A Slow Summer in South Devon

There's been something wonderfully nostalgic about this summer.

Weeks of blue skies, warm evenings and that unmistakable feeling that time somehow moves a little more slowly.

We've watched guests arrive with plans to explore every corner of South Devon, only to discover that after a morning by the coast and lunch in the village, they were perfectly happy returning to the lodge for the rest of the afternoon.

There's something rather lovely about giving yourself permission to do... less.

In a world that often encourages us to fill every moment, perhaps the greatest luxury is having nowhere you need to be.

A leisurely breakfast outside. A chapter or two of a good book. A wander through the village. An afternoon nap without feeling guilty. Watching the swallows swoop across the valley as the evening begins to cool.

These are the moments that seem to stay with people long after they've gone home.

If you do decide to head out and explore, summer is a wonderful time to enjoy South Devon at a gentler pace.

Set off early for a walk along the Teign Estuary before the day warms up. Pick up an ice cream in Shaldon and watch the boats drift by. Wander through the independent shops in Totnes, stopping for coffee whenever somewhere catches your eye. Or simply take the scenic drive across Dartmoor, where even on the hottest days there's usually a welcome breeze waiting on the moor.

Then come back.

Because returning to the lodge is often when the day becomes its best.

As the sun begins to dip, the light across the estuary softens into shades of gold and pink. The garden becomes alive with bees making the most of the lavender, birds settle for the evening, and everything feels just that little bit quieter.

Although we've been enjoying an incredible run of warm weather, many guests still tell us that an evening soak is one of the highlights of their stay. There's something unexpectedly relaxing about slipping into warm water as the air cools around you, watching the first stars appear overhead.

It's peaceful.

It's simple.

And somehow, it reminds you what holidays are really about.

From the Lodge...

This month we've been enjoying:

🌿 The lavender in full bloom, buzzing happily with bees.

☀️ Long evenings spent outdoors long after dinner.

🦋 Butterflies dancing through the garden.

🌅 Sunsets that never seem to disappoint.

📖 Guests telling us they've finally found time to finish the book they've been meaning to read for months.

Summer isn't over just yet, and there are still a few opportunities to experience it for yourself.

If you've been thinking about escaping for a couple of days, we'd love to welcome you. Whether you're celebrating something special or simply craving a little peace and quiet, sometimes the best breaks aren't the ones planned months in advance—they're the ones you suddenly realise you need.

Escape. Unwind. Just Be.