Being able to have your meals when you want, planning your own itinerary and then changing it at the last moment on a whim, throwing the map away and just 'exploring'… All of these make up the real beauty of a self-catering holiday in Devon - flexibility.
The best part of a self-catering holiday is that you are not tied to any particular schedule. And one of the best ways to see as much of this extraordinary county as possible is to be able to have a base that offers you the freedom to explore at will. Devon is one of the most popular destinations for visitors to the UK and is equally popular with British visitors who may have fond childhood memories of holidays in a cottage on Dartmoor. The idyllic, rural landscape and sheer quality of self-catering accommodation continues to ensure Devon's popularity with those looking for value for money family holidays.
Self-catering in Devon is of an exceptionally high standard. One of the county's major income sources is from tourism and so competition to attract visitors is very high. This has had the advantage of pushing the standards of self-catering accommodation in the county up to new levels of excellence. From traditional fisherman's cottages, perfect for a romantic break for two up to Devon 'longhouses' and stunning barn conversions for larger groups, the sheer range of accommodation available means that there will be a location to suit any tastes and any budget.
Because of its geographic position, Devon benefits from a very mild climate, even in the winter months. Heavy snow is rare, and then only usually only on the higher moorland areas of Exmoor and Dartmoor, and most of the county is warmed by prevailing south westerly winds. This makes Devon the ideal self-catering location at any time of year and not just during the high season months of June to August. Self-catering accommodation is available all year round and the milder seasons of autumn and spring can be some of the most beautiful times of the year in the West Country. Transport links to the south west are now much improved, with two airports at Plymouth and Exeter serving the county. Rail and road links, although congested during the summer peak, are much improved and the county itself has over 20,000 miles of roads to explore.
Many self-catering cottages in Devon are also dog friendly, so there's no need to leave the family pet at home. Not only does this cut down on boarding and kennel fees but also means that everyone can enjoy a family holiday, even the four-legged members!
Self-catering in Devon also means that you get an opportunity to try some of the very best local produce. Devon is renowned for the quality of its organic meats, fresh vegetables and fruit. The importance of the county's links with the sea also means that it is the best place in the UK to get some of the freshest fish and shellfish. With such a rich food heritage, restaurants in the county are plentiful and of very high standards, and even traditional 'pub grub' has moved up a league. It's not uncommon to see game such as venison and pheasant on the menus in many pubs and inns across the county.
With plenty of attractions for the whole family, arts, theatre and outdoor activities as well as some of the most stunning countryside in the UK, Devon self-catering is an ideal way to experience as much of this rich and diverse county as possible.
Self Catering Devon at Visit South Devon. See Visit South Devon for more info on Self Catering in South Devon, UK.
