Discovering Devon through Food and Nature

Bordered on by Cornwall, Somerset, and Dorset, Devon is known for its vast landscapes, natural parks and splendid beaches. Following an economic decline during the latter part of the 20th century, the county managed to revive itself into a desirable tourist destination, and now boasts of numerous attractions depending on tourists’ preferences. For the outdoorsy types, who are more likely to holiday at Devon cottages than in nearby hotels, there is a wide selection of travel itineraries that will augment the experience of being one with the county's natural beauty, culture, and heritage.

Experience the Great Outdoors in Dartmoor National Park

The famous Dartmoor landscape is a spectacular view, with rolling hills, superb sunsets, and teeming with wildlife throughout the vast expanse. While many people are familiar with Dartmoor only because it has been featured in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s The Hound of the Baskerville, it offers more than mystery and the probable existence of a beastly hound. The best way to enjoy the moors is to stay in one of the lovely Devon cottages and around the little villages scattered throughout, and visit attractions like the Dartmoor Zoo. Moreover, many rustic restaurants and cafes offer tourists an extraordinary dining experience while enjoying the scenic views. There are also plenty of shops and markets within the towns that sell local crafts.

Taste the Local Flavour at Devon Vineyards

One of the advantages of renting one of the Devon cottages is the easy access to its vineyards. Because of the county's warm climate and ideal landscape for wine production, there are numerous vineyards making a name for themselves. Yearlstone Vineyard, one of the oldest, offers a tour to visitors plus tastings with the top calibre winemakers in the country. Whether visitors are wine connoisseurs or merely wine lovers, a whole-day visit to the Yearlstone will definitely be a fruitful experience. Wines from the Yearlstone Vineyard receive rave reviews and its Vintage Brut sparkling is the 4th best in the UK, as rated by La Revue du Vin.

Enjoy a Gastronomic Celebration

As with any other county or town anywhere in the world, the heritage is evident in the local cuisine. Because it has a long stretch of coastline, it is abundant in fishing towns and resorts. Anyone wishing to familiarise themselves with the area should start by sampling the freshest seafood and meat dishes for which the county is renowned. Devon cottages to rent are typically located within access of many local restaurants, but visitors who want to up the excitement and experience could attend one of the food festivals in the county. Crab Month is exactly what it says in the tin: throughout August, every year, locals and tourists come together and converge in numerous events and competitions such as the Crab Trail Competition and the Crab Day Street Party.

Katie Chown is a Property Consultant for Classic Cottages. We have a selection of spectacular Devon cottages to rent as well as cottages in Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset. Whether you're looking for a stunning rural retreat or a luxury cottage on the coast, we have the perfect holiday home for you to fall in love with.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.