Things to Do

Willows Rest is situated in the stunning South Hams - one of the most picture perfect areas of the country. Whether you are looking for idyllic beaches, rolling moorland or quaint towns you will find them all a short drive away. The property has been designed and landscaped to give you the privacy needed to feel a world away from everyday life, but if you should need help planning your adventures, the super-friendly owners live behind the property and are always happy to help with suggestions and ideas to help you make the most of your holiday.

beaches

The South Hams beaches are some of the best in Devon and you will be spoilt for choice for an idyllic day before returning to Willows Rest with salty hair and sandy toes. Choose from the golden sandy dunes of Bantham with its rolling surf or the pretty harbour of Hope Cove. Bigbury is the perfect spot for some sandcastle building, and if you time it right you can walk across to Bigbury Island whilst the tide is out. Just make sure you head back in time! Mill Bay and Sunny Cove are firm family favourites, situated the other side of the estuary from bustling Salcombe and provide the perfect spot for paddling in the fresh water stream.

national trust

If you have National Trust membership both South Milton and Millbay are National Trust beaches so parking will be free. You can also visit Greenway House (Agatha Christie’s home) and Overbecks in Salcombe.

walks

There are plenty of walks around the surrounding areas to keep everyone happy, from a casual stroll to a bracing hike. The cliff walks are some of the most stunning you will encounter, or you are only a short drive from Dartmoor with its rugged and beautiful landscape.

towns & amenities

There are a handful of picturesque towns within easy reach that can cater for all your requirements or are perfect just for a little wander. Willows Rest is nestled between the bustling bohemian town of Totnes, with its unique independent stores and cafes, and Kingsbridge, where you will find delis and shops scattered along the estuary. For most, a must visit will be Salcombe with its pretty high street, harbour and restaurants. Dartmouth is also nearby, with its beautiful harbour, bountiful shops, restaurants and cafes.

pubs & dining

Should you be able to tear yourself away from your little haven, then you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to wining and dining. The local The New Inn is a short walk away (0.75 miles), and after stretching your legs you can reward yourself with their delicious steak dinner. The Malsters in Tuckenhay, The Ferry Boat Inn in Dittisham and the Millbrook Inn at South Pool are also well worth a visit. Take a trip in to Kingsbridge or Totnes and you will find a variety of dining options from the Old Bakery to Ben’s Tapas, or Flour and Rice Japanese in Totnes.

A trip to the area wouldn’t be complete without the requisite fish and chips. Start Bay Inn is a favourite with most, and you can’t get fresher than The Brittannia at Beesands.

family days out

If you fancy a change from sand castle building, then there is something to keep everyone happy with Pennywell Farm park, and for the animal lovers the Dartmoor Otter Sanctuary and Totnes Rare Breeds Farm, and for the thrill seekers The Woodlands Leisure Park and River Dart Country Park. For a slower paced afternoon, a spot of crabbing is always a nice way to while away a few hours, so head to Dittisham or Dartmouth and find your spot on the water’s edge. If you are looking for an action packed day, you can hire water sport equipment, such as boogie boards, surfboards and SUP, at the main beaches of Bantham and South Milton.

attractions

For the foodies, Sharpham Vineyard offers food and wine tasting, or the South Devon Chilli Farm is worth a visit. Take a trip further afield and explore the Eden Project, Exeter or the Plymouth Aquarium.