Beautiful coastal town with stunning views nicknamed ‘Little Switzerland’

Tucked away in North Devon, this charming seaside town is the perfect coastal escape, offering views so stunning that it’s often compared to Switzerland.

This hidden gem is famous for it's incredible natural scenery, drawing visitors from all over the UK who come to enjoy a landscape unlike anywhere else in England.

With its dramatic waterfalls and sweeping hills, the area feels more like a scene from the Alps than a spot on the British coast.

Photo © Diane Sambrook (cc-by-sa/2.0)

One of the best ways to take in the views is by riding the famous Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway.

This family-friendly attraction carries passengers high above the cliffs and has been delighting visitors since 1890. It’s the world’s steepest and highest water-powered railway and has won multiple awards over the years.

The railway links the twin towns of Lynton and Lynmouth, running right through the heart of Exmoor National Park.

The short journey offers unforgettable coastal views and a glimpse of the area’s wild beauty, leaving visitors with lasting memories.

This historic piece of engineering is one of only three of its kind in the world and is protected as a Grade II listed structure. It runs frequently throughout the day, with minimal waiting times, and tickets are reasonably priced at £3.75 for adults and £2.25 for children.

Photo © M J Richardson (cc-by-sa/2.0)

One visitor shared their experience on TripAdvisor, writing: “Had an amazing time here. Lynton has lovely shops and beautiful scenery. The cliff railway down to Lynmouth took my breath away – it really does have that ‘little Switzerland’ feel.”

Another reviewer said: “Wonderful village with fantastic views. It honestly feels like a small Swiss town. Unlike Clovelly, it’s free to explore, and the Cliff Railway is an absolute must. It cost about £11 for a family of four, and it was worth every penny.”

The twin villages sit within Exmoor National Park, a peaceful haven known for its rolling hills, deep valleys and meandering streams. Whether you’re after stunning views or a bit of adventure, there’s something here for everyone.

The park is also home to a number of beautiful waterfalls that wouldn’t look out of place in the Swiss Alps. Two of the most famous are at Watersmeet, hidden among ancient woodland and coastal walking trails.

Remember - LeaveNoTrace!

As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!

Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.

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