Thurlestone

South Devon

This very popular pretty village with its thatched cottages and colourful gardens benefits from its own warm, dry microclimate resulting in more sunny days per year than neighbouring villages a mile or two further inland. Thurlestone takes its name from the large distinctive rock off the shore and actually means pierced stone. There are several large sandy beaches, including South Milton Sands, which are safe for bathing and other more secluded coves, most of which are also good for swimming and they can be reached by walking across the prestigious golf course via public footpaths which form part of the South Devon coastal path. Look out for the remains of a shipwreck at low tide, one of many along this stretch of coastline. The village boasts one of the best hotels in Devon, (the bar, restaurant, beauty treatment salon and the 9 hole hotel golf course are open to the public). There is also a superb and famous 18 hole championship golf course (available to players with a handicap), an excellent pub - The Village Inn - which serves a first class thirst-quenching pint and good food and is said to have been partly constructed with the ships timbers from a stricken Armada vessel! Furthermore, there is a lovely old church beside the village green and a new small supermarket /post office and for those who enjoy a brisk stroll, the villages of Hope Cove and Bantham are both within walking distance along the beautiful cliff paths which offer stunning views at every turn, making Thurlestone the perfect setting for a fabulous holiday.