South Hams Way: Devon Coast

Yealmpton to Mothecombe

The trail initially follows quiet lanes and riverside paths along the River Yealm, weaving through woodland and open fields. The route rises and falls over gentle hills, with occasional glimpses of Dartmoor on the horizon and Kit Hill in the distance. Passing through the historic estate of Membland, you’ll encounter fine parkland and evocative remnants of Devon’s past, before descending toward the tidal creeks at Newton and Noss, where the river widens and the walking feels closer to the sea.

From here, the trail climbs again onto the headland, entering the National Trust’s The Warren and offering spectacular coastal views across the Mewstone, Rame Head, and on a clear day, even Eddystone Lighthouse far offshore. Following the South West Coast Path along cliff-top tracks, the route passes historic ruins, beaches, and caravan parks, with options for gentler deviations where needed. The day ends at Mothecombe, where a café beside the car park provides a welcome chance to relax and enjoy the dramatic South Devon coastline.

Kingston to Hope Cove

This is one of the most varied and rewarding stretches of the South Hams Way, rich in sandy bays, dramatic headlands, and timeless coastal villages. Having walked the short distance from Kingston to reach the coast at Wonwell, the path winds east, curving around secluded beaches at Westcombe and Ayrmer before reaching the small community of Challaborough. Ahead lies the unmistakable shape of Burgh Island, home to its famous Art Deco hotel and sea tractor, which trundles through the surf at high tide.

The route continues into Bigbury-on-Sea and across the Avon Estuary on the seasonal ferry. Once across, the coast path climbs above Bantham and the golden sweep of South Milton Sands, with Thurlestone Rock and the golf links marking the way. The final stretch follows easy cliff-top paths with constant sea views, before descending into the twin coves of Hope Cove, a once-thriving fishing village now famed for its charm, sandy beach, and picture-perfect thatched cottages.

Hope Cove to Salcombe

Leaving Hope Cove, the South Hams Way climbs onto Bolt Tail, where an Iron Age fort once watched over the sea. The headland gives way to the wide, open plateau of Bolberry Down, a National Trust haven of sweeping coastal views and accessible trails. From here the path dips steeply to Soar Mill Cove, a sandy notch in the cliffs, before pressing on along a dramatic rollercoaster of rocky paths towards Bolt Head.

This stretch is exhilarating and exposed in places, but the rewards are huge: endless sea views, soaring cliffs, and the hidden beauty of Starehole Bay. Rounding the headland, the first views of Salcombe and its estuary appear – a glittering scene framed by wooded hillsides. A detour here leads to Overbeck’s, the eccentric house and gardens of the National Trust.

The route continues past the sandy arcs of South Sands and North Sands before following Cliff Road into Salcombe itself, a lively harbour town brimming with cafes, pubs, boutiques, and maritime heritage.

Salcombe to Torcross

After the ferry ride across to East Portlemouth, the South Hams Way heads out past the sandy curve of Mill Bay and on towards Gara Rock, a headland where sweeping sea views begin to set the tone for this rugged stretch. Beyond Rickham Sand, the path narrows and clings to the cliffs en route to Prawle Point, the most southerly tip of Devon.

From here, the route winds past hidden coves and rocky beaches – Horsley Cove, Lannacombe, and Great Mattiscombe Sand – where you may be lucky enough to spot seals basking on the rocks. Climbing again, the white tower of Start Point Lighthouse comes into view, standing sentinel above Start Bay. A short diversion leads down to the lighthouse itself, open on certain days for tours.

Heading north, the path passes the site of the lost village of Hallsands, claimed by the sea in 1917. A poignant plaque tells the story of the community swept away by storm and human intervention. Further on lies Beesands, with its line of seafront cottages and heavy sea defences, a reminder of the coastline’s constant battle with erosion.

The final descent zigzags towards Torcross, overlooking the great sweep of Slapton Sands and the freshwater lagoon of Slapton Ley. Here, a Sherman tank salvaged from the sea stands as a memorial to the hundreds of US servicemen who lost their lives during Exercise Tiger, the ill-fated D-Day rehearsal of 1944.

Torcross to Dartmouth

Leaving Torcross, the path follows the narrow strip of land between the freshwater lake of Slapton Ley and the sea, part of the unique Slapton Line. It’s a gentle and fascinating start, with birdlife all around and the ever-present hush of waves beyond the shingle ridge. Beyond the reserve, the route climbs steadily, offering sweeping views back along Start Bay, with the distant flash of Start Point Lighthouse.

Through the village of Strete, the path returns to open countryside, winding above coves and fields before descending towards the sheltered curve of Blackpool Sands, a perfect spot for a swim or coffee stop. From here, the route rises again to Stoke Fleming, a pretty village with a welcoming pub and church overlooking the coast.

The final miles follow rolling farmland and wooded slopes to Little Dartmouth and on towards the estuary. The path ends on a high, descending through trees to historic Dartmouth Castle and the harbour below, where colourful houses line the water and ferries bustle across the Dart. From here it’s an easy stroll to the town centre with its wealth of shops, cafés and restaurants.