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Wray Valley November Newsletter: Winter Warmer

So the October half-term holiday is over and that traditionally marks the end of our season here at Wray Valley. We are not closed over the winter but the number of visitors decreases dramatically. As an outdoor destination, Dartmoor attracts less visitors during the winter months when we have shorter days and wilder weather. But you are missing out on the empty roads, quieter pubs and roaring log fires. We can now tackle all the tasks that can only be done at this time of year. Lots of pruning, trimming and general maintenance inside and out. While we are doing that, we will reduce the newsletter frequency to every other month, or even once a quarter. Look out for our next newsletter update just after Christmas.

So, grab a warm drink, sit back, and catch up on all things Wray Valley.

Happy reading!



CONTENTS


Feeling Refreshed: We all need a break

Selfie of Kevin and Michelle with a view of mountains in the Peneda Geres National Park in Portugal

Looking after your mental health is important, and its necessary to take a break to refresh and recharge your batteries. Everyone does this differently and its important to know what works for you. For some its a night out, a city break or a weekend partying with friends. For others its getting away from everyone and reconnecting with nature. Wray Valley is perfect for that, but all we can see here is a long list of jobs to do! Working everyday during the summer season takes its strain on us.

So for our annual break this year we went to northern Portugal. We started with a few days gentle walking in the Upper Douro Valley, exploring the vineyards. And then moved on to the Peneda Geres National Park. We loved it, its like Dartmoor on steroids and it even has tors! We ended with a city break in Porto and decided that we are definitely not city people. Living here our nearest neighbours are more than half a mile away.

A granite outcropor tor which looks like a craggy face
Can you see a face in this tor?

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Learn a New Skill: Navigation Training

Three women brushing up on their navigation skills on Dartmoor.  Ponies in background

Sometimes time spend learning a new skill is as good as a break. Do you lack the confidence to find your way safely on the moor? At the other extreme, do you need to improve your night navigation skills for an assessment? The winter is the ideal time to brush up these skills.

At Wray Valley, we offer a diverse range of navigation experiences tailored to your skill level. This ensures that everyone can explore the breathtaking beauty of Dartmoor with confidence. Our courses are led by our experienced instructors. We are passionate about sharing our knowledge and love for the outdoors. We bring a wealth of experience from our adventures across the UK and Europe. This ensures that you get top-tier guidance and valuable insights.

With options ranging from whole-day immersions in the beauty of Dartmoor, you’ll find the ideal setting to hone your navigation skills. There are also focused evening sessions on Mardon Down near Moretonhampstead. Our flexible pricing options accommodate individuals, groups, and families, making it easier than ever to embark on this rewarding adventure. Prices start at £60 per half day for 2 people, extra people £20 each.

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Sustainability Activity Trail: Major Milestone Reached

Kevin screwing the Welcome Board in place at the side of the house using a power screwdriver

The information boards finally went up around the grounds last weekend. They look stunning and are ready for you to follow on your next visit here.

If you live locally and would like to come and explore the trail without staying please get in contact. It could be the basis for an educational group outing or team activity.

We’ve only one more milestone to go – the making and erection of at least 6 wildlife boxes.

Once again, we’d like to thank the Dartmoor National Park’s Farming in Protected Landscape Team and the University of Exeter. Without their financial assistance, developing the trail would not have been possible.

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Recognising our Success

We’re delighted to let you know that we’ve once again reached the finals of the Devon Tourism Awards. This time we’ve been successful in all three categories we entered. This means that we are guaranteed to be Gold, Sliver or Bronze winners of:

  • Campsite and Caravanning Park of the Year
  • B&B and Guesthouse of the Year
  • Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award

We’ll find out what we’ve won at the awards dinner on 21st November.

This year we also decided to enter the Devon Women in Business Awards for the first time. We’re thrilled to be finalists in the Small Business of the Year and the Eco-Friendly Business of the Year categories. The results for this one will be announced on 9th November.

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Thanks for Reading

As always, thank you for your support and for choosing Wray Valley. We hope to see you soon, creating new memories and celebrating the beauty of Dartmoor together. As we wrap up this edition of our newsletter, we hope that you’ve found it an enjoyable read. We encourage you to share it with friends who might also appreciate the insights and updates from Wray Valley.

Your support means the world to us. We’d be truly grateful if you could take a moment to like and follow us on social media (@WrayValley) and subscribe to our YouTube Channel. By doing so, you’ll stay connected with our latest news, events, and developments, as well as help others discover the beauty and excitement of Wray Valley.

We wish you a wonderful time ahead, filled with unforgettable adventures, memorable experiences, and precious moments with loved ones. We look forward to sharing more stories and updates with you in the coming months and hopefully seeing you here soon. Until next time!

Selfie of Michelle and Kevin outside the Rugglestone Inn in Widecombe

Follow and like us on social media to keep up to date with whats on

Have you started planning your 2025 holidays to give you something to look forward to during the winter? Or are you still hoping to fit in a cheeky getaway before the end of the year?

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