Salcombe




The extreme south of Devon – the South Hams – is complety focused on the sea, with Salcombe as its epicentre.
Located within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this beautiful coastal town is a magnet for holidaymakers who are looking for sandy beaches, boats, fishing, walking, and the mildest climate in Devon.
It is situated at the southern end of the Salcombe Estuary, a landlocked, salt water inlet, with beautiful sandy beaches.
Leaving the town centre and going seaward you will find two pretty family beaches, North Sands beach and South Sands beach, and beyond on the hillside is Overbeck’s, a National Trust property.
To the west lies the beaches of Bigbury on Sea and Bantham and the famous Burgh Island which is accessed at high tide via a sea tractor.




Walking
Salcombe is known for its exceptional coastal views and rolling surrounding countryside.
We would recommend a 6,6-mile circular walk towards Soar Mill Cove.
This is a challenging loop through the woods and picturesque thatched villages behind Sharp Tor.
The return follows a stretch of high heathland, where there are panoramic views from Dodman Point in the west to Prawle Point in the east.
Or head for Snapes Point.
This 4,5-mile circular walk is a straightforward route that takes you round winding paths and stunning Devonshire coastline.
At Snapes Point you will find dazzling views of the estuary below, or beautiful rare birdlife – including cirl bunting, blackcap and chiffchaff.
Most walkers will head for the South West Coast Path and this southern stretch is certainly one of the very finest.


South West Coast Path
The South West Coast Path was originally created by coastguards, patrolling the south west peninsula looking out for smugglers.
They literally had to check in every inlet, so their cliff top walk was well used.
The South West Coast Path itself is 630 miles long and is the longest National Trail in the country.
Starting at Minehead in Somerset it runs along the coastline of Exmoor. It continues along the coast of North Devon into Cornwall.
It then follows the entire coastline of Cornwall, goes across the mouth of the River Tamar and continues into Devon.
After running along the south coast of Devon it then follows the Dorset coastline before finally ending at Poole Harbour.
Salcombe is the start of section 39 to Torcross.
This section of the South West Coast Path is particularly tough, but the spectacular views are extremely rewarding.
Cool Places to Explore: Overbeck’s | Thurlestone | Dartmoor National Park | Dartmouth | Exmouth | Hope Cove.