Beautiful Salcombe in Devon - England's Riviera Town

As I sat relaxing on Hope Cove, Devon a few weeks ago the image of this small child lost in wonder at the ocean waves, rocks, sandy beach and search for shells reminded me of when I was small.

In this busy world of distraction, we sometimes forget as adults what it was like when we were small, and how alive we felt when we connected with the natural beauty of our environment.

As adults we too need this expansion of our imagination. Alive and through experience we connect with our deepest thoughts, we have adventures and we relax as all the anxieties and stressors melt away. Salcombe in Devon is a destination that meets all of those needs.

Salcombe High Street lays nestled within a mountainous valley. You can park your car for free high in the hills which is wise as within the actual town you can only stay for two hours. It is a labour to walk hundreds of near vertical steps down to the village.

I made this journey in the pouring ran. Lashing summer drops assailed me each step. Kindly townsfolk showed me paths to walk down when I was lost, and as I travelled I saw the volume of yachts, dinghys, moorings and leisure craft bobbing in the harbour, against a backdrop of gorgeous sandy beach inlets.

My reward for this labour was to eat fish and chips with mushy peas. The Plaice had been recommended to me by the B & B owners I stayed with, so I was delighted to eat the most delicious piece of battered haddock I have ever consumed. The mushy peas were delightful and flavoursome, and the chips were oiled and fried to a perfect consistency and taste.

A good meal like this reminds me of every time I have enjoyed and marvelled at the wonderful provision this earth has for all of us. It was soul food. The Plaice was full of families and groups. I dined alone. The delightful staff were happy and funny, and I felt as if I was part of a consensus of experience where all were full of joy.

Salcombe is a wonderful holiday destination that has not succumbed to overcrowding. To find my B&B in nearby Marlborough, recommended as a good central spot with which to explore all of the surrounding delights of this Devon Riviera, I needed my Sat Nav.

Owners Lynn and Chris Hillaby have converted their home to accomodate two rooms of guests, with twin beds and a king size bed in each room. Two bathrooms are available and the downstairs area is the domain of the guests. They welcomed me into their home and the eating area, on the top floor, offers sweeping and uninteruppted hill views of the surrounding Devon area. I highly recommend a stay with them.

Salcombe is home to National Trust Property Overbecks, a gorgeous home built at the start of the 20th century. Eccentric scientist, inventor and collector Otto Overbeck lived there, and the property is well worth a visit to see his collections and stunning gardens. It is a lovely spot for afternoon tea or lunch, with the outdoor table area offering magnificent views over Salcombe Bay and beaches.