December in The South Hams

Start Bay from the lane down to Slapton

Soft winter light in the Gara Valley

The light in winter is enchanting, it captures the soft shapes of the land, like muscles beneath the skin, and the coast shimmers with slanting, gilded light.

Snow on the beach at Blackpool Sands

Ice reflections on Slapton Ley

Even we had snow for a few days, though it's now gone from the coast and from Watermill Cottages. Walks on the beach have been glorious in the sunshine, and the Venus Beach Cafe at Blackpool Sands is open every day except Christmas Day, so we've enjoyed hot drinks (yummy hot chocolate) and lunch with friends, tired, happy dogs at our feet by the wood burner. Enjoying the sea and sunsets.  The beach and cafe are dog-friendly from the end of October to before Easter.

Our Gara Valley from the sheep shed

Our gardens from Quack Cottage

I hope you enjoy the photos, taken in the past weeks, and we wish you all a Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year,

warm regards,

Christine and John , and all the other animals...

Sunset on the Gara Valley from the top