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Places to stay in Ilfracombe
Ilfracome, one of Devon's larger resorts, owes much to the Victorian Era. The gracious 19th-century properties in the town were all built during the 'boom' the town experienced at this time. Ilfracombe, is as much a joy today as it was then. It benefits from its spectacular position on a splendid stretch of coastline. Here, you have it all; magnificent cliffs rising to great heights above a sea that glistens copper in the sun, a natural harbour bright with gaily coloured fishing craft and beautiful yatches, all jostling for a safe mooring for the night. Above the harbour is Lantern Hill and the Chapel of St.Nicholas. For hundreds of years a light has beamed from this chapel guiding those in peril to the safety of the harbour. The sea here is subject to the Bristol Channel's turbulent tides - heavy swells make this stretch unsuitable for certain type's of vessel. All along the seafront the magnificent cliffs break-up, and low tide reveals shale-sand beaches and rock pools to which children flock with bucket and spade hoping to catch a crab or two! The town offers many pleasant walks but beware, the nature of the land is not for the feint hearted. The Torrs walk climbs over 400ft and once at the summit, the walker is rewarded with outstanding views. Capstone Hill rises above the promenade and is more suited to those wishing only for a gentle stroll. Ilfracombe, with its beautiful public gardens, delightful harbour and shingly beaches is backed by the fabled exmoor countryside of rolling hills, deep green valleys snaked with sparking river streams, woodland and wild moorland alive with flora and fauna - it is a breathtaking setting that provides endless pleasurable hours for any visitor.Seaside attractions include; fishing trips and pleasure trips to Lundy Island, a Victorian tidal bathing pool, there is a Water Mill at Hele Bay and at nearby Combe Martin there is a Wildlife Park.
