The cottage is situated between the often brooding, misty Dartmoor to the south and the north Devon coast with its rugged cliffs, views of Lundy Island and inviting Southwest Coastal Path. We are in the heart of 'Ruby Country' named after the county's Ruby cattle which graze the gentle rolling culm grassland rich in animal and plant life.
Hartland Point and Quay dramatic views of the rugged coatline. On the way check out Hilas Silases chair in the church at Hartland
Brauton Burrows designated a world heritage site - Biosphere
As well as exploring our farm Wildlife Trail there are a number of short local walks to help you learn about Ruby Country. There is a wide choice of walks through Devon. Northern Devon has a stunning coastline which is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Part of this is Braunton Burrows, internationally recognised for its habitat and designated as an international Biosphere Reserve.
Just a few miles from the farm is Dartmoor with a full calendar of walks, activities and events throughout spring and summer. The southwest coastal path is Britains longest national trail stretching 600 miles - we dont expect you to finish this in one day but you can take sections in half and full days covering dramatic cliff scenery, sandy beaches and picturesque harbours. We have trail maps and guide books for your use. For more information visit www.discoverdevon.com and click on the 'walking' section.
Ferworthy Walk on Dartmoor
We have fairly good farm bikes for your use or to hire top 'road' and 'off-road' bikes we can arrange hire from a neighbouring business 'Ride On Devon' who also have pick up points for weary legs at the end of your day. You will find over 150 miles of the National Cycle Network in Devon. Try sections of Route 27 - like The Granite Way (Okehampton to Lydford Gorge (11 miles) or the Tarka Trail (32 miles) which is entirely traffic free.
Cycle over Dartmoor - and escape
Did you know Horse and Hound Magazine ranked Devon as the 'horsiest county in the land' ? There are a wide range of 1/2 and full day treks, moor and beach riding. Also carriage driving lessons. There are many circular rides the nearest to us (2 miles) is the Bratton Clovelly 15 miles circuit taking in fabulous views of Roadford Lake. Dartmoor is home to 3000 Dartmoor Ponies who live on the moor all year round.
NEW - Come and see the Beavers at a nearby farm. Expert introductory talks then watching beavers from woodland hides. See the Beavers at dusk emerge from their sunken burrow. One of the first families of beavers to live in the wild in England. Or take the safari to include badgers, bats and barn owls.
Eating Out - Recommendations by guests
West Lake farm is in the heart of 'Ruby Country' known for its traditional Devon cattle such as the 'Devon Red or Ruby Red. The Rydon Inn serves a great Ruby steak just 7 miles away. Towards Iddesleigh there is the Duke of York (8 miles) featured in the Good Food Guide and rated as one of the top ten food pubs in the country. Just 4 miles away is the 'Half Moon' excellent food and one of the few original fishing inns remaining in Devon - the pub owns 10 miles of fishing rights along the River Torridge where if you walk along the banks you may catch sight of the resident Otters or a Kingfisher. The Bickford Arms 4 miles. All pubs are characterful and offer meals for all budgets
For restaurant dining on the coastal town of Bude there are some excellent restaurants: Life's A Beach, Elements and the Castle Inn . Sample menus are in the cottage.
SPECIAL OFFER from Roadford Lake Watersports: Two hours of sailing/winsurfing/kayaking sessions at the Outdoor Centre - couples half price. i.e buy one get one free. We can arrange this for your visit.
