Ivy Cove
Holbeton, Noss Mayo, Devon, UK
Tucked into the South Hams behind a patchwork of grass which falls away into the sea (and with access to a private beach), Ivy Cove cradles in the nurturing arms of Mother Nature. Perfectly placed for both sun baking and storm watching near Devon's pretty Noss Mayo, here is a luxury self-catering cottage where intricate design and spectacular coastal views go hand in hand.
Introduction
From modest lean-to for sheltering animals, to camping den, to converted barn for the owners’ family holidays to Devon, Ivy Cove has seen a lifetime of drama, romance and togetherness over its years. An organic development which has shifted in style as if in time with the seafaring winds, this luxury self-catering home is the ultimate expression of working with nature. Set back from the South Hams cliffs with an eye on the elements, spend winter days watching the weather sweep across the horizon with toes toasting by the fire and summer nights in the wood-fired hot tub.
Inside
Designer-led luxury reigns at this stylish retreat near Noss Mayo, while natural materials and huge windows marry the interiors with Gaia herself. As salty air glides down the spiral staircase from the master bedroom, brew rich coffee ready for a morning of flicking through the day’s newspaper on one of the velvet sofas in the open plan living area. When darkness settles on the cliffs, guests staying in the ground floor bedroom can wrap shoulders in blankets, steaming mugs of tea in hand, before tiptoeing out of their garden doors to listen to the waves thunder against the shore.
Outside
When the morning haze of summer mists the horizon, sneak out of the cottage, towel flung over shoulder, and dash through fields to the owner's private beach, which they call the Blue Lagoon, for a secluded dip before breakfast. Once warmed through with scrambled eggs and freshly squeezed juice, tie up the laces of trusty walking boots, pack a picnic and head off across the South West Coast Path to discover more of the South Hams’ secret coves and quiet bays. With no light pollution to wash out those scintillating heavens, nights are just as gorgeous as days at Ivy Cove.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 4 guests
From £2,195 per week, £1,650 per short break - Alternative group optionUp to 2 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsUp the spiral staircase is the property´s king-size en suite master bedroom, with a bath, double shower and views overlooking the sea. Downstairs on the ground floor is the zip-and-link bedroom with en suite shower room. There is an additional WC on the ground floor.
View bedrooms - FeaturesWood-fired hot tub and tennis court
- PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome, or three small dogs on prior request
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyYes, children are very welcome; due to the spiral staircase, please ensure children are supervised at all times. A cot and highchair are available.
- PracticalitiesThere is parking for two cars outside the property. The open plan kitchen includes an oven, hob, dishwasher, fridge, Nespresso coffee machine and Aarke water carbonator. There is a washing machine and tumble dryer built into the cupboard in the lobby. While the beach is privately owned, it is also accessible to the owners´ other guests and neighbours. Due to the coastal location of the property along with it being situated on a working dairy farm, please supervise children and pets at all times when outside.
- Homestay includesWelcome hamper of local produce, WiFi internet, Smart TVs, luxury bed linen and towels, fire pit with barbecue, kindling and firewood to get you started, cosy blankets, recipe books, board games...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
- Private cateringSeeking a celebratory dinner or fully catered escape? Our recommended caterers will work with you to create personalised menus for your stay. Details are shared through our house book on confirming your booking.
- Eco-friendlyElectric car charger
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
Noss Mayo
Chocolate box fisherman´s cottages reflect in the glassy waters of the Yealm Estuary, while stand up paddleboards, canoes and sailing boats drift along the river. Noss Mayo is as pretty as it gets.
Getting there
- On the Map This self-catering cottage is located just off the South West Coast Path in Devon, with Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers to the East and Mothecombe to the West.
- By Car This rustic home is around four miles off the A379 at Holbeton, which is the main road between Plymouth and Kingsbridge.
- By Train The closest train station to Ivy Cove is in Ivybridge, which is a 25 minute, or nine mile drive away.
- By Air Exeter Airport is around an hour away by car.
From the owner
“A sunset from the hot tub, stars from the bath and ocean from your bed; we hope guests enjoy our rustic Devon creation as much as we do!”
This building was originally a lean-to used for farming and has had various incarnations over the years. It is only recently that it has been transformed into this cosy homestead nestled into the hillside overlooking the sea.
In the early days, Ivy Cove was very rustic and had no facilities. It was only when we returned from abroad to live here, that a bath and facilities were installed. In those days, the cottage still sported a pirate's ladder up the wall, a log burner to heat the whole place and a freestanding kitchen (of sorts). That was 20 years ago and in spite of this basic start to life in Devon, we are still married!
For about 50 years Ivy Cove was a camping barn for family and friends to stay in and many large celebrations have taken place within its walls: live music, dancing and plenty of great memories.
The latest makeover has been the most major one, however. We didn't want to destroy the rustic and slightly eccentric nature of this building and have tried to keep its personality, but at the same time making it warm and cosy.
There is nothing better than looking out over the sea from the comfort of a large bed, and we hope that many happy memories will continue to be made here.
The Sayers Family
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Noss Mayo with an insider’s perspective.
To Do
Sailing, Newton Ferrers
A popular sailing centre and a hive of busy activity during the peak months, Newton Ferrers is just a couple of miles away from the cottage and offers a wealth of options for anyone wanting to hit the water, by boat, canoe or SUP.
To Eat
The Oyster Shack, Bigbury
Award-winning seafood in comfortable, rustic and informal surroundings not far from Bigbury Beach. Don´t be fooled by its chintzy decor, this is the place to go for food from the sea. Booking is essential year-round.
To Eat
Suphas, Plymouth
Looking out across Sutton Harbour, indulge in an array of the city´s most authentic Asian street food at Suphas. Once bellies are filled, wander along the harbour wall for a nightcap at the Honky Tonk Wine Library (booking strongly advised for both).
To See
Plymouth Arts Centre
Far from the mainstream cinema experience, independent films and documentaries are shown year-round at the city´s Arts Centre at the College of Art. A perfect antidote to rainy Devon days.
Guest Testimonials
Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google
Ivy Cove couldn’t have been more incredible. Not only the most fabulous location, but private, and the finish of the property is outstanding. The beds were dreamy, the hamper exceeded expectations, we just loved everything and will be back! Thank you.
An absolutely beautiful house with everything we needed and more. The blue lagoon, although a bit of a trek to get there, was so worth it and a huge highlight. We also spoke to the House Manager a few times during our stay, she was lovely and very welcoming. In fact, others we met around the farm (including the dogs) made this trip extra special. The service from Toby on email was also excellent. We have nothing but good things to say about our stay, we’ll be sure to book with you again.
A fabulous long weekend in this beautiful spot. We loved The School House and walk there, Noss Mayo and both the pubs there. The Blue Lagoon and the farm shop. The attention to detail inside the property was second to none. After lighting the hot tub, we enjoyed it under the stars.
The fact that this has been our second stay, and we will be back says it all really. The magic of this place is undiminished, as is the hospitality. Thank you for another wonderful stay.
What an idyllic location! And an especially well-thought-out cottage, beautifully decorated and equipped. Very generous welcome hamper - we had a wonderful stay, thank you.
Celebrating my 50th birthday here has been such a joy. The House Manager is so helpful and a real asset to Ivy Cove. We´ve loved every minute as have our two dogs. Highly recommend The Ship Inn at Noss Mayo - delicious food and dog friendly. Local walks to Wadham Rock Beach and Mothecome Beach. Hot tub a triumph - heat well in advance and enjoy all week. We will be back.
A beautiful cottage in a stunning location. Everything you need has been thought of - Thank you very much! We enjoyed many walks in the beautiful weather and enjoyed the stunning views from the hot tub.
A tranquil escape nestled in the valley with a stunning sea view. We were blessed with the weather and explored the beautiful coastline on many walks. Thank you for an amazing stay.
A wonderful cottage, it´s not like anything we have ever been to. The beach is so nice and we truly believe that it is one of the best places we´ve ever been to. Thank you - we will definitely be coming back.
We´re so grateful to have found this treasured little gem! Tranquility and space to breathe away from the city stress. Thank you so much for a wonderful stay, we really enjoyed our time here.
Beautiful place! Loved the peace and quiet. We were blessed with fantastic weather all week too. Dave Sargent cooked us the most delicious 9-course meal one evening. Highly recommend.
The attention to detail inside the property was second to none. We absolutely loved the location of the property. I´ve decided that I want the bathroom flooring in my own home!
When you book a rental property you do tend to ´hold your breath’ on arrival hoping it will be as good as you expected. Ivy Cove exceeded our expectations both in terms of the property, the location, and the overall quality. The welcome hamper was also impressive!
Beautifully designed and constructed to a high standard. It was a pleasure to be inside on a winter evening sitting by the log fire. We watched the changing weather from the sofa and the hot tub! Thank you for such a gorgeous stay.
We really fell in love with Ivy Cottage….it’s very special. The private beach was beautiful, we spent a lot of time here creating the best memories. We thoroughly enjoyed The Oyster Shack in Bigbury.
The furnishings and decor were lovely and the bathrooms were very well appointed. The master bed was very comfortable and had amazing views. The unique position, beautiful view and high quality finishes went a long way. Unique Homestays always deliver the highest of standards.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Ivy Cove and Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
Keeping it in the family
Country Homes & Interiors
October 202125 of the best autumn getaways
The Times
November 2024Good manors
Condé Nast Traveller
November 2024Ways to improve your life—from our experts
The Times
October 2024The UK´s most relaxing riverside stays
The Times
October 2024At one with nature
25 Beautiful Homes
September 2024Healing waters
Condé Nast Traveller
September 202425 of the UK´s best lakeside stays
The Times
September 2024
Collections > Last-Minute Luxury Breaks > UK > Devon > Noss Mayo > Ivy Cove
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Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
