Mulberry through the year
Mulberry through the year
The South Hams region of Devon is not just a summer destination. This peninsula, being the most southerly point in Devon, enjoys one of the mildest year round climates on mainland Britain and as a consequence spring tends to arrive early; summer lasts longer; autumn is mellow and often warm and sunny; and winters are mild. In short, the climate, coupled with the year round indoor and outdoor leisure facilities makes Mulberry and the Colmer Estate an excellent holiday destination at any time of year. Whatever the season, Mulberry will be sure to give you a warm welcome.
Autumn
The early autumn weather can be as lovely as the summer, so if you are lucky enough to be able to holiday in the autumn then you can enjoy all that the area has to offer without the crowds. The area is renowned for its good pubs and restaurants where you can sample locally sourced produce. The area boasts a number of picturesque villages and towns such as Modbury. Spend time exploring and enjoy the wide selection of craft shops, art galleries etc. September sees the Agatha Christie Festival (13th - 20th September) and there are a number of themed events planned in the area. The Dartmouth Food Festival (21st - 25th October) is well worth a visit and a great opportunity to taste a selection of local produce - you could even pick up some tips from John Burton Race in one of his cookery demonstrations. Autumn is a great time of year for walking too and is the best season to see migrating birds. There’s a good chance of some windy weather at this time of year and local beaches are good for surfing, windsurfing or kite flying - why not try surf school over half term? Dartmoor is a lovely place to visit and is only a short drive away. In the autumn you can enjoy the changing colour of this beautiful landscape - great for the budding artist or photographer. Alternatively simply enjoy the facilities that Mulberry and the Colmer Estate have to offer - a game of tennis followed by a swim in the heated indoor pool or quiet contemplation as you fish for Carp and Golden Rudd in the Estate’s private lake, to name but a few.
Winter
Winter months can seem long and summer holidays too far away, so why not escape the winter blues and enjoy the more relaxed pace of the South Hams out of season. Winters are generally milder in the South Hams and you can get some beautiful sunny days. A coastal walk can be exhilarating in winter and you may spot some of the rare birds and wildlife that find shelter in the South Hams. However, if it’s too windy and exposed on the coast, then the tidal creeks of the Salcombe Estuary and the River Avon are more sheltered for walking or bird watching. After a bracing walk or a swim in the heated indoor pool, what better than snuggling up with a good book and a hot drink in Mulberry.
Christmas is a magical time at Mulberry where you can indulge your desire for a traditional country celebration - there’ll be a Christmas tree waiting for you when you arrive! The 14th Century California Country Inn and Restaurant with all its rustic charm always has a good atmosphere whilst the 28 acres of grounds on the Colmer Estate are perfect for walking off any festive over indulgence!
Spring
Why not celebrate the end of the winter by heading to Mulberry and the Colmer Estate. Watch the landscape emerge from its winter slumber as the signs of spring appear early. The flowers in the hedgerows and on the coastal paths make a breathtaking sight and the Colmer Estate itself is particularly beautiful at this time of year. Since there are fewer visitors, this is a good time of year to see some of the abundant wildlife in the area; there are resident seals in the Salcombe Estuary and dolphins are often spotted. Both can be seen from the coastal path and this is also an excellent time to visit if you enjoy walking or bird watching. Visit Burgh Island and spot pods of dolphins or perhaps a solitary seal playing in the Bay, you may also be lucky enough to see some of the numerous rare birds that shelter and breed on the Island. Alternatively you could enjoy some refreshments at the 14th Century Pilchard Inn followed by a ride on the unique Sea Tractor. There are also many places of historic interest to visit in the area including the National Trust’s Greenway House and Gardens, which was once home to Agatha Christie.
The Colmer Estate is itself home to a variety of wildlife including woodcocks, pheasants, foxes, badgers, rabbits and deer. The meadow and lake attract a variety of butterflies, dragonflies and birds including moorhens and mallards.
Summer
The South Hams come alive in summer, but the area is too often overlooked so this peninsular never gets as crowded as some of the more accessible parts of Devon. If you are not restricted to school holidays then June and early July are lovely times to visit as it is still fairly quiet and you could enjoy a celebration of music and sail during the Salcombe Festival (11th-13th June). However, even in the height of summer you can still enjoy the award winning blue flag beaches such as Bigbury-on-Sea and Challaborough. As you would expect there are many water-based activities available in the summer, such as fishing, swimming, sailing, water-ski, surfing etc. August sees the Royal Regatta at Dartmouth and also the Salcombe Regatta.
Exploring the coast and rivers is best done by boat and you have a choice of boat and ferry trips from Salcombe, or you can hire your own and potter up and down the estuary exploring the little creeks. Take the River Rat scenic tour along the River Dart. Tide permitting groups can stop by request at Sharpham vineyard allowing an opportunity to sample local wine and cheese.
After a day out and about you’ll be ready to return to Mulberry and its relaxing atmosphere!
