Best staycation ideas in South Devon
Here at Coast & Country Cottages we are already seeing high demand for our South Devon holiday cottages. That’s why...
Luxury family holidays in Devon – just the thought is making us want to pack our suitcase for an indulgent getaway to the scenic coast and countryside.
Devon is the perfect playground and has something to suit all ages and tastes. From five star golf courses and luxury spa treatments, to private sailing lessons, and not forgetting the extensive collection of seafood restaurants and beachside cafés.
A break in Devon can deliver the perfect blend of happy children, relaxed parents and grandparents, and of course, waggly-tailed pets too!
Luxury family holidays in Devon are all about making memories. And at Coast & Country Cottages, our luxury self-catering properties go above and beyond to ensure this is the only thing on the agenda.
Our enviable collection of holiday homes ooze the “wow” factor, and are situated in equally impressive locations. Choose from cottages with a swimming pool, hot tub, open fire or games room, or even a luxury dog-friendly holiday home.
If you’re looking for a secluded break from your day-to-day routine, browse our country escapes or properties with a sea or river views, perfect for enjoying a sunset tipple in absolute privacy. Read on for our handpicked collection of luxury family holidays in Devon…
Looking for a particular location for a family holiday in Devon? Use our quick links below, or read on for our full guide to luxury family holidays.
Perched on the banks of the Salcombe Estuary, this coastal town is one of Devon’s crown jewels when it comes to luxury family holiday destinations.
Boasting sweeping sea views and rolling countryside, the town is small but perfectly formed. You will find a wealth of award-winning eateries, boutique shops and galleries that flank the charming streets.
A paradise for beach lovers, crystal clear waters and golden sands are in abundance. The idyllic estuary is a hive of activity. Sailboats, kayaks and paddleboards dominate the traffic, as well as welcomed appearances from the occasional seal too.
With immediate access to the South West Coast Path, you can readily explore this much-loved natural playground. On every coastal walk you will be sure to stumble across secluded coves, perfect for an al fresco picnic and a refreshing dip!
For a little down time, take a private yoga class from the comfort of your luxury holiday home or a nearby sandy shore. Alternatively, visit a luxury spa for an indulgent spa treatment. Be sure to book a local chef whilst on holiday for an indulgent foodie experience that feeds the belly and soul.
At Coast & Country Cottages we are proud to offer an exclusive collection of self catering properties providing amazing luxury family holidays in Devon. With properties boasting sweeping sea and estuary views, private balconies, cloud-like furnishings and modern interiors.
The ultimate coastal retreat. The Sands is both luxurious and contemporary, nestled in a private, elevated location enjoying uninterrupted views over the Salcombe Estuary and out to sea.
The property is just a short walk from the sandy beach of North Sands, located adjacent to The Winking Prawn beach café.
Providing quick access to the South West Coast Path, this is a perfect holiday home for outdoor enthusiasts keen to explore the local beaches of Soar Mill Cove, Hope Cove, Thurlestone and beyond.
Dog-friendly, your canine companion can join in on the holiday action too. And there’s even an outdoor shower to wash off sandy paws after a day exploring.
However, if you would rather explore the serene streets of Salcombe, its independent shops and waterside brasseries, the town centre is just a short walk away.
Part of a landmark development of luxury properties in one of South Devon’s most beautiful and exclusive waterside settings lies Villa 8, Estura.
Directly overlooking the estuary, the property boasts tri-folding doors that open out onto a balcony spanning panoramic waterside vistas. The perfect spot for a sumptuous breakfast or sundowner.
The interior is luxurious and the master bedroom enjoys a four poster bed, also taking in estuary views. What’s more, the parking is allocated (a rarity in Salcombe town, especially during the height of the summer).
Guests can enjoy the use of the luxury spa facilities at the neighbouring Salcombe HarSpa, including an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room. And it is just a five minute walk from Salcombe’s waterfront.
In a secluded location, but within easy reach of Salcombe’s town centre and beaches, Woodwell offers the perfect luxury accommodation.
Boasting four boutique bedrooms, all of which benefit from stunning views of Salcombe Estuary and East Portlemouth Beach. This is a wonderful retreat.
This property boasts so many family friendly features, including a walk-in wet room, snug / games room with wall mounted TV, Xbox360, Nintendo Wii, Sonos sound bar and full Sky HD package, so there really is something for everyone.
There is also a garage and parking for up to three cars.
Situated on the banks of the River Dart, Dartmouth is a thriving naval town that is not only steeped in history, but also well regarded for its award-winning restaurants, serene river, nearby beaches and abundance of culture.
A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, Dartmouth is positioned on the South West Coast Path. Perfect for rambling, coasteering, trail running or simply al fresco picnicking.
A mecca for sailing, be sure to enjoy the water in style by chartering a yacht, not forgetting to order a sumptuous picnic, complete with champagne, for those who fancy a tipple or two.
A magnet for foodies, you’re spoilt for choice with multiple Michelin star restaurants in Dartmouth, wonderful cafés, mouth-watering fish and chips, and even a Banquet Boat, not forgetting the annual Dartmouth Food Festival.
Sumptuous spas, a widely reputed golf course and a bustling events calendar, there is something for everyone!
Regardless of when you choose to visit or how you choose to spend your time, luxury family holidays in Dartmouth will be sure to provide you with a wealth of memorable experiences. And have you coming back for more, time and time again.
Situated on the banks of the River Dart, Dart Marina is a striking waterside development in Dartmouth. This beautifully presented duplex apartment offers spacious accommodation in the bustling harbour town of Dartmouth, with sweeping river views.
Not only do you have all the town amenities on your doorstep, including five star restaurants, boutique cafés and independent stores, but also, the South West Coast Path, The Dart Valley Trail and a varied collection of stunning South Devon beaches nearby. Take a trip across the water to Kingswear, or up river to the villages of Dittisham or Tuckenhay. Whatever you choose to do, you really are spoilt for choice when staying at Dart Marina.
For a really jam packed day out, why not climb aboard the Dartmouth Steam Railway and head to Paignton, and on your arrival, be sure to tour Paignton Zoo.
Newly refurbished, and boasting panoramic views over Thurlestone Beach and the surrounding countryside. Two Hoots is everything you would expect from a spacious, contemporary holiday home by the beach.
One of the key features of the property is the open-plan living area. Complete with a full width balcony and indoors, in front of the sofas, an open fire – popular after blustery coastal walks.
Perfect for young children and their parents, there are two king-size bedrooms on the first floor. Both of which have en-suites and balcony access offering spectacular scenery. The most idyllic spot for a cosy bedtime story.
The village of Thurlestone offers so much for families. A popular village pub and luxury spa, a coastal golf course, handful of beaches and direct access to the South West Coast Path.
The villages of Salcombe and Hope Cove are just a short drive away, and also accessible by foot should you want a change of scene, as is the nearby beach of Bantham, which offers surf lessons and hire all year round for those keen to go surfing in South Devon.
An immaculately presented and recently converted barn, The Old Milking Shed is the perfect blend of modern contemporary and retained history. So expect floor to ceiling glass walls, vaulted ceiling and old oak beams.
Situated in the picture postcard hamlet of West Buckland. One of its main attractions is that it is just a fifteen-minute walk from the village of Bantham and its popular sandy beach.
The barn is positioned in a secluded and tranquil spot that takes in countryside views from most aspects of the property. Outside, make the most of the private garden, complete with outside shower (ideal for showering off sandy paws and wetsuits), barbecue and stylish al fresco dining area.
Resting within rolling Devon countryside, on the outskirts of the village of Cornworthy. Gitcombe Estate is a unique collection of nine luxury properties.
Within the estate, you will find accommodation to suit all tastes, requirements and party sizes. And the style of properties range from a Grade II listed manor house, to a newly built timber framed property.
One of the many attractions of Gitcombe Estate is that you can book multiple properties at the same time. Perfect if you are spending your holiday with a larger group of family or friends that may have differing requirements.
Spend your downtime unwinding in the spacious 14 acres of garden. For younger explorers, head to the hand-carved adventure playground, whilst for older adults, the tennis court is a great spot for a friendly game. You will also find both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a hot tub, sauna, steam room and even a soft play area. There really is something for everyone, providing the ultimate environment for luxury family holidays in South Devon.
Should you want to venture further afield, you are perfectly located to explore Dartmouth, Totnes, Tuckenhay and the surrounding Devon countryside.
This fully furnished thatched cottage can be found in the village of Abbotskerswell, just a short distance from the market town of Totnes.
The cottage is arranged over three floors and has been carefully renovated with limestone flooring, original oak doors, a cast iron wood burner set within an Inglenook fireplace and even a snug. Perfect for enjoying evening entertainment with a flat screen TV and Xbox 360.
Ideal for celebrating memorable occasions or simply for a family catch up, Church Thatch is also perfectly placed for enjoying a wealth of Dartmoor walks and Dartmoor day trips, as well as the much loved South West Coast Path.
Regardless of where you choose to stay when in Devon, you won’t find yourself short of luxurious things to do. And truth be told, you are wonderfully spoilt for choice!
At Coast & Country Cottages it’s no secret that we are partial to a little indulgence. So to help you plan your stay and ensure the whole family experience Devon’s luxuries, here are a few of our favourite ways to spend that much deserved downtime…
First and foremost, no trip to Devon is complete without feasting on sumptuous local food.
The region is famous for it’s emporium of afternoon tea choices. So, be sure to treat yourself to fluffy scones, sandwiches and sweet treats to go alongside a glass of bubbles. Here are a few of our favourite establishments in which you can enjoy a delicious afternoon tea in Devon.
If you’re a true foodie then you will certainly want to dine in at least one of the top Devon seafood restaurants, or special beach cafés to try Bigbury oysters and Salcombe crab. However, if you would rather remain in the privacy of your home, hire a private catering company dinner party delight.
Book a pampering session at a luxury South Devon spa for a day of true indulgence! Luxury family holidays in Devon provide the perfect opportunity for some pampering, either by yourself or with friends and family.
The region is home to sumptuous spas where you can enjoy the perfect blend of beauty treatments, therapies, leisure and relaxation.
One of the most exhilarating ways to explore Devon’s coastline, rivers and estuaries is by boat. Especially when you’re the captain of the ship, and charter a boat yourself.
Not only will you escape the crowds and have access to many secluded and secret Devon beaches, but you will also get up close with an abundance of thriving wildlife including birds, seals and dolphins.
Hire a self drive boat or for the ultimate experience, charter a private yacht in Salcombe. With a skipper on board you can lounge in luxury and enjoy a decadent picnic. Or should you want to learn the ropes, choose to develop your sailing skills – the choice is yours!
Choose from three outstanding golf courses in Devon, all of which take in spectacular landscapes.
From Dartmouth Golf and Country Club that is nestled within rolling countryside, to Thurlestone Golf Club and Bigbury Golf Club set above the cliff tops, all take in panoramic coastal views.
Devon is a mecca for watersports and boasts the ultimate natural playground of gentle estuaries, meandering rivers and wide open sea. All perfect for exploring, regardless of rain, shine, age or ability.
For an exhilarating activity, try surfing the waves and book into a coasteering session where you can expect to scramble, jump and dive from the rockiest of heights.
For something a little more gentle, try kayaking, stand up paddleboarding or perhaps book a sailing lesson.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional coastal cottage, a country escape or a sea view property so close to the waters edge you can smell the fresh sea air from your bedside. Whichever you choose Coast & Country Cottages will most certainly find the perfect retreat for you and your loves ones.
Our luxury family holiday cottages in Devon come with all the trimmings – swimming pools, hot tubs, and even farm holidays for a true free range experience.
Browse our handpicked luxury family holiday cottages, and start planning your family adventure today. Your perfect luxury family holiday in Devon awaits…
Book a luxury family holiday cottage
I love the South West and ensuring visitors to the region have the best experience possible. That's why I love sharing local tips ...
Read More About Author
Sign up to receive exclusive offers, competitions and the latest news to your inbox, and you'll be entered into our monthly prize-draw 3 times!
Here at Coast & Country Cottages we are already seeing high demand for our South Devon holiday cottages. That’s why...
Set in a stunning riverside spot on the edge of Dartmouth’s historic harbour, the Dart Marina development includes a...
Luxury holiday homes with hot tubs in Devon – simply the thought is making us feel more relaxed. Just...
