Discover South Devon’s Best-Kept Secrets: Hidden Gems You’ll Wish You’d Found Sooner
Secluded Beaches & Coves
Lannacombe Beach (near Start Point)
Nestled down narrow lanes, this small sandy beach offers clear waters and rock pools, perfect for a peaceful picnic and paddling.
Ayrmer Cove (near Bigbury)
Accessible only by footpath, this spacious sandy beach is flanked by grassy cliffs and is known for its soft sand and interesting rock pools.
Soar Mill Cove (near Salcombe)
Sheltered by the rugged cliffs of Bolt Head, this golden sandy cove is a tranquil spot often reached via a scenic stroll along the South West Coast Path.
Man Sands (near Brixham)
A secluded pebble beach with sand at low tide, located near Sharkham Point. It requires a walk along the coast path, making it wonderfully peaceful.
Ness Cove (Shaldon)
A unique beach accessible only via an original smugglers' tunnel carved through the cliff face. It's much quieter than t
Unique Natural Wonders
Wistman's Wood (Dartmoor)
A truly ancient and mystical high-altitude oak woodland on Dartmoor. Its twisted, moss-covered trees growing amongst granite boulders feel straight out of a fairy tale.
Sharrah Pool (Dartmoor)
Hidden deep within the Dart Valley, this natural, deep, glassy pool on the River Dart is a haven for wild swimmers. Overhung by ancient trees, it's a serene spot to connect with nature.
Slapton Ley
The largest natural freshwater lake in South West England, separated from the sea by a narrow shingle bar. It's a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Haldon Forest Park (near Exeter)
Offers extensive walking and cycling trails, plus Go Ape tree-top adventures.
Bolberry Down
A National Trust coastal area offering stunning views, gentle walks, and a chance to spot rare wildlife.
Charming & Underrated Villages
Stoke Gabriel
A serene village on the River Dart, known for its picturesque mill pond. Crabbing from the quay is a timeless local tradition, and you can enjoy peaceful strolls along the creek.
Dittisham
A beautiful village on the banks of the River Dart, offering a quieter charm with thatched cottages and plenty of greenery. You can catch a passenger ferry to Dartmouth from here.
Cockington (Torquay)
A charming village with thatched cottages, a water mill, and a forge. Explore the country park for beautiful walks.
Holbeton
Tucked away in the South Hams, Holbeton retains a peaceful atmosphere. Its narrow lanes lead to the impressive All Saints Church, and it's within easy reach of secluded coves like Mothecombe.
East Prawle
Devon's southernmost village, East Prawle has a wonderfully remote character, largely due to its position on the rugged Prawle Point. The Pig's Nose Inn is a legendary local pub.
