Devon is a gorgeous county made up of exquisite coastline, wild moors, pretty market towns and rich, rolling countryside. A holiday here is like stepping into a mini paradise – the pace of life is slower, more relaxed – and combined with one of our luxury holiday cottages, makes for a completely chilled out getaway. Head to Dartmoor for wild and woolly walks (watch out for ponies), enjoy the golden sandy beaches of both the north and south coasts, head to Exeter for a spot of city life or simply explore the pretty villages filled with artisan shops, tea rooms and fabulous inns, pubs and restaurants. Our stunning collection of luxury cottages in Devon are just as extraordinary; from former mills to Grade II listed manor houses, bijoux luxury dog friendly cottages to fairy tale towers, we’ve the perfect five star retreat for you.

Dining in Devon is a treat in itself. From country inns to fine dining luxury, waterside retreats to quaint cafes, there is so much choice! Pasties are almost as prominent here as in Cornwall and cream teas are popular too (just make sure you remember, in Devon it’s cream first!). 

For cheese lovers you are in the best place with local cheeses including Sharpham, Vulscombe and Devon Blue. The most famous food originating from Devon is probably Ambrosia custard and rice pudding – a national treasure.

For that special occasion there are some truly special places such as the Mason’s Arms, a 13th century Michelin-starred thatched pub, the stunning romantic Elizabethan surroundings of Combe House and of course, the ultimate: Gidleigh Park. Luxurious Gidleigh is only one a handful of restaurants to have two Michelin stars with legendary culinary expert Michael Caines at the helm. For a truly special occasion put this on your list: it won’t be matched!

Devon has a famous history when it comes to drink. The renowned Plymouth Gin is still loved locally and in the 1930s it was the most widely distributed gin of the era. There is a vast selection of local ciders as well as beers from local breweries such as Otter Brewery and Dartmoor Brewery.

Luscombe are the best for juices with everything from fresh lemonade, lime, orange juice, apple with ginger or our favourite… hot ginger beer: it’s a real zinger! Luscombe have been making their drinks since the 1970’s based on their farm in Buckfastleigh and have a host of awards under their belt.

Of course, should you want a traditional English tea or freshly brewed coffee, there are cafes a-plenty. If you find yourself near Exeter make sure you pay a visit to Devon Coffee on Queen Street. A classic independent boutique coffee shop in the centre of the city and the only coffee shop in Devon to be named in the 50 Best Coffee Shops by the Independent.

There is lots to explore during your luxury self catering Devon: vast sandy stretches of coastline, rambling countryside walks, the awe-inspiring Dartmoor and quaint villages and bustling towns such as Totnes, Dartmouth, Torquay and the picturesque Hope Cove, there really is so much to see.

For days out head to Exeter or Plymouth for a day of shopping and make sure you visit the aquarium in Plymouth, it is the largest in the UK. Dartington Crystal is fascinating to learn about the history of glassmaking or learn about history and go back to the Downton Abbey era in Powderham Castle.

For fun with the children head to Exmoor Zoo, named winner of the best small attraction for the South West it is bound to keep the young ones entertained! Whilst staying in Devon luxury accommodation, walk the South West Coast Path and pack a picnic and cycle the Exe Estuary Trail, this is what a Devon holiday is all about.