8 Days & 7 Nights

4.4

South West Coast Path: Plymouth to Brixham | Stage 7 | 8 Days

Follow trails along the South West Coast Path in Devon from Plymouth to Brixham.
Attractions along the way such as Mayflower Steps and Dartmouth Castle.
Plymouth’s waterfront walkway with stunning harbour and maritime history.
The bustling fishing ports of Dartmouth and Brixham.
Pass Slapton Ley Nature Reserve - Devon's largest natural lake.

Walk between Plymouth to Brixham in Devon along the South West Coast Path. Take in exposed headlands and coves, golden beaches, stunning harbours and fishing ports and enjoy seven days of spectacular and sometimes challenging cliff top and trail walking. Start in Plymouth, a town rich Britain's maritime heritage and then follow pretty coastal trails, climbing high cliff tops and walking through wooded river valleys. The scenery along this section of the coast is unspoiled and varied and you can experience rich wildlife and fauna, such as dolphins, occasional whales and seals, several native bird species, and wildflowers in the spring.

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Itinerary

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Day 1 Arrive Plymouth

Arrive in Plymouth. Time permitting why not enjoy some of the many attractions Plymouth has to offer. Take a walk along the Waterfront Walkway which forms part of the South West Coast Path. Explore the Barbican area of Plymouth, with its many shops, cafes and art galleries, and visit the Mayflower Steps at Pilgrims point.

Overnight Plymouth

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Plymouth Rooms - Bistrot Pierre | Hotel

Residence One, a Grade II* listed building located within the historic Royal William Yard is the perfect destination when staying in the Ocean City of Plymouth. The building, once home to a Royal Navy Admiral, has been lovingly restored bringing the house back to its former glory. This boutique B&B is full of periodic features and character, and offers 14 individually styled bedrooms.

Sea Breezes | 3 Star | Guest House

Sea Breezes is a luxury guest house in Plymouth, the six en-suite rooms have flat screen TV, DVD player and luxury toiletries. The tastefully furnished rooms have sparkling shower rooms, good quality beds, beautiful bed linen and fluffy towels. Breakfast orders are taken from 8am – 9am on weekdays and up to 10am at the weekend. If you need an earlier breakfast, please let them know and they will try to accommodate you. Breakfast will be served in your room.

Premier Inn - Plymouth Lockyers Quay | Hotel

Only a 10 – 15-minute walk from the city centre, and with easy access to shops and sights. Their rooms are comfortably furnished with all the amenities you require. Rooms have a choice of firm or soft pillows, freeview TV, tea and coffee facilities and blackout curtains.

Day 2 Plymouth to Wembury 6.5 miles / 12 km

Take the ferry across the Cattewater from the pontoon at the Barbican to Mount Batten Point. Begin to experience the peacefulness and isolation that this section of the path offers. After passing Wembury Point the path is easy to follow along low cliffs to Wembury Beach.

Alternative routes — There is an alternative walking route around the Cattewater which is the official route of the SWCP.

Ascent: +150m (+445ft) / Descent: -125m (-460ft)

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Wembury Bay B&B | Bed and breakfast

A small and welcoming B&B located in the quiet and beautiful location of Wembury. Enjoy stunning views of the Mewstone as well as comfortable rooms and hearty breakfast, all accompanied by a warm welcome.

Shearwater B&B | Bed and breakfast

Shearwater is 400m from the path and the beach. There is an 1830 cottage in front of us and the rest of the land between us and the beach is National Trust.
The house is a four bedroom family home offering a double bedroom and a twin bedded room with a shared wet shower room on the top floor.

Day 3 Wembury to Bigbury-on-Sea / Transfer and Overnight in Salcombe 15.5 miles / 24.7 km

From Wembury, you will head to Warren Point and then cross the Yealm by ferry (seasonal) to the tiny settlement of Noss Mayo. Leave the charming village of Noss Mayo and make your way along higher and more challenging coastal cliffs, perhaps getting a glimpse of dolphins, occasional whales or seals from the lookout above Warren Beach. When you reach the River Erme you will either need to wade across within an hour either side of low tide, or take the alternative inland walk or taxi transfer around the valley. After some steep climbing to the high viewpoints near Westcombe Beach you will descend past Ayrmer Cove to Bigbury-on-Sea, with stunning views across to Burgh Island. Due to lack of accommodations in Bigbury on Sea you are likely to be transferred to overnight in Salcombe.

Ascent: +605m (+1985ft) / Descent: -610m (-2000ft)

Overnight Salcombe

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

The Henley | Hotel

The Henley was originally built as a holiday cottage during Edwardian times and still retains the cosy atmosphere of a private home rather than a hotel. The hotel overlooks one of the most spectacular coastal views in Devon spanning the Avon Esturary around to Burgh Island and beyond. A superb beach can be reached by a private cliff path descending through the garden. All rooms are double or twin bedded en-suite with sea views, flat screen TV, WiFi, direct dial telephone, tea making facilities, hair dryers, bath robes and toiletries from the Natural Soap Company.

The Fo’c’sle B&B | Bed and breakfast

The Fo’c’sle B&B is a B&B located in the beautiful seaside town of Salcombe. All rooms at the B&B have a view of the estuary or the surrounding countryside. All bedrooms have colour TV’s and they have a residents lounge.

Waverley B&B | Bed and breakfast

Waverley Bed and Breakfast in the beautiful seaside town of Salcombe is surrounded by unspoilt natural countryside and a magnificent coast with cliffs and beaches. All of the rooms have their own bathrooms, tea and coffee making facilities, and TVs. A full English Breakfast menu is available.

Day 4 Transfer to Bigbury-on-Sea, walk to Salcombe 13.5 miles / 22 km

Cross the River Avon by ferry (seasonal) to Bantham this morning. Passing through part of the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a fairly easy path takes you past Thurlestone to the picturesque coastal sanctuary of Hope Cove. The section through to Bolt Tail and Bolt Head, and on to Salcombe is thought to be one of the most scenic on the entire South West Coast Path offering spectacular views back along the Devon Coast.

Alternative route — The alternative walking route around the Avon Estuary is well waymarked. This is an additional distance of 9 miles/14.5km.

Ascent: +445m (+1460ft) / Descent: -455m (-1490ft)

Overnight Salcombe

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

The Fo’c’sle B&B | Bed and breakfast

Waverley B&B | Bed and breakfast

South Sands Hotel | Hotel

Day 5 Salcombe to Torcross 12.5 miles / 20 km

A challenging but rewarding day is in store for you today, through one of the most undeveloped and wild sections of the path. Leaving Salcombe you will take the ferry to East Portlemouth. From here pass Pig’s Nose, Ham Stone and Gammon Point enroute to Prawle Point, meaning “lookout hill”, and enjoy the views from the most southerly point in Devon. Heading on towards Start Point and its Lighthouse, the path then levels out towards the waterside village of Torcross, your stop for the evening.

As there is limited accommodation in Torcross, you may stay overnight in Dartmouth tonight, and we will arrange return taxi transfers to take you between Torcross and there. You will get a taxi back to Torcross the following morning to continue your walk.

Ascent: +565m (+1855ft) / Descent: -555m (-1820ft)

Overnight Torcross

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

The Tower Inn | Inn

Tucked away in the heart of beautiful Slapton village, The Tower Inn is hidden in the shadow of a 14th century tower, all that remains of the former ecclesiastical college that once stood there. The Tower Inn is very much a family run business and the proprietors are always on hand to offer a warm welcome to everyone! The rooms are in a separate first floor wing of the building with its own entrance, giving you the freedom to come and go as you please. Each room has a shower en-suite, flat screen TV and tea and coffee making facilities.

The Cricket Inn | Inn

The Cricket Inn first opened its doors to the quaint fishing village of Beesands in 1867 and has since continued to strive for over 150 years. Today, the Cricket Inn is one of the most popular places to eat and stay in Devon, serving award-winning food, local cider, real ales and an extensive wine list. There are 7 beautifully appointed bedrooms which have been awarded 4 AA Gold stars, 5 with stunning sea views overlooking Start Bay and beyond. The Cricket Inn is lucky enough to have the South West Coastal Path run right past its doors. Each room offers en-suite facilities with walk in showers, flat screen TV’s, complimentary toiletries, tea and coffee facilities and beautiful seaside touches. The King size beds have pocket sprung mattresses, 100 % cotton linen and sumptuous feather and down quilts which will be sure to provide a perfect night's sleep.

Chillington House | Bed and breakfast

Chillington House bed & breakfast hotel is situated in the picturesque village of Chillington. Located in an ‘area of outstanding natural beauty’. All the rooms are en-suite and have been uniquely decorated and the atmosphere is welcoming, friendly and relaxed.

Day 6 Torcross to Dartmouth 10 miles / 16 km

Leaving Torcross enjoy a walk along the shingle of a long flat beach passing Slapton Ley, Devon’s largest natural freshwater lake. Heading inland ascend through pastures and sheltered woodlands, before descending down to isolated coves. Passing through the village of Stoke Fleming, you will then reach the popular boating town of Dartmouth, with its castle, cobbled streets, unusual shops and restaurants.

Ascent: +325m (+1065ft) / Descent: -335m (-1100ft)

Overnight Dartmouth

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Dartmouth Boutique | Bed and breakfast

Dartmouth Boutique offers comfortable, relaxing accommodation, complemented with some of the most stunning views Dartmouth has to offer. Just a short walk into the heart of the town, but far enough away to benefit from tranquil surroundings.

Bayards Cove Inn | Country Inn

Bayards Cove Inn offers 7 comfortable and stylishly appointed bedrooms, 2 of which are large suites suitable for families, all are fully equipped with contemporary comforts whilst retaining the character features of this historic house. En-suite shower rooms, central heating, TVs with freeview, DVD players, tea and coffee trays and hairdryers are provided and there is free WiFi throughout the building. 24 hr front desk and daily housekeeping.

The Royal Castle Hotel | 3 Star | Hotel

This hotel has a beautiful location right in the heart of Darthmouth looking out over the harbour and river Dart. It’s a 17^th-century building offering free Wi-Fi in all their en-suite rooms. The hotel also has its own restaurant and two bars where you can enjoy a drink after your day of walking.

Day 7 Dartmouth to Brixham 11 miles / 18 km

Take your final river crossing as you board the ferry across the River Dart to Kingswear. Climb through wooded slopes covered in Monterey Pines to Froward Point where you can see the remains of WWII defences. Moving on to Pudcombe Cove you will be rewarded with yet more views of the cliffs dropping down to the white-capped seas below. Passing Kingswear Castle and on to Sharkham Point you will encounter one of the most challenging sections of the South Devon path.

Reaching the limestone Peninsula of Berry Head you will follow high cliff paths past the lighthouse, before descending into the busy fishing port of Brixham. Wander Brixham’s winding streets and arcades before celebrating the end of your walk with a meal of freshly caught seafood in a quayside restaurant.

Ascent: +855m (+2805ft) / Descent: -855m (-2805ft)

Overnight Brixham

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Berry Head Hotel | Bed and breakfast

The Berry Head Hotel in Brixham, South Devon, is set in a superb waterside position enjoying spectacular views of the English Riviera. The Berry Head Hotek is surrounded by six acres of grounds in Berry Head Country Park. There are A la Carte and Terrace Bar restaurants, an indoor swimming pool and comfortable en-suite bedrooms.

Quayside Hotel | 3 Star | Hotel

The Quayside Hotel in Brixham has a unique character and ‘old world charm’. The Hotel was formerly six fisherman’s cottages dating back to the 18^th century. The Hotel retains a cosiness and unique charm that is rarely found in chain hotels today.

Brixham House | Guest House

Staying at the Brixham House you are assured of a warm and friendly welcome from proprietors, Mark & Debra Wilson, plus a most comfortable stay. Situated in an ideal location on the main road into Brixham, the Brixham House is just a 10 minute walk from the town centre and popular harbour side. Both the public rooms and bedrooms at Brixham House are decorated to a high standard with the extra touches you would expect from a four star bed and breakfast establishment.

Day 8 Onward Travel

THIS TRIP'S CARBON SCORE

This trip has a carbon score of 14kg per person per night, meaning it’s one of our best trips! For comparison, a carbon count of 14kg is equivalent to 7 bottles of champagne. That’s a lot of bubbles!. Here at Macs, we pride ourselves on being a responsible travel company and continue to adopt, develop and innovate ways to positively impact the environment. Find out more information about how we've carbon counted our trips.

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Other Information

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Is it for me? Accommodation & Meals Navigation What's Included

Included

7 Nights B&B, guesthouse and small hotel accommodation
7 Breakfasts
Door to door baggage transfer
Access to maps, GPX tracks and daily route information with the Macs Adventure navigation App
Emergency telephone support from our office
All your trip documents provided digitally through your online My Account

Excluded

Lunches, dinners, snacks and drinks
Ferries
Travel Insurance
Transport should you need to skip a stage

Extras

Additional nights before, during or after the walk

When to go Travel & Transfers Info & FAQ

General Information

The distances and ascent/ descents are approximations of the recommended routes.

Online Documents

At Macs Adventure we care about the environment! We’re taking action to minimize the impact we have by converting the majority of our tour documentation for online delivery.

On this tour, all your detailed tour information will be digitally delivered. You will have access to this documentation via “My Account” on our website.

Equipment

Please be prepared by packing all necessary items, for example, proper rain gear (jacket and pants), sun hat, sunscreen. Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, warm and waterproof clothes for the cooler months and lightweight clothing for summer, and a day pack.

Travel Insurance

It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity and emergency evacuation and hospital care.