The glorious countryside, the sweeping coastlines, the quaint villages — Devon is a beacon of natural beauty. But there’s more to this English county than meets the eye. Devon is also a hotbed for cider lovers and enthusiasts, boasting a plethora of cider festivals and apple orchards that are sure to make your heart skip a beat. If you’re considering making the journey to attend one of these festivals, you’ll want to find the perfect holiday rental to enhance your experience. But what features should you look for? Let’s delve into the specifics.
1. Proximity to the Cider Festival
Before you book your holiday rental, you’ll want to consider its location in relation to the cider festivals you plan to attend. Devon is a large county, and while its public transportation system is reliable, you may not want to spend your holiday negotiating bus schedules and train lines.
Look for a holiday rental that is within easy walking or driving distance to the festival. This allows for a more relaxed, leisurely experience. You will be able to indulge in the cider festivities without worrying about getting back to your accommodation. Plus, if you’re partaking in cider tasting, it’s always safer to avoid driving.
2. Spacious Accommodation
Considering you’ll be spending most of your day at the cider festival enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and tasting the variety of ciders, you’ll want to return to a comfortable and spacious accommodation.
Consider holiday rentals that offer plenty of space for relaxation and rejuvenation. Look for properties with ample lounge areas, well-equipped kitchens for preparing meals, and comfortable bedrooms for a good night’s sleep. If you’re traveling with a group, ensure there are enough bedrooms and bathrooms to accommodate everyone comfortably.
3. Modern Amenities
While the charm of a traditional Devonshire cottage might be tempting, it’s crucial to ensure your holiday rental has all the modern amenities you’ll need for a comfortable stay.
Check if the property has Wi-Fi access — especially important if you plan to share your cider festival experiences on social media or stay connected with family and friends back home. Other essential amenities include a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and central heating for those cooler Devon evenings.
4. Outdoor Space
Devon is known for its breathtaking outdoor scenery, so why not take advantage of it? Opt for a holiday rental that boasts an inviting outdoor space.
Whether it’s a private garden where you can unwind after a day at the cider festival, a patio where you can enjoy a morning cup of tea or a balcony that offers stunning views of the Devon countryside, outdoor space adds a whole new dimension to your holiday. Imagine coming back from a day of cider tasting and relaxing in your own private outdoor area, reminiscing about the day’s events as the sun sets on the horizon.
5. Local Amenities
While the cider festival may be the main event, don’t overlook the importance of local amenities. Is there a grocery store nearby for stocking up on necessities? How about restaurants for those nights when you don’t feel like cooking? Are there any local attractions you might want to visit on your downtime from the festival?
Choosing a holiday rental near local amenities not only provides convenience but also allows you to explore more of what Devon has to offer. You might discover a charming local café, a fascinating historical site, or even another local cider producer that wasn’t on your radar.
In essence, when looking for a holiday rental in Devon for attending cider festivals, it’s vital to consider factors such as proximity to the festival, spaciousness, modern amenities, outdoor space, and local amenities. By prioritizing these features, you can ensure a comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable stay, allowing you to make the most out of your cider festival experience in Devon.
6. Accessibility to Food and Drink Establishments
While your main focus might be the cider festivals, it’s also beneficial to consider the proximity of your holiday rental to other food and drink establishments in Devon. This beautiful county is renowned for its rich culinary scene, with an array of award-winning restaurants, street food markets, and local eateries that offer everything from traditional Devon fare to innovative fusion cuisine.
Perhaps you might fancy a pint of local ale or a delicious farm-to-table meal after a day of cider tasting. Or maybe you’ve got a craving for some fresh seafood, given Devon’s coastal location. By choosing a holiday rental near these food and drink establishments, you can easily satiate your culinary desires without having to venture too far.
An added advantage is the opportunity to immerse yourself in Devon’s food culture. Many of these establishments source their produce locally, giving you a taste of the county’s abundant natural bounty. Farmer’s markets, like the one in Market Square, are also commonplace in Devon, offering a range of fresh produce, locally made cheeses, and artisan breads.
Lastly, ensure that the rental property is close to convenience stores or supermarkets. This makes it easy to stock up on necessities and ingredients, should you decide to whip up your own meals in your holiday cottage’s well-equipped kitchen.
7. Close to Attractions and Activities
While you’re in Devon to attend the cider festivals, it’s worth considering what else the county has to offer. Devon is rich in history, with many National Trust properties, and is home to beautiful landscapes like the River Dart and the North Devon coast.
Your holiday rental could serve as a base for exploring these attractions. Opt for a property that’s within easy reach of areas you’d like to visit, whether it’s the picturesque village of Stoke Gabriel or the breathtaking South Devon coast.
Perhaps you’d like to engage in some outdoor activities during your stay. Devon is perfect for hiking, horse riding, and even surfing. Having these activities close by allows you to diversify your holiday experience beyond the cider festivals.
At the same time, proximity to these attractions adds vibrancy and convenience to your stay. Instead of traveling a significant distance to see these attractions, you can use the time saved to relax and enjoy your holiday to the fullest.
To book a holiday rental in Devon for attending cider festivals that will allow you to enjoy a well-rounded experience, consider the aforementioned factors. A rental that’s within walking distance to the cider festival will offer convenience, while a spacious accommodation with modern amenities and an outdoor space will ensure comfort.
Accessibility to local food and drink establishments will enhance your culinary journey in Devon, and being close to local attractions will allow you to explore more of what this stunning county has to offer.
In essence, your choice of holiday rental can significantly impact the overall quality of your Devon cider festival experience. Therefore, it’s crucial to make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.
Remember, a successful holiday is not just about attending the cider festival — it’s about immersing yourself in the local culture, exploring the sights, and making lasting memories. And the right holiday rental can serve as the perfect springboard for all of these experiences. So, take your time, do your research, and book the holiday rental that ticks all your boxes. Your Devon cider festival adventure awaits!