Probably a dumb question to ask, but does anyone know of a good place to look for accomodation for 4 in Salcombe, either agency or from personal recomendation? nothing too flash required - we've not been before so don't know the place at all.

http://www.coastandcountry.co.uk
http://www.salcombeinformation.co.uk/accommodation-in-salcombe.asp
http://www.salcombe.com/

Try these for starters

Try Salcombe Holiday Homes, also there are a number of B&B's to. Go to them via the TIC.

Thanks for the replies - I'm suprised by the number of Friday to Friday properties there are!

It's maddening, there's always the option of a B&B on the Friday night.

In past years Coast and Country have chharged mid-season prices for Merlin Week whereas Salcombe Holiday homes have levied high-season charges - need to watch for this !

FWP, that's a good point.

Bearing in mind that it appears they are cashing in on our arrival in Salcombe to extend their high season forward by a week relative to their competition (which I guess is fair enough), would it be reasonable to ask for some sponsorship of the week from them? Just an idea to be mulled over, but has this been considered?

You can't have to much sponsorship!

I'm referring to Salcombe Holiday Homes rather than Coast and Country by the way.

Would the 'sponsorship' perhaps result in a booking discount for competitors? perhaps a free night for one week booked? Would the town get 3 or 400 visitors if the Merlin week wasn't held there?
OK I'm dreaming, as I suspect the % earned from a week's accomodation doesn't add up to much - it would probably need to come from a reduced price by the owners, but very tempting all the same!

I own a 4 bed centrally situated property in Salcombe which is available through Coast and Country Cottages for Merlin week, and is usually let to Merlin crews and their camp followers each year. Price for Merlin week in 2011 is £770 for 8 people ie £13.75 per person per night for a 4 star "Visit Britain" assessed house. After the agents 19% fee,20% VAT on that fee,Cleaning and Laundry at £75, Utility bills at £25, I collect about £500.This does not allow for damage,breakages and normal wear and tear. Not sure who's getting the best deal? Sailing in Salcombe is unique. If you can afford to campaign a Merlin surely you should be able afford the very reasonable costs of Salcombe week?

Perhaps it's just me but £500 per week sounds like alot of cash -a set of s/h sails maybe.... I couldn't afford to 'campaign' a merlin, just like to combine a holiday with some sailing and from now on I'm going to keep an eye open for anyone following me who appears to be camp.

Hope you don't mind having your leg pulled, I'm sure its a lovely property! I was quoted nearly £700 for a 2 bedroom place, so it sounds very good value.

Sadly family commitments, school terms and lack of cash (all connected) mean we cannot do Salcombe any more.  But for a first timer a good tip is to remember that Salcombe is very 3 dimensional - bits of it are up - a long way up! Its a good idea to check the contours on the map before you book that bargain property.  Top sailing though! Still miss it.
Ian