One of the most popular places to stay in SW England is the delightful county of Devon. Famous for its beautiful beaches, quaint villages, lush countryside and delicious cream teas, it's a perfect place to relax and unwind ...

"Going Slow is a way of thinking, living, eating and being. It is also a sophisticated response to to unsophisticated, vacuous commercialism - the Slow Movement offering something that is life-affirming, rooted in a deep understanding of human needs."

Thus writes Alastair Sawday in the introduction to his latest addition to the excellent Sawdays series of Accommodation & Travel books 'Slow Devon & Exmoor' written by Hilary Bradt and jointly published by Bradt Travel Guides.  I love Devon, adore the Sawdays books and strongly relate to the Slow Movement and incorporate the ideals in Quirky Travel ... so this book is a great combo for me and like-minded travellers.

It's divided into easily accessible sections covering all parts of Devon, with lots of useful information, with the emphasis on encouraging us to slow down, take in the sights, sounds and inspiration that is Devon, whilst getting around with the environment and local inhabitants playing a key part.

One of my favourite parts of Devon is the North coast, having stayed many times at a friend's chalet overlooking Woolacombe Bay.  We base ourselves there to explore the various beaches, villages, tourist attractions and gentle countryside around. 

Woolacombe has had a revival recently, having gone from top seaside resort in the mid 20th century, to fuddy-duddysville towards the end, and now quite a 'cool' surfing centre. I was pleased to see that the book focused on the wonderful bays & beaches nearby rather than very crowded Woolacombe. Tiny Grunta next to Morte Bay gets a mention, as does little Lee "You could spend hours here investigating the pools, collecting pink quartz or walking up the fuchsia-lined footpath to the village and its delightful pub, the Grampus Inn."

I love the insets sharing quirky tales, little known facts and folk tales, often written by local residents or from Hilary's vast store of Devonian knowledge.  The book is a joy to read from start to finish - whether you are travelling in mind, spirit or body.  "Devonians know how to go slow; it's we incomers and visitors who sometimes need a reminder or two."  As a Lake District ambassador I share that belief - and surely this book will gain many converts to a way of travel that is both sustainable and very, very enjoyable.

If you'd like to find out more places to have a Slow & Quirky break do drop me a line www.thequirkytraveller.com