We have now had No. 2 Ashmour for a couple of years, and have thoroughly enjoyed staying there ourselves.  Whilst there we do lots of coastal walking, as well as walks on Exmoor.  At first we were just bowled away by the seascape & landscape, which we just can't get enough of, and couldn't believe how fortunate we are.  We still feel like this!

Recently we have begun to take a more detailed interest in:

• Wild flowers
• Wild life - such as the wild deer on Exmoor
• Birds

BIRDS

On June 16th 2009 I saw a Chough, which is the first time I have ever seen one.  This was on a bright sunny day, whilst cycling during the late afternoon, on Braunton Burrows.

I have since been in dialogue with the RSPB, and apparently 2 were seen in North Devon during 2008, and one has been seen in South Devon this year.  My sighting has been logged by them, as the 1st for North Devon in 2009.

The RSPB believe that the Choughs are flying over from the Gower for day trips, and are hoping that some will decide to stay, just as they have on the Lizard Penisula in Cornwall.

We have provided a variety of bird & wild flower books at the apartment, as well as lots of walking guides & maps.  There is also an old pair of binoculars, but would suggest that you bring your own lighter-weight binoculars to take with you when out walking or cycling.

Bikes can be hired at various places close to & along the Tarka Trail, at a very reasonable charge.  We have hired bikes at Braunton for £8.00 for a half day & £12.00 for a whole day.

SNAKES, SLOW WORMS & LIZARDS

Only the very observant who are out early in the day are likely to see these, but they are to be found in various places throughout North Devon, and particularly on Exmoor.  This photo was taken by one of our sons, Andy, who is very keen on reptiles.

RED DEER

Whilst walking on Exmoor, we have seen wild Red Deer several times, and once a group of Stags high above Ladies Mile, when walking from Hunters Inn, via Peters Rock & Trentishoe, and back through Ladies Mile to Hunters Inn. 

Unfortunately our photos were not good enough to include here, but I have found this one of an Exmoor Stag when browsing the internet.

WILD FLOWERS

There is an abundance of wild flowers all along the coast path & on Exmoor.  We are gradually learning to identify some of them, but often need to consult our books when back at the apartment. 

We believe this to be a Heath Spotted-Orchid.  John took this photo when doing the Little Hangman & Great Hangman walk, one afternoon during June 2009.

As you can see, there is much to enjoy in this beautiful area of North Devon, so much so, that we cannot describe it accurately enough.  We can only suggest that you visit the area  & immerse yourselves into what Ashmour & North Devon can offer.