South-west attractions - in pictures

Gwithian, St Ives Bay
Cornwall
The West Country has a plethora of beautiful beaches – however Gwithian is a world unto itself, with over three miles of golden sands, quiet coves and even an occasional seal making an appearance. Photograph: John Harper/Corbis

Blackdown Hills
Somerset
Undiscovered by many visitors, the Blackdown Hills are a true Somerset hideaway of ancient hill forts, idyllic tea shops and cosy country pubs to relax in after long, invigorating walks. Photograph: James Osmond/Getty Images

Smugglers tea bar, Tolverne
Cornwall
Smuggling used to be a West Country way of life. However, the only thing likely to be whisked away from Smugglers is a hot brew to drink on the fabulous river Fal.
Photograph: Alamy

Surf in Newquay
Cornwall
The surfing capital of the UK is the ideal place to learn how to look good on a board. With excellent surf schools available, why not make a splash? Photograph: Matt Cardy/Getty Images Europe

Tintagel
Cornwall
The magic of the Arthurian legends resonate along this spectacular north Cornwall coastline, which boasts some of the most breathtaking views in the West Country. Photograph: Alan Copson/Corbis

The BIG Sheep, Abbotsham
Devon
While children will love the pony rides, horse whispering and extraordinary sheep races, parents will delight in the brewery and beer tastings on offer at north Devon’s quirkiest attraction. Photograph: Barcroft Media

Tarka Trail, Bideford, Torrington, Barnstaple
Devon
Delve into the world of Rudyard Kipling with a cycle along north Devon’s Tarka Trail, from the beautiful expanse of the Taw and Torridge estuary to Great Torrington in the heart of the county.
Photograph: Alamy

Totnes
Devon
A hive of staunchly independent stores and coffee shops, Totnes is the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir for friends and family. Or, if you'd rather stroll down the riverside than a bustling shopping street, the town has idyllic walkways for you. Photograph: David Clapp/Getty Images

Kota restaurant, Porthleven
Cornwall
Specialising in local organic fish and farm produce, Kota restaurant serves up some of Cornwall’s finest gourmet dishes with a Maori or Asian twist.
Photograph: James Ram / West Country Photographers

Glendurgan Garden, Falmouth
Cornwall
Families will love spending an afternoon getting lost in the laurel maze or discovering the giant rhubarb plants at Glendurgan Garden. Afterwards you can relax with a well-deserved afternoon tea.
Photograph: Alamy