From the wild surf coast of North Cornwall to the vast open moorlands of Exmoor, the forests and estuaries of Southern Cornwall to the pristine waters of the Scillies, the West Country is like one huge playground.

Active South West aims to help you make the most of it.

Whatever your thing, surfing, sailing, horseriding, mountain bike, kayaking, kitesurfing, golfing, hill running, tree surfing, fishing, water skiing, hiking, coasteering, climbing, diving, flying, wind surfing...in fact anything that gets you outdoors. Active South West points you in the right direction for holidays in Devon and Cornwall.

Starting in the far South West Cornwall, Active South West takes you on a journey through Cornwall, North Devon and up into Exmoor with each section giving you an outline of the area, some useful information and guidance and introducing you to some of the activities available and contacts to help you get more from your visit.

In compiling the guide we have been delighted and thrilled by how much is on our doorstep and we hope the guide will inspire you to try new things or to take your hobby to the next level. There are so many talented and dedicated people in the West Country who have been lucky enough to turn their passion into their livelihood and are so keen to share their enthusiasm for their chosen pursuit with you.

Don't worry if you've never tried something before, we guarantee you won't be the first absolute beginner, nor will you be the last! It's all about giving it a try and Active South West will help you contact instructors to get you started. Once you've got a bit more experience, maybe all you are looking for is equipment hire and a few pointers as to where to go. Again we can help, putting you in touch with local knowledge.

Wherever you've based yourself for your visit, it often pays to be mobile. Weather always affects holidays, that's inevitable and if you are looking for a more active, outdoor experience, it can be very influential on your decisions for the day. Living here, we know that whilst it might be raining here, it's often a totally different day just up the coast or just inland. Similarly, windless days and hot sun are perfect for the beach, but not if you are here to surf!

No surf? Try sea kayaking or coasteering!

Golf rained out? Try mountain biking or horseriding!

The great thing is, you won't have to travel far to have a great day out. Go on, try something new, you might just love it!

Avian Sandercock
Editor
(and first time surfer at 40, rubbish but loving it)