Walk 3432 - Salcombe to Thurlestone

   
Click thumbnails for larger images.

South Devon offers some of the finest coastline on mainland Britain, ranging from golden sandy beaches to dramatic rocky cliffs plunging into the sea. Although this route is spread over two days, the going is relatively easy as this section of the South West Coast Path is well walked and the way ahead clear. The walk takes in the lovely seaside resort of Salcombe as the half waypoint, with its stunning cliff top approach from the east.

Day One Description

Day Two – Starting from the ferry point on the estuary in Salcombe (Grid ref SX741388), pick up the South West Coast Path signs along the tiny coast road passing the castle remains and south sands beach. Head south to Sharp Tor, which proved to be the main highlight of the entire walk. Once there the views on a good day are totally stunning, to the north you can look right up the estuary and over the whole of Salcombe, whilst to the east at least 5km of pre-walked coastline can be seen. Looking west, Bolt Head springs into view, which is the next step, although very heavy going at this point as you painfully climb up from the very steep Stairhole Bottom. There now follows almost 7km of barren landscape as you head towards Bolt Tail and Outer Hope.

After admiring the fine views from Bolt Tail, drop down into the town where there are a useful number of shops and public toilets etc. The last leg of the journey heads directly north passing Thurlestone Sands, and turning into the village (grid ref. SX 676431) itself where hopefully you remember where you parked the other car! A perfect weekend along Britain’s south coast is completed.

Suggested Maps

It is recommended you take a map with you when following a walk route. The preferred scale is 1:25000 used by the Explorer series.

	OS Explorer	1:25,000	Sheet OL20
	OS Landranger	1:50,000	Sheet 202

Note : If two maps are listed at the same scale then either (a) both are required for full coverage of the route or (b) the route is covered on both maps.

Sand Pebbles, Hope Cove, Nr Salcombe - Devon
Bed & Breakfast - 3 miles / 5 km away

Mumpy's Cottage, Noss Mayo, South Devon - Devon
Self Catering - 13 miles / 21 km away

Nods Fold, Brixham, South Devon - Devon
Bed & Breakfast - 15 miles / 25 km away

Fern & Primrose Cottages, Buckfastleigh, South Devon - Devon
Self Catering - 17 miles / 27 km away

Vogwell Cottage, Manaton - Devon
Bed & Breakfast - 25 miles / 40 km away

Foxworthy Farmhouse B&B, Lustleigh Cleave - Devon
Bed & Breakfast - 25 miles / 40 km away

Self Catering Directory
A wide range of properties throughout UK & Europe

Walks & Peaks Bedsearcher
Search, choose and book your accommodation online.

Hostelbookers - Hostels in England, Scotland and Wales