Andy Cooper discovers a tucked-away paradise in Clawford Lakes, offering the best of both worlds.
There is no greater fan of the north Devon coast than me. After years spent living there and loving it so much, whenever I get the chance to return I will always grab the opportunity – it’s such a lovely part of the world.
But I know that loveliness – and its resulting popularity with visitors – can occasionally come at a price and that’s how busy it can get, especially in the popular resorts. Now I am not one of those ‘NIMBYs’ who want the place for myself, accepting as I do that the tourism pound helps the Devon economy tick. But it does mean if you find a quieter spot with easy access to the coast then it is one to cherish.
And that’s why I am so enthused by my recent visit to Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa, a stunning 80-acre Devon holiday destination, just a short drive from the north Devon coast, which has just celebrated its first anniversary by launching two new luxury escape packages to enable guests to create their perfect holiday. Both the Lake Spa and Water Sports Escape packages are available to book now and have been created to cater for lovers of tranquillity and relaxation or action and adventure.
The Water Sports Escape package allows you to transform your break into a water sports adventure, with the chance to go paddleboarding on the lake as well as heading to Bude for surfing lessons. The Lake Spa Escape takes pampering to the next level with unlimited access to the Lake Spa lounge, indoor pool and steam room as well as a 60-minute spa treatment and afternoon tea with lake views.
From its secluded yet accessible Devon location, Clawford Lakes is gearing up for its second holiday season. Since opening in April 2022, new accommodation has continually been added to meet demand, including seven further luxury cocoons, six floating lodges and many more luxury holiday lodges. Further accommodation will be added this year including lodges, holiday homes and exclusive family pods.
Graham Plant, operations director at operators Lakeshore Leisure Group told me: “When we created Clawford Lakes, our vision was to offer guests a truly unique way of experiencing this remarkable and beautiful part of Devon.
“We wanted to ensure whether you visit us as a family, in a couple or a group of friends that you would have a holiday to remember and we’re delighted that our first year has been so successful.”
They have certainly done that…and then some. Tucked away in a tranquil, remote location the very isolation of the Clawford Lakes site makes it even more of a surprise when you arrive to such luxury, seemingly in the middle of nowhere. From the beautifully appointed lodge we checked into with its wonderful lakeside setting (repeatedly marvelled at from our hot tub on the outside veranda) right through to the handy restaurant and superb spa facilities, we found everything we needed within a stone’s throw.
And if you do feel the need to get off site then those beaches are but a moment away, making this the ideal spot to make an escape to the coast whilst still enjoying the peace and tranquillity of a rural location.
The Water Sports Escape Package and Lake Spa Escape Package are now available to book. At time of writing the Water Sports Escape Package is £120 per person and the Lake Spa Escape Package is £99 per person. More details at clawfordlakes.co.uk.
