Getting Fit!
So, the Christmas spirit now seems an age ago and the long dark January evenings have found you glued to the sofa, reluctant to turn lethargy to exercise. Well, the evenings will soon draw out, the first brave hints of spring will emerge in the garden and it’s time to lose those added pounds and be fit for the summer months ahead. For those still reluctant to venture outdoors fitness aids need never be far away. Whilst there are many sports centres, gyms and exercise classes in most Devon towns many prefer to have everything in house. I see some serious kit in houses (and wonder if it really gets used), whilst others satisfy themselves with a tread mill or rowing machine in the garage. Maybe it’s a fashion and a must have on the house hunting list but space for a gym is part of many a remit.
So, to at least show willing some houses currently available that offer in house exercise! The Vineyard at Colyford (Strutt and Parker 01392 215631) has a purpose built gym next to the office with full width sliding doors to the garden, so no excuse for not getting out of the office there!. The same agents are selling St. Milburgas Oratory at Bigbury which has a superb indoor swimming pool, gym and sauna leading directly from the house. Knight Frank (01392 423111) offer High House in Salcombe, a contemporary house where the gym has an amazing view over Batson Creek. For those seeking the ultimate country house Savills (01392 455700) are selling Ash House at Iddesleigh -stabling, gym, swimming pool, tennis court and 125 acres, plus an amazing view of Dartmoor. The many rivers and estuaries in Devon offer the wild swimming enthusiast and sailor perfect environment to pursue a healthy outdoor activity. Stags Dartmouth office (01803 835336) are selling Russell House on The Embankment -literally across the road to the water. The perfect holiday home that generates an income as well.
For the equestrian minded Marchand and Petit (01548 857588) are selling Cross Farmhouse in East Allington in the beautiful South Hams, between beaches and Dartmoor. A character six bedroom farmhouse in seven acres with stabling and ample income possible from bed and breakfast, a self contained annexe and potential for the conversion of a barn.
Formal exercise classes and expensive kit are not for everyone. Any Devon resident is not far from wonderful walks, cycle paths, bridle paths, swimming pools- both indoor and outdoor -many hotels and schools allow non residents access for a small fee. The South West Coast Path, the Two Moors Way, the Tarka Trail are just some of the best places to explore on foot. Maybe a game of golf on one of the stunning coastal courses, Saunton, Bigbury, Budleigh Salterton to name a few. And after all that that you can still comeback to the sofa feeling rejuvenated and enjoy a sneaky glass of wine (or two)- It’s all about coming home”.