Dartmoor covers an area of 368 square miles and over half of which is private land. However it was designated as access land in 1985. This means that there are no restrictions as to where walkers can go, yet having said that it is often safer to keep to the 450 miles of footpaths and bridleways which cover Dartmoor. Areas to be avoided are the dangerous bogs which are often topped with bright green moss, known to locals as feather beds as they actually quake beneath your feet!
There is a wonderful feeling of wilderness as you walk over the moors. When the weather is clear you can see the surrounding tors for miles around. However the rain can come in very quickly so always take waterproof clothing along with a map and compass. The high rainfall on the moors does mean there are plenty of rivers and streams and these can be spectacular after a heavy downpour.
But that is far from all there is to enjoy.
The bonus beauty of Bowerland, in addition to its friendly, relaxing, tranquil, traditional charm, is its proximity to so many other opportunities for exploration at all levels.
You can meander through the magic of the bluebells in Bluebell Wood just minutes away; or enjoy the Wood in its summer splendour or its winter majesty.
Also within minutes is the atmospheric Meldon Reservoir with its miles of Walks, its ponies and sheep softly grazing.
You may choose to enjoy the never-ending delight, summer or winter, of the superb beaches along the Devon and north Cornish coasts, or rise to their challenges!
