Devon Walks
For
my money, Devon is one of the most interesting counties for walking,
combining one of the most picturesque, spectacular coastal area in Britain
with rolling countryside and dramatic moorland. It is dotted with lovely
villages many with great pubs. Dartmoor is wild and unspoilt with much
evidence of ancient settlements.
The
weather is generally kind.
Devon's
southern extremity is the South Hams area which many people have never heard
of and Salcombe, my favourite base there is the only coastal town in the
country I am content to return to frequently.
The
north coast is also attractive and particularly stands out for its geology
with dramatic strata. The Hartland area is very quiet and unspoilt by the
impact of mass tourism.
The
coastal walks utilise parts of the South West Coast Path which
runs for 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset.
This is designated by regular footpath posts bearing an acorn symbol - see
picture.
There are a series of Official
South West Coast Path Guides.
One problem with coastal walks can be a difficulty in creating attractive
circular routes. A certain amount of walking on Devon's
lanes is inevitable but I have kept this to a minimum and tried to stick to
quiet lanes where there is little traffic. Many of Devon's lanes make for
pleasurable strolls anyway and in spring and early summer they contain a
plethora of wild flowers.
Dartmoor
offers something for everyone, whether you want to walk the wild open
moorland or visit historic sites and villages. The walking offers fabulous
open views with the Tors – rocky outcrops – providing interesting
summits. The walking is generally easy in terms of effort but if the mist
comes down and you are off the main paths, taking advantage of the “Open
Access”, you should have some confidence in your compass ability, as the
open nature of the landscape could lead to difficulties orienting yourself.
Devon
Reading
List
Scroll down to see Devon walks.
If
you need to buy any hiking equipment/clothing before your trip see the Hiking
Store
All information on this
site is given in good faith and no liability is accepted in respect of any
damage, loss or injury which might result from acting on it.
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