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.

A large large stone barn conversion in Devon surrounded by open fields and mature trees
  • Sleeps 10
  • Bedrooms 4

Swallows Reach is an exquisite large holiday cottage in Halwell, a dream South Devon holiday home with a swimming pool. This impressive farm cottage boasts five beautifully appointed bedrooms, four with en suite facilities, spanning three levels. Enjoy the inviting open-plan living space, including a lounge with a wood-burning stove, and relish the fully equipped kitchen. With the added allure of an indoor pool, shared play area, and the convenience of off-road parking, Swallows Reach promises a perfect pet-friendly getaway for families or groups.

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Exterior of a large 2-storey barn conversion surrounded by lawns.
  • Sleeps 18
  • Bedrooms 8

Stay at The Roundhouse, a large holiday cottage in South Devon. Seven bedrooms and a private annexe offer flexible accommodation for gatherings. The grand central hall of this luxury holiday home boasts a well-equipped kitchen and a wood-burning stove. Enjoy countryside views from the mezzanine or relax in the shared indoor pool and play area. Perfect for pet-friendly holidays, this rural cottage provides peace and privacy. For a detailed experience, view the fuller description and book your stay at this extraordinary barn conversion near Halwell.

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  • Sleeps 10
  • Bedrooms 4

Timbers is an elegant coastal cottage in an enviable waterside location above the tidal creek. This large holiday cottage in Newton Ferrers boasts ample grounds, beautiful gardens, light-filled rooms & its own private tidal slipway. Enjoy peace and seclusion in style just moments from the South Devon coast.

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A contemporary wood and glass bungalow with a wrap-around deck overlooks a shrub-filled garden.
  • Sleeps 8
  • Bedrooms 4

Unique four-bedroom coastal property near Dartmouth in South Devon, sleeping up to eight guests. Suitable for large groups or extended families, including an outside hot tub and covered sauna.

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Exterrior of an eco lodge with a  covered deck and hot-tub.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

A luxury lodge in the peaceful Devon countryside outside Exeter. With a huge wooden deck and sunken hot tub, this home has two en-suite bedrooms and a log burner in the spacious living room. Within just a short drive of Exeter, you can enjoy the city's vibrancy and the quiet of a lakeside setting.

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A stone-built, 2-storey courtyard cottage with foxgloves flowering in its garden.
  • Sleeps 8
  • Bedrooms 4

Cherry Cottage near Slapton Sands in South Devon was built at Buckland Court in 2001. This large rural holiday cottage sleeps 8 in 4 bedrooms. It is furnished to a high standard, including Wi-Fi. Central heating and modern insulation ensure this cottage is ideal for off-season use. Pets welcome

  • Active Holidays
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  • Walking Holidays
far-reaching view of boating marinas on the Dart Estuary
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Rose Cottage in South Devon, sleeps 4 in 2 bedrooms with truly spectacular panoramic views over the Dart Esturary Darthaven Marina, the Britannia Royal Naval College and upstream towards Dittisham. The stone holiday cottage was built in 1880 in a sought after position, A great, peaceful location on the English Riviera close to South Devon beaches.

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  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 2

Enjoy the perfect pet-friendly beach break in this modern, bright, first floor apartment. With two bedrooms and two bathrooms there is plenty of room for all, with the view from the large bay window meaning you get to watch the changing moods of the sea from the comfort of your living room.

  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Tucked on the leafy South View Lodges resort, Oak Lodge is a beautiful, spacious lodge perfect for that family escape.

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!