Ilfracombe is a charming coastal town with a contemporary edge, a burgeoning Arts scene and many quaint shops and galleries. It is also home to “Verity” the controversial 20m sculpture by Damian Hirst. It offers a range of eateries from Micheline rated fine dining to fish & chips in the harbour. Nestled between Exmoor National Park to the east and the Golden Coast to the west, with its spectacular surfing beaches of Woolecombe, Croyde and Saunton Sands. All a short drive from Ocean Backpackers.
The North Devon surf stretches from Saunton in the West, through the very picturesque Croyde and past Woolacombe to the shores of Lynmouth, situated between Exmoor and the sea. Saunton beach has the reputation of Britain’s premier long boarding beach and Croyde has been considered England’s best beach at low tide. Woolecombe was voted The Times best beach 2021 and North Devon is now a designated World Surfing Reserve.
Ilfracombe is situated within a designated National Landscape (formally AONB Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). On the cusp of Exmoor National Park, it’s a walkers paradise with many spectacular walking trails in particular the South West Coastal Path, offering unspoilt natural beauty, peace and tranquillity.
Here at Ocean Backpackers cyclists are very welcome! From the most experienced cyclists about to embark on the coast-to-coast challenge to a family wishing to share a leisurely fun ride in the beautiful countryside, we cater for everyone!
There is great sea fishing to be had just walking distance from the backpackers in the picturesque harbour area. The pier is a top place to catch fish such as bass and mackerel and a good place to get top tips from the local fisherman!