14 of South Devon’s Most Romantic Settings

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching. If you’re planning to whisk your special someone away for a romantic break in South Devon, this love-struck location guide could be just the ticket.

From the rugged beauty of Dartmoor to the gleaming bays of the South Devon coast, when it comes to dreamy and romantic settings, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Here are 14 of our favourite…

1. Soar Mill Cove

We begin our romantic road trip on the lesser-known shores of Soar Mill Cove. This sheltered inlet can be found along the South West Coast Path, either by following the clifftop passage east from Bolberry Down, or arriving from Bolt Head (from the west) and traversing The Warren pass, with dramatic scenery in every direction. Be beguiled by dazzling sunsets and sit amongst the rock samphire and sea-lavender to gaze down on this once fabled smugglers’ beach, lapped by turquoise waters. Take a stroll together along the strand line and see if you can spot any seals bobbing amongst the outcrops. Further up the coast path lies the Soar Mill Cove Hotel where you can find a quiet and cosy table for two by the window.

2. Bolberry Down

The Bigbury Bay coastal corridor provides some of the South West Coast Path’s most stunning panoramas, and the clifftops of Bolberry Down captivate all those who traverse this snaking trail with views that sweep as far as Prawle Point, Devon’s most southerly landmark. During the summer the paths and verges are a sprawl of yellow gorse, foxgloves and pink sea thrift. Legend has it that the Down was once the lair of “Ralph the Smuggler” who hid out in a cavern (Ralph’s Hole) precariously cleaved into the precipice where bailiffs and constables dared not venture. This romantic clifftop is the perfect setting for a seaside walk, and is also the location of Ocean’s Restaurant, an exclusive venue for coastal fine-dining.

3. Bantham

Backed by farmers’ fields, sand dunes and the wends of the Avon River lies the mile-long golden sweep of Batham Beach. Also an iconic surf spot, the sparkling swells and fresh sea air are sure to put a spring in your steps as you walk arm-in-arm across the butterscotch sand. The South West Coast Path runs all the way around the lower Avon Valley, a popular estuary walk along the wooded banks passing two historic country pubs, The Sloop Inn in Bantham Village and The Fisherman’s Rest found tucked away in Aveton Gifford. The beach is quiet out of season, a chance to relish the freedom of a romantic seaside stroll.

4. Burgh Island

You can’t write a description of Bantham Beach without including the famous tidal outcrop known as Burgh Island which sits off Bigbury Bay on the opposite side of the estuary. Home to a historic and elegant Art Deco hotel, this famous landmark was once the writing retreat of Agatha Christie who used the setting to pen two of her thrillers. You can reach the island by crossing the sandbar at low tide or hitch a ride on the hotel’s sea tractor on the high water. If you’re hoping to orchestrate a memorable Valentine’s date, a visit to the island and lunch at the characterful Pilchard Inn is sure to float your boat.

5. Dartington Hall

Think of a flower associated with Valentine’s Day and you’ll no doubt conjure visions of red roses, however this time of year our woodlands and riverbanks host one of our favourite wildflowers. The nodding white petals of snowdrops signal the start of spring and blanket some of the area’s most scenic enclaves. So how about setting off on a snowdrop stroll to let romance blossom? Head to the enchanting gardens of Dartington Hall, not far from the Elizabethan market town of Totnes, a magnificent, medieval estate interwoven with magical walks around its 880 acres filled with ancient woodland, rivers and wildflower meadows. This time of year, it’s a tapestry of snowdrops.

6. Middle Avon Valley

Your second snowdrop safari can be found deep in the Middle Avon Valley near the charming villages of Loddiswell and Woodleigh. This riverside walk from Topsham Bridge is bathed in snowdrops, and not only passes a cosy village pub, the Loddiswell Inn, but also weaves alongside the Avon Mill garden centre cafe where you can feast on freshly baked cakes and Devon cream teas.

7. Dartmouth

It’s been called the “Jewel of the South Hams”, its historic buildings, narrow and winding streets, marinas and wharfs, cafés, bistros, galleries and boutiques all combine to give the royal port of Dartmouth its fairy-tale charm. Home to some of Toad Hall Cottages’ most sought-after holiday cottages, this flamboyant riverside town is famous for its festivals and regattas, the impressive Britannia Royal Naval College seated proudly above the rooftops and the ramparts of Dartmouth Castle providing a fascinating insight into the parish’s rich naval history. Take your Valentine for a mooch along the flagstones, while away an hour in one of the town’s eateries and watch the boats sail by.

8. Dart Valley Trail

As if the idyllic and history-steeped streets of Dartmouth aren’t enough to give you starry eyes, across the water lies one of South Devon’s prettiest riverside walks, following the route of the old Great Western Railway below the wooded hillside. The Dartmouth Higher Ferry will carry you across the river mouth to the neighbouring village of Kingswear where you can pick up the leafy trail to Greenway House and Gardens, a Georgian riverside mansion and former family home of Agatha Christie who used the boathouse as a scene in her novel Dead Man’s Folly. Hop aboard the Dittisham Greenway Ferry to discover more of the Dart Valley Trail. Stop off at the Ferry Boat Inn where you’ll find a quiet corner and some hearty pub grub.

9. Start Point Lighthouse

One of the South West coast’s most dramatic locations, commanding spectacular views across Start Bay, the Start Point Lighthouse has been a warning beacon for sailors since 1836, warding vessels away from the jagged ridges around Black Stone rock known as The Skerries. This famous waymark stands 28 metres tall and took a team of 40 men two years to construct, it’s brilliant white cylindrical wall striking against the rocky headland. Star gazers, sunrise worshipers and storm chasers all follow the headland path to enjoy a variety of vistas and seascapes – a truly captivating spot that’s perfect for a romantic picnic. The ruins of the lost hamlet of Hallsands and the charming seaside village of Beesands lie further around the peninsular.

10. South Pool Creek

Described as “the loveliest of waterways in the district”, the secret wends of South Pool Creek remains one of the Kingsbridge & Salcombe Estuary’s best kept secrets. At the head of this sheltered anchorage lies South Pool village, a scattering of cottages tucked away into the leafy valley. There are several enchanting walks to be enjoyed around South Pool and a historic local pub, The Millbrook Inn, found in the heart of the village where you can enjoy a candlelit meal together.

11. Hove Cove

Our next romantic setting is loved for its spellbinding sunsets and invigorating headland walks. Home to two sandy beaches, the village of Hope Cove is sheltered by the Bolt Tail bluff and lapped by the clear waters of Bigbury Bay. With its clutch of tearooms and bistros and magical ocean views from the hillsides, this characterful fishing village is a pilgrimage for all those who love romantic shoreline strolls, clifftop picnics and sparkling horizons, all the ingredients required for an intimate South Devon date.

12. Salcombe

No romantic dates listicle would be complete without the inclusion of one of South Devon’s most beautiful tourist spots. The harbour town of Salcombe is encompassed by idyllic sandy beaches and secret smuggler’s bays, and its historic streets are lined by galleries, boutiques, artisan food parlours and seafood bistros. The old Cliff Road leads you out of the town to the neighbouring beaches of North and South Sands, before arriving at the tropical gardens of Overbeck’s, perched high on the cliffs with stunning views of the Salcombe estuary. You can easily while away the hours exploring this seaside town along with its many popular attractions which include the world famous gin making school run by Salcombe Distilling Company (on Island Street) and the town’s maritime museum where you can delve into its rich seafaring history. Take a look at our holiday homes in Salcombe and start planning your couple’s retreat.

13. Harford, Dartmoor

If you love your partner to the moon and back, why not make a date beneath the stars at one of Dartmoor National Park’s recognised star gazing sites. Harford Moor is the park’s southernmost area of moorland stretching 500 hectares to the eastern banks of the river Erme, a popular spot for wild campers. There is a small car park at Harford where you can gaze at the night’s sky till your hearts are content, and if you’re lucky you might see some shooting meteorites fizzing across the constellations. Pack your blankets and a thermos flask and broadcast your love to the cosmos.

14. Bow Creek

For our final South Devon date we’re heading for the tranquil backwaters of the River Dart and the sun-dappled shores of Bow Creek, only a short stroll from the village of Tuckenhay. Cradled by Charleycombe Wood, this final wend of the Harbourne River is weaved by honeysuckle lanes and old drover’s trails, providing idyllic country walks, with The Malsters Arms within easy reach to provide your refreshments. The medieval market town of Totnes is only a short road trip away, while across the waterway lies the ancient farming parish of Stoke Gabriel. This idyllic yachtsman’s haunt lies off the beaten track – perfect for a quiet romantic date this Valentine’s.

Planning a romantic break in South Devon? Take a look at our collection of cottages perfect for two.