Holidays in South Devon, Self-Catering Cottages and Apartments

The south of Devon, also known as The South Hams, is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty located in and around the south-west coast of Devon. It stretches along the coast from Plymouth across to Dartmouth and inland to touch the southern edge of Dartmoor to the North. Its self-proclaimed capital is the historic town of Totnes, which even has its own currency. The coastline around Dartmouth, Kingsbridge and the seaside town of Salcombe all offer some of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK. South Devon is also very popular with the sailing fraternity with spots like the lovely safe, picturesque harbours and tidal inlets of Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo (good news for those bringing their yachts on holiday). Alternatively click here to find more Devon holiday cottages on My Favourite Holiday Cottages.

  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

Discover the coastal serenity of 16 Combehaven, a top-floor duplex apartment in Salcombe, South Devon. This holiday rental is ideally situated just a 5-minute walk from Salcombe's heart and offers three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a balcony with stunning estuary views. Featuring modern amenities, underground parking, and close proximity to sandy beaches, it promises to be the perfect South Devon retreat. Come and explore the charm of this Salcombe holiday rental and escape to the seaside, where comfort meets coastal allure.

  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Short Breaks
aerial view or a beach with a small seaside village overlooking the sands
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Just metres from the beach at Slapton, this chic, beachside apartment is perfect for dog owners looking to enjoy a slice of coastal life. We can't think of a better way to experience this special part of south Devon with a lovely, open-plan layout, two spacious bedrooms, and allocated parking.

  • Active Holidays
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  • Coastal Cottages
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  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterside Cottages
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

With fabulous waterside views across the beautiful River Dart and the Marina beyond, the 2-bedroom apartment at 40 Dart Marina is in a fabulous South Devon location within walking distance of central Dartmouth within a designated National Landscape.

  • Active Holidays
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  • Short Breaks
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Exterior of a contemporary, slate-roofed holiday age surrounded by a low stone wall.
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

Introducing Bear Cottage, a charming pet-friendly retreat located near Bigbury on Sea. This beautiful three-bedroom cottage is just a stone's throw away from sandy beaches and the South West Coastal Path. Inside, you can enjoy stylish interiors, underfloor heating, and a cosy log burner. The cottage also boasts a contemporary kitchen fully equipped with Smeg appliances and a master bedroom with an en suite bathroom. Outside, you can relax on the enclosed patio or make use of the private parking. The cottage is also conveniently located near the village shop, making it the perfect base for your seaside holiday in Bigbury. Enjoy comfort and the sheer beauty of the South Devon coast. Book your stay at Bear Cottage now!

  • Active Holidays
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  • Short Breaks
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3-storey contemporary holiday home with large balcony and patio overlooks a lawn.
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

Cormorant is a beautiful coastal cottage that makes for the perfect Dartmouth holiday retreat. It offers access to a communal pool, tennis court, and a golf course. This three-storey property is located in South Hams and provides modern comforts. The stylish interiors and open-plan design create a warm and inviting atmosphere. You can enjoy a fully equipped kitchen, log burner, and Smart TV. There are three bedrooms, each with its own ensuite bathroom, providing ultimate relaxation. The front patio, BBQ area, and balconies offer the perfect space for outdoor living. This cottage is ideal for golfers, families, or couples. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore this Dartmouth holiday cottage with its alluring amenities.

  • Active Holidays
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  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
The rooftops of a large holiday cottage surrounded by a sloping lawn and trees with a river estuary in the distance.
  • Sleeps 8
  • Bedrooms 4

Dower House is a large 18th-century Devon holiday farmhouse that sleeps 8 in 4 bedrooms. It is located in the village of Dittisham, between Dartmouth and Totnes, and offers panoramic views across the Dart Estuary. It is ideal for holidays with families or small groups of friends.

  • Active Holidays
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  • Large Holiday Cottages
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  • Walking Holidays
A single-storey holiday cottage overlooks a courtyard with a table laid for a meal
  • Sleeps 9
  • Bedrooms 5

Discover comfort at Firm Anchor, a pet-friendly South Devon coastal cottage in Salcombe. With spacious living across three floors, a well-equipped kitchen, and estuary views from the terrace and balcony, it's a super family-friendly retreat. The property accommodates up to 5 guests, boasts a child's relaxation area, and is just a 10-minute walk from the town centre. Explore the detailed description of this inviting seaside holiday haven for more information.

  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Large Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
A large house with a portico overlooks a lawn bordered by mature shrubs.
  • Sleeps 12
  • Bedrooms 5

Explore Holset House, a large coastal property in South Devon offering the perfect setting for self-catering holidays in East Portlemouth. With breathtaking views of Dartmoor, this luxurious and well-equipped retreat features five bedrooms, a formal dining room, and expansive lawns for relaxation. Just over half a mile from sandy beaches and a short ferry ride to Salcombe, it's an ideal escape for families and friends. Discover comfort, grandeur, and convenience in this exceptional holiday home. View now for an unforgettable experience.

  • Active Holidays
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  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
A 1st floor deck with outdoor dining furniture overlooks a garden and South Devon countryside.
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

Discover Lamington, a charming Salcombe holiday let nestled in the South Devon coast. Boasting stunning countryside views, open-plan living, three bedrooms, and three bathrooms, Lamington offers comfort and convenience. Enjoy modern amenities, including a well-equipped kitchen, spacious decking area, and pet-friendly accommodation. With nearby access to shops, beaches, and recreational facilities, Lamington is the perfect base for exploring the beauty of Salcombe and its surrounds. View the full description for more details.

  • Active Holidays
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  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
Front exterior of a 2-storey holiday home in Thurlestone with a wide drive for parking.
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

Explore Lower Goosewell Cottage, a charming South Devon Coastal Cottage. This Thurlestone holiday let is near the village pub and South West Coastal Path and offers easy beach access. Enjoy luxurious comforts, including an open-plan lounge with entertainment amenities, a well-equipped kitchen, and ensuite bedrooms. Outside, relax on the sea-facing patio or explore the spacious garden. Off-road parking and stunning sea views make it the perfect seaside cottage for your Thurlestone getaway. View now for more details!

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
A holiday apartment overlooks a long sandy beach in South Devon.
  • Sleeps 2
  • Bedrooms 1

Discover a waterfront retreat for self-catering holidays for two in Torcross at Lower Reeds, a charming beach apartment. Situated on the seafront, it offers a romantic escape with panoramic ocean views. The well-equipped kitchen, comfortable living room, and a rear double bedroom with en suite provide a cosy haven for couples. Enjoy a front terrace overlooking the sea and off-road parking. Two well-behaved dogs are welcome. Explore Torcross and nearby coastal gems, making Lower Reeds ideal for a tranquil beach getaway.

  • Active Holidays
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterside Cottages
A wooden deck with lounge furniture sits in front of a contemporary 3-storey waterside holiday home.
  • Sleeps 8
  • Bedrooms 4

Mossgara is a captivating waterside cottage in South Devon. With a large layout, private quay, and direct water access, this large luxury property offers stunning views from all levels. Well-appointed interiors include a spacious kitchen, dining area with bay windows, and a comfortable lounge with a gas fireplace. Four bedrooms, each with waterside views, add to the charm. Enjoy nearby beaches, coastal paths, and excellent pubs. Mossgara ensures a delightful retreat for those seeking a unique waterside holiday in Noss Mayo. Discover more about this exceptional property!

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Large thatched cottage overlooking a large lawn fringed with flowering shrubs.
  • Sleeps 8
  • Bedrooms 4

Old Thatch is a charming Grade II-listed coastal cottage in Torcross, Devon, with panoramic ocean views and expansive grounds. The masterfully renovated thatched-roof cottage boasts landscaped furnished gardens, a sun-drenched conservatory, a log fire, exposed beams and beach access.

  • Active Holidays
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  • Coastal Cottages
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  • Cycling Holidays
  • Large Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays

Why Book a Holiday in South Devon?

  • South Devon is dotted with beautiful towns and villages, probably the most famous being Dartmouth, home of the Royal Naval College.
  • Many Dartmouth holiday cottages or self-catering apartments offer superb waterside views across the wide Dart Estuary towards Kingswear.
  • The Dart is packed with Marinas while ferries ply their trade carrying cars and foot passengers across to Kingswear, a terminus for the South Devon Railway.
  • From the station, restored Great Western steam locomotives haul visitors through the South Devon countryside to Paignton, where getting a pleasure boat back to Dartmouth is often possible.
  • The contrast in geography is most pronounced if you drive for an hour from the coast at Kingsbridge or Dartmouth. Here you will find yourself on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park. Dartmoor feels truly wild with ponies running wild and large expanses of moorland dotted with rocky Tors and babbling rivers.
  • South Devon has many historical and heritage sites. Dartmouth Castle is worth a visit or make your way to Greenway, a National Trust site with stunning gardens. This also used to be Agatha Christie's home.
  • This place is great for an action packed holiday! Paddle and build sand castles at Blackpool Sands or try your hand at surfing, kayaking or windsurfing among the waves at Bantham. 

 

Where Can You Explore From Your South Devon Holiday Home?

  • A fun day trip could involve taking a trip on one of the heritage railways named the Dart Valley line, which chunters alongside the River Dart between Totnes and Buckfastleigh.
  • Further down the coast is Burgh Island, on which stands an Art Deco hotel that features in at least one Agatha Christie novel. When the tide is in, reach it by ‘sea tractor.
  • Dartmouth with its historic maritime charm and lively waterfront area is a must for exploration, this town offers an authentic English experience with delightful boat trips along River Dart. Take a rejuvenating stroll at Trelissick Gardens and feel the calm of natures beauty!
  • Torquay is another coastal gem offering miles of pristine sandy beaches, world-class seafood cuisine, shops and pubs. You can enjoy the lively promenades along Newlyn Walk, which provides breathtaking views over a sweeping expanse of golden sands that extend for kilometers into the distance.
  • You can reach Exeter city just outside of South Devon, It's a destination boasting stunning architecture and charming streets with quaint shops, cafés, galleries and market squares to explore. Don’t forget to visit Friar Gate Museum for a taste of the area's cultural heritage!
  • For those seeking outdoor adventure in South Devon, you might want to head towards Dartmoor National Park—a vast expanse of rolling moors dotted with ancient stone circles, old woodlands and hidden valleys. Visitors can embark on challenging walks, gentle rambles or try climbing on granite Tors.
  • As your journey winds down through South Devon, pay a visit to Salcombe's vibrant harbour. Stroll along its narrow streets lined with local businesses and charming pubs for an authentic taste of the region’s warm hospitality!