Nearly 70 years ago, the novelist Henry Williamson drew on his intimate knowledge of the beautiful north Devon countryside to provide the setting for one of the best-loved of all nature stories, 'Tarka the Otter'. This area is now known as Tarka Country, covering more than 500 square miles of unforgettable countryside stretching from the north Devon coast and Exmoor to the northern slopes of Dartmoor. In between lie miles of rolling farmland and lush river valleys in the less well known heartland of Devon.

Exmoor
One of the smaller National Parks, Exmoor is gentler than its southern sister Dartmoor, but no less unpredictable. The combination of moorland and coast results in some truly spectacular scenery.

North Devon Coast
The North Devon coast is as beautiful as it is rugged. The spectacular Valley of Rocks has superb views across to South Wales. Many of the mysterious looking weathered rock formations have their own stories with names such as `Ragged Jack' and the `White Lady'.

The coastline is riven with narrow valley combes, which extend long wooded fingers inland, such as Heddon valley. There are also broad expanses of sandy beaches such as Woolacombe sands and Saunton Sands where the Atlantic rollers attract surfers.

Dartmoor Fringe
This is an area of scenic contrast where the distant Dartmoor Hills form a constant backdrop to the richly endowed rolling farmland.

The River Okement flows from the moor to join the Torridge, providing on its route, a haven for wildlife. There are many opportunities to explore this special area, with cycle routes, circular walks, village trails, and on Dartmoor the freedom to walk where you will, with only a map and compass to guide you and no set path to follow.

Taw Valley
The same quick-flowing Taw that rushes over rocks and tree roots in Belstone Cleave on Dartmoor, slowly broadens into a mature river as it passes through deeply peaceful farmland gathering the flows of small streams and other rivers in its progress towards the coast.

The Taw Valley is broader than the Torridge, but equally striking, with the ridges of the high culm plateau edging the gentle valley floor. Deep in the heart of the Taw Valley lies Eggesford Forest. It is here that the Tarka Trail footpath joins the scenic Tarka Line railway to Barnstaple.

Torridge Valley
The Torridge valley, with its intimate wooded banks, was Tarka's home territory. His fictional birthplace was amid the roots of an riverside oak close to Canal Bridge which can be seen from the Tarka Trail.

The River Torridge passes by many historic and unspoilt market towns and picturesque villages which are well worth exploring.

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Tarka the Otter & Sustainable tourism