I’ll never forget the drive down to our little holiday cottage near Bideford – what should’ve been a straightforward jaunt from the motorway turned into a comedy of errors. Sat nav insisted on taking us through some winding lanes that got narrower by the second, and just as we were high-fiving ourselves for spotting the sea in the distance, we hit a rogue pothole that sent my teacup flying across the dashboard. Miraculously, no major spill, but my other half was left mopping up Earl Grey while I stifled giggles. Still, as we finally trundled up that last hill, hearts racing with that proper holiday buzz, the place came into view and – blimey – it was love at first sight. This cosy stone cottage, all tucked away in its own peaceful nook with those classic Devon vibes, felt like it was waiting just for us.

Stepping inside, the chaos melted away. It was one of those proper traditional spots, snug as a bug with everything you need for a lazy break – think welcoming open-plan living space downstairs, comfy bedrooms upstairs, and a garden that practically begs for morning coffee. First impressions? Spot on. We dumped the bags, cracked open a bottle of local cider (grabbed from a farm shop en route, naturally), and just soaked it in. That anticipation you get on arrival – wondering if it’ll live up to the photos – was smashed in seconds. It was even better, all warm and lived-in, like popping round a mate’s nan’s house but with sea views.

Next morning, we laced up our boots and headed out on foot to Welcombe Mouth beach – it’s only a short stomp down the path, and what a stunner. The coastline there is proper dramatic, all jagged rocks and wild waves crashing in, with seals popping up now and then like nosy neighbours. We wandered along the South West Coast Path, spotting all sorts of flora and fauna – heather, gorse, and birds I couldn’t name but pretended to know about. A bit of a scramble over slippery stones had me reflecting on my dodgy knees; at my age, I’m more puffin than hiker these days, but it was worth every wobbly step. Lunch was pints and pasties at the local pub in Welcombe’s leafy lanes – proper refreshment after trailing through the nature reserve.

Fancy a change? Bude’s just a quick drive for some surf action, or Westward Ho! with its endless golden sands for a family paddle. We saved Clovelly for a lazy afternoon – those cobbled streets are a right treat, pottering about shops and pubs in that pretty fishing village vibe. Closer to home, Hartland Quay’s got that rugged charm, and if the kids were with us, The Big Sheep or Milky Way adventure parks would’ve been top of the list. Oh, and RHS Garden Rosemoor’s a hidden gem for a gentle wander.

Even with the arrival faff, it was the perfect Devon reset. That first chaotic hour made the peace hit harder – sometimes life’s little mishaps are the best icebreakers. Can’t wait to go back.