There's something slightly 1960s or 1970s about Sunny Lyn... something reminiscent ot simpler times. But there's also something mildly exotic about the place too, as though it's not in Britain at all... a hint of France peui-ftre?This heady mix of atmosphere might be a reflection of the pace of life within this deep cleft of North Devon countryside. The loudest sounds in these parts emanate from the West Lyn river, tumbling joyfully through the site, and the hills, shooting skywards on either side, whispering loudly for your attention.The campsite occupies the only patch of level ground in this steep and scenic valley, along with a small clutch of ageing statics and a few houses perched on the precipice on one side of the valley. Nothing else intrudes into this exclusive scene, but the elegant little town of Lynton is only a (stunning) 10-minute stroll away, and the mini holiday resort of Lynmoutb is further down the valley's steep hill. Like Sunny Lyn, Lynton and Lynmouth have a slightly exotic appeal and old-fashioned charm. The whole area has a magnetism all its own that doesn't seem to lessen, no matter how often you visit.

COOL FACTOR That lost-world feeling.

WHO'S IN? Tents, vanners, dogs - yes. Croups - no.

ON SITE Thirty pitches on small, level, riverside ground; a section with 8 hook-ups. Decent facilities: toilets, showers (2W, 2M), washing-up sinks, laundry, shop for food, alcohol, and beach combustibles. The small cafe does traditional breakfasts. No campfires, but BBQs off the ground okay.

OFF SITE Visit the Valley of the Rocks, a 30-minute, almost level, walk from the site. The Lynton Cliff Railway (01598 753486) eases the pain of getting up to Lynton from Lynmouth, where there are a couple of boat trip options from the harbour. Explore the Exmoor Hills on horseback from nearby Outovercott Riding Stables (01598 753341),



FOOD AND DRINK Lynton and Lynmouth have several top-notch eating places. The Vanilla Pod Restaurant (01598 753706) has imaginative, tasty vegetarian and vegan grub, and the Cliff Top Cafaurant (01598 753366) astounding views.

GETTING THERE The site is ½ mile uphill, next to the B3234 from Lynmouth (off the A39).

PUBLIC TRANSPORT Regular buses from Lynmouth and Lynton to Minehead,Taunton, llfracombe, and Barnstaple.

OPEN Mid March-late October.

THE DAMAGE Adult Ј6.25-Ј7.50; child £ 3.25; dog £ 2.50.