Devon knows how they make it so dreamy
SARAH BRAZENDALE enjoys a mix of nostalgic charm and modern elegance during a south coast break
IF YOU think you need to go abroad for a summer holiday, think again. You may not realise, but Devon boasts some of the most stunning beach suites to rival your favourite all-inclusive hotels anywhere abroad.
Cary Arms, a traditional southern Devon coastal inn, is nestled within a tranquil bay and is hiding something extra special – their luxury beach huts and suites. Yes, that’s right, beach huts!
The de Savary hotel itself boasts an AA rosette and five AA stars on top of its beautiful location right on the edge of the sea.
It oozes nostalgic charm which is coupled with modern elegance in its recent renovations.
As you enter the hotel you’re greeted by a snug pub, equipped with everything you would expect from a smugglers’ cove, and complete with traditional stonework walls and a welcoming, roaring fire.
Continuing through the hotel you come to a small path leading down to the beach suites (where we would be staying) and it’s obvious you’ve entered into the newer, modern, recently renovated part of the hotel.
In contrast to the typical blue and white coastal scene, the atmosphere completely changes into a scene that’s so modern, we come over all Kevin Mcloud, excited about the boldness of the property like in an episode of Grand Designs.
Walking past circular sitting pods, striking beach huts, landscaped coastal gardens and the soon-to-be spa, you arrive at the sea’s edge where the beach suites are (quite literally) suspended over the water.
The suites are unique. They’re very striking with an impressive, spacious feel and the impressive roofing (of all the things to notice – I know!) which blends into the surroundings, as they are growing grass and are lined with little pebbles.
Inside, the beach suites are decorated tastefully – they complement the relaxed, friendly feel of the inn. On the other hand they contrast the original buildings, with their bold, open-plan space, finished off with a hint of nautical furnishings.
Walking into the inn you might not have noticed that it is in fact a boutique hotel, but this definitely becomes apparent when you enter the suites themselves.
Staying there means you get to experience the best of both worlds.
You can warm up next to the fire in the restaurant after a long coastal walk, enjoy a delicious meal and then make your way back to your modern and minimalist suite for the night.
You get the comforts of a traditional inn with all the modern luxuries you’d ever need.
We visited in the height of winter, so the weather wasn’t quite what you’d picture from a Devon summer holiday but our experience was still second to none.
What we experienced was a quiet, brisk beachside trip, where we were lulled to sleep by the waves bouncing around the rocks – just 10 feet away.
In the evening the pub transforms into more of a fine-dining experience. White tablecloths and candles are whipped out to transform it into a sophisticated setting.
The hotel is paired with two Michelinstar restaurants in the area so, as you can imagine, the food is incredible ( you’ll understand when you visit).
The Cary Arms inn does an amazing job of providing top quality food with a friendly feel, with each of the waiters making an effort to get to know their diners.
We left relaxed and extremely full – with plans to return in the summer to sunbathe on the beautiful decking by the sea.