"Why I love Devon" by Fiona Duncan.

WHY I LOVE… DEVON

One of the great assets of the new Pig at Combe is that, just off the A30, it’s easily accessible and doable for a weekend for Londoners.

If it’s the West Country you want, but Cornwall is too far, then Devon is the answer. Craggy coves and cream teas, surfing, hiking on Exmoor and Dartmoor and pints in pub gardens – the pleasure of Devon are simple and scenic, where good food and the great outdoors go hand in hand. Some of my very favourite places to stay are in Devon: not just the new Pig at Combe, but the wonderful Hotel Endsleigh...

and Horn of Plenty in the Tamar Valley,

Nonsuch House overlooking the River Dart,

Gidleigh Park on the edge of Exmoor

and the South Sands at Salcombe.

  • The Pig at Combe Honiton, Devon 27 rooms from AU$479

    The Pig at Combe
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    Restaurant  -  Informal dining is the name of the game - plus nothing comes from more than 25 miles away
    Fishing  -  On the river Otter, plus the kitchen will cook whatever you catch for you!
    Great walks  -  Fabulous walking both on the doorstep and further afield
    Sights nearby  -  Just 5 mins from Honiton and 15 mins from Exeter
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    Trademark country chic interiors, 25 mile locally sourced menu in the restaurant, potting shed pampering, lovely gardens and gorgeous views over the surrounding Otter valley, plus a young vibrant team to look after you. Come for a chilled country escape. See More

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  • Hotel Endsleigh Tavistock 19 rooms from AU$470

    Hotel Endsleigh
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    Families  -  Babysitting and monitors available plus such delights as picnics (complete with lanterns and blankets) in the grounds.
    Honeymoons  -  Fairytale suites, gourmet cuisine, cosy fireside sofas and incredible grounds for strolling hand in hand- enchanting!
    Country Escape  -  Extensive grounds for fishing, shooting, and rambling, plus plenty of comfy armchairs for the weary walker!
    Sights nearby  -  The National Trust and its stately homes make for a great day exploring - Cothele House, Saltram House and Castle Drogo.
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    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection

    Historic shooting lodge offering an intimate, Olga Polizzi styled stay. Relax in the stunning grounds or in the library. Beautiful rooms overlook the Tamar valley and river. Excellent restaurant, and immaculate staff. Probably one of the best in the South West. See More

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  • Horn of Plenty Hotel Tavistock (Gulworthy) 16 rooms from AU$244

    Horn of Plenty Hotel
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    Groups  -  If you want your own country house just for the weekend then this is the place for you. Exclusive use is avaliable.
    Foodies  -  The award winning restaurant tantalises your taste buds with its locally sourced, seasonal and inventive menu.
    Great walks  -  With all of Dartmoor on your doorstep there is no excuse for sitting inside.
    Sights nearby  -  Dartmoor National Park and The Eden Project are both nearby.
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    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Luxury and elegance make up this country house in rural Tamar Valley on the edge of Dartmoor - a peaceful stay in stunning grounds. Modern, comfortable rooms are unique in style and capture the view. Fine dining at the 2 AA Rosettes restaurant. A perfect adult retreat. See More

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  • Gidleigh Park Hotel Chagford 24 rooms from AU$507

    Gidleigh Park Hotel
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    Fishing  -  Fly fishing on the River Teign - licenses and tuition provided
    Garden  -  Beautiful landscaped garden
    Great walks  -  There are inumerable lovely walking trails both on thr 107 acres of mature grounds and on nearby Dartmoor.
    Tennis  -  On site tennis cpurts are avaialble for guests useage.
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    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Frommers, Kiwi Collection, Relais & Chateaux, Sawdays

    Super luxurious and pampering Dartmoor retreat, on 107 acres of mature grounds. The plush rooms come with antique furnishings, original art and huge sash windows. The Michelin stared food is served in an atmospheric and grandiose dining room. Peaceful, restful and totally heavenly. See More

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  • South Sands Salcombe, Devon 22 rooms from AU$366

    South Sands
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    Great walks  -  Walk up behind the hotel and look around the National Trust's Overbeck's House and Garden a treasure trove of tropical plants.
    Local markets  -  Walk to Salcombe and check out the various art galleries and boutiques including Bibi & Mac, Quba Sails and Jack Wills.
    Sailing  -  South Sands Sailing school is right next to the hotel offering sailing, kayaking and other watersports.
    Fishing  -  The hotel can arrange deep-sea fishing trips with a little notice.
    Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Good Hotel Guide

    Paradise for watersport addicts - a comfortable haven, right on the beach. Rooms are designed in a contemporary New England style - creams and soft pastel colours. The spacious suites are perfect for families. Enjoy the sea air and great brasserie food at the beach side restaurant and terrace. See More

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Written by Fiona Duncan

posted Thursday, 24th January 2019