South Devon Coast self guided walking holidays

Away to the west of the Devon Riviera lie the South Hams of Devon; a quiet and picturesque area which offers excellent walking. Although more mellow than its stormy Cornish neighbour, the coast of South Devon is blessed with more than its share of scenic grandeur and variety.

Picture: Soar Mill Cove - Tim Stanger/Devonscape Images

Guests will walk the clifftops around the mighty headlands of Bolt Head, Start Point and Gammon Head; through the idyllic thatched villages of Slapton and Hope Cove; along the beautiful sandy beaches at Soar Mill Cove and Blackpool Sands and amid the cheerful bustle of Salcombe, Devon's most southerly resort, where the white-washed houses and colourful boats give the town a Mediterranean feel. As you look inland from the coast path your view will vary from rugged moorland to patchwork fields, and on one occasion you will walk along a causeway with the sea on one side and a large freshwater lake, teeming with birdlife, on the other. You will also explore the historic town of Dartmouth with its fine Tudor, Jacobean and Georgian architecture, then cross the River Dart to visit Coleton Fishacre House (National Trust) with its beautiful art-deco interior and luxuriant gardens which enjoy spectacular coastal views.

All of these attractions aside, the most distinctive feature of this part of the South Devon coast is the number of magnificent rivers which reach the sea between Plymouth and Dartmouth. The Yealm, Erme, Avon, Kingsbridge and Dart all reach the sea hereabouts, and will feature on your walks.

The climate of the South Hams is so mild that in Salcombe oranges and lemons can be grown out of doors. The entire area exudes a feeling of prosperity and plenty. If you go on holiday looking to deprive yourself of luxuries the South Hams is not for you. This is, after all, the home of the 'cream tea'. Thankfully, despite their allure the South Hams remain unspoilt.

Bed & Breakfast option

Your holiday in South Devon will be based at a comfortable family-run guest house in the historic town of Datmouth. Your room will have ensuite facilities (private bathroom) and you will have a choice of continental or full English breakfast. Dartmouth has a wide variety of restaurants and pubs serving meals in the evening.

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast option

Your holiday in South Devon will be based at Stoke Lodge Hotel [ETB/AA***] in the delightful village of Stoke Fleming. The hotel is situated in an elevated position in the centre of the village, surrounded by three acres of gardens, lawns and woodland with seaviews from the southern aspect. The restaurant prides itself on preparing good food with the emphasis on quality local produce. All of the attractive and well-appointed bedrooms have ensuite facilities.

• Introduction
• Far West Cornwall
• North Cornwall
• South Devon Coast
• Exmoor National Park
• Dorset World Heritage Coast
• West Wiltshire Downs
• The Cotswolds
• Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
• Derbyshire Dales
• Central Lake District National Park
• Northern Lake District National Park
• Yorkshire's Northern Dales
• Yorkshire Limestone Dales
• North Yorkshire Moors
• Hadrian's Wall Country
• Northumberland Coast
• The Tweed Valley and Scottish Borders