South Sands Boutique Hotel
Salcombe, Devon
Beach boutique hotel near Salcombe with a buzzing restaurant, sea-view rooms and 5 beach apartments
How rare is it to find a hotel literally on the beach in the
UK? Answer: very. But finding one with stylish rooms and apartments
in a great location is nigh-on impossible. South Sands, however,
with its New-England decor, fresh Quba sail furniture and views
across the Salcombe estuary fits the bill perfectly. There's
nothing between you and the golden-sand beach out front, and once
here there's no need for a car. Take the sea tractor and ferry, or
walk for half an hour and you're in the heart of Salcombe. This
picturesque Devon sailing haven, favoured by well-heeled yachties
and outdoorsy families, has boutique shops a plenty, some decent
eateries and is only a short launch across the water to yet more
pristine beaches and fine coastal walks.
Back at the hotel, most rooms have views out to sea, but
if yours faces the valley fear not; the restaurant with its simple,
wonderful food (menu courtesy of Mitch Tonks) is one of the best
sea-view spaces we've ever seen, and has a wide terrace for outdoor
dining. Staff are cheerful and friendly; for the most part young
and casually attired - the seaside vibe runs deep. Beach it in
summer, cosy up by the fire in winter, South Sands is a winning
formula.
Reviewed by Aidan Forestier-Walker
Last updated 23 March 2012
Highs
- Beautifully styled rooms with seascape colours and plantation shutters; wonderfully peaceful
- A watersports paradise: sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, motor boating and waterskiing on your doorstep
- Families will love the self-catering Beach Suite apartments, the sailing school next door, and the restaurant terrace that overlooks the beach so you can idly supervise kids playing
- The restaurant: stylish, light and airy with deliciously fresh seafood and excellent breakfasts (porridge with maple and peaches; pancakes with banana, ricotta and honeycomb)
- Lots to do without having to drive anywhere, including endless National Trust coastal pathways to explore
Lows
- You'll need to book the restaurant a few days in advance if coming in high season
- Driving to and from Salcombe can be tricky down narrow lanes, especially if you meet oncoming traffic; best to leave the car in the town and take the boat across
- There's no communal area beyond the restaurant and bar, but you have the whole beach at your disposal
