Welcome to Salcombe, Devon – Sunny, Stylish and Sassy

I’ve just had a nice mooch round Salcombe: sparkly sea, the bluest of skies and a Salcombe Dairy strawberry and cream ice cream – sometimes the simplest pleasures really are the best.

But, of course, Salcombe has plenty more to offer. Just try to visit before it gets too busy otherwise an amble becomes pretty difficult and the charm of the sunny, Mediterranean colours of this pretty port town can become a little jaded.

I love dresses in summer and Amelia’s Attic and Busby & Fox both have a fantastic range. Amelia’s Attic in particular had some beautiful kaftans in gloriously summery hues. I came away feeling disappointed I’d already got an outfit (my second at that) for my nephew’s wedding next month – I loved some of the glammy dresses in the store, teamed with one of the many unusual necklaces on offer. Busby & Fox (they have several stores in the South West) is a lovely, relaxed store, plenty of floaty, vintage-inspired dresses and woven bags.

For classic-but-with-a-twist bags and leather accessories don’t miss Will Bees Bespoke in their Island Street store and workshop. You’ll find beautifully crafted, handmade bags and accessories galore, each stamped with your initials while you wait.

As you’d expect, the home of Salcombe Dairy and Salcombe Gin has plenty of places to eat. We had a late light lunch in The Victoria Inn right in the centre of town. A traditional pub, slate floors, wooden tables, nice relaxed atmosphere and proper pub food done well. Other options include The Winking Prawn, always a good place to enjoy a plate of shellfish, sitting as it does on North Sands, or The Crab Shed on The Fish Quay, where seafood doesn’t come much fresher.

Of course, you can go all out and dine at the Salcombe Harbour Hotel’s Jetty restaurant with its outdoor terraces and outstanding views across the estuary.

Or else, maybe grab some delicious goodies from Salcombe Deli, head over to Sunny Cove and feel the turquoise water lap at your feet…