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The most scenic coastal walks in Devon

Oct 25, 2021
The most scenic coastal walks in Devon

When you think of Devon, there’s a good chance that images of striking coastal scenery spring straight to mind. The county has more than 500 miles of picturesque coastline, which is ideal for exploring on foot. Whether you live somewhere along the coast in a seaside town such as Torquay or you’re heading to the waterfront from an inland spot like Tiverton, here are five of the best Devon coastal walks.

Dartmouth to Blackpool Sands

Dartmouth lies just across the River Dart from Kingswear along Devon’s south coast. The five-mile route takes you from the harbour along the South West Coast Path, as you make your way past the historic Dartmouth Castle towards Blackpool Sands. It’s only a short drive from our Berry Acres site on the outskirts of Paignton to Kingswear, with a short ferry ride across the river to begin your walk around the coast.

Salcombe to Gara Rock

Salcombe is around 20 miles east of Plymouth and has a number of spots well worth a visit in the local area, including a local castle, Snapes Point and the pretty North Sands Beach. Garra Rock Beach is only a few of miles away around the coast, which you’ll come to after hopping on the Salcombe to East Portlemouth ferry and making your way past Small’s Cove, Mill Bay and Sunny Cove Beach. Gara Rock reveals postcard-worthy views popular among picnickers, while there’s also a cafe on the clifftop where you can stop before heading back to complete your walk.

Croyde Bay to Woolacombe

This little route is a must if you’re searching for the best North Devon coastal walks. Pick up the South West Coast Path from Croyde Beach around a picturesque headland to Baggy Point, where you can gaze out to Lundy Island beyond the nesting seabirds on the cliffs. Continue on to the golden sands of Woolacombe Beach to complete the four-mile route, a surfer’s haven that’s also popular among sunseekers, before taking the shorter inland route back to Croyde Bay. For a longer walk, start in Woolacombe and head south to Saunton Sands via Baggy Point and Croyde Beach.

Beer to Hooken Cliffs

The Hooken Cliffs are little more than a mile around the coast from Beer, and part of Devon’s spectacular Jurassic Coast. A stretch of coastline with UNESCO World Heritage status, the unique landscape was formed by a cliff collapse in 1790 and is populated by teeming birdlife, rare plants and other local wildlife. Beer is only around 20 miles east of Exeter, where you’ll find a stunning collection of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes on our Victoria Heights developments in the suburb of Alphington.

Lynton to Woody Bay

Finally on our list of the best coastal walks Devon has to offer is this special route along the county’s northern shore. Heading west from Lynton to Woody Bay takes you through the Valley of Rocks with its prehistoric rock formations and wild goats, and on to Crock Point. It’s only 2.5 miles to Woody Bay, so continue another couple of miles on to the scenic Heddon’s Mouth if you’re after a longer hike. When you get back to Lynton, take a ride on the Victorian Cliff Railway for more incredible views of the local scenery.