Desirably located near the crystal-clear waters of South Sands Beach, one of the most unspoilt beaches in South Devon, Salcombe’s most highly anticipated beachside retreat has finally opened to the public. Nestled in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, every element of Harbour Beach Club and Hotel is inspired by its surroundings – with many of the hotel’s 50 bedrooms and suites, including the penthouse, boasting seaside views and balconies overlooking the banks of the Salcombe Estuary. The hotel, which opened at the end of July, is home to an all-day dining restaurant with sweeping sea vistas, a laid-back beach bar, and offers an array of outdoor activities to enjoy right on its doorstep.
Helmed by head chef Daniel Jones who worked at Gidleigh Park and St. Mellion Estate, among other renowned venues, Harbour Beach Club restaurant serves up delicious culinary specialties with local flavour combinations weaved throughout. With floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the picturesque coastline and bring the outside in, it is the perfect year-round dining hot spot, whatever the season.
By day, guests can enjoy delicious breakfasts and lazy lunches on the panoramic outdoor terrace, while sipping on cocktails coupled with fresh seafood dinners by night. Highlights of the menu include grilled native lobster, Goan masala, oysters and dressed Salcombe crab. Those with a sweet tooth can please their palates with a sea salted caramel delice dessert with Salcombe Dairy ice cream, a glazed lemon tart or a selection of fine local cheeses, chutney and biscuits.
Complimentary ice cream from Salcombe Dairy, made with the freshest Devonshire milk, indulgent double cream and unsalted butter, will be served to hotel guests on the terrace every afternoon. An exclusive ice cream flavour has even been specially created for the hotel – combining golden pieces of salted honeycomb with rich, creamy ice cream.
There is a range of water sport activities available to guests on the hotel’s doorstep including stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking on the glistening waters of South Sands beach, while exploring the many hidden coves and secret inlets of Salcombe. The hotel offers an all-day shuttle service to its sister property, Salcombe Harbour Hotel and Spa, where guests can make full use of its spa and dine at The Jetty restaurant.
For those looking to explore the estuary, the South Sands Ferry runs daily from the foot of the hotel and allows visitors to enjoy a picturesque trip to Whitestrand in the centre of Salcombe. Early risers can also enjoy beachfront yoga classes, the perfect setting to meditate to the sound of lapping waves, before a refreshing swim. Guided running sessions and hikes along the coastline of sublime cliffs, picturesque beaches and island-dotted vistas, will also be on offer.
Staff will be on hand to recommend the best hikes and beaches in the region and can provide gourmet picnic hampers and complimentary bikes on request. Working in collaboration with Salcombe Distillery Co, those looking for a more experiential stay can learn how to distil their own bottle of gin and create their own gin recipe at the nearby Salcombe Gin School.
Providing a relaxed coastal feel, the light airy rooms and suites are decorated with soft furnishings, woven headboards and natural hues reflecting its natural surroundings – with all the little thoughtful touches you would expect from a Harbour Hotel, including complimentary gin and tonic from Salcombe Distillery Co, chocolates from Salcombe Dairy and Bramley all-natural toiletries.
Some of the suites feature interconnecting family room options allowing parents to keep an eye on their children while enjoying some time to themselves whilst the signature penthouse, home to three bedrooms, three bathrooms, two balconies and a separate dining area, is the perfect option for larger groups.
Boasting a soothing oceanic backdrop, the hotel’s impressive spa will open later in the year with an indoor pool, sauna and steam room, complete with five treatment rooms to recharge and reconnect. Guests are invited to treat their minds, bodies and souls with marine-inspired treatments exclusive to Harbour Hotels and experiences by TEMPLESPA as well as innovative fitness workouts.
Rates at Harbour Beach Club Hotel and Spa start from £340 per night on a B&B Basis.
