Here’s why we think you should holiday in West Devon …

Nestled in the heart of Devon, Dartmoor and the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) offer breathtaking scenery, charming villages, and a wealth of outdoor activities for families, cyclists, walkers, and nature lovers.  In this post, we highlight some of the top reasons why you should consider a holiday in this stunning region of England.  We also highlight some of the must-visit places and activities for each type of traveller.

 

For Families

Dartmoor and the Tamar Valley AONB offer a wide range of family-friendly activities and attractions.  We recommend trawling or free mobile App for the things you most like to do.  But to start with for animal lovers, Dartmoor Zoo is a must-visit destination, where you can see a variety of fascinating and endangered animals up close.  For those seeking a more adventurous day out, Go Ape! at Haldon Forest offers zip-lining, rope courses, and other adrenaline-fueled activities.  Or, for a fun and educational experience, the Devonport Naval Heritage Centre showcases the rich maritime history of the region.

 

For Cyclists

Dartmoor and the Tamar Valley AONB offer some of the best cycling routes in the UK, with options for all levels of experience. The Dartmoor Way is a 95-mile circular route that takes cyclists through stunning landscapes, charming villages, and historic sites.   Harford Bridge Park is on National Cycle Route 27.  For mountain bikers, the Granite Way offers a challenging off-road route with stunning views of the Dartmoor landscape.  And for those seeking a more leisurely ride, the Tamar Valley Discovery Trail is a 33-mile route that takes cyclists along the picturesque Tamar Valley.

 

For Walkers

With its rugged moors, rolling hills, and tranquil river valleys, Dartmoor and the Tamar Valley AONB offer some of the best walking trails in the UK. The Dartmoor National Park alone has over 450 miles of public footpaths, bridleways, and trails to explore.  For a challenging hike, the Two Moors Way is a 102-mile trek that takes walkers across the moors and through the heart of Dartmoor. And for a more relaxed stroll, the Tamar Trails Centre offers a variety of woodland and riverside walks that are suitable for all ages and abilities.

 

For Nature Lovers

Dartmoor and the Tamar Valley AONB are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including some rare and endangered species. The region is also a designated Dark Sky Reserve, offering unparalleled views of the night sky. For birdwatchers, the Plym Valley Trail is a great spot to see a variety of woodland birds, while the East Dartmoor Nature Reserve is home to the rare marsh fritillary butterfly. And for a unique nature experience, the Tamar Valley Donkey Park offers the chance to meet and feed a variety of friendly donkeys.

 

Must-Visit Places

In addition to the activities and attractions mentioned above, Dartmoor and the Tamar Valley AONB offer a wealth of must-visit places. These include:

Dartmoor and the Tamar Valley AONB offer a wealth of activities, attractions, and natural beauty that make it an ideal holiday destination for families, cyclists, walkers, and nature lovers.  Harford Bridge Park is 2-miles from Tavistock, with easy road access to all the places mentioned in this blog.  You can walk to Tavistock (c.40 minutes on pavement) or walk out to the moor as we are sited within Dartmoor National Park.  Find out more on our website here.