There are times when you really need to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and escape to the country. Here you'll be able to relax and recharge while breathing in fresh, clean air. If you're looking for a stay in a charming country hotel Devon is a great destination to consider.
Devon, also called Devonshire, is one of the counties in the southwestern part of England. It's known for its beautiful countryside and dramatic coastline. In fact, it has two separate coastlines. The northern one runs along the Bristol Channel while the southern one is located along the English Channel. To the east are the counties of Somerset and Dorset while to the west is Cornwall.
Devonshire is a nature lover's paradise. Two of its most popular attractions are Dartmoor National Park and Exmoor National Park, the latter of which the county shares with Somerset. Both these parks offer excellent hiking opportunities and wildlife viewing. However, even outside the national parks you'll find rolling hills and heathland to explore on foot, by bicycle or on horseback. The rivers offer plenty of fishing too, not to mention swimming and paddling.
The most dramatic coastal views are in the north, where the coastline is rugged and characterized by steep cliffs. There are many clifftop paths to follow. The southern coast is a popular sailing destination and you'll also find wonderful beaches with great surfing.
The largest city in Devon is Plymouth. It was from this historic harbor that the Pilgrim Fathers on the Mayflower set sail all those years ago to start a new life in the New World. Another major settlement is Exeter, where the cathedral will take your breath away and where you can explore the winding alleys and buildings dating from the Middle Ages. However, throughout the county you'll come across smaller market towns and quiet, charming little villages where the locals will be happy to share a drink with you at their pub.
While pubs are usually associated with beer and Devon produces some excellent craft brews, one drink not to miss is cider. Plymouth is home to a famous gin distillery and you'll even find a couple of wine-producing vineyards. An abundance of agricultural produce means that there's plenty to eat too, from pasties and Hog's pudding to cheese or the decadent Devonshire cream tea. Crabs as well as fish and chips are popular at the coast.
Aside from the landscape and the many opportunities for outdoor activities, people flock to Devonshire because of its agreeable climate. In summer, this is one of the sunniest parts of England. Winters are a great time to visit too since they're mild and it's quite rare to experience snow. It's good to do some research on specific villages when you choose your hotel because the weather can vary quite dramatically from one area to another.
A country hotel makes for a wonderful base and there are plenty throughout Devon. Look online for one that takes your fancy. Remember to book ahead though, especially during the summer high season, since this county is one of England's favorite summer destinations.
Devon, also called Devonshire, is one of the counties in the southwestern part of England. It's known for its beautiful countryside and dramatic coastline. In fact, it has two separate coastlines. The northern one runs along the Bristol Channel while the southern one is located along the English Channel. To the east are the counties of Somerset and Dorset while to the west is Cornwall.
Devonshire is a nature lover's paradise. Two of its most popular attractions are Dartmoor National Park and Exmoor National Park, the latter of which the county shares with Somerset. Both these parks offer excellent hiking opportunities and wildlife viewing. However, even outside the national parks you'll find rolling hills and heathland to explore on foot, by bicycle or on horseback. The rivers offer plenty of fishing too, not to mention swimming and paddling.
The most dramatic coastal views are in the north, where the coastline is rugged and characterized by steep cliffs. There are many clifftop paths to follow. The southern coast is a popular sailing destination and you'll also find wonderful beaches with great surfing.
The largest city in Devon is Plymouth. It was from this historic harbor that the Pilgrim Fathers on the Mayflower set sail all those years ago to start a new life in the New World. Another major settlement is Exeter, where the cathedral will take your breath away and where you can explore the winding alleys and buildings dating from the Middle Ages. However, throughout the county you'll come across smaller market towns and quiet, charming little villages where the locals will be happy to share a drink with you at their pub.
While pubs are usually associated with beer and Devon produces some excellent craft brews, one drink not to miss is cider. Plymouth is home to a famous gin distillery and you'll even find a couple of wine-producing vineyards. An abundance of agricultural produce means that there's plenty to eat too, from pasties and Hog's pudding to cheese or the decadent Devonshire cream tea. Crabs as well as fish and chips are popular at the coast.
Aside from the landscape and the many opportunities for outdoor activities, people flock to Devonshire because of its agreeable climate. In summer, this is one of the sunniest parts of England. Winters are a great time to visit too since they're mild and it's quite rare to experience snow. It's good to do some research on specific villages when you choose your hotel because the weather can vary quite dramatically from one area to another.
A country hotel makes for a wonderful base and there are plenty throughout Devon. Look online for one that takes your fancy. Remember to book ahead though, especially during the summer high season, since this county is one of England's favorite summer destinations.
