Nine beautiful hotels in the South Hams

The South Hams is renowned as one of the most beautiful parts of the UK, and as such it is an exquisite destination for a holiday whether romantic, family or with friends. Amongst the postcard perfect towns and villages, as well as the breathtaking natural landscapes, here the Good Hotel Guide shares nine beautiful South Hams hotels that also showcase the best of the South Devon’s hospitality as well…

Soar Mill Cove, Salcombe

Set in one of the most exquisite locations just outside Salcombe, Soar Mill Cove is the Makepeace family’s seaside gem of a hotel. Nestled into a dip between the clifftops it’s a family friendly hotel where dolphin spotting, races to the beach close by and rounds of tennis are followed by cream teas on the patio.

soarmillcove.co.uk

Burgh Island, Bigbury on Sea

The ultimate in romantic escapes, Burgh Island is throwback to the 1930s. This is where Art Deco style reigns supreme, black tie dinners provide the evening’s entertainment, historic connections are written into the brickwork, and all on a private island accessed by sea tractor across the beach at Bigbury on Sea.

www.burghisland.com

Fingals, Dittisham

Somewhere between a hotel and a B&B, Fingals is a unique experience. Something of a time warp, between the home of an aristocrat and a 1930s rural escape, it feels less like a hotel and more like going to stay with an eccentric relative. In this 17th century property each room is different – antiques and artefacts are peppered throughout so it’s a bit of an adventure at every turn - children love it and run wild in the gardens and swimming pool, while adults luxuriate in the total escapism of this little corner of Devonshire paradise.

www.fingals.co.uk

Thurlestone Hotel, Thurlestone

Surrounded by a golf course and five minutes from the sea, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to beaches at the Thurlestone Hotel. You can go for easily accessible beaches or secluded ones for the more adventurous amongst you. That said, if you decide to stay at the hotel you can explore the subtropical gardens, games library, badminton courts, and a pint in the 16th century pub next door.

www.thurlestonegolfclub.co.uk

Salcombe Harbour Hotel, Salcombe

In the seaside town that’s famous for its Salcombe Dairy ice cream, the Salcombe Harbour Hotel serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with a view of the estuary in The Jetty Restaurant. Tuck into afternoon tea and all the coastal classics at this luxury hotel, courtesy of award-winning Chef Alex Aitken, as the sailing boats bob by.

www.salcombe-harbour-hotel.co.uk

The Cricket Inn, Beesands

Having first opened its doors in 1867, The Cricket Inn sits only metres from the sloping beach and the crystal clear waters of Start Bay in the small fishing village of Beesands. The menu is populated with fresh seafood and local produce including locally reared beef and lamb, for which the area is known, as well as vegetables grown nearby - it’s a wonderfully wholesome experience - perfect after a day of coastal exploration.

www.thecricketinn.com

South Sands, Salcombe

So close to the sea you’re practically in it, South Sands hotel sits on the beach in a bay just outside the famed seaside town of Salcombe. Light and airy, it has a contemporary maritime feel that’s elegant and sophisticated. Dogs are welcome in some bedrooms for a supplement and rooms are named after sailing boats which is a lovely touch. Next door you can arrange for kayaking and stand up paddle board lessons with the friendly team at Sea Kayak Salcombe, so you can see the coastline from all angles. This hotel definitely has wow factor.

www.southsands.com

Kaywana Hall, Kingswear

A luxurious bed and breakfast close to historic Dartmouth, Kaywana Hall sits in 12 acres of gardens and woodland. A private oasis offering contemporary architecture and a beautiful swimming pool, it has four beautiful rooms named after the trees that surround it, and offers a five star service at every turn.

www.kaywanahall.co.uk

The Henley, Bigbury on Sea

Built as an Edwardian holiday cottage, The Henley overlooks the beach at Bigbury on Sea - a magical place that’s perfect for dog walking and family escapes. Beautiful bedrooms and glorious breakfasts abound in this peaceful idyll by the sea.

www.thehenleyhotel.co.uk

From a selection of South Devon hotels on the Good Hotel Guide