepare a scone

– with the Devon tradition of cream before jam falling foul of its Cornish neighbour according to one scientist. Luckily, South Devon is brimming with beautiful tea rooms to help you make your mind up.

 VISIT BURGH ISLAND

At low tide this iconic landmark, a small tidal island near Bigbury-on-Sea, can be reached by foot. At high tide, visitors climb aboard an endearing sea tractor to make the crossing and see the glamorous Burgh Island Hotel, which has played host to stars including Agatha Christie and Noel Coward in its colourful history. Why not book a room for the night to enjoy the roaring log fires and cosy flagstone interiors.