Devon and Cornwall Walking Tour

Trekking high into the Dartmoor National Park, up to the spectacular granite Haytor and Hound Tor, we begin our second day with incredible views all the way to the South Devon coast. After making our descent, we stop for lunch in the pretty town of Bovey Tracey, before embarking on a woodland walk tracing the North Teign River. We finish the day by returning to Chagford.

We transfer to Cornwall, making for the idyllic coastal town of Padstow. Catching the foot ferry across the Camel Estuary to the small seaside village of Rock, we walk through the sand dunes to the partially buried St Enodoc Church. Still in use to this day, Sir John Betjeman once famously wrote that its peculiar spire was “bent like a crooked witch’s hat.” Our itinerary then sees us spend the afternoon walking the idyllic beaches of Polzeath and Daymer Bay, before returning to Padstow toward the end of the afternoon. For fans of Doc Martin, there’ll also be ample opportunity to visit the beautiful Port Isaac, where the hit show was filmed.

Transferring to the south coast, we walk from the fishing village of Gorran Haven to Mevagissey. This route takes us on the South West Coast Path, a 630-mile trail stretching all the way around Devon and Cornwall’s coastline. Hiking over rugged cliffs, through lush fields and attractive seaside villages and harbours, we stop to explore the magical Lost Gardens of Heligan. With the afternoon drawing to a close, we head back to Padstow to feast on Rick Stein’s famous fish and chips.

From Padstow, we set out again along the coastal path. Climbing the cliffs up to Stepper Point, we pass the observatory, enjoying panoramic views of ocean, town and estuary. Watch out for peregrine falcons, the fastest birds in the world, which have been known to nest in the area. We then traverse the coast and local beaches, before having lunch in Trevone, Harlyn Bay or even Constantine Bay. Catching the bus across the headland back to Padstow, we’ll have plenty of time to explore the town, with further walking options available for those keen to keep moving. At the end of the day, we return to the hotel for our last evening together.

After a relaxed breakfast, we say our farewells. Our guides can transport you to Bodmin Parkway railway station for any onward travel you may have planned or to collect any vehicles left at Exeter St David’s. Wherever your journey takes you next, we’ll be on hand to provide all the help you need.