Looking at the map of Devon Dartmoor jumps out as a significant section of the county and is often the synonymous factor to which it relates. Covering 365 square miles it is bordered now in the north by the A30 and in the south by the A38. Lying in between is a National Park, preserved for its beauty and apparent remoteness. Do not be deceived, as hidden in the valleys are bustling towns and villages in tune with the 21st century and proving an attractive place to live, as well as a focus for holidays, keen walkers and explorers the year round.

The natural landscape is dominated by the many tors, focal points for schools taking part in the annual Ten Tors challenge, for the Army based in Okehampton and for the increasing number of tourists. This ensures the financial security of the region, whilst careful management by the National Park Authority is vital to maintain the exclusivity of the moor.

It is not surprising there is history, both fact and fiction, connected to the moor. Ancient castles and strongholds dating back centuries create legends. Whilst the oldest castle may be Okehampton the newest is Castle Drogo, completed in the early 20th century and now owned by the National Trust. It sits high above the Teign Valley looking towards Chagford and Moretonhampstead.

Equally infamous is Princetown and its prison; built to house Napoleonic prisoners of war, its grey forbidding walls still dominate the skyline as you travel the B3357 towards Tavistock on the western edge of the moor.

Whilst the remoteness is its charm, there is nowhere too far from the larger conurbations in Devon – Exeter to the east and Plymouth to the south. Combine this with the wonderful technology of the internet which connects the world and there are few places a ‘work from home’ scenario is not possible. But the true value is the plethora of artisan skills and trades plied in the towns and villages. The environment is conducive to creativity and so like-minded people gather here. The MAKE Southwest craft centre in Bovey Tracey is but one point in fact.

Thatching and traditional building methods are practised, this means the iconic image of Devon properties is a lasting legacy, whilst sitting comfortably beside eco and sustainable new homes which comply with the increasing green credentials essential to preserve our planet.

Dartmoor may appear to dominate the Devon map but it by no means epitomises the county as a whole – very few counties have such a diverse geography and inherent wealth of natural resources from which to draw a 21st century life. There is a location and a home for all ages, abilities and affordability. ‘It’s all about coming home.’

Nigel Bishop is a property search consultant at Recoco. Recoco.co.uk