Bude

The sea wall here takes a proper battering from Atlantic swells, and that's exactly what draws people to this rugged corner of north Cornwall. Surf breaks roll in with clockwork precision, making Bude a favourite with board riders who aren't put off by chilly water and unpredictable weather. The town itself is refreshingly unpretentious - none of the tourist tat you'll find further south.

Greenway Beach stretches for miles when the tide's out, perfect for long walks where you'll see more seals than people. The cliff walks are cracking, especially the stretch towards Morwenstow where you can glimpse St Nectan's perched dramatically on the headland. It's a bit of a trek, but well worth it for the views.

Inland, things get properly wild. The Tamar lakes - Upper and Lower - offer a different pace entirely. Upper Tamar Water Sports Centre keeps things lively if you fancy getting on the water, while the surrounding woodland feels miles from anywhere. Marsland Wood and the other forests scattered about make for decent rambling, though paths can get muddy after rain.

Reaching Bude is straightforward enough - the A39 brings you in from Devon or deeper into Cornwall. It's about an hour from Barnstaple, closer to two from Plymouth. The surrounding countryside rolls between moorland and farmland, with narrow lanes that can catch you out if you're not paying attention.

Staying at one of the holiday parks dotted around the area makes perfect sense. You're close enough to nip into town for fish and chips, but far enough out to appreciate Cornwall's wilder side without the crowds that plague places like Padstow.