Luxury holidays in Salcombe

Sailboat-studded Salcombe has long lured the yachting crowd, thanks to its location on the edge of the Kingsbridge Estuary. But it’s great for families, too, with long beaches for sand-castle building and cosy cafés for refuelling with hearty cream teas. To stretch those sea legs, head out into the scenic South Hams area, where the South West Coast Path runs on to Hope Cove and beautiful Bantham.
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When to go

In winter, Salcombe presents the chance to soak up its small-town vibe, when you can spend time strolling the South West Coast Path, walking on blustery beaches and warming up with cream teas in one of the local coffee shops. In peak summer season (July to August), prepare for it to be busy with school-holiday escapees and for restaurant reservations to be in high demand. Spring and autumn are the dream: lighter on crowds, with a chance of good weather.

Getting there

  • Planes

    The nearest airport is Exeter, an hour’s drive away, with direct links to Europe and Canada. However, your best bet for international flights is London Heathrow, a four-hour drive away.

  • Trains

    Trains call in from London Paddington to Totnes, from where you can connect to Salcombe by bus; and from Waterloo, via stops in Newton Abbot and Paignton, though a car is preferable.

  • Automobiles

    Though you don’t especially need wheels in Salcombe itself, driving in south Devon presents a scenic prospect and is the only way to go when visiting the surrounding rural area. But be warned: roads are steep and narrow, especially down to Salcombe and its sister harbours, so slow and steady wins the race.