A "secret" beach in Devon is so stunning that locals don't want the rest of the UK knowing it exists. Once the cat is out of the bag and a "hidden gem" like Maidencombe becomes public knowledge, everyone will undoubtedly want to visit to take a stroll along the coarse red sandstone, or sample the delights of the fantastic beach cafe. While at the beach, a local smiled and told Devon Live: "Don't tell anybody it's here.
" “I like it peaceful. I come down here in the morning sometimes really early when nobody else is around and take a swim. At this time of year the sun rises over there in the east and stays pretty much for the rest of the day.
I would rather keep it to myself," they added. Maidencombe has never actually been hidden, and was even mentioned in the Domesday Book, but it has been overlooked. It is a natural cove which is surrounded by towering cliffs and has long held a claim to being the best beach in Torquay that you haven't visited.
Speaking to people ambling around the beach, many were stunned at how they'd found such a beautiful seaside spot. Justine Rowe, who was on holiday from Bristol, said: "We’ve had a magical day. It was very unexpected.
We were camping on Dartmoor and just decided to go to the nearest beach. So we came this morning and went for a swim. It was just fantastic, the sea was pretty clear.
Then we had some lunch at the cafe which was marvellous." With a wistful, end-of-holiday regret tinge to her voice, she concluded: "The only problem is we’ve got to go home today. I’m already thinking of coming back.
" Maidencombe is around four miles from the centre of Torquay, and can be found by walking down a steep hill which takes you directly to the centre of the village. It's then just a short walk through a shaded forest to reach the top of the cove. As you descend along the beach steps, the magnificent shoreline comes into view in a beautiful reveal.
And once you've worked up an appetite from all the beach lounging, what better way to satiate yourself than with the the delights on offer at Cafe Rio, which serves hot and cold snacks, meals, coffee, ice cream and pizza. The beach is not the busiest in Torquay, but locals say its popularity is on the rise and they're seeing many more tourists seeking out the pristine sands. Locals say it's started getting hectic during the summer season, with arguments going on about parking restrictions to stop visitors leaving cars outside residential properties.
There are beaches that beat Maidencombe in terms of size, and more man-made amusements. But not many can contend with Maidencombe's rugged nature and gentle village vibe. Just try to keep it to yourself and don't tell too many people.
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