Mudpie Fridays is a parenting and travel blog, that features Clare, her husband and two boys, Monkey aged 7 and Kipper aged 3. They’re a family that has a passion for searching out new experiences to share with the boys; to ignite in them the desire to learn and understand different people and cultures. They stayed with us in Croyde in July, here’s what they got up to!
Location, Location, Location. That use to be a favourite TV programme of mine! But what has it to do with the fabulous Croyde Bay Resort? Well in this instance although the location is absolutely amazing. There are also many more reasons why you should choose to holiday here. We had a lovely long weekend with them in early July. It was our first break after the lockdown had been lifted and it exceeded all our expectations. Our only disappointment is that four nights is simply not enough.
We stayed in one of their four-bedroom lodges. I think it is probably the largest holiday home we have ever had of this type. The space was expansive with lots of storage to hide the inevitable hoards of stuff you need when you travel with kids. With a fully equipped kitchen, everything we needed for a self-catering holiday was there, and the large decking was the perfect place to dine alfresco.
As perfect as the accommodation was, what really stood Croyde Bay Resort apart from other places we have stayed, was the obvious effort that all the staff go to. They wanted to ensure you have a wonderful stay with them and it came through in their interactions. They really care, and you can tell. Everyone was so friendly and nothing was too much effort. We ate in the onsite restaurant one night and the staff went above and beyond.
The inside areas were closed when we visited, but the resort had put on extra activities outside to compensate. More evidence that they are putting their guests first. The boys loved the boules and table football in particular but there were lots of other activities as well. I also noticed that during the day there was a vigorous cleaning routine which is so important at this time. After a particularly hot day spent exploring the local area we were pleased to come back to find a parasol had been put up for us on the veranda. For me, it is these little things that make a difference.
I said I wouldn’t mention it, but I am going to. The proximity to one of the largest beaches in the area does deserve a mention. As it really is just over the dunes. A welcome relief when you are laden down with beach bags, sunshades and bodyboards. The golden sand stretches for miles and it comes as no surprise how popular it is with surfers and bodyboarders alike. Both boys had their first ride out on a bodyboard during our stay. Needless to say, they loved it and the boards are a permanent fixture in the back of my car. But try as we might, we have not managed to replicate the waves we had during our stay at Croyde Bay. Much to their disappointment. The sunsets are also stunning and worth the late night for the little ones.
If you are looking to explore the local area further. Then Croyde Bay Resort acts as a great base to do so. Within a short walk, there is Croyde Village itself which has a lovely tea room, perfect for having a cream tea amongst the flowers in the cottage garden. There are also souvenir shops and a delicious ice cream parlour – Croyde Bay Ice Cream Parlour. Where there is so much choice you will have to visit more than once because it is difficult to settle on a favourite flavour.
We caught a boat from Ilfracombe, which is only a short drive away, to Lundy Island. When we visited it was Puffin season, I have wanted to see them in the wild since I was a little girl. So I was delighted to find along with many other seabirds that there were colonies nesting on the Island. We also saw seals and although we didn’t see them it is also quite common to see dolphins.
We had a very peaceful, quiet and relaxing few days enjoying each others company and remembering what it means to be a family. Exactly what we needed after a stressful few months. Without a doubt, we would recommend this to all our friends and family. And hope to visit again ourselves. Thank you for having us Croyde Bay Resort.
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