Berry Oliver - Lonely Planet Devon and Cornwall

Flung out on Britains westerly edge, these side-by-side counties are celebrated for their natural charms: craggy cliffs cloaked in gorse, rocky tors on empty moors, golden beaches washed by surf. Every year millions of visitors flock here to feel the sand between their toes and paddle in the briny blue, and with miles of coastline, countryside and clifftops to explore, its no wonder. And while the West Countrys popularity inevitably means crowds, with the help of a decent map and an adventurous spirit, youll always be able to find a patch of sand to call your own.

While the scenery is undoubtedly the star attraction, theres more to Devon and Cornwall than shining sands and wrap-around views. Thousands of years of history have left an indelible mark on the landscape, from neolithic monuments and Bronze Age villages to lonely minestacks and medieval castles. History buffs can explore the regions many houses and gardens, while culture vultures can immerse themselves in a packed calendar of festivals, celebrations, street parties and artistic events.

More recently, the West Country has made a name for itself as one of Britains gastronomic hot spots. Thanks to the fabulous produce on its doorstep, Devon and Cornwall can now claim some of the nations most innovative restaurants and talented chefs. Whether its cracking open a fresh crab, barbecuing some just-caught fish on the beach or tucking into a genuine Cornish pasty, theres a wealth of foodie experiences waiting out west.

If you want to experience the regions stunning landscapes at their best, youll need to ditch the car and get active. Hiking trails and cycling paths criss-cross the countryside, and the South West Coast Path winds its way through a kaleidoscope of secret beaches, windblown dunes and majestic clifftops. But there are plenty more outdoor activities on offer, from coasteering over rocky crags, kayaking down a wooded creek or stargazing under Exmoors night skies. Its a landscape just waiting to be explored.

Bedruthan Steps (), Cornwall
DAVID CLAPP / GETTY IMAGES

Why I Love Devon Cornwall

by Oliver Berry

Cornwall is my home county, so its the place I know better than anywhere else. Ive travelled all over the globe, but theres something special about Cornwall, and I always find myself drawn back sooner or later. I reckon Ive discovered pretty much every beach there is over the years, but theres always something new to see: the light, the weather and the changing seasons all bring out a different side to the Cornish landscape. For me, the Lizard and the Penwith coastline are every bit as spectacular as the more exotic places Ive visited.