If you are planning to take a self-catering cottage holiday on the north Devon coast then take a look at Woolacombe. Voted as Britain’s best beach of 2012 in a Daily Mail poll and holder of the ‘English for Excellence’ gold award for best family resort, Woolacombe has also won a blue flag award and Premier Seaside Beach accolade. Whether you’re one of a party, a couple or a family group you’ll love what Woolacome has to offer when it comes to coastal self-catering breaks. And so will your dogs as Woolacombe welcomes dogs on most of its three-mile beach and on the dunes.

A great place for surfing, swimming and messing about in the sea, for safety reasons, the beach is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months. In terms of facilities, the village has a number of pubs and restaurants so you should have plenty of choice should you decide to eat out.

Away from the beach there’s also plenty to keep you occupied during the day whilst on a relaxing West Country self-catering holiday. Boat trips are available that take in the spectacular north Devon coastline or you can fish to your heart’s content out at sea. There are also trips to Lundi Island, where you can spend the day exploring and sightseeing. The views of the mainland are stunning and there is a variety of birds and wildlife to enjoy. If you want to get really active on your coastal holiday then Woolacombe has surf and kayaking schools where you can learn more about these sports plus excellent facilities for coasteering and climbing. How about taking a pony or horse ride in the country or along the whole stretch of beach? The Woolacombe Riding Stables organises rides out, or children over 7 years can spend an educational day at the stables.

Another great advantage of taking a cottage holiday in Woolacombe is that you will be close to some other interesting beaches and resorts which are easily accessible nearby. Just one mile away is the cliff top village of Morthoe that has a fair bit of history attached to it along with its own museum. Learn of the many shipwrecks either caused by bad weather or those lured onto the rocks by smugglers. Thanks to the museum and the National Trust you can even take a tractor and trailer trip to the more inaccessible areas and get the most from the surroundings. It is a great way for those with disabilities to enjoy the scenery.

The Victorian resort of Ilfracombe is another recommended place to visit on a self-catering break and provides you with your retail therapy.  If you are also enjoy the theatre then why not visit the Landmark Theatre there? It is advisable to do your research and check what is going on in advance so you don’t miss out on any must see shows.  At nearby Woody Bay station you can follow in the footsteps of Michael Portillo and ride on the first completed mile of the Lynton to Barnstaple railway renovation which makes for a memorable day out.

We feature a great collection of cottages in this area of the West Country.  Browse through coastal cottages, log cabins and chalets close to the coast and nestled in the countryside.  We hope you find an inspirational place to stay.