South Devon National Landscape was designated for its 10 special qualities, each of them is important individually Together they create a sense of place and identity and are what makes South Devon an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty:
Ria estuaries (drowned river valleys), combe valleys and the network of associated watercourses.
Naturally incised landscape that quickly turns intimate, hidden and secretive away from the plateau tops.
Iconic wide, unspoilt and expansive panoramic views and long framed dramatic views.
A landscape with a rich time depth, wealth of historic environment features, historic cores to picturesque villages and towns and well-known historic and cultural associations.
A breadth and depth of significant habitats, species and associated natural events.
An ancient and intricate network of winding lanes, the South West Coast Path and other strategic recreational routes.
Areas of high tranquillity, natural nightscapes, distinctive natural soundscapes and visible movement.
A variety in the setting to the National Landscape formed by the marine environment, Plymouth City, Market and Coastal towns, rural South Hams and the southern fringe to Dartmoor National Park.
