Cary Arms & Spa (Babbacombe Bay) Reviewed

If you are looking for an idyllic, unique and memorable coastal destination, Babbacombe Bay may just hold the perfect destination. Stunning views, a fully loaded spa and fresh, high-end seafood are just some of the reasons Cary Arms & Spa should be on your travel list for 2017.

The perfectly located Cary Arms boutique inn, a de Savary establishment, has seen a substantial redevelopment to the tune of over £2 million. Since completion, the property now boasts six unique, high-end Beach Huts, two large Beach Suites and an incredible spa. This, in addition to the original bedrooms and suites plus three five bedroom cottages, gives Cary Arms a wonderful range of accommodation options for all occasions.

Hats off to the team who developed the new additions, as they fit perfectly into the setting and nestle organically into the property’s existing aesthetic. In our opinion, these recent additions have firmly established the Cary Arms & Spa as a must-visit destination for 2017. It is simply sublime!

A Spa with one of the best sea views in the UK  

The first ‘WOW’ moment of many in this wonderful, new spa is the stunning view from the glass fronted hydrotherapy pool. We aren’t aware of many spas where you can enjoy such a spectacular view. The Jurassic coast line makes for a great back drop. It is a fantastic place in which to sit and lose yourself through relaxation.

The spa itself is modestly sized, but the money has been spent intelligently, resulting in great use of space and a range of spa options. This includes an aromatherapy/light shower, with tropical and arctic settings to suite your move. Plus, a sauna, steam room and a gymnasium. Fear not, guests at the inn have full complimentary access to the spa facilities. You won’t want to leave!

Aside from world class facilities, there are also treatments on offer in a series of treatment rooms. Utilising Thalgo, one of the world’s leading marine beauty and skin-care brands, your treatment can take any form you wish. Plus, there is the option of a couples massage too. A full service listed is available on the website. We were lucky enough to enjoy a Signature massage, which saw our masseuse tailor the treatment to suit our individual needs. The superb quality of the treatment reflecting the very high standards of the spa itself.

The Beach Huts are memorable and indulgent

Taking on the style of a classic beach hut, the Beach Huts at Cary Arms are poised with view across Babbacombe bay and beyond. Equipped with a spacious outdoor terrace there is plenty of space to sunbathe in the most gorgeous surroundings. Plus, retractable wall to wall windows afford views from inside too.

The Beach Huts afford a 560 square foot space, incorporating sitting room, wet bar, bedroom on a mezzanine level and bathroom with a water fall shower. Below the Beach Huts you will find the Beach Suites.

Take a look at the Beach Huts for yourself

Set amid exquisite tropical coastal gardens and the dramatic red cliffs of the Jurassic coast, the incomparable location buoys the quintessential seaside essence. 

Within the space you will find all of the necessary mod cons, including underfloor heating, 2 smart TVs, a Sonos wireless music system and a contemporary fireplace. There is also a Mini Smeg fridge containing complimentary drinks, snacks and goodies. Plus, there is also complimentary sloe gin on hand. A lovely touch.

If you have a dog, the Beach Huts are pet friendly and must be pre-booked.

Our Beach Hut was astounding for many reasons and I have already raved about it to anyone who would listen; it was also a destination worth travelling to from far afield. Beautiful.

You can expect an authentic taste of the sea

Lead by Head Chef, Ben Kingdon, the restaurant’s menu is a showcase of local produce and seafood.  Before visiting we were promised “superb Devon beef, Lyme Bay lobster and line caught seafood”. We can report that the food was indeed “superb”.

The indoor dining area, perfect for cold evenings, spans a charming traditional space and into a conservatory overlooking the sea. For Summer months, there are bay doors which open out onto a spacious dining area. Our visit fell in February, therefore we were quite happy the doors were closed and the log burners were stoked, as it was rather chilly!

An insight into the menu: The menus specials board changes daily reflecting Devon coast and Devon country in equal measure. Food to rival the best. For example, the ‘catch of the day’ from Brixham travels less than 12 miles to our kitchen and is constantly changing.

Highlights from our dining experience included beautiful Dover sole, with capers and greens. Melt in the mouth and an authentic taste of the sea, this is just what you come to the South coast of England for. Having the sea on the doorstep is a trick some restaurants in the area may not fully utilise; however, it is great to see Ben and his team actively updating the menu with the freshest fish possible.

Another highlight was the Westcountry Fillet of Beef, with sweet potato fondant, wild mushrooms, spinach &red wine jus. A hearty, yet refined dish which warmed the cockles on a cold winter’s evening.

Service in the restaurant and throughout the entirety of the visit was of the highest level. Each member of the Cary Arms team took effort with each guest, imparting help and assistance where appropriate. Or offering amicable conversation for a warming and welcoming atmosphere.

Cary Arms & Spa has all the ingredients to become a five-star destination of note. Fortunately, through a combination of fantastic staff, passionate chefs and the glorious setting all of these ingredients come together seamlessly. Highly recommended.

Overnight stays at the beach huts cost from £375 per night, beach suites from £475 and luxury doubles in the main hotel from £245 per night. For bookings and further details: www.caryarms.co.uk/ 01803 327 110