Whether it's searching for fossils, surfing the Atlantic waves or taking a long walk through wild meadows, North Devon has everything to keep even the most active family entertained for a short break or long stay.
For anyone keen to discover a little more of the area's wildlife, North Devon Hawk Walks offers the chance to experience falconry first hand. Adventurous families can swap their wellies for a luxury safari with Experience Exmoor, which organises a range of events including 4x4 safaris with self-guided walks as well as a pub stop for a hearty lunch. Other activities on offer include a dawn nature watch and pony trekking.
Ray Mears wannabes can spend a day learning about bushcraft in the wild and making their own spear with WS Adventures. Or you can try a range of sports including archery, coasteering, kayaking or even spend a morning zorbing down one of Exmoor's rolling hills.
Those looking to experience the great outdoors at a gentler pace can make use of an electric bike with Exmoor Unplugged. Or, if you want to explore after dark, pick up a copy of Exmoor's Dark Skies Pocket Guide and enjoy the area's status as one of the best stargazing locations in the UK.
Nature lovers will enjoy the carpet of bluebells that take over Hartland Abbey Gardens during the annual bluebell days in late April, while further along the coast, ale-loving hikers can mix a brisk walk along the South West Coastal Path with a stop at Clovelly. The annual Celebration of Local Ales and Ciders takes place 25-27 May.
Sports enthusiasts, meanwhile, can get to grips with the GoldCoast Oceanfest, which takes place 21-23 June on Croyde beach. It is the UK's largest mixture of music, lifestyle and sports festival – with Ultimate Frisbee, beach volleyball and surf contests.
Where to revive
Eat: Mix breathtaking views with fine bistro dining from the comfort of The Pier House in Westward Ho!, which serves a wide range of fare, from traditional fish and chips to a Sunday carvery.
Drink: Smart surfers head to The Thatch in Croyde after an afternoon in the water for fine pub food, a range of local ales and a warm atmosphere. In summer, try an iced pint of Thatchers cider.
Sleep: Families can breakfast with bluebells in their own private wood at Spreacombe Gardens, near Woolacombe, or get a taste for the wild at Longlands Farm safari lodges in Combe Martin. Each comes with their own wood-burning stove and gorgeous views.
