Holiday rentals in Hope Cove

Rugged grass-topped cliffs tower above turquoise waters in this tiny South Devon seaside village inside an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Hope Cove encompasses the beaches of Mouthwell Sands to the north and Harbour Beach to the south. Their soft sands and rocky tide pools full of crabs and starfish are perfect for spending a day in the sun, with lifeguards on patrol in the summer months. Crystal-clear waters make this an excellent spot for experienced divers to explore the dozens of shipwrecks. When you’ve had your fill of the beach, take a stroll along one of the clifftop trails for breathtaking views of the coast.

Technically two villages — Inner Hope and Outer Hope — Hope Cove is a peaceful spot dotted with thatched cottages painted in pastels, their colourful gardens bursting with life in spring. Once a fishing village, Hope Cove is now celebrated for crab and lobster, which you can enjoy in the local restaurants and cafes. At a nearby nature reserve you can learn about the region’s local flora and fauna, and follow one of the many hiking paths to secluded coves and viewpoints around the area.

Summer is by far the most popular time to visit Hope Cove, when the region sees the least amount of rain. June and July experience the driest, warmest weather — though it never gets too hot. In August, the village hosts Hope Cove Weekend, featuring live music, sandcastle building contests, folk dancing, pig roasts, and a variety of food stalls.

Spring and autumn bring slightly cooler weather but also fewer crowds, so you may want to secure your Hope Cove accommodation during one of these times if you’d prefer a quieter trip. The lower temperatures make this the perfect time for hiking the trails around the area. Winter is accompanied by cloudy days and more rain, though the temperature rarely drops below freezing.

Hope Cove Walks

You can admire the scenery around Hope Cove from a variety of trails and coastal walks that extend from the village. If you’re looking for a challenge, the coastal path from Hope Cove to Salcombe is tough but equally rewarding. For an easier excursion, the short Bolt Tail path hosts some of the most spectacular views of the coastline and rolling hills of South Devon.

Slapton Ley Nature Reserve

A 30-minute drive from Hope Cove is Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve, where visitors can learn about the region’s plant and animal life, including the local species that call the park home. There are educational courses as well as designated paths where you might be lucky enough to spot badgers, otters, bats, and birds of prey among their various natural habitats.

Soar Mill Cove

Just under four miles south of Hope Cove is the even more secluded Soar Mill Cove, a sandy stretch that perfectly encapsulates why this region is named an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You’ll need to hike in via the South West Coast Path, or park at the lot and walk in. It’s well worth the trouble of getting to this tiny beach to admire the jagged black rocks jutting out of the teal waters.