Self-guided walking
4 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
13.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
Dog friendly
With hundreds of miles of coastal paths and ancient tracks, South Devon is home to some of the finest walks in Britain. Breath-taking seascapes and peaceful country lanes invite you in at every turn as you discover this recognised Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. South Devon was designated as such for its wild and rugged coastline, network of rivers and estuaries, rolling farmland, rich wildlife, natural tranquillity, unspoilt views, and its ancient network of pathways - perfect for a walking holiday!
This trip gives you the opportunity to enjoy the highlights of coastal Devon at your own pace. Beginning in the port city of Plymouth, you'll walk to the tiny village of Wembury, via the Plym Estuary. Your journey continues on the ferry as you cross the Avon estuary over to Noss Mayo, through woodland and along cliff tops, and wading over the Erme Estuary, before ending your trip in Hope Cove, a picturesque village known for its outstanding beaches and rolling countryside.
You'll stay in hand-picked guesthouses, pubs with rooms or small hotels. They are well suited to walkers, located close to the trail and offer comfortable accommodation with a good breakfast to start your day. The accommodations are also dog-friendly.
We highly recommend spending an extra day or so in Salcombe, to relax and soak up the friendly atmosphere of this extremely pretty town.
The walking is mainly along the South West Coast Path. The trail is well marked, and is a combination of paths and tracks mainly on open ground with hedgerows and some short woodland sections. There are quite frequent ascents and descents as you dip in and out of beaches and bays (these are shown on the Headwater app). Walking around headlands and higher cliffs means wonderful sea views, and the path is nearly always set back from cliff edges. Walking boots essential.
Arrive at your hotel in Plymouth, set in a lovely waterfront location. Take some time to visit the local sights including the Royal William Yard, Elizabethan House, and the National Marine Aquarium.
You stay at Grosvenor Plymouth or Imperial Hotel 4*.
Grosvenor Plymouth, Plymouth
A beautiful Victorian property, this family-run hotel is less than a 1-minute walk from Plymouth Hoe and the wonderful waterfront views across Plymouth Sound. It's also an easy walk to either the historic Barbican with its harbour-side bars and restaurants, or to the city's shopping centre. The comfortable rooms feature contemporary furnishings, plus free Wi-Fi, TV and ensuite facilities.. Rooms are stair-access only. There's a good choice available at breakfast, and in addition there are two elegant lounges and a licensed bar selling coffees and bar snacks.
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Tea/coffee
This beautiful, family-owned townhouse is award-winning in Plymouth. Located just minutes from the waterfront on Plymouth Hoe, it’s an easy walk to the city centre, Theatre Royal or the historic Barbican. A delicious breakfast is served at the hotel, and you'll enjoy attentive and friendly service during your stay.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
Take the ferry from Barbican Quay across the River Plym (paid locally - approx. £2pp). On arrival at Mount Batten, you'll follow the coastal path accompanied by panoramic views of Plymouth Sound. Continue through wooded cliff tops up to Staddon Heights, an area of historic Victorian military defences. Enjoy stunning views towards the Breakwater across Plymouth Sound and the Great Mewstone as you near the end of today's walk
You stay at Shearwater B&B or Wembury Bay B&B.
WiFiTV
AirconTea/coffee
Just 400m from Wembury Beach, this is a peaceful family-run B&B. Breakfast is served in the sun lounge or dining area with lovely sea views.
WiFiTVTea/coffee
Located in the quiet village of Wembury, this popular B&B offers a friendly welcome and is just a short walk to the beach, local pub and shops. You can enjoy a delicious cooked breakfast before leaving for your days walk.
Take the ferry from Warren Point to Noss Mayo across Yealm Estuary (paid locally - approx. £4.per person). Follow the path through Passage Wood alongside the river and onto Mouthstone Point with lovely views of Wembury Bay and the Mewstone. Walk along the cliff top track towards Stoke Beach where a steady incline takes you to Beacon Hill, then undulating onwards to Meadowsfoot Beach at Mothecombe. There is no ferry across Erme Estuary, so you will need to wade across at or near low tide (80 minutes either side of low tide is recommended). We will arrange overnight at either of the estuary to provide better timings for getting across. Occasionally, we may have to arrange a local taxi to get you around - guide price for this is approx. £35.
You stay at Dolphin Inn or Ivy Barn B&B.
WiFiTVTea/coffee
This quaint 16th century country pub is in the quiet village of Kingston. The rooms are opposite the pub where food and drink is served. The bar has a cosy fireplace, and there is also a lovely garden where guests can enjoy the sunshine.
ShopsWiFiTV
Minibar
Nestled in the picturesque village of Holbeton, not far from the golden sands of Mothecombe Beach is the charming Ivy Barn B&B. Just opposite is the Mildmay Colours Inn serving locally sourced food and ales/ciders, with both indoor space and alfresco dining.
Once across the river, today's walk takes you through Wrinkle Wood, skirting around Wonwell Beach and along cliff tops before reaching the unspoilt beaches at Westcombe and Ayrmer. There are a couple of climbs but you'll be rewarded with beautiful views of Burgh Island and the South Hams coastline. You'll take the ferry across the Avon from Cockleridge Ham to Bantham (paid locally - approx. £4pp). Then walk along low cliffs past Thurlestone and South Milton Nature Reserve before arriving at Hope Cove.
You stay at Cottage Hotel or Hope & Anchor.
HairdryerWiFiTVTea/coffee
This traditional hotel has been run by the Ireland family since 1973. With lovely views, comfortable lounges, a personal service, and a wide range of food and drink, you'll feel right at home at the Cottage Hotel.
WiFiTVTea/coffee
Set opposite the beach in this picturesque seaside village, this boutique accommodation offers welcoming rooms, most with views overlooking the ocean. Enjoy local food at the pub with plenty of space for both indoor and outdoor dining.
Before leaving we recommend adding in an extra day to explore more of the beautiful coast and countryside. There's a lovely circular walk around Bolt Tail to Bolberry and back to Hope, or you may want to continue around Bolt Head to Salcombe to take in this popular holiday town and stunning estuary (taxi back required).
These tour prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £235.
This holiday does not include any flights or rail.
Self-guided walking
4 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
13.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
Dog friendly
