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The insider’s guide to Devon holiday cottages

The insider’s guide to Devon

Simon L 27 November 2018

When planning a holiday, there are only so many things TripAdvisor, Google Maps and clickbait created by giant corporate chains can tell you. What you really want is a local who’s been there, done that and got the T-shirt - and that’s where we come in.

Our insider’s guide to Devon is packed with top tips that only the locals will know because, well, we’re local! Our team have lived in, worked in and loved Devon for years, meaning we’re experts when it comes to all you need to know about our beloved county. So sit back and let us intrigue you with enthralling information, leading you to scrap your bucket list and write a whole new one dedicated to the delightful county of Devon.

Devon beaches

With 450 miles of coastline to explore - from North Devon's wild and rugged cliffs to South Devon's gently lapping shores - Devon is the perfect destination for a beach break. But where do you go to avoid the summer crowds? There's plenty of room for everyone to find their own corner of Devon heaven - check out our guides below to the best beaches in Devon. 
 
 Devon beach guide
 Best beaches North Devon
 Secret North Devon beaches
 Best South Devon beaches

Want to get even closer to the action? Book a stay in one of our coastal cottages and you can wake up with the sparkling sea just metres away from your doorstep, ready and waiting for a day of adventure.

Dog-friendly Devon

Walkies along golden sands, up countryside hills or around secret forests; Devon is a must-visit destination if you're a four-legged traveller - and owners are sure to have a ball too! Read on to discover everything you need to know about dog-friendly Devon - from places to sit, stay and lie down, to the best dog-friendly beaches for getting salty fur and sandy paws. 
 
 Devon's best dog-friendly cottages
 Devon dog walks
 Dog-friendly beaches Devon
 Dog-friendly Devon

Have we set tails wagging? Take a look at our full collection of dog-friendly cottages in Devon where four-legged visitors are just as welcome as their two-legged owners. 

Devon sports

Devon is a veritable adventure playground for all ages, whether you choose to ride the waves, paddle around placid water or see the sights on two wheels. Here are our guides to the secret spots where you can enjoy uncrowded and unadulterated adventures!
 
 Best places to surf in Devon
 Best activity centres in Devon
 Best places to paddleboard in Devon
 Best cycling trails in Devon

Are you thinking of bringing the family for an epic holiday packed full of adventures in the fresh Devon air? Our family-friendly cottages offer the perfect place to relax in when the day is done - some even have kid-pleasing features like games rooms, play areas and swimming pools!

Devon walks

Devon is criss-crossed by a network of walking trails just waiting to be explored - some more well-known and some less so! Whether you're looking for endless ambles along dramatic coastline or breathtaking hikes over undulating countryside, read on to find out where you can wander in solitude and seclusion.
 
 South West Coast Path walks
 North Devon walks
 Tarka Trail guide
 Best secret walks in Devon

What could be better than returning to your holiday cottage to soothe aching muscles in a bubbling hot tub? Take a look at our collection of hot tub cottages in Devon that are perfect for a post-walk soak. 

Devon photography

You know how the saying goes: "Take nothing but pictures; leave nothing but footprints." Even if you're the most amateur of photographers, we're certain that Devon's stunning natural landscapes will inspire you to get snapping. Here are our favourite spots where you can hone your skills - some you may even recognise from a famous film franchise!
 
 Best sunsets in Devon
 Best locations to photograph in Devon
 Devon's influence on Harry Potter
 South West Through A Lens

Next steps:

Have we sold our beautiful county to you? Good! Now you just need to find somewhere equally beautiful - but not so secret - to stay. Check out our range of self-catering holiday cottages in Devon and the perfect accommodation for you!

Looking for further inspiration ahead of your Devon holiday? Make sure you check out our food and drink guide, our things to do guide and our interactive map of Devon.

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.

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The Travel Chapter Limited trading as Stay In Devon is an appointed representative of ITC Compliance Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (their registration number is 313486) and which is permitted to advise on and arrange general insurance contracts as an intermediary.
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