Chien Bleu
The Cary Arms. The perfect seaside retreat, the Cary Arms on the South Devon Coast is made for those wanting utter relaxation served up in a casual manner without any compromise on luxury. Amazing gastro-pub with rooms or the perfect boutique bolthole? We can't decide and, quite frankly, there is no need to. However you choose to label the Cary Arms, you will be guaranteed friendly, impeccable service, luxurious accommodation, and awarding-winning food, all of which is bestowed on your dog as well.
A relaxed seaside bolthole expertly blending the best of English gastro-pub inn with quintessential boutique brilliance.
First visited by Erin & Blue in September 2011.
Why we love it. Draped across the cliffs like a cosy blanket, it seems a bit unfair to instead first mention the South Coast path skirting this brilliant property. It does, however, allow us to highlight that the path itself is the only thing standing between you and the amazing Babbacombe Bay, stunning views of which are practically impossible to miss whether tucked into your room, relaxing on one of the sun-soaked terraces, or dining on some of the finest gastro-pub food in the country in the brilliant restaurant and bar. As lovers of the seaside, we can think of no better place to pass one’s time, summer or winter.
Warm, relaxing, fun, romantic, inspiring – but a few of the words that come to mind when thinking about the Cary Arms. You’ll want to linger during the breakfast thanks to a proper supply of wonderful food that can be enjoyed over a good broadsheet and warming fire on a blustery morning or on one of the sea-side terraces, entranced by the view, in summer. Don’t worry as the staff won’t rush you as it isn’t that kind of place. Imagine your ideal country pub – one that can be enjoyed fully with one’s dog. . .the bar, the terraces, throw in a sea-side location and rooms befitting the best boutique hotels and you have the Cary Arms.
As for the rooms, they are beautiful - described by the hotel as having a fresh and light barefoot beach ambience, we can think of no more perfect description, so won’t try. This easy-going feel is perfectly executed using only the best and it is clear the Cary Arms prides itself on the details without feeling the need to be flashy about it: the use of Italian bed linen, bespoke fabrics and all the elements expected of a boutique bolt hole without being in your face.
This confident mix extends throughout: the chalkboard setting out the daily changing menu of award-winning food cooked simply from what’s seasonal and local; the ability to relax (disheveled hair, wellies and all) in front of a roaring fire in the bar having just finished one of the many walks outlined in the Cary Arm’s expertly and thoughtfully produced walking guide; or indulging in pizza or sausages cooked straight from the outdoor fireplace with drinks served from friendly staff whose standard of service rival those of the finest hotels in the world. With an Elemis Spa plus every activity imaginable, there is no excuse for not visiting.
Not to miss. The glass “pod” perched above the bay. An intimate glass sphere acting as a shelter from wind, rain and even snow, the 360 degree views offer the ideal spot for losing yourself from the rest of the world. The Elemis spa serves the same function, offering the perfect spot for soaking in the views whilst indulging in some well-deserved pampering.
Rooms welcoming to dogs start from. £220/night B&B.
Chien Bleu exclusive. The £15/night fee for dogs is kindly waived for all doggie guests of Chien Bleu.
Treats for the four-legged friend. Dog bowl, dog bed, dog treats, dog meals, dogs allowed to join you in all public spaces other than the conservatory (your pup can join you for meals in the bar), a dog-friendly beach and the coastal path, spa, roaring fires inside and out, walking guide with walks straight from the property.
Treats for the two-legged. Spa, roaring fires inside and out, the coastal path + walking guide with walks straight from the property, immediate access.
Driving times. Birmingham – 3 hours, Bristol – 2 hours, Exeter – ½ hour, Edinburgh – 8 hours, Glasgow – 7 ½ hours, London, West (M25/M4 Intersection) - 3 ½ hours, London, East (M25, Dartford Crossing) - 4 hours, Manchester – 4.5 hours
