South Devon
South Devon is a vivid contrast to the rest of the county: almost a world within a world with an atmosphere and scenery all of its own. After the dramatic, rugged coastlines of North Devon, the high wilderness of Dartmoor and the settled rural charm of East Devon, here you have an extraordinarily vibrant land ablaze with the colours of the red sandstone cliffs, the exotic semi-tropical plants growing in the warm atmosphere, and the myriad greens and blues of the river estuaries burrowing their way deep into the pastoral landscape. There are beautiful coastal towns to discover, such as Salcombe, Dartmouth and Paignton, as well as inland towns like Kingsbridge and Totnes, steeped in history. With its mild and sunny climate, palm tree-lined seaside towns, estuaries filled with boats, and sandy beaches in sheltered coves, South Devon is a wonderful place for an annual holiday or short break.

Coleton Fishacre
Spectacularly set in a luxuriant valley garden by the sea, in an enchanting corner of South Devon, here is a wonderful Arts and Crafts-style house built in 1925. You can lose yourself in the magical garden, where frequent viewpoints give enticing sea views and where tender plants from exotic climates thrive in the warm and sheltered valley. In this most evocative of holiday homes, built for the D’Oyly Carte family, there are Art Deco interiors and an atmosphere of easy 1920s elegance. A light, joyful atmosphere fills the rooms and music plays, echoing the family’s Gilbert and Sullivan connections. The coast path is close by and there are fascinating walks and lots to discover in the area, including the old military fortifications on Froward Point. Also within easy reach are the Trust’s house and garden at Greenway, once the holiday home of Agatha Christie – best reached by ferry from Dartmouth. Holiday Cottage guests have free access to Coleton Fishacre house during opening hours and access to the gardens at all times.

National Trust places nearby: Greenway, Compton Castle, Bradley Manor. Shop and pub: Kingswear 5 miles. Tea-room/café/restaurant: Coleton Fishacre. Beach: Broadsands 4 miles, Blackpool Sands via Dartmouth Ferry 10 miles. Other attractions: Living Coasts, Torquay, Paignton Zoo, Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway. Activities: walking, watersports.

Ordnance Survey Landranger Map 202