We are still preparing ourselves for taking trips in the van with a Dog now, but as a test to see how Digby does away from home and his crate, we took a weekend trip to Shaldon in Devon and stayed in a lovely Air BnB that was perfectly situated called Paddle Cottage.
We arrived late Friday afternoon, after unpacking we decided to head to the Teign Estuary to stretch all of our legs. We arrived in time for a sunset walk and with the tide out you walk along the estuary in and amongst the resting boats. There are big pools of water to splash in which Digby loved. We also used to come here in the morning and lots of dogs were having fun playing and swimming together. A adult black lab spurred Digby to go in a little too far and he swam for the first time at 6 months old. Proud dog mum moment!
Our first full day I had a circular walk around Shaldon planned which takes you through the village up onto the cliffs that takes you to the South West Coastal Path above Ness Cove with views overlooking the Teign Estuary, then back down into Shaldon village again. Its a short walk but hilly so we took our time, and at the end of it had a tremendous Fish and Chip late lunch at the Clipper Cafe, which gives you wonderful views over the Teign Estuary. The cafe is dog friendly and did not mind our wet and muddy pup at all which was a relief as we were hungry and wet ourselves.
On our last day we wanted to spend some time at a beach so we headed to a dog friendly beach, Ness Cove which is only reached by the famous Smuggler's Tunnel. The beach is a secluded cove with rocks for climbing and rock pooling, so great for the kids as well as the dog. The only thing to be mindful of is there are steps down to the beach at the exit of the tunnel so be mindful if you need wheeled access. The legend has it that the tunnel was dug out by smugglers to receive contraband, the tunnel is dug out of the cliffs and is the only access to the bay, which can only be seen from the sea or the clifftop above and not neighbouring villages.
As it was Sunday we had our Roast at The Ness pub next to Smuggler's Tunnel before heading back home. Again, a very dog friendly place with great food and wonderful views looking out to sea.
It was a wonderfully short but very sweet weekend, I'd love to go back again someday.
