Country Vacations & Resorts

Travel to our “D” destination takes us across to the southwest coast of England to the county of Devon.

Devon is the third largest of England’s counties with a population around 1.1 million. Devon, or “Devonshire” as it may be known to locals and historians, is a county comprised of huge natural areas, parkland, and geological features. Dartmoor and Exmoor national parks are both located in the county of Devon and it’s seaside resorts, friendly residents, history, and warm climate make Devon a great stop for your UK vacation.

The port city of Plymouth is the largest city in Devon. Like Cornwall to the west, Devon fell on hard times with the decrease in prior industries such as mining and fishing, but the lure of Devon with it’s seaside resort atmosphere, along with the availability of rail travel in the mid 1800′s, kept Devon on the map as a top tourist destination – great for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of London. South Devon is comprised of rolling hills and beach areas while North Devon, less densely populated, has some of the highest cliffs in England. For vacationers…an “all-purpose” vacation venue.

Climate and Wildlife

It is now warm enough in some parts of Devon to grow olives – the first and only place in Britain where olives can be commercially grown. While “mild”, Devon does not get “hot.” Some travelers used to very warm climates may think it NEVER gets warm enough in Devon but for those of us with sinus issues or even worse – dreaded hot flashes – Devon’s temperatures, in the mid to upper 70′s from June through September, sound idyllic. Hardy winter travelers will want to know that even in January and February, (Devon’s coldest month), highs are at or slightly above 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and the area never goes below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Devon Wildlife Trust cares for the large species of birds, otters, ponies, fox, deer, and other wildlife and also manages some 40 natural reserves including the Wembury Marine Center. Keep your eyes open for herds of cattle and free-roaming sheep. Chances are you will need to “give way” and let them pass…

City Centers, Cathedrals, and Exeter University

As mentioned, Plymouth is Devon county’s largest city about four and a half hours coach ride from London. Exeter, on the river Exe, is home to Exeter Cathedral and the University of Exeter. Torbay and Torbay Harbor sit in the approximate middle of Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, which make up the “English Riviera.”

For a small corner of England, there is much to see and do in the county of Devon and too much for one little blog entry. Have a look at the city links and plan your time wisely in Devon – a great choice for either a restful or active country vacation…

Find a perfect place to stay in Devon: