Many great novelists have based their romantic storylines in the West Country and Lynton & Lynmouth in particular are famous for being a favourite place of several romantic writers and poets. Coleridge, Wordsworth, Southey and Shelley were all inspired by the beauty and drama of Lynton and Lynmouth's landscapes. The extraordinary Valley of Rocks, minutes walk from Lynton on Devon’s north coast features in writings of their exploits and all are quoted within a small pavilion that overlooks this dramatic and awe inspiring rugged backdrop formed during the ice age. Its a great place for romantic escapes.

Exmoor was the setting for R D Blackmore’s novel Lorna Doone, an illustrious historical romance set in the backdrop of the Monmouth Rebellion in the 17th century during the reign of Charles II. The Doone Valley is a favourite local walk for those wishing to escape to the peace and tranquillity of an unspoilt and romantic setting.

Another favourite place of those wishing a romantic getaway in Devon is the Lyn river valley at Watersmeet where two rivers cascade in waterfalls by the side of a Victorian fishing lodge now owned by the National Trust which operates as a tea room from Easter through to the end of October. From Watersmeet you can follow the river south-east through the Doone Valley, north into Lynmouth or west rising up over Summerhouse Hill passing Highcliffe House into Lynton.

If Devon is your choice for romantic breaks, Highcliffe House with its stunning views of the Exmoor coastline will prove to be a very special hotel, place to stay and be perfect for Romantic Devon Accommodation and a hotel to stay!

To visit the National Trust website, click here

To visit the Watersmeet website, click here