Exmoor is the ideal place for explorers and wanderers with its sweeping valleys, heather-covered misty moorland, cliffs, caves, waterfalls and sparkling lakes. It has the highest precipitation levels in England, making it verdant and bursting with animal and plant life.

Exmoor National Park, England, UK by Thierry Gregorius

Bird watchers will be in their element with scores of species to look out for including raptors, buzzards, peregrines, and kingfishers. The area is also home to England’s largest herds of wild red deer and the unique race of Exmoor ponies. There are plenty of areas that are ideal for freshwater or seawater fishing, and some beautiful locations perfect for fly fishing. Among the most common fish to catch are wild brown trout, rainbow and grayling stocked trout and salmon.

The most common activity is, of course , tramping and trudging through the wilderness. Exmoor has more than six hundred miles of rights of way with coastal paths, open rugged moorland, valleys and river paths to choose from. Don’t be surprised to spend a whole day of exploring without meeting another soul. There are 55 kilometres of coastline trails to follow, including along the highest sea cliffs in England at Culbone Hill.

Some of the best horse-riding bridleways in the country are in Exmoor. There are more than four hundred miles of meticulously maintained trails. Cyclists and mountain bikers are also well served by the minimal traffic, array of trails, and spectacular countryside. There are also some challenging golf courses with dazzling views, such as the Minehead course which goes through both farm and beach land.

Explorers of all sorts should bring along plenty of water and a picnic. The area is also dotted with charming old pubs and is well known for the quality of food produced locally. Beef and lamb has a lovely unique flavour due to the animals grazing on the particular wild herbs and grasses in the upland areas. The dairy products are also distinctive, with lovely creamy ice creams, cheeses, and cream teas. Pheasant, rabbit, venison, fish, and seafood are all fresh and local as well. Beer enthusiasts will want to try some of the Exmoor ales such as Stag, Beast, Gold, or Fox, or the Exmas during Christmas season, and farmhouse ciders.

The Exmoor coastline near the Valley of the Rocks, UK by Exmoorwalker

Lovers of the great outdoors will be swept away by the skies over Exmoor on clear nights. It was the first European area designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve thanks to its unique combination of frequently clear skies and the absence of light pollution. The panorama of stars never fails to impress.

Exmoor has been occupied since the Mesolithic era. Its ancient history can be seen the sites such as the Neolithic hinge in Parracombe, the Iron Age fort known as Cow Castle, the Norman Castle in Parracombe, and the impressive Tarr Steps- huge stone slabs formed into a clapper bridge dating back to 1000 BC. Exmoor was established as a Royal Hunting Ground in the 13th century and was eventually made a National Park in 1954.

There are plenty of lovely villages and hamlets to explore, such as Dunster which has over 120 listed buildings and the Norman era Dunster Castle, or charming Porlock Weir with its five-mile long cliff walk. There are markets and independent shops aplenty. Families can keep busy with trips on the steam-powered trains, zoos, amusement parks, beaches, and pony spotting.

Exmoor is certainly one of the rarest, most beautiful and wild of regions to visit and there is an abundance of places to explore and enjoy for couples or families, which is why so many people holiday in this area year after year.

Author: Karen Orson has worked in the tourism and accommodation industry since she was a little girl. Playing on the Devon sands soon became frolicking in San Francisco, which gave rise to safaris across the Serengetti and then quickly returned to those English beaches again! Having travelled widely, Karen now works for Highcliffe House; a luxury guest house in North Devon.

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Kayaking destinations of Europe

Here are some wonderful must-go kayaking destinations of Europe.

Anglesey and Brittany, United Kingdom

Apart from being known for providing wonderful kayaking experience to the travelers, they are also very famous for their wealth mouth-watering seafoods. You can reach there by car. Both of them are really incredible places to spend your vacation with your dearest and nearest ones in sheer tranquility.

Shetland, United Kingdom

This is one of the most popular kayaking destinations of Europe and preferred by the kayaking fans. The comfortable weather makes it possible for the kayaking lovers to treat their passion for kayaking at any time of the year. The place is naturally sculptured by exotic sea cliffs along with small calm beaches and quiet sea caves which occasionally get lightened by the sun beams.

Sardinia, Italy

Close to La Maddalena and Paula, this archipelago or group of islands is famous for its sea-worn granite landscape.

Isles of Scilly, United Kingdom

This is another archipelago favored by the kayaking fans for its soothing climate. An expedition to these serene islands can be done throughout the year.

Isles of Man, United Kingdom

Situated in the northern part of Irish Sea, the isles lie close to the famous British Isles. This is one of the most chosen kayaking destinations within an archipelago.

Lofoten Islands, Norway

Norway’s Lofoten Islands are another archipelago loved by many travelers. Moving away from the closeness of British Islands, the archipelago of Lofoten is renowned for its mountainous landscape and inlets. Whether interested in kayaking or rock climbing, you can surely explore Lofoten Islands and pamper your interest.

The isles of Islay and Jura, United Kingdom

The isles of Islay and Jura are Scotland’s best kayaking destinations. The remote sea beaches of white sands have made the isles a romantic kayaking destination.

Shores of Croatia

The rugged Croatia shores are famous for offering sheer solitude. You can surely travel around steep and barely populated Croatia shores and enjoy the expedition. Dense pine woods, limestone cliffs and glorious view of Dubrovnik are the most preferred points of attractions of the shores of Croatia.

So what are you waiting for? Plan for an exclusive tour to explore the beauty of European shores this holiday and coddle your love for kayaking.

Author’s Bio: Jonny Pean enjoys travel to far-off and exotic places. He writes article in various blogs and forums.

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