Holidays in and around stunning Dartmoor
Famous for rolling hills and stunning scenery Devon has some wonderful walks to explore, none more so than across Dartmoor and Exmoor. Once a royal hunting zone known as Dartmoor Forest, the area is owned by the Duchy of Cornwall and access to the public is almost unlimited. It's attraction is the isolation and sheer expanse of the barren landscape and the many Tors (high cliffs) and ruins which can be see en-route. Prone to quick changes in the weather and busier along the popular routes during the summer months, Dartmoor is a must visit for anyone holidaying in the area.
Herds of sheep and the famous Dartmoor ponies roam the 365 square miles (approx) of moorland freely, if you head towards the area of Princetown on the central moor, you'll see the renowned Dartmoor Prison, once home to some of the country's most dangerous criminals. The HM Prison Dartmoor Museum is worth a visit if you want to learn more about the history of the prison and how it runs today.
If you fancy a treasure hunt like no other then you should ask at the tourist offices about letterboxing. Popular throughout the world letterboxing began in Dartmoor in 1854. Similar to orienteering, letterboxes have a rubber stamp and visitor books are hidden on the moor with clues written to lead others to find it's position. Leaflets and schedules for forthcoming events can be found at the tourist offices.
The Dartmoor National Park Authority offer walks that vary according to ability and are led by guides who pass on their knowledge of the area to help you enjoy and learn more about Dartmoor. Remember to look out for tourist and information centres for further guidance on suggested walks in the area.
Getting around Dartmoor is easier by bus, the Transmoor link bus operates between Exeter and Plymouth with stops at Two Bridges and Princetown giving you the opprtunity to explore many of intervening towns and villages. The Sunday Rover ticket covers travel the Exeter to Okehampton bus route and the Tamar Valley train line. The "Discovery Guide to Dartmoor by Bus and Train" is free from bus stations and tourist offices, this will give you up-to-date information on timetables and prices.
Posted 25th May 2010
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