EditorsThe pandemic has left many couples cooped up in the same room far too long. The extended period of living in such close proximity has left many people exasperated, especially if they have a family. If you find yourself wondering what might be a good idea to escape the mundane, then why not try some of these romantic things to do in Devon?
Located in Southwestern England, Devon offers a plethora of places, activities, and experiences to immerse in. If you’re looking for a change, consider a Devon staycation to experience all that the area has to offer. Overlooking the English Channel to the south and the Bristol Channel to the north, Devon has idyllic beaches, moorlands, historic sites, and unique culinary dishes. Here are some of the most romantic things to do in Devon:
Hike or Stroll Around
Whether you like strolling barefoot on the sand or sweating it out on a long trail, Devon is a hiker’s paradise. Many of Devon’s Blue Flag award-winning beaches let you shed all the stress and worries as you take a long walk along its coastline with your loved one. You can also explore the hidden inlets and bays like Breakneck Point and Smuggler’s Cove, as the area promises many secluded beaches to avoid the crowds.
There are several smaller, scenic hiking trails that will take you to picnic spots of spellbound beauty. But if you have something longer in mind, you can always go for the UK’s longest National Trail – South West Coastal Path.
Devon Staycation
While a staycation had been a part of how people enjoyed their vacations, the pandemic transformed it to a new level. In fact, a study conducted by Sykes Holiday Cottages revealed that 62% of British people spent their main summer holiday in the UK in 2020.
You could rent a variety of cottages for a staycation in Devon. If you’re looking for something particularly romantic, select an old fisherman cottage overlooking the ocean with a rustic charm. There are many family and dog-friendly cottages as well if required.
Cycling
Cycling is a great way to get around in Devon if hiking is not your cup of tea. With unpredictable public transport schedules at the mercy of the weather, you can explore nicks and crannies by renting bikes from one of the local rental companies.
One of Devon’s most famous cycling trails is the Tarka Trail, which follows alongside an abandoned railway line. This 290-kilometre route will take you along ancient villages, rivers, moorland and wooded valleys. If you have children, don’t worry. This route is easy to traverse as it’s mostly flat and has numerous cafes en route. Some other cycling trails that you might try out are Exe Estuary Trail, Drake’s Trail, East Prawle Cycling Route, etc.
Couples Massages
If you simply want to sit back and relax, booking a couple’s massage at a spa can be just the thing for you and your partner, especially if you have both been indulging in some of the adventure sports the area has on offer.
Devon has a host of spa hotels and independent spas to choose from. If you’re in South Devon, go to the coastal town of Salcombe and check yourself into one of the luxury lodgings bordering the Kingsbridge Estuary. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views and mouth watering fresh seafood items as well.
Dartmoor National Park
If you and your partner love the great green outdoors, then you cannot miss visiting the Dartmoor National Park. This 365 square mile wilderness spans across the South, East and West Devon. Whether you want a leisurely walk in a beautiful landscape or crave pure outdoor activities, Dartmoor has everything in store for you, from wild moors, meadows and castles to hills, waterfalls and lakes.
You can also see a range of insects, birds and animals like wild ponies, kingfishers, otters, rare butterflies, etc., in Dartmoor.
Some places to cover:
- Dartmoor tor
- Bowerman’s Nose
- Brentor Church
- Lydford Gorge
- Cadover Lakes
- Wistman’s Wood
Activities to engage in Dartmoor:
- Cycling
- Hiking
- Rock climbing
- Abseiling
- Horse riding
- White water canoeing
- Wild camping
Explore AONB
Out of England’s 34 AONBs (area of outstanding natural beauty), five are located in Devon. AONB land areas are protected by the authorities, which preserves and enhances their natural beauty. To get a real taste of the UK’s countryside, you must explore these ancient woodlands while in Devon:
- South Devon AONB
- North Devon Coast AONB
- East Devon AONB
- Tamar Valley AONB
- Blackdown Hills AONB
Oceanfront Yoga
Performing yoga as a couple can have many physical and emotional benefits, especially in a serene environment such as the beach. The constant lulling sound of the waves has a tranquil effect on the mind. A study by Loyola University Health System found that couples yoga can help increase intimacy between partners through a better synchronisation of breath, movements and posture.
If you have never done it before, you might want to consider hiring a trainer for a rich and safe experience. Many lodgings and yoga studios offer oceanfront yoga classes that you can avail as well.
Also read:
Best Alternative Getaways in the UK
Eden Project Cornwall: Visit UK’s Top Eco-Attraction
Sun, spa and surf: How this Cornwall hotel reinvented itself in style
This gorgeous Cornwall Spa Hotel is the wellness haven you’ve been looking for
