Specialist business property adviser Christie & Co has announced the sale of Gara Rock Hotel & Spa, an iconic lifestyle resort and wellness retreat on the South Devon coast.
Perched in a unique clifftop setting in the South Hams, near Salcombe, Gara Rock comprises suites, apartments, cottages and letting bedrooms, all refurbished to exacting standards. The purpose-built spa boasts spectacular sea views, and features indoor and outdoor pools, sauna, steam room and treatment rooms. Gara Rock is also home to a panoramic restaurant and outdoor terrace with grill, which offer incredible views of the coastline below.
The original Coastguard cottage was acquired in 1909 by Richard Jordan and transformed into a family board house. By the 1930s, Gara Rock was flourishing as a prestigious hotel attracting celebrity guests including Sir Laurence Olivier and Sir John Betjeman. It underwent a major renovation and expansion scheme in 1950 after being acquired by the Royal Air Force, and since 2017 the hotel has received significant investment and refurbishment of all suites, apartments, and public spaces.
Gara Rock Hotel & Spa was previously owned by Away Resorts, who sold the hotel to focus on their core holiday park business. They commented, “Gara Rock hotel is a fantastic hotel in an amazing location. We’re delighted to pass on the stewardship of this unique asset to Ocean Cove Group who we are confident will provide the right focus, care and attention for the next chapter, providing guests with unforgettable memories and experiences.”
The property has been purchased by Chagford-based Ocean Cove Group Limited. Sam Scougall-Knight, on their behalf, commented, “We are delighted to be the new custodians of Gara Rock and look forward to evolving the property into the finest coastal hotel in the region. Uniquely positioned at the end of Devon, we look forward to welcoming guests to explore the South Hams’ stunning landscapes and retreat from the pace of modern life throughout the seasons.”
Stephen Champion, Director – Hotels South West at Christie & Co, added, “The sale of Gara Rock Hotel & Spa presented a truly rare opportunity to acquire one of the most stunningly located luxury hotels in the South West. This, combined with the extensive recent capital expenditure on the hotel, as well as the significant prospect of growing the business further, made Gara Rock a tantalising prospect. We received serious interest from a number of buyers and a deal that went under offer in less than five weeks after the hotel was launched to the market. We wish the new owners every success with their new venture.”
Gara Rock Hotel & Spa sold at an undisclosed price.