The ancient South American tribes of Inca and Maya might have invented terracing to help with their crop cultivation, but seldom can they have done it so well as the folk have here at Little Meadow. By levelling off the land in a series of flat lawns, they've ensured that campers benefit from being plumb-line level with the well-tended soft grass for easy tent pegging, while still enjoying views of the stunning North Devon coast. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has everything: dramatic granite cliffs; wide, sandy beaches; and quaint little coves and harbours.

The terracing also helps create privacy -you'd never guess there are 50 pitches on this unassuming, environmentally friendly campsite. Bright splashes of flowers border the pitching areas, providing colourful framing to the views over Watermouth Bay, the Bristol Channel, and the cliffs of Hangman Point. It's a magnificent spot in which to settle comfortably into a deckchair and survey the scenery - you might even spy a seal or a basking shark if you're lucky (and in possession of a good pair of binoculars).



COOL FACTOR Well-tended terraces providing magnificent ocean views.

WHO'S IN? Tents, campervans, caravans, dogs (on leads) -yes. Croups - no.

ON SITE Approx. 50 pitches (draughty in high winds). An octagonal camping pod is being built. The wash-block has toilets, hot showers, and hairdryers. Ice-pack freezing; basic shop selling essentials, fresh organic milk, home-made cakes, and local farm meats. Hook-ups available; small, wooded play area for kids; wi-fi; dog-exercising area. No campfires.

OFF SITE Explore hand-carved tunnels at Tunnels Beaches (01271 879882; www.tunnelsbeaches.co.uk). Watermouth Castle (01271 867474) and its theme park are close by.

FOOD AND DRINK The Quay (01271 868090) in llfracombe boasts a wide selection of wines and tasty tapas.

GETTING THERE Take the A361 to Barnstaple. Just past the South Molton exit, turn right to Allercross roundabout (signposted Combe Martin). Co through Combe Martin; the campsite is just past Watermouth Castle on the left.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT Train to Barnstaple then catch a taxi or infrequent bus (no. 301) to Watermouth Castle.

OPEN Easter-late September.

THE DAMAGE Tent, 2 people, and a car Ј12-Ј18 per night.