Lundy

One of Devon's secrets, Lundy is a Marine Nature Reserve sitting 12 miles off the county's west coast in the Bristol Channel. You could brave the elements and swim to this emerald isle, but there are seasonal boat trips from Ilfracombe and Bideford which take about two hours tide and weather dependent. 

Three miles in length and half a mile wide, you can easily hike a complete circuit of the island even when visiting on a day trip. Locals include deer, goats, sheep and pigs, while off-shore binoculars are a must for seals and dolphins – if you're lucky. No roads equate to peace, quiet and solitude. My kind of place.

But if you must, there's a general store for retail therapists, a tavern (a must for me), a church and lighthouses. Even though the island is a conservation area you can stay here which can only be a delight. One day…

Although you don't really need a map, OS map 139 Bideford, Ilfracombe & Barnstaple covers Lundy. Around its coastline you will find the imaginatively named Dead Cow Point, Devil's Slide and Hens and Chickens amongst others. Bing maps highlights it excellently.

The island, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, is owned by the National Trust and leased by the Landmark Trust.

For much more on this special place visit Lundy and wikipedia.