This week intrepid Environmental Coordinator Jon Pressling has visited the popular Dartmoor National Park, finding some hidden gems and enjoying the beautiful panorama in the process.

Dartmoor, the granite heart of Devon. A landscape of mystery, intrigue and beauty all in perfect natural harmony. From rivers winding their way through wooded valleys to the highest windswept peaks, Dartmoor has a special awe which continually attracts both visitors and locals alike.

The problem is size, with an area covering 368sq miles, where do you begin to explore? Around every corner, or in Dartmoors' case over every hill, there are breathtaking panoramic views of complete wilderness and nature at its most wild.

This was the dilemma facing me one Sunday morning, already feeling guilty about extending my lay in. There is the age old decision of visiting somewhere familiar or chartering fresh ground and returning with new tales. New triumphed over old.

So with the sun flickering through the tree lined roads the first port of call was Canonteign Falls, the highest waterfall in England at 220ft. With many visitors heading for the more famous Becky Falls, this is much more of a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Before setting out on the ascent it would be rude not to take advantage of the picnic facilities as like all explorers you can't set off without a hearty meal, it also makes the backpack lighter!
Winding through the lower wooded areas its hard to appreciate the heights you are slowly scaling, that is until the trees begin to part and you gain glimpses of the surrounding countryside. Not being one for heights but always up for an adventure is a somewhat mixed blessing. I wouldn't say it was a strenuous walk but there are places where suitable footwear is required, not sandals as in my case. On reaching the top you are truly rewarded with views that no pictures or words could do real justice to. There only noise comes from the wind rustling between the trees and the constant flow of water dropping away into the void below. The journey down was itself without incident; leaving you time to reflect on the fact that you have just conquered England's highest waterfall and how many people can say that.

Before leaving make sure you also spend time walking around the tranquil lakes where you will find an abundance of plant and wildlife. For the children there is also an assault course but that sounds far too energetic after what I've just endured.

With time flying by and still in the mood for exploring where next on this great Dartmoor adventure? An instant decision was made on so off on the trail to Dartmoor Miniature Pony Centre. Admittedly not somewhere that I had been interested in the past but I was immediately converted. Who can't fall for the charms of these miniature animals and seeing the faces of the children riding them. My only regret is having not come here when I was younger, or rather smaller. Set within 20 acres of beautiful parkland, Dartmoor is famed for its' miniature ponies and this is the perfect place to get up close and personal with them. So two attractions down but the day is still young, the next stop was a personal recommendation from my wanderlust partner. 

Perched on Haldon Hill and within 5 acres of woodland, Haldon Belvedere (also know as Lawrence Castle) is a familiar sight to those traveling along the A38. But this was as close I had ever come, until now that is. Constructed in 1785 it was built as a memorial to Major General Stringer Lawrence, a commander of the British armies in India during the 1750's. Nowadays it has a number of uses, acting as a holiday retreat, venue for civil ceremonies and just generally open to the public. The views are truly unrivalled and it is even reputed you can see Wales from the highest vantage point. Having climbed enough on this occasion I was content walking around the grounds taking in the final light of the day. Watching the sunset melt away over Dartmoor is truly unforgettable and an experience that always conjures up new emotions.

So with all that fresh Dartmoor air filling my lungs, the dilemma now was satisfying the increasing hunger. With so many options the decision was once again taken out of my hands but once again surpassed my expectations. The NoBody Inn at Doddiscomsleigh is renowned for its' imaginative wine and whisky list but also that it feels so homely and welcome. A traditional Devon inn if ever there was one and the only way to finish off such a wonderful day.

The fact that none of this day had been planned and was spontaneous at every point made it all the more worthwhile. Sometimes you just have to go with the flow, but just make sure it doesn't end in a waterfall!

 To find out Moor about our fantastic properties in this area, check out Blue Chip Vacations beautiful Dartmoor holiday homes today!