A fantastic place for a walk and to take in the views (Valley of the Rocks (Devon))

Member Name: Majmun

Product:	Valley of the Rocks (Devon)
Date:	28/05/09 (38 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: The views and the goats!

Disadvantages: Car park charges

If you are holidaying in Deven or even just passing through, don't miss out on the breathtaking Valley of the Rocks. It is situated near Lynton and really is quite a dramatic place with spectacular views. It is a dry valley characterised by unusual rock formations and jagged cliffs.

You can walk to the Valley of the Rocks along coastal paths from both Lynton and Lynmouth but it is also accessible by road. It has at least 2 car parks - they are quite expensive (we spent quite a lot of money on carparking on our Devon holiday!) but I think it's worth it.

There is a particular route you can follow which winds along the clifftop. In can involve some steep climbing and walking on uneven ground so wear fairly sturdy shoes. I had flip flop style shoes on because we hadn't planned on coming here. In fact I looked completely out of place - most of the other walkers had walking boots and waterproof jakets and I was wearing a pink skirt and a white strappy top! But it was ok although we didnt do a proper route. It can get quite breezy up there but luckily I had a jumper with me so at least make sure you have something warm to wear.

It feels quite dangerous at first as the path leads quite near the cliff edge. I've got a couple of pictures of my boyfriend sat on the rocks dangling his feet over the edge! Some people even climb along the cliff faces but I could never do that as the rocks below look quite unforgiving! As you walk along the paths there are some bays at the bottom of the cliffs and there is access down to some of these. If you get there before anyone else has the same idea you can get some secluded beach area to yourself.

One of my favourite things about Valley of the Rocks was the mountain goats in the area. They can be seen all along the side of the paths as well as clambering up and down the almost sheer cliff faces and perched on ledges along the cliff. They are remarkably agile creatures and didn't seem afriad of all the people walking past! I suppose they are used to it.

I think a lot of people use this as part of a route between Lynton and Lymouth. However, you can do what we did and just have a 15 minute stroll along the paths and enjoy the beautiful views which really have to be seen - you can see miles and miles of beautiful countryside and the cliffs are truly dramatic. There is some grassy areas and benches near the car park so you can also stop here for a picnic.

All in all, this is a fantastic place. It has unparalled views of Devon and provides a fun, quite challenging walk along the clifftops.

Summary: Breathtaking