Tucked away in a relatively isolated corner of the West Country, it is often overlooked by holidaymaker's as they head down the south-west peninsula towards some of the region's more high-profile holiday destinations. But those who discover Exmoor tend to return again and again to enjoy the National Park's unique landscape, which although breathtakingly dramatic in many ways is generally softer and rounder than other moorland areas such as Dartmoor and Bodmin.

Straddling parts of west Somerset and north Devon, Exmoor is actually a patchwork of different landscapes, encompassing wild uplands, thickly wooded combes (valleys), ancient farms, sheltered villages and a stretch of coastline - with its dizzying hog's-back cliffs - that is unsurpassed.

Though one of the smallest national parks, Exmoor never feels too busy. Even in the height of summer it is possible to walk for hours amid glorious scenery without seeing a soul - a welcome change from some British beauty spots. There are one or two 'honeypot' places, such as Tarr Steps, the ancient 'clapper' bridge over the magical River Barle, and Dunster, the beautifully preserved medieval village, but generally you won't find yourself in a crowd.

Exmoor National Park has been designated an International Dark Sky Reserve, the first place in Europe to achieve this prestigious award and only the second in the world.

"Exmoor National Park has been designated an International Dark Sky Reserve, the first place in Europe to achieve this prestigious award and only the second in the world.

The British Astronomical Association and the Royal Astronomical Society have both supported the bid with funding and local astronomy groups have also provided their support and knowledge. UK astronomer Steve Owens, chair of the IDA's Dark Sky Places Development Committee who has advised Exmoor National Park throughout the development process said: "I'm over the moon that the IDA saw fit to recognize the amazing night-sky preservation work done within Exmoor National Park by designating them Europe's first International Dark Sky Reserve. Exmoor National Park now joins a select group of places around the world - including Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park in Scotland and the Channel Island of Sark, a Dark Sky Community - which have stunning night skie.