Enjoy Summer Holidays In Delightful Devon

Whether you are looking for a classic country retreat hidden away from the hustle and bustle of real life, or a coastal idyll with stunning seaside views, choose one of the many Devon cottages available to rent for your next summer holiday and you will not be disappointed. This beautiful part of the UK has some wonderful places to visit and for those who love nature, it has plenty to offer.

The Natural Side

Dartmoor is a huge expanse of moorland, famous the world over for its inextricable link to the classic Sherlock Holmes tale, The Hound of The Baskervilles. Drenched in stunning beauty, there is no denying the priceless assets of this beautiful area. Attracting millions of visitors every year, it is particularly popular with outdoor enthusiasts who can get involved in hiking, cycling, climbing and much more in the vast wilderness. Stay in one of the many Devon cottages available to rent and all of this could be right on your doorstep.

Dartmoor is one of the UK’s official National Parks, and the 160 granite tors are simply spectacular. Throughout the park in Devon, cottages, charming villages and picture postcard towns are surrounded by acres of woodland, crystal clear reservoirs and other places of archeological importance. The actual walking paths cover almost 90 miles in total and offer the avid walker plenty to explore.

Becky Falls lies in an ancient valley and has been attracting visitors for years. Voted a top beauty spot, there is also lots to keep young children occupied here. Hands-on animal encounters and the chance to handle some of the smaller animals is always a popular activity, and every day there is a Nature Trail Competition with prizes.

Kent’s Cavern is allegedly the oldest human settlement in Britain and a highlight among Europe’s Neanderthal Ice Age caves. The oldest fragment of human bone in North West Europe was discovered here and has put this place firmly on the archeological "place of interest" map. Tours of the caves take you on an incredible journey into a labyrinth of caverns that offer an insight into a Stone Age past. Again, there is lots of hands-on activity for children to get involved in. Ghost tours in the caves during the summer months are great fun but are not for those with a nervous disposition! This year you can even take advantage of a Ghost Tour and dinner deal that is being offered at the caves.

For some lighthearted entertainment, take your family to The Donkey Sanctuary near Sidmouth. Here, the protection of donkey welfare is the priority. Free of charge, a visit here allows you to meet the animals and enjoy beautiful coastal walks in the area. There is a visitor’s centre and a gift shop that supports the charity and funds its good work.

From any of the Devon cottages you may choose to stay in, a day at Canonteign Falls is a possibility. The highest waterfall in England, the climb to the top, which is known as Buzzard’s View, is a rewarding and exhilarating experience. There are two play areas here for children and a zip wire too.

Katie Chown is a Property Consultant for Classic Cottages. We have a selection of spectacular Devon cottages as well as cottages in Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset. Whether you're looking for a stunning rural retreat or a luxury cottage on the coast, we have the perfect holiday home for you to fall in love with.