If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable couples caravan holiday in Devon, the Airstream at Dittisham Hideaway is an excellent choice. Located on the outskirts of the picturesque village of Dittisham, this vintage Airstream offers a cosy and comfortable retreat in the heart of the countryside.
*Destination Downtime visited Dittisham Hideaway for a gifted stay in March 2023.
Dittisham Hideaway is a luxury holiday accommodation provider located in the picturesque village of Dittisham in Devon, England. The company offers a range of unique and stylish properties, including an iconic Airstream trailer, treehouses, and cosy shepherds lodges.
Each of the properties at Dittisham Hideaway has been carefully designed and furnished to provide guests with a luxurious and comfortable stay. They all offer modern amenities such as fully equipped kitchens, en-suite bathrooms, and Wi-Fi, as well as stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Dittisham itself is a charming and peaceful village, situated on the banks of the River Dart in the South Hams district of Devon. The area is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with miles of scenic coastal paths, rolling hills, and picturesque villages to explore. If you are looking for a peaceful caravan holiday in Devon, Dittisham Hideaway offers the perfect base for an unforgettable stay.
1956 American Airstream at Dittisham Hideaway
Located in the charming village of Dittisham, The Airstream at Dittisham Hideaway is a distinctive and stylish accommodation option. Renowned for its unique curved shape and aluminum exterior, this classic American travel trailer offers a perfect base for couples seeking a caravan holiday in Devon, with numerous picturesque villages nearby to explore.
This particular Airstream was was manufactured in 1956 as a “Sovereign of the Road” model, embodying the signature style of Wally Byam, the founder of Airstream trailers. A proud member of Wally Byam’s Caravanners Club once owned this Airstream, which bears the unique identification number 1234. To this day, the original stickers from a 1961 gathering in Omaha, Nebraska remain affixed to the windows.
The Airstream has been fully restored and refurbished, and it features a modern and elegant interior with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay. The trailer includes a double bed, equipped kitchenette, a bathroom with a shower and toilet, and a living area with a sofa and TV. There is also a private deck area outside, with breathtaking countryside views. The deck includes a table and chairs for al fresco dining, as well as a Japanese spa bath and hammock for relaxing under the stars.
Upon our arrival, we were greeted with a thoughtfully prepared hamper, which included an assortment of treats such as tea, coffee, and nibbles. The hamper also contained a selection of West Country produce, perfect for a continental breakfast. To top it off, we were pleasantly surprised with a complimentary bottle of wine, which we could enjoy on a warm, sunny afternoon or a cozy winter evening by the fire.
As you step through the front door, you’ll find that the retro interior of this vintage Airstream is fully equipped with modern amenities. There is a fully-fitted kitchen, and the Airstream is equipped with underfloor heating, air conditioning, a smart TV, and Wi-Fi, providing everything you need for a comfortable stay. The cosy bedroom boasts soft Egyptian cotton bed linen, while the generously sized bathroom features extra fluffy towels and a relaxing power shower.
The large outdoor decked area is equipped with a dining table and chairs, a BBQ, sun loungers, a double hammock, outdoor chess, and table football, as well as an indulgent wood-fired spa bath.
Having spent three nights in the Airstream, it’s clear that this distinctive accommodation provides all the essential amenities for a tranquil retreat in the Devon countryside. For a complete experience of this secluded getaway, it’s recommended to visit Dittisham Hideaways during the summer season and make the most of its outdoor decking area, which offers a variety of lovely features.
Picture yourself lounging in the double hammock following a day filled with adventure in the Devon countryside. You can unwind and enjoy the warm sunlight while listening to the sounds of chirping birds in the nearby trees. You might even be fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of the shimmering wings of the resident dragonflies and butterflies.
Treehouses and Shepherds Lodges at Dittisham Hideaway
Dittisham Hideaway offers a range of accommodation options to cater to both couples and families. For those seeking a unique experience, they have a collection of treehouses that can sleep up to 2 adults and 3 children (under the age of 16). These treehouses feature private furnished decks and wood-fired hot tubs, providing the perfect getaway for everyone. In addition, they offer five Shepherds Lodges that have been carefully crafted to the highest specifications by skilled West Country artisans. Each lodge is built with great attention to detail and comes with a luxury king bed, perfect for a couple’s retreat. Four of the Shepherds Lodges accommodate only 2 adults, while one lodge has an adjoining Mini Shepherds Hut (measuring 9 ft. x 7 ft.) with two sets of bunk beds, making it suitable for up to 2 adults and 4 children (under 16 years old).
Active itnerary for your caravan holiday in Devon (south)
Devon is an excellent destination for an active holiday, particularly if you enjoy walking and kayaking. Devon is known for its beautiful coastal and countryside landscapes, which provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
Walking is a popular activity in Devon, with a range of trails and paths to suit all abilities. The South West Coast Path runs along the entire length of the county’s coastline, offering stunning views of the sea and countryside.
Kayaking is another popular activity in Devon, with many companies offering kayaking tours and rentals. The South Devon coastline, with its sheltered coves and estuaries, provides a varied and interesting landscape for kayaking. The River Dart, which flows through Dartmoor National Park, is also a popular kayaking destination, with its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery.
Day 1 Dartmouth
You can walk from Dittisham Hideaway to Dartmouth, the walk is around a 10km round trip, although it is extremely hilly!
One of the main draws of Dartmouth is its beautiful location on the River Dart estuary, which provides a picturesque setting for boating, fishing, and other water sports. The town is also surrounded by rolling hills and lush countryside, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring the great outdoors.
Dartmouth also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with a range of art galleries, museums, and cultural events to enjoy. And with a variety of excellent restaurants, cafes, and shops, there’s plenty to keep you entertained and well-fed during your visit.
Grab a drink in The Sail Loft
Catch Fish Friday at Rockfish
(Fish & chips on 3rd Friday of every month for just £5)
Kayaking in Dartmouth – Sugary Cove
Sugary Cove is a secluded beach nestled in a beautiful cove, which can only be accessed by boat or kayak. The cove is located on the eastern side of the Dartmouth estuary and is surrounded by stunning cliffs and lush greenery.
To get to Sugary Cove, you can launch your kayak from various points along the estuary, including Dartmouth, Kingswear, or Dittisham. From there, you can paddle up the estuary, taking in the scenic views along the way. As you approach Sugary Cove, you’ll see the beach come into view, and you can paddle directly to the shore.
It’s important to note that Sugary Cove is a tidal beach, and the water level can change quickly. It’s essential to check the tide times before setting out on your kayaking adventure to ensure that you can reach the beach safely and return before the tide comes in. Additionally, kayaking in open water can be dangerous, and it’s recommended to have some kayaking experience and proper safety equipment, such as a lifejacket and a phone.
Day 2 Salcombe
One of the main attractions of Salcombe is its beautiful location on the Kingsbridge Estuary, which provides a picturesque setting for boating, fishing, and other water sports. The town is also surrounded by rolling hills and lush countryside, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring the great outdoors. Salcombe is also renowned for its excellent restaurants, cafes, and shops, which offer a range of local and international cuisine and products. Salcombe is located a short 30 minute drive from Dittisham hideaways and is a highly recommended village to visit during your caravan holiday in Devon.
Salcombe costal walk
Start at Lower Batson (parking is free on the side of the road) Follow the path towards Salcombe, taking in the stunning views of the estuary along the way. Once you reach the town, you can explore the quaint streets and shops, as well as the waterfront and harbour. There are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and pubs to stop for a bite to eat or a drink. This route follows the coastline, and then heads inland along a steep bridal way to loop back around to the starting point.
Kayaking in Salcombe
Kayaking in Salcombe is an excellent way to explore the beautiful South Devon coast. With its sheltered estuary and crystal-clear waters, Salcombe is a haven for kayakers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the stunning scenery and abundant wildlife.
There are several kayaking routes to choose from, each offering a unique perspective of the area. You can paddle up the tranquil Salcombe estuary, exploring hidden creeks and enjoying the scenery. Alternatively, you can venture out to the open sea and explore the rugged coastline, with its dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches.
Day 3 Dittisham
The village of Dittisham is situated on the banks of the River Dart, just a few miles upstream from the historic town of Dartmouth, and is known for its picturesque setting, historic architecture, and tranquil atmosphere. Dittisham is definitely worth a quick visit, the village is small and will not take long to walk around. The river banks offer the perfect spot for a picnic looking out onto the sparkling water.
Kayaking in Dittisham
Dittisham is a great location for kayaking. The River Dart is perfect for beginners looking to embark on their first kayaking adventure in a peaceful, picturesque setting. The below route takes you from Stoke Gabriel to Dittisham, the route can also be reversed to start at Dittisham, *dependant on tide times.
Day 4 Brixham
Brixham, situated in the English county of Devon, is a captivating coastal town that boasts a rich fishing heritage. Even today, the harbour remains an active fishing port, where visitors can witness the colourful fishing boats and observe the fishermen unloading their daily catch. Brixham is highly regarded for its delectable fresh seafood, such as fish and chips, seafood platters, and other local specialties, which can be savoured in its numerous restaurants and cafes. The town is located on the rugged South Devon coastline, offering awe-inspiring views of the sea and coastline, definitely a must visit during your caravan holiday in Devon.
Kayaking in Brixham
Kayaking in Brixham is a fantastic way to explore the stunning South Devon coastline. Brixham is a picturesque fishing town located on the southern coast of Devon, surrounded by beautiful beaches, cliffs, and crystal-clear waters.
There are several kayaking routes to choose from in Brixham, depending on your skill level and preferences. You can paddle around the harbour, taking in the colourful boats and bustling fishing industry. Alternatively, you can venture out to the open sea and explore the rugged coastline, with its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves and secluded beaches.
One of the most popular kayaking routes in Brixham is the Berry Head to Sharkham Point route, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the chance to spot local wildlife such as seals, dolphins, and a variety of sea birds. This route takes you through a Marine Conservation Area, where you can experience the diversity of marine life in the area.
There are several kayaking companies in Brixham that offer guided tours, kayak rental, and lessons for beginners. They can provide you with all the equipment you need, including a kayak, paddle, and safety gear. Additionally, they can give you tips on the best places to kayak and the best times to go based on the tides and weather conditions.
