Dan
17 June 2014
Devon is a popular destination for couples, and with such beautiful scenery, quaint villages and outstanding coastlines, it’s not difficult to see why. Here are some of our top romantic things to do in Devon that will make your holiday that little bit more memorable.
Hop on Dartmouth's picnic boat
The River Dart has to be one of the most beautiful rivers in the South West, as well as one of the most romantic places to visit. The Picnic Boat, which leaves from the pretty town of Dartmouth, offers a unique and memorable day out with your partner. You’ll sit back and relax in complete comfort as you enjoy a choice of picnics, a glass of champagne and the tranquility of sailing gently down the river. A quick stop in Dittisham allows a brief stroll before enjoying dessert and a coffee as you head back up the river to Dartmouth.
Our top tip: Complete your romantic day in South Devon by stepping back in time on Dartmouth's Steam Railway.
Hire a Pashley bike
Take to two wheels vintage-style and hire a 1926 Pashley Bike from Darts Farm Shop just outside of Exeter. Conveniently located, you can soon join the path that runs along the River Exe where you can choose to head towards the seaside town of Exmouth or through the pretty market town of Topsham and on towards Exeter. Whichever direction you choose, it’s peaceful by the river so make sure you stop now and then to take in your beautiful surroundings. Your efforts will be rewarded when you reach the vibrant Exeter Quayside, where you will find an array of independent boutiques, pretty craft shops and friendly pubs and cafés.
Our top tip: Stop for a well-deserved break at the pretty waterside pub of Double Locks for a cool pint of Devonshire cider.
Cookery Course at River Cottage
Fancy something fun and a little bit different? At River Cottage you can brush up on your cookery skills by attending one of the unique cooking courses held by the skilled River Cottage chefs. On arrival at their one day course, you will be taken down to the River Cottage HQ by tractor before a whole day of practical sessions and discovering new skills and tastes! You’ll later be treated to a three-course supper before being taken back up the hill in true farming style. You can choose from all kinds of different classes including specialist courses such as cheese making or veg cookery, as well as a range of different meat, fish and baking courses. It's a great way to mix up your romantic holiday a little!
Our top tip: You could hop across the border into Dorset from here and visit the cute little seaside town of Lyme Regis.
Escape to an island
Pack up your picnic baskets and turn your mobile phones off, this is a day for just the two of you. Lundy Island just off the North Devon coast; it's only three miles long and half a mile wide, and even during the middle of summer it remains a tranquil place to be. You can catch the ferry, MS Oldenburg, from either Ilfracombe or Bideford and although the crossing is two hours each way, it gives you the chance to relax and take in the fresh sea air. Once on the island you have around four hours to explore the beautiful scenery, admire the breathtaking views and spot wildlife that has been compared to the likes of the Galapagos Islands. A day on the island is the perfect escape from everyday life.
Our top tip: Don't forget your camera!
Walk with Lorna Doone
The Lorna Doone Valley on Exmoor gained its name after R.D Blackmore set the romantic novel, Lorna Doone, in this area. The unrivalled scenery of the Lorna Doone Valley is now a popular destination for visitors to Exmoor. A six mile walk takes you through beautiful coastal scenery and picturesque valleys, a truly romantic gem hidden deep in the Devon countryside. If your holiday together isn’t complete without your pooch, then this is a day that they will love too. With so much wide open space, your four-legged friend will be in their element dashing around and taking in all the smells.
Our top tip: There’s no need to rush your way along this route, stop every now and then and take in the beautiful views.
Where will you stay?
We have some truly beautiful Devon cottages that will complete your romantic holiday. Browse our selection to find the perfect rural retreat or seaside escape for you.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.