In the heart of Exmoor, Britain's smallest National Park, lie the villages of Lynton and Lynmouth in a combination of tree-clad cliffs, sheltered bays and sweeping moorland. There is a quiet charm about the countryside, which inspired the Victorians to name it 'The little Switzerland of England'. Lynmouth, with its attractive harbour, and Lynton with its superb views, make ideal centres from which to explore Exmoor.

The twin villages are joined by the famous Cliff Railway, which was officially opened in 1890. It operates at a gradient of 1:1¾ covering a vertical height of 500 feet and is a wonderful example of Victorian ingenuity; the trip is well worth it for the views alone, which are breathtaking. Valley of Rocks is approximately 1 mile from the centre of Lynton where Castle Rock dominates, while other strangely weathered formations bear such names as the Devil's Cheesewring and Ragged Jack.

Now, 48 years after the great flood devastated Lynmouth, it is hard to imagine how such an event could occur, but on 15th August 1952 there was a massive cloudburst and enormous torrents of water ran through Lynmouth when the river burst its banks. Thirty-four people lost their lives and the damage to property was irreparable. The whole village was evacuated and it was not until the beginning of 1953 that villagers were able to return. A display of memorabilia and photographs, plus a model of Lynmouth as it was before1952, is housed in the Lynmouth Flood Memorial Hall.

The villages have fascinating shops offering a range of crafts, ceramics, glassware and pottery. Take time to explore the art galleries and don't forget to treat yourself to locally made fudge and clotted cream. There is a wide range of accommodation available, so whether your choice is a holiday cottage or a luxury hotel you'll find something to suit.