Book a romantic break in North Devon this September

The summer is coming to an end, the kids are back at school and things are starting to slow down now the summer rush is over. If you’ve not had a chance to get away yet this year or you want a holiday without kids, now is the perfect time, especially if you want a cheeky get away just the two of you or a romantic retreat. There’s no need to wait for Valentine’s Day – September is still warm enough to enjoy the weather and once the kids are back at school, is much quieter, meaning there are less crowds to share activities and accommodation with.

If you’re on the hunt for a romantic break or just a chance to get away for a few days to relax now the summer is over and before the mania of Christmas, here are some suggestions, you never know, perhaps you’ll get swept up in the romance of it all, the great romantic poets all found the North Devon region inspirational after all!

So, if you’re now intrigued by the idea of a romantic break in September, here are some suggestions of places to stay, perfect for a couples.

For anyone who wants something peaceful and tranquil but also close to civilisation so you can be wined and dined, take a look at HARTA Retreat.  Located on a farm on the outskirts of Barnstaple, HARTA Retreat is a tranquil couple’s hide away with luxury glamping for two in a cosy tipi. The tipi is set within scenic hills and is just a short trip away from the region’s beaches. Each one has underfloor heating and a log burning stove, plus a king size bed, ensuite bathrooms and your own flushing loo – perfect for those that love the idea of camping but want the luxury of a hotel.

Image: Harta Retreat

One of the most popular accommodation options for those looking for a romantic break is a cute, cosy cottage. The team at Marsdens Devon Cottages have a large and diverse portfolio of holiday cottages across the whole county and with 45 year’s experience, they are well placed to find you the perfect holiday destination. In Appledore, where you can enjoy cute, pastel homes and beautiful sunsets there is Catboat Cottage, a 200 year old fisherman’s cottage that has been lovingly restored and includes many of the original features, including timber which is believed to have come from an old ship! Cute and charismatic, Catboat Cottage is just a stone’s throw from the beach and you can hear the waves gently lapping against the shore. Another beachside option are the properties looked after by Beach Cove Coastal Retreat. Offering quirky beach huts, private hot tubs and beautiful views over Ilfracombe, Beach Cove Coastal Retreat is a cute option for your couple’s break. Or if you fancy not only being able to see the beach but step right onto it, take a look at Saunton Beach Villas. Right on the doorstep is 3.5 miles of sandy beach backed by the Braunton Burrows, which is the second largest sand dune system in the UK! Saunton Sands is one of Britain’s best beaches and is perfect for a romantic getaway. Not only that, but the beach is dog friendly and so are many of the properties.

Image: Sauton Beach Village

While a cosy cottage is pretty romantic, sometimes you just want to be pampered and looked after and honestly, who doesn’t love having a break from cooking? If you want to have a break, book a hotel stay. The Hartland Quay Hotel is located right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean on a wonderfully unspoiled coastline. The hotel has occupied its spot overlooking the ocean since 1886 and the onsite restaurant serves locally sourced food and ale all year round – including Full English breakfasts – the perfect way to start the day.

Next to Britain’s best beach, the Watersmeet Hotel is a beautiful boutique hotel with stunning sea views and an award winning two AA rosette restaurant. The hotel also features indoor and outdoor pools and spa facilities, providing a lovely and relaxing atmosphere. Like the idea of having lots of facilities right on site? Saunton Sands Hotel might be the one for you. With access right onto Saunton Sands Beach and the other popular beaches along the coastline, this is the ideal place for beachlovers to stay. Not only that but the hotel has state of the art Source Spa and Wellness, gym, indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools, tennis courts and award winning restaurants, including a terrace where afternoon tea is served and a beachside grill. Guests can use all the leisure facilities for free, including in house entertainment!

Image: Royal Hotel

Not a beach lover? There are plenty of options for a romantic break for you too. Like the Royal Hotel in Bideford. This hotel dates back to the 17^th Century, the Kingsley Room still has its original panelling and ornate ceiling, it’s a wonderful example of a Regency hotel. There are a several magical dining options, from fine dining in their famous Regency Restaurant or more relaxed options at the bar. The chefs use locally sourced ingredients and it is a great place for stopping for a traditional Devon Cream Tea.

These are just a small selection of places to stay for a romantic break, there are loads more options that you can see here. Once you’re in North Devon, there are loads of activities perfect for couples – only if you want to get out and about of course! With lots of romantic walks and trails all over the North Devon region, especially across the Exmoor National Park. There are also miles of cycle tracks and plenty of other adventure activities to enjoy together. Find more things to do here.