A 2009 Guide to Self Catering Holidays in Devon

Despite the Government creating rescue packages for banks in a hope to revitalise the current economic downturn, the pound has continued to fall against the euro and the dollar. This has made the prospect of summer holidays abroad a remote possibility for many families this year, as the expense proves to be too much in the present economic climate. However, holidays are an important part of family life and many are now looking to the often under-explored UK locations to spend quality time with their friends and relatives.

The image of a holiday in this age is one of sand, sun, sea, stunning landscapes and exotic food. This image is more instantly synonymous with countries much further abroad, but the UK can also compete to offer all of these essential holiday ingredients and at a budget price.

The most temperate part of the UK is the West Country. Devon and Cornwall both offer reliable weeks of sunshine during the summer months and temperatures that are often warmer than the rest of the country during off-season months. South Devon has soared in popularity in recent years, not being quite so far as Cornwall but with an abundance of beaches to rival the French Riviera and waters that are warmed by the Gulf Stream. In addition the area offers breathtaking countryside that is steeped in myth and legend, offering outdoor pursuits for thrill seekers and history and mystery for culture vultures.

Taking a holiday in the West Country also offers you access to a variety of accommodation that you might not be able to procure from a holiday abroad. As well as luxury hotels, you can also choose from guesthouses, farm accommodation, self-catering cottages and Bed and Breakfast in Devon. These types of accommodation allow you to vary your types of holiday, from large group holidays and family holidays to intimate weekend breaks. There is also the possibility that your accommodation will allow you to bring your pet; many Bed and Breakfasts in Devon have facilities for dogs or other animals that can be researched through a quick phone call or email.

The attractions in this region offer something for everyone. For families looking for fun days out, there are many theme parks, festivals and events to be enjoyed and children will be fascinated by the region’s smuggling links with France and the caves that line the Devon coast and were once used for this purpose. Lighthouses and castles offer excitement as well as an educational experience. There are also zoos and specialist wildlife centres such as the Mrs. Tiggywinkle Hedgehog Hospital. For outdoor types, there are many pursuits that also take in Devon’s rolling countryside such as cycling, pony-trekking, sailing, scuba diving and hang-gliding.

Food lovers will find they are spoilt for choice. South Devon’s agricultural industry offers visitors fresh meats, fruit and vegetables and, surprisingly, a tantalising crop of chillies! The coastal restaurants are justifiably proud of their fresh local fish and shellfish dishes, some of which is considered to be the best in the world.

A holiday in a Bed and Breakfast in Devon can be just as relaxing or invigorating as a holiday abroad, with the added bonus of no need for a passport and language barriers to cross.