Kate

Hello all, I'm planning on renting a cottage in Devon or Dorset for a few days, but I'm not at all familiar with the area (usually just drive straight through on my way to Cornwall). I've heard friends rave about the North Devon coast but that's about it.

So where would you recommend as a base? I want a pretty seaside town with lovely beaches and walkng country nearby, a decent local pub or two, maybe even a nice seafood restaurant. I'll have my car with me, so can drive to visit places, but to be honest we'll probably just go for some walks and cosy up in the cottage.

Kate

ttt

TuckH

I saw your post yesterday and was going to reply but figured you'd quickly get some answers. Oh my...

For the North Devon area that your friends are touting (which more accurately is Somerset), Dunster is a very nice town from which to explore Exmoor Park. Lynmouth and Lynton are nice coastal towns and the hiking along the Coastal Path (Woody Bay to Hunter's Inn) is beautiful. Further along is the don't-miss town of Clovelly.

bilboburgler

If I wanted to do I think I would stump for Lulworth. The bay (bay??) is amazing, you are at the start of the jurassic path, the crab and lobster are as fresh as it comes and after about 6pm you have it all to yourself.

kleeblatt

Here's a link to my Devon/Somerset trip report.

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34841198

Dukey

And a great report it is, too, Schuler!

kleeblatt

Why thank you, Dukey!