Cary Arms & Spa

Scenically set overlooking Babbacombe Bay, this upscale inn offers a relaxing seaside getaway on the English Riviera. With a popular pub serving tasty fare at its heart, the boutique property is imbued with an inviting and convivial atmosphere. Besides catering to hotel guests -- most of whom are English couples and families -- this seaside dining spot attracts plenty of visitors, locals, and hikers wandering in from the nearby coastal path, so it's usually busy. It's a cozy space brimming with charm, with wood and slate floors, exposed stone walls, wooden ceiling beams, and handsome, hefty wooden tables and chairs providing seating. Model ships lurk in corners and a fireplace completes the atmospheric vibe. In contrasting style, the adjacent conservatory dining room where guests can take breakfast is a bright and airy space enveloped by windows and rife with greenery lining the sills and hanging from above. Quaint blue and white checkered table linens give it a cheery vibe. There's also a cozy living room-like lounge complete with a quaint fireplace. It's full of books lining the shelves, sailing boat prints adorning the walls gallery-style, and a tasteful mix of mismatched seating that lends the space a homey and distinctly English atmosphere.

Outside, stony terraces wreathed in greenery spill down into the sea, providing stunning spots to lounge in or dine alfresco. Wooden tables and chairs, loungers, and benches are scattered here and there, all granting gorgeous views of the sea and coast. A steep but short walk down the road leads to the beach. Guests should also note that the road leading to the hotel is a steep incline and might be an issue for some -- though the hotel does offer transport from the public parking lot that's a short distance up the road. 

Overlooking Babbacombe Bay on the South Devon coast of the beautiful English Riviera, the hotel is just a minute's walk from the beach, which is right down the steep road (the incline might be an issue for some). Oddicombe Beach can also be reached on foot in about 10 minutes. From there, guests can take a funicular up to town and explore the Babbacombe Model Village, a miniature village and railway (a 20-minute walk from the hotel, or a five-minute drive). There are lots of beautiful coastal walks in the area, as well as various small beaches dotting the coast, while Dartmoor National Park can be reached in about 40 minutes by car. There are several dining options and bars within walking distance, plus there are more in Torquay's center and marina which is around a 10-minute drive. The Torquay Railway Station is a 15-minute drive away, while the nearest airport in Exeter can be reached in 35 to 40 minutes.

The hotel has 10 sea-facing rooms and suites. Guests seeking something larger can rent one of the three restored fisherman's cottages or the eight beach huts and suites. Decor is fresh and contemporary with hints of seaside charm, the white walls and furniture contrasted by blue or red accents seen on headboards, pillows, throws, and framed prints adorning the walls. Beach huts and suites add stylish details like colorful art, large sofas, and brightly hued Smeg mini-fridges. These chic duplexes have large glass doors that fill them with natural light and open onto sundecks. They have sitting rooms with fireplaces, wet bars, and tech-y extras like Smart TVs and Sonos music systems. The cottages also have large living rooms with fireplaces, as well as adding full kitchens, patios, terraces, and lovely gardens.

All rooms have stunning sea views, plus all except one have large private terraces or balconies (suites have log-burning fire pits on their terraces). Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, Nespresso machines, electric kettles, bottled water, a decanter of free sloe gin, and free Wi-Fi. Twice-daily housekeeping includes turndown service with hot water bottles. Bathrooms are clean and large, equipped with shower/tub combos with rainfall showerheads. Some have separate showers and tubs, while the Beach Huts have walk-in rainfall showers. White Company toiletries and hairdryers are provided.

Besides its stunning seaside location, one of the highlights here is the hotel's gastro pub, a popular spot that draws not only hotel guests, but also visitors, locals, and passerby. It garners great reviews for its tasty, fresh, and seasonal fare. It's open for lunch and dinner, and guests can dine alfresco in the warmer months. Breakfast is included in rates and is served in a sunlit conservatory dining room.

The on-site spa was opened at the end of 2016 and offers a hydrotherapy pool and two treatment rooms, as well as a sauna, steam room, and an aromatherapy and phototherapy shower. The spa menu offers a variety of Thalgo treatments.

There's a public parking lot near the hotel, though It's a short distance up the steep road. The hotel offer free transport from the lot to the hotel for those who can't manage the incline on foot. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.