Charlie Gordon and his partner at the coast in Devon (Image: Charlie Gordon)
Haven’s holiday parks are typically synonymous with affordable family getaways, where parents and children can enjoy a seaside break in a static caravan. It’s not the first place you’d think of for a mid-20s couple seeking a relaxing weekend.
However, embracing an adventurous spirit, I suggested to Tallullah that we swap our city dwelling for a four-day stay at Devon Cliffs Holiday Park. Despite her initial scepticism, we were soon basking in the sun, sipping on refreshing drinks, just moments after receiving a warm welcome at the park gates.
Our weekend was filled with picturesque walks, thrilling activities, and delicious food, all available within the 183-acre park overlooking the stunning Jurassic Coast. We sampled as much as we could before returning to our city home, feeling re-energised and eager for our next visit.
As for our accommodation, we were pleasantly surprised by our two-bedroom Gold caravan located in the Upper Deck area of the park. The caravan was spacious, immaculate, and boasted a sea view, central heating, and a large deck equipped with a table and chairs.
The efficient check-in process allowed us to kick-start our holiday almost immediately upon arrival. With everything set up and ready, we were able to pour ourselves a drink, lay out some snacks, and slip into holiday mode within minutes.
The caravan on the Haven site (Image: Charlie Gordon)
The accommodation was fully equipped for all our cooking, eating and sleeping needs. So far, so good.
Our initial impressions were only enhanced by a short stroll to the stunning Sandy Bay to catch the tail end of the sunset.
En route, we navigated through an arcade buzzing with the high-pitched squeals of thrilled children and parents hustling to keep pace.
However, it was back to the soothing sounds of chirping birds and crashing waves once we emerged on the other side after all, we were there for a couples’ retreat. A hearty meal at the on-site Seaside Cafe helped shake off the fatigue from our lengthy drive down south.
The menu was brimming with choices including vegetarian Tallullah who couldn’t stop raving about her spicy cauliflower tacos and a selection of cocktail pitchers made the sea view even more breathtaking.
On our Segways in the Haven site (Image: Charlie Gordon)
A post-dinner exploration of the park revealed that we had barely scratched the surface of the food and drink options available to us.
We later found out that The Terrace is the ideal spot for an evening drink, sharing nachos at Mash and Barrel is a sure-fire hit, and using the Haven Serve app for a late-night takeaway is the perfect way to round off even the most laid-back of afternoons. Our Papa John’s pizzas were fresh, tasty, and delivered right on time with just a few taps on a phone, enjoyed in the cosy comfort of our accommodation while the rain lashed and the wind roared outside.
Despite the weather taking a turn on the afternoon and evening of our second day, it was clear we were far from suffering.
Our day began with a flurry of activities, kicking off with a guided Segway tour.
Under the enthusiastic guidance of Morgan, our group of five was quickly taught how to operate the Segways before embarking on an exhilarating journey across the park. We navigated dirt paths, ascended and descended hills, and traced narrow trails along the water’s edge.
This invigorating start to our day served as a warm-up for the Aerial Adventure that awaited us.
My acrophobia was put to the ultimate test as we tackled a vertigo-inducing assault course nestled high in the treetops. After releasing a few initial screams of apprehension, I found myself revelling in the thrill of crawling through tunnels, overcoming obstacles, and zip-lining back to solid ground.
Whenever we travel, we strive to strike a balance between relaxation and indulgence, and adrenaline-fuelled activities. The supremely comfortable mattress facilitated the former with ease.
We were so enamoured with it that we even sought out its label, contemplating treating ourselves to one. Breakfast in bed while enjoying some television became a cherished routine during our brief visit.
The Jurassic coast at Devon (Image: Getty Images)
Beyond Segway tours and treetop adventures, there were ample opportunities to fulfil our craving for excitement.
On our final full day, we embarked on a coastal walk from the Seaside Cafe to the charming seaside town of Budleigh Salterton.
Our journey took us along a two-and-a-half-mile route, traversing unexplored areas of the park, ascending red-stone cliffs, crossing bridges, navigating gates and passing by miniature waterfalls. Strategically placed benches at stunning viewpoints provided perfect spots for us to enjoy our snacks and drinks, conveniently purchased from Haven’s mini market an absolute lifesaver during our trip.
The trail was challenging enough to get our hearts pumping but manageable in trainers, leaving us with an hour to explore book shops, a pebble beach, cosy cafes, and even a quaint old-fashioned sweet shop before heading back. After a peaceful few hours, we were ready to ramp up the excitement with some evening entertainment — a quintessential part of any Haven holiday.
A mini golf course at Haven in Devon (Image: Haven)
To end our day on a high note, we headed to Capone’s, one of the two large venues on site eagerly anticipating a thrilling performance by circus artist Steve Arnold. We were far from disappointed.
Having already been entertained by tribute act Rob B Williams on our first night, we knew we were in for a treat.
Steve’s show was a hit with both adults and children, his remarkable juggling and diablo skills complemented by his hilarious jokes. With laughter-induced sore stomachs and aching cheeks, we retreated to the comfort of our holiday home to stargaze on a clear, crisp evening.
Our city escape had come to an end but Haven, you were truly heavenly.
A guest crosses a rope bridge at Haven (Image: Haven)
Book the holiday
Haven is providing a four-night self-catering stay at Devon Cliffs Holiday Park in Sandy Bay, Devon, this summer starting from £79, based on four adults sharing. Additionally, midweek four-night breaks across its UK parks this spring begin at £49. Visit haven.com for more details. For additional information visit visitdevon.co.uk.